Question

Laryngospasm is defined as:

A) aspiration of foreign material.
B) spasmodic closure of the vocal cords.
C) voluntary closure of the glottic opening.
D) spontaneous collapsing of the trachea.

Answer 1

Laryngospasm is the spasmodic closure of the vocal cords. It is an involuntary reflex that helps protect the respiratory tract during swallowing. The epiglottis closes to prevent food from entering the trachea.

Step-by-step explanation:

Laryngospasm is defined as the spasmodic closure of the vocal cords. When swallowing occurs, the epiglottis, a flap of cartilage, closes over the entrance to the larynx to prevent food from entering the trachea. If swallowed material does enter the larynx, it stimulates a strong cough reflex to expel the material. Laryngospasm is an involuntary reflex that helps protect the respiratory tract.