The pharynx is used by both the digestive system and the respiratory system. The epiglottis blocks the entry of food into the windpipe. Here is a view of thrush, a yeast infection of the esophagus and stomach. This infection is similar to a vaginal yeast infection. C. Esophagus is a muscular tube that conducts food from the pharynx into the stomach.
Peristalsis moves the bolus of food along the esophagus.
The smooth muscles lining the espohagus are involuntarily regulated. The salivary enzymes remain active as the bolus moves into the stomach. Here is a view of the esophagus and stomach. Normal esophagus . Here is a view of a squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus.