Final answer:
A shortened pharynx can affect swallowing and breathing, increasing the risk of food entering the trachea and causing difficulty in breathing or swallowing.
Step-by-step explanation:
A shortened pharynx can lead to changes in swallowing and breathing. When the pharynx is shortened, the soft palate and uvula may not close off the nasopharynx effectively, increasing the risk of food entering the trachea. In addition, the larynx may not be pulled superiorly as much as it should be, which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing.