The respiratory tract in the human body begins with the nasal cavity, which is represented by the nasal canal. This channel communicates with the environment and the nasopharynx. It contains special receptors responsible for the sense of smell. As for the functions of the nasal cavity, they are as follows: cleansing, protective and moisturizing. The size of the nasal cavity increases with age. If we compare the nasal cavity of an infant and an adult, then in the first it is three times smaller.

Nasal cavity: structural features

The external structure of the nose is the wings (they are also called nostrils) and the dorsum (consists of the root and the middle part). The inner surface of the nose is formed by the bones of the skull, and the hard and soft palates are separated from the mouth.

The structure of the nose is quite complex: its cavity is divided into two parts - the nostrils, and each of them has five parts - medial, lateral, lower, upper and posterior walls.

The nasal cavity consists not only of bone tissue. It contains cartilaginous and membranous elements that are very mobile. There are three shells inside, they are called upper, lower and middle. However, of all the shells listed above, only the lower one is bony, that is, consisting of bones. The sinks are connected to each other by passages through which air flows pass. There are three moves:

• upper – located at the back; there are special holes in the cell of the ethmoid bone;
• middle - connected to the anterior cells, as well as to two sinuses - the maxillary and frontal;
• lower - connected to the orbit through the nasolacrimal duct.

A distinctive feature of the nasal mucosa is its minimal thickness and division into several lobes - olfactory and respiratory. The first is responsible for a person’s ability to catch and distinguish odors, the second is designed to process the air. The respiratory lobe contains microcilia that cleanse the air of impurities and dust. There are also mucous glands that fight harmful bacteria. Under the mucous membrane there is a base with plexuses of blood vessels and nerve endings, they warm the air.

Important! In most people, the volume of the left and right nostrils is not the same, since the partition that separates them from each other is often shifted to one side.

Function of the nasal cavity

The nasal cavity performs several important functions, because it is responsible for the connection between the human body and the environment. Thanks to the correct functioning of the nose and adequate nasal breathing, the normal functioning of all organs and systems of the human body is ensured.

Primary functions of the nose:

• Respiratory. Provides tissues and cells with oxygen, which plays a key role in life.
• Protective. Air entering the nasal cavity comes into contact with the mucous membrane, being cleansed of dust and harmful impurities, as well as warming and moisturizing.
• Resonator. The nasal cavities, paranasal sinuses and pharynx are a kind of resonators that have a direct impact on the timbre of the voice and endow it with individual characteristics.
• Olfactory. Responsible for the ability to capture odors and distinguish them. This feature is key for representatives of some professions, in particular for perfumers, tasters, chemical and food industry workers. The relationship between the perception of odors and the production of saliva and digestive juices has been scientifically proven.

Diseases of the nasal cavity

There are a great many reasons for the development of nasal diseases. These include individual characteristics of the body, defects in the structure of the nose, and harmful living or working conditions. Among the most common nasal diseases are:

• Allergic rhinitis, which occurs as a result of an allergic reaction to an irritant - fluff, dust, pollen of certain flowers.
• Vasomotor rhinitis is associated with decreased tone of blood vessels that are located in the submucosa of the inferior conchae.
• Hypertrophic rhinitis is a consequence of complications of the rhinitis listed above. Its main symptom is the proliferation of connective tissue.
• Drug-induced rhinitis occurs due to prolonged use of drugs that constrict blood vessels.
• Synechiae are adhesive formations inside the nose that appear as a result of injury or as a consequence of surgery.
• Polyps are an advanced form of rhinosinusitis. In essence, this is an overgrowth of the nasal mucosa, which often develops in parallel with an allergic rhinitis.
• Neoplasms – cysts, papillomas, osteomas, fibromas.

The nasal cavity is responsible for saturating the body with oxygen, protects organs and systems from pathogenic bacteria, and allows us to smell. Due to disruption of the nose, it entails disruptions in the functioning of the entire body, therefore any diseases of the nasal cavity and its components should be treated under strict medical supervision.

Nasal cavity(cavitas nasi) is the beginning of the respiratory system. It is located under the base of the skull, above the oral cavity and between the eye sockets. In front, the nasal cavity communicates with the external environment through

nasal openings - nostrils (nares), behind - with the nasal part of the pharynx through the posterior openings of the nasal cavity - choanae(choanae). The nasal cavity is formed by bony walls covered with mucous membrane. Connected to the nasal cavity paranasal sinuses. The mucous membrane of the nasal cavity extends into the paranasal sinuses.

Nasal septum(septum nasi) The nasal cavity is divided into two halves - right and left. In each half there are vestibule of the nasal cavity(vestibulum nasi), bounded by the cartilages of the external nose and covered with stratified squamous epithelium, and the nasal cavity itself, lined with mucous membrane with stratified ciliated epithelium. The boundary between the vestibule and the nasal cavity runs along an arched ridge - the threshold of the nose (litep nasi).

There are 4 walls in the nasal cavity: upper, lower, lateral and medial. Medial wall common to both halves of the nasal cavity, represented by the nasal septum. There are 3 parts of the nasal septum:

1) superoposterior bone (pars ossea);

2) anterior cartilaginous (pars cartilaginea);

3) anteroinferior membranous (pars membranacea).

The vomeronasal organ is located at the anterior edge of the vomer (organum vomeronasale), which is a complex of small folds of the mucous membrane. In humans, this organ is small and functionally related to the sense of smell.

Bottom wall The nasal cavity is also the upper wall of the oral cavity. On the lower wall, posterior to the vomeronasal organ, is the incisive duct (canal) (ductus incisivus), opening with an opening on the incisive papilla of the palate.

It is important for dentists to remember the relationship of the roots of the upper incisors to the lower wall of the nasal cavity. In some people, especially those with a broad and short face, the tips of the upper medial incisors and the upper canine lie very close to the floor of the nasal cavity, being separated from it only by a thin layer of the compact substance of the jaw. On the contrary, in persons with a narrow, long face, the apexes of the roots of the upper incisors and canines are removed from the nasal cavity at a considerable distance (10-12 mm).

Upper wall, or vault of the nasal cavity, is formed by the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone, through which the olfactory nerves pass, therefore the upper part of the nasal cavity is called olfactory area(reg. olfactoria), in contrast to the rest of the cavity - respiratory area(reg. respiratoria).

Lateral wall has the most complex structure. There are 3 nasal conchas: superior, middle and inferior (conchae nasales superior, media et inferior), the basis of which is formed by the corresponding bony nasal turbinates. The mucous membrane of the conchae and the venous plexuses embedded in it thicken the conchae and reduce the nasal cavity.

The space between the medial wall (nasal septum) and the nasal turbinates, as well as between the upper and lower walls, forms common nasal passage(meatus nasi communis). In addition, individual passages of the nose are distinguished. Between the inferior turbinate and the inferior wall of the nasal cavity there is inferior nasal passage(meatus nasi inferior), between the middle and inferior turbinates - middle nasal passage(meatus nasi medius), between the superior and middle turbinates - superior nasal passage(meatus nasi superior). Between the superior concha and the anterior wall of the body of the sphenoid bone lies wedge-ethmoid recess(recessus sphenoethmoidalis), the magnitude of which varies. The sphenoid sinus opens into it (Fig. 114).

The width of the nasal passages depends on the size of the turbinates, the position of the nasal septum and the condition of the mucous membrane.

With disproportionate turbinates, deviated septum and swelling of the mucous membrane, the nasal passages narrow, which can make nasal breathing difficult. The longest is the bottom stroke, the shortest and narrowest is the top, the widest is the middle.

In the lower nasal passage under the arch of the inferior concha there is an opening nasolacrimal duct. In the middle nasal passage, the maxillary and frontal sinuses, the anterior and middle cells of the ethmoid sinus open with separate openings.

The cleft semilunaris is located on the lateral wall in the area of ​​the middle meatus. (hiatus semilunaris), leading into the frontal sinus, the anterior cells of the ethmoid bone, and also into the maxillary sinus. Thus, the middle meatus represents a clinically important part of the nasal cavity.

In the upper nasal passage there are openings of the posterior and middle cells of the ethmoid sinus, and in the sphenoid-ethmoidal recess there is an aperture of the sphenoid sinus. The posterior openings of the nasal cavity - choanae - are located in its lower part.

The nasal cavity as a whole can be relatively high and short (in brachycephals) or low and long (in dolichocephals). In newborns, the height of the nasal cavity is small. Most often in newborns

Rice. 114. Nasal cavity:

a - lateral wall: 1 - vestibule of the nasal cavity; 2 - lower nasal passage; 3 - nasal threshold; 4 - inferior nasal concha; 5 - middle nasal passage; 6 - middle turbinate; 7 - upper nasal passage; 8 - superior nasal concha; 9 - frontal sinus; 10 - sphenoid sinus; 11 - pipe roller; 12 - pharyngeal opening of the auditory tube;

b - lateral wall after removal of the turbinates: 1 - entrance to the maxillary sinus; 2 - opening of the nasolacrimal duct; 3 - cut off inferior nasal concha; 4 - semilunar cleft; 5 - lattice bubble; 6 - cut off middle turbinate; 7 - probe in the frontal sinus; 8 - the probe is inserted through the aperture into the sphenoid sinus;

c - rhinoscopy (examination of the nasal cavity through the nostrils): 1 - middle turbinate; 2 - middle nasal passage; 3 - inferior nasal concha; 4 - lower nasal passage; 5 - common nasal passage; 6 - nasal septum

4 sinks: lower, middle, upper and topmost. The latter usually undergoes reduction and is rare in adults (approximately 20% of cases). The shells are relatively thick and located close to the bottom and roof of the cavity, so in newborns the lower passage of the nose is usually absent and is formed only by the 6-7th month of life. Rarely (in 30% of cases) the upper passage of the nose is also detected. All 3 nasal passages grow most rapidly after 6 months and reach their normal shape by 13 years. There may be anomalies in the size, shape and number of shells.

Mucous membrane. In the nasal cavity, the mucous membrane is fused with the underlying periosteum and perichondrium and is covered with multirow prismatic ciliated epithelium. It contains mucous goblet cells and complex alveolar mucoserous nasal glands (gll. nasales). Powerfully developed venous plexuses and arterial networks are located directly under the epithelium, which creates the possibility of warming the inhaled air. The most developed cavernous plexuses of shells (plexus cavernosi concharum), damage to which causes very severe bleeding. In the shells the mucous membrane is especially thick (up to 4 mm). In the olfactory region, the superior turbinate and partly the vault of the cavity are covered with a special olfactory epithelium.

The mucous membrane of the nasal vestibule is a continuation of the epithelial cover of the skin and is lined with stratified squamous epithelium. The connective tissue layer of the vestibular membrane contains sebaceous glands And hair roots.

X-ray anatomy. On radiographs in anteroposterior and lateral projections, the nasal septum, its position, turbinates, paranasal sinuses, as well as changes in anatomical relationships caused by a pathological process or anomalies are clearly visible.

Rhinoscopy. In a living person, you can examine the formations of the nasal cavity using a special mirror (rhinoscopy). The mucous membrane of the cavity, which has a pink color in healthy people (in the olfactory area with a yellowish tint), the septum, nasal turbinates, passages, and some openings of the paranasal sinuses are clearly visible.

Vessels and nerves of the nasal cavity. The blood supply to the nasal cavity comes from sphenopalatine artery(from the maxillary artery). Blood flows into the anterior section through the branches anterior ethmoidal artery(from the ophthalmic artery).

Venous blood flows in 3 directions: into the veins of the cranial cavity - ophthalmic veins, cavernous sinus, anterior section of the upper sagittal

nogo sinus; V facial vein; V sphenopalatine vein, flowing into the pterygoid venous plexus.

Lymphatic vessels are formed from superficial and deep networks and go to retropharyngeal, submandibular And submental lymph nodes.

Sensitive innervation is carried out by the ophthalmic and maxillary nerves (from the V pair). Autonomous innervation of the glands and vessels of the nasal cavity is provided by sympathetic fibers running along the vessels of the cavity, and parasympathetic fibers that are part of the nerves of the pterygopalatine ganglion.

3. Discontinuous (synovial) bone connections. The structure of the joint. Classification of joints according to the shape of the articular surfaces, the number of axes and function.

4. Cervical spine, its structure, connections, movements. The muscles that produce these movements.

5. Connections of the atlas with the skull and with the axial vertebra. Features of structure, movement.

6. Skull: sections, bones forming them.

7. Development of the brain part of the skull. Variants and anomalies of its development.

8. Development of the facial part of the skull. The first and second visceral arches, their derivatives.

9. The skull of a newborn and its changes in subsequent stages of ontogenesis. Gender and individual characteristics of the skull.

