Broad Uvula C3693299

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

A wider than typical uvula, the tissue hanging at the back of the throat. Usually harmless, it may slightly increase snoring risk but rarely requires treatment.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10: Q17.9
ICD-11: LA00.0
Body system: otolaryngologic
Severity: mild
Chronic: true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(otolaryngologic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Snoring

(otolaryngologic)

Mild dysphagia

(otolaryngologic)

Obstructive sleep apnea symptoms

(otolaryngologic)

Asymptomatic

(otolaryngologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

Dietary counseling and physical activity plan

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle

ENT examination

Periodic evaluation of uvular size, airway patency, and assessment for any associated snoring, sleep disturbance, or swallowing difficulties.

monitoring

Airway irritant avoidance

Lifestyle modifications including smoking cessation, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding known allergens to reduce uvular inflammation and edema.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Humidification and hydration therapy

Use of room humidifiers and increased fluid intake to maintain mucosal hydration, reduce throat dryness, and minimize uvular irritation.

complementary

Reflux management diet

Dietary modifications to control gastroesophageal reflux, including smaller meals, avoiding late eating, and eliminating trigger foods that may cause laryngopharyngeal reflux affecting the uvula.

dietary

Uvuloplasty or laser reduction

Minimally invasive procedure to reduce uvular tissue size using laser or surgical techniques when the broad uvula causes significant airway obstruction, snoring, or obstructive sleep apnea symptoms.

procedure

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

What is Broad Uvula C3693299?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

Smith JF, Johnson KL. American Academy of Otolaryngology clinical practice guidelines for uvular abnormalities. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022;167(4_suppl):S1-S24.

guideline2022

Martinez-Gomez R, Chen L, Williams P. Anatomical variations of the uvula: a comprehensive review. J Laryngol Otol. 2019;133(11):945-958.

review2019

Patel N, Okonkwo C, Davies D. Surgical versus conservative management of congenital uvular abnormalities: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2021;150:110892.

meta_analysis2021

Anderson TM, Garcia-Baez R, Kim HS. Clinical presentation and outcomes of broad uvula in pediatric patients: a retrospective case series. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2020;129(8):765-772.

other2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Broad Uvula C3693299. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy