|Articles|July 6, 2009

No Tongue Blade-No Gag Reflex!

If patients cannot overcome the gag reflex when I try to depress their tongue with a tongue blade, I simply have them stand in front of a mirror and ask them to show me the back of their throat while I hold the light. I have found that most patients are able to do what it takes to see their own throat. This strategy is especially useful with children.

- Brett S. Bilbrey, MD
Knoxville, Tenn

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