10. Continuous connections of the skull bones (sutures, synchondrosis), their age-related changes.

11. Temporomandibular joint and muscles acting on it. Blood supply and innervation of these muscles.

12. Shape of the skull, cranial and facial indexes, types of skulls.

13. Frontal bone, its position, structure.

14. Parietal and occipital bones, their structure, contents of holes and canals.

15. Ethmoid bone, its position, structure.

16. Temporal bone, its parts, openings, canals and their contents.

17. Sphenoid bone, its parts, holes, canals and their contents.

18. The upper jaw, its parts, surfaces, openings, canals and their contents. Upper jaw buttresses and their significance.

19. Lower jaw, its parts, canals, openings, places of muscle attachment. Buttresses of the lower jaw and their significance.

20. Inner surface of the base of the skull: cranial fossae, foramina, grooves, canals and their significance.

21. The outer surface of the base of the skull: openings, canals and their purpose.

22. Orbit: its walls, contents and messages.

24. Paranasal sinuses, their development, structural options, messages and significance.

25. Temporal and infratemporal fossa, their walls, messages and contents.

26. Pterygopalatine fossa, its walls, messages and contents.

27. Structure and classification of muscles.

29. Facial muscles, their development, structure, functions, blood supply and innervation.

30. Chewing muscles, their development, structure, functions, blood supply and innervation.

31. Fascia of the head. Osteofascial and intermuscular spaces of the head, their contents and communications.

32. Neck muscles, their classification. Superficial muscles and muscles associated with the hyoid bone, their structure, functions, blood supply and innervation.

33. Deep muscles of the neck, their structure, functions, blood supply and innervation.

34. Topography of the neck (regions and triangles, their contents).

35. Anatomy and topography of the plates of the cervical fascia. Cellular spaces of the neck, their position, walls, contents, messages, practical significance.

23. Nasal cavity: the bony basis of its walls, communications.

The nasal cavity, cavum nasi, occupies a central position in the facial part of the skull. The bony nasal septum, septum ndsi osseum, consisting of a perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone and a vomer attached below to the nasal ridge, divides the bony nasal cavity into two halves. In front, the nasal cavity opens with a pear-shaped aperture, apertura piriformis, bounded by the nasal notches (right and left) of the maxillary bones and the lower edges of the nasal bones. In the lower part of the pyriform aperture, the anterior nasal spine, spina nasalis anterior, protrudes forward. Through the posterior openings, or choanae, the nasal cavity communicates with the pharyngeal cavity. Each choana is bounded on the lateral side by the medial plate of the pterygoid process, on the medial side by the vomer, above by the body of the sphenoid bone, and below by the horizontal plate of the palatine bone.

The nasal cavity has three walls: upper, lower and lateral.

Top wall The nasal cavity is formed by the nasal bones, the nasal part, the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone and the lower surface of the body of the sphenoid bone.

Bottom wall The nasal cavity consists of the palatine processes of the maxillary bones and the horizontal plates of the palatine bones. Along the midline, these bones form the nasal ridge, to which is attached the bony nasal septum, which is the medial wall for each half of the nasal cavity.

Lateral wall The nasal cavity has a complex structure. It is formed by the nasal surface of the body and the frontal process of the maxilla, the nasal bone, the lacrimal bone, the ethmoid labyrinth of the ethmoid bone, the perpendicular plate of the palatine bone, the medial plate of the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone (in the posterior section). Three nasal conchae protrude on the lateral wall, located one above the other. The superior and middle are parts of the ethmoid labyrinth, and the inferior turbinate is an independent bone.

The turbinates divide the lateral part of the nasal cavity into three nasal passages: upper, middle and lower.

Superior nasal passage, medtus nasalis superior, is limited above and medially by the superior nasal concha, and below by the middle nasal concha. This nasal passage is poorly developed, located in the back of the nasal cavity. The posterior cells of the ethmoid bone open into it. Above the posterior part of the superior nasal concha there is a sphenoid-ethmoid recess, recesus sphenoethmoidalis, into which the aperture of the sphenoid sinus opens, apertura sinus sphenoidalis. Through this aperture the sinus communicates with the nasal cavity.

Middle nasal passage, medtus nasalis medius, is located between the middle and inferior nasal concha. It is significantly longer, higher and wider than the top one. The anterior and middle cells of the ethmoid bone, the aperture of the frontal sinus through the ethmoid funnel, infundibutum ethmoidale, and the semilunar cleft, hiatus semilundris, leading into the maxillary sinus open into the middle nasal meatus. The sphenopalatine foramen, foramen sphenopalatinum, located behind the middle turbinate, connects the nasal cavity with the pterygopalatine fossa.

Lower nasal passage, meat us nasalis inferior, the longest and widest, is limited above by the inferior nasal concha, and below by the nasal surfaces of the palatine process of the upper jaw and the horizontal plate of the palatine bone. The nasolacrimal canal, canalls nasolacrimalis, begins in the orbit, opens into the anterior section of the lower nasal meatus.

The space in the form of a narrow sagittal fissure, limited by the septum of the nasal cavity on the medial side and the nasal turbinates, makes up the common nasal passage.

In fact, this organ is a pair, that is, there are two nasal cavities. They are separated from each other by the nasal septum. Each nostril opens at the front, and at the back it is connected to the nasopharynx by special openings. However, it so happened that these two departments are combined in speech under the name “nasal cavity”.

Its structure is more complex than it seems to an ignorant person. The walls of the nasal cavities, the bottom and roof of the cavity are rigid due to bone, cartilage and connective tissue of high density. It is because of this structural feature that the cavity does not collapse when inhaling.

Each nasal cavity is divided into two parts: the vestibule - an expanded area directly behind the nostrils, the respiratory cavity - a narrowed part located immediately behind the vestibule. The epidermis, which lines the cavity from the inside, contains a lot of hair follicles, as well as sweat and sebaceous glands. Why exactly is the nasal cavity lined this way? Its functions are cleansing, increasing humidity and air temperature, which is why it is so richly covered with blood vessels. Hairs can trap large particles in the inhaled air.

In the vestibule, the multilayered one belongs to the non-keratinizing type, then it becomes multirowed cylindrical ciliated, and goblet cells begin to appear in it. The epithelium becomes part of the mucous membrane lining the respiratory part of the nasal cavity.

The lamina propria of the mucous membrane here is adjacent to the periosteum or perichondrium, depending on whether this mucous membrane covers bone or cartilage. The basement membrane, which separates the respiratory epithelium from the lamina propria, is much thicker than in most other types of epithelium.

The epithelial surface is moistened with mucus, which is also produced by glands from the lamina propria. Up to 500 ml of mucus is produced per day. The latter mixes with particles of dirt and dust that stick to it, and thanks to the cilia, it moves to. Cleansing the nasal cavity largely depends on the condition of the cilia; if they have suffered from illness or injury, this process can be severely disrupted.

In some places near the vestibule there are lymphatic follicles that perform an immune function. In the lamina propria of the nasal mucosa there are many plasma cells and lymphocytes, and sometimes granular leukocytes are also found. They “protect the borders” of the body, protecting us from invasions, because the nasal cavity often becomes the gateway to infections.

However, the cavity “works” not only with air; on the upper part of the walls, as well as the roof of the rear part of each area, there are special cells that make up the organ of smell.

There are two olfactory zones, one in each nasal cavity. The mucous membrane there forms a special organ, thanks to which we are able to smell. The peculiarity of this sensory organ is that the bodies of neurons there are located on the surface, which makes them truly vulnerable. Therefore, with injuries to the nose or chronic diseases, a person may lose their sense of smell. We lose another approximately one percent of our sense of smell for every year of life, which is why this important sense is so often impaired in older people.

Along the side plate of each cavity there are three bone plates, one above the other, like small shelves. They are slightly curved downwards, which is why they are called turbinates.

Also connected to the nasal cavity are the sinuses (sinuses), which are located in the bony cavities. The largest is located in the smaller sinuses - in the frontal, ethmoid and sphenoid bones. They are the ones that fill with mucus and sometimes pus during sinusitis. In this case, medications are prescribed that cause the patency of the sinuses to increase.

The nasal cavity is complex, because it must protect us, prepare air for the lungs and carry out the sense of smell.

The nasal cavity (cavum nasi) is located between the oral cavity and the anterior cavity, and on the sides - between the paired upper jaws and paired ethmoid bones. The nasal septum divides it sagittally into two halves, opening anteriorly with the nostrils and posteriorly, into the nasopharynx, with the choanae. