The uvula, or uvule (from the Latin uva, grape), is a cone-shaped growth located at the back of the mouth and in the prolongation of the palate.

The uvula is made up of muscles, membranous tissues and mucous membranes. It hangs over the upper part of the oral cavity, at the level of the soft palate. It measures between 10 and 15 millimeters in length and usually goes down to the tongue. Red in color, it has many blood capillaries (1).

The presence of muscles in the uvula allows it to be mobile and to contract.

Role in swallowing. By contracting, the uvula closes the nasal cavity and prevents regurgitation of food or drink into the nasal cavity (1) (2).

Role in respiration. The movement of the uvula regulates the passage of air through the nasal passages (1).

Joint. The uvula participates in the formation of certain sounds such as the pronunciation of R which would be impossible in the absence of a uvula (1).

Uvilite. It corresponds to an inflammation of the uvula. It can be caused by an infection (virus, bacteria or fungus) or by a reaction to an irritant (such as tobacco or alcohol) (3) (4). It is often accompanied by inflammation of adjacent organs: pharyngitis, laryngitis, stomatitis, angina, etc.

Snoring. Breathing noise during sleep, snoring is caused by vibration of the uvula and palate.

Sleep Apnea. It manifests itself by involuntary stops in breathing. It is usually caused by sagging tongue and throat muscles (5) (6).

Prevention. The sagging or irritation of the uvula can be caused by smoking, alcohol consumption, certain medications such as sleeping pills, etc.

Uvulo-palato-pharyngoplasty (or surgical pharyngotomy). This operation involves removing part of the uvula, soft palate and tonsils. It increases the space in the throat and limits vibrations in the case of snoring.

Uvulo-palatoplasty. This laser operation involves removing only part of the uvula and soft palate (7).

Uvulectomy (or removal of the uvula). In some cases, the uvula can be removed by surgery or by laser. This operation is cumbersome and can have side effects.

Radiofrequency treatment. Using an electrode, this operation involves passing a brief electric current that will retract the tissues, decrease the size of the uvula and reduce vibrations in the case of snoring (6).

Anti-allergic treatment. Inflammation of the uvula can occur with allergies.

Physical examination. Observation of the size, length and color of the uvula can identify inflammation of the uvula.

In his works, Hippocrates spoke of the respiratory discomfort that can be caused by swelling of the uvula. He mentions in particular ablation as one of the operations performed on the uvula (8).

Aristotle described the uvula as a grape, by analogy with its shape and size when inflamed (1).