Pharyngeal Phase Swallowing

The pharyngeal phase of swallowing is an automatic reflex where the throat muscles rapidly work together to move food or liquids from the mouth into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach. During this phase, the soft palate lifts to close the nasal passage, the vocal cords seal the airway, and the muscles in the throat contract to push the food downward. This process happens quickly, usually in less than a second, ensuring safe and efficient transportation of food while preventing choking or food entering the airway.