Method Of Exam
Author: A. Chandrasekhar, MD
Have patient say "ah" and observe movement of palate with flash light.
Stimulate posterior pharynx (gag reflex) with cotton tipped probe one side at a time.
Have the patient cough.
Observe patient's voice.
Normal:
No hoarseness is noted in voice and the cough is effective.
Palate moves symmetrically and the uvula stays in midline
Pharynx moves forwards with retching on stimulation of posterior pharynx.