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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Should Epiglottis At The Back Of Throat Be Treated?

Hi, I am a 19 year old female who is in good health. For as long as I can remember I have always had this flap of some kind in the back of my throat. It s not my uvula or my tonsils. It never bothered me or caused me any pain. Tonight my sister noticed this flap when I opened my mouth really wide. She asked me what it is and I wasn t sure. So we googled it and I came across something called an epiglottis. I read about stories of children who had this. The medical website showed a picture of it and that s exactly what is in the back of my throat. All the doctors online said to seek immediate medical attention. So I want to know if I should get this looked at. My epiglottis is clearly visible but it has never bothered me. Should I be concerned?
Mon, 2 Mar 2015
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ENT Specialist,  's  Response
Hello. Epiglottis is flap like structure lying at the posterior part of our throat , above our voice box. It covers the inlet of the larynx and prevents spillage of any fluid or food , during swallowing. It is a normal anatomical structure . In some individuals , especially those who have thin built , having long neck , it may be more prominent and easily visible on opening the mouth widely. It is absolutely normal and there is nothing to worry about it.
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Should Epiglottis At The Back Of Throat Be Treated?

Hello. Epiglottis is flap like structure lying at the posterior part of our throat , above our voice box. It covers the inlet of the larynx and prevents spillage of any fluid or food , during swallowing. It is a normal anatomical structure . In some individuals , especially those who have thin built , having long neck , it may be more prominent and easily visible on opening the mouth widely. It is absolutely normal and there is nothing to worry about it.