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.
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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