What Keeps Food From Entering Your Lungs?

The larynx, epiglottis and hyoid bone, structures of the throat, move when a person swallows to protect the lungs. This mechanism allows food to enter the esophagus, leading to the stomach, rather than the airway leading to the lungs.

The Larynx

• The vocal cords of the larynx, or voice box, which forms the opening of the airway leading into the lungs, close together when a person swallows. This completely blocks off the trachea, or airway, so that no food particles can enter the lungs.

The Epiglottis

• The epiglottis is a structure of cartilage and mucous membrane located at the back of the throat. It is attached to the tongue, and situated vertically when a person is at rest or breathing. During swallowing, it folds into a horizontal position to direct food into the esophagus.

The Hyoid Bone

• The hyoid bone is located in the neck and attached to the epiglottis. When a person swallows, muscles in the neck lift the hyoid bone, causing the epiglottis to fold down and block off the airway.