What To Know
- However, there are some cases in which the growth of the Adam’s apple may be a sign of a medical condition.
- The growth of the Adam’s apple is a complex process that is influenced by a number of factors.
The Adam’s apple, also known as the laryngeal prominence, is a protrusion on the front of the neck, just below the chin. It is formed by the thyroid cartilage, which is a large piece of cartilage that protects the vocal cords. The Adam’s apple is more prominent in men than in women, and it typically grows during puberty.
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why the Adam’s apple grows. We will also discuss some of the factors that can affect the size and shape of the Adam’s apple.
The Role of Testosterone
One of the main reasons why the Adam’s apple grows is testosterone. Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in large amounts in men during puberty. Testosterone is responsible for the development of many male secondary sexual characteristics, including the growth of the Adam’s apple.
The Growth of the Thyroid Cartilage
The thyroid cartilage is a piece of cartilage that is located in the front of the neck. It is made up of two plates of cartilage that are connected by a thin strip of cartilage. The thyroid cartilage grows during puberty, and this growth causes the Adam’s apple to become more prominent.
The Development of the Vocal Cords
The vocal cords are two bands of tissue that are located in the larynx. They vibrate when air passes through them, which produces sound. The vocal cords grow during puberty, and this growth can also contribute to the growth of the Adam’s apple.
Factors That Can Affect the Size and Shape of the Adam’s Apple
There are a number of factors that can affect the size and shape of the Adam’s apple. These factors include:
- Genetics: Some people are simply born with larger or smaller Adam’s apples than others.
- Body fat: People who are overweight or obese may have a less prominent Adam’s apple.
- Age: The Adam’s apple typically grows during puberty, but it can continue to grow throughout adulthood.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, can cause the Adam’s apple to become larger or smaller.
When to See a Doctor
In most cases, the growth of the Adam’s apple is a normal part of puberty. However, there are some cases in which the growth of the Adam’s apple may be a sign of a medical condition. You should see a doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- A sudden change in the size or shape of your Adam’s apple
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Hoarseness or a change in your voice
- Pain in your neck or throat
Summary: Unraveling the Mystery
The growth of the Adam’s apple is a complex process that is influenced by a number of factors. In most cases, the growth of the Adam’s apple is a normal part of puberty. However, there are some cases in which the growth of the Adam’s apple may be a sign of a medical condition. If you are concerned about the size or shape of your Adam’s apple, you should see a doctor.
Questions You May Have
- Q: Why do men have Adam’s apples and women don’t?
A: Men have Adam’s apples because of the effects of testosterone. Testosterone is a hormone that is produced in large amounts in men during puberty. Testosterone is responsible for the development of many male secondary sexual characteristics, including the growth of the Adam’s apple.
- Q: What is the average size of an Adam’s apple?
A: The average size of an Adam’s apple is about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in men. However, the size of the Adam’s apple can vary significantly from person to person.
- Q: Can the Adam’s apple be removed?
A: Yes, the Adam’s apple can be removed through a surgical procedure called a laryngectomy. However, this surgery is typically only performed in cases of cancer or other medical conditions.
- Q: Can the Adam’s apple be enlarged?
A: Yes, the Adam’s apple can be enlarged through a surgical procedure called a chondroplasty. However, this surgery is typically only performed for cosmetic reasons.
- Q: What are some of the medical conditions that can affect the Adam’s apple?
A: Some of the medical conditions that can affect the Adam’s apple include:
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cancer of the larynx
- Laryngitis
