DEGLUTITION

REFLEX
MUNAZA IJAZ
ROLL NUMBER: 188
DPT-4 (SEMESTER 2)
DEGLUTITION REFLEX:
 Initially-voluntary act
 Later, it becomes involuntary
 Carried out by a reflex action called deglutition reflex
 Processes: Description:

Stimulus When the bolus enters the oropharyngeal region, the

receptors are stimulated
Afferent Fibers Oropharyngeal receptors pass via the glossopharyngeal nerve
fibers
Center Fourth ventricle in medulla oblongata of brain

Efferent Fibers Travel through glossopharyngeal & vagus nerves

Reach soft palate, pharynx & esophagus
Nerve is concerned with pharyngeal stage of swallowing
The vagus nerve is concerned with esophageal stage
Response Reflex causes upward movement of soft palate & larynx
It closes respiratory passage so that bolus enters the esophagus
Peristalsis occurs in esophagus, pushing the bolus into stomach.