Editing Uvula (section)

===Inflammation===
[[File:Swollen Uvula.jpg|thumb|340x340px|A swollen uvula with additional upper mouth ulcer in a run-down adult (common cold)]]
At times, the [[mucous membrane]] around the uvula may [[Swelling (medical)|swell]], causing the uvula to expand 3–5 times its normal size. This condition is known as uvulitis. When the uvula touches the throat or tongue, it can cause sensations like gagging or choking, although there is no foreign matter present.  This can cause problems with breathing, talking, and eating.

There are many theories about what causes the uvula to swell, including [[dehydration]] (e.g. from arid weather); excessive [[tobacco smoking|smoking]] or other inhaled irritants; [[snoring]]; [[allergic reaction]]; or a [[virus|viral]] or [[bacterial infection]]. An [[aphthous ulcer]] which has formed on the uvula can also cause swelling and discomfort.<ref>{{cite journal|vauthors=Biblo LA, Gilbert IA|date=May 1983|title=Aphthous ulcer of the uvula and the painful burp|journal=N. Engl. J. Med.|volume=308|issue=19|pages=1168|doi=10.1056/NEJM198305123081922|pmid=6835348}}</ref>

If the swelling is caused by dehydration, drinking fluids may improve the condition. If the cause is a bacterial infection, [[gargling]] salt water may help.  However, it can also be a sign of other problems.  Some people with a history of recurring uvulitis carry an [[epinephrine autoinjector]] to counteract symptoms of an attack. A swollen uvula is not normally life-threatening and subsides in a short time, typically within a day.