Upper aerodigestive tract

The upper aerodigestive tract includes the parts of your body involved in breathing, speaking, and swallowing: the nasal passages, mouth, throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), and the upper part of the esophagus. It serves as a pathway for air to reach your lungs and food to go to your stomach. These structures are closely connected and work together to facilitate breathing, speech, and digestion. Because they are interconnected, issues in this area, such as infections or tumors, can affect multiple functions and may require coordinated medical care.