Normally not: In normal anatomical and physiological condition it is not supposed to touch the base of our tongue. Enlargement or swelling of the uvula is known as uvulitis, which can be caused by several factors: dehydration, infections, allergies, obstructive sleep apnea, etc. Uvulitis is not a serious medical condition, and most of the time it can be treated at home.
Answered 6/3/2014
4k views
Varies: Since people have sometimes quite variable anatomy, an index called the Mallampati score helps quantify pharygeal space. A rating of class III or IV is predictive of difficulty being intubated as well as tendency for sleep apnea. The lower classes probably will not contribute as much to airway occlusion but the higher classes suggest vigilance for issues relating to the airway being blocked.
Answered 3/11/2018
4k views
11 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
A doctor has provided 1 answer
7 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your question