pharyngeal phase

The pharyngeal phase is a part of swallowing that rapidly occurs once you swallow food or liquid. During this phase, muscles in the back of your throat and neck work together to push the food downward. The voice box rises to prevent food from entering the windpipe, and the airway closes. At the same time, the esophagus (the tube leading to your stomach) opens to receive the food. This coordinated effort ensures that swallowing is safe and efficient, guiding the food from your mouth through the throat and into your stomach, preventing choking or breathing difficulties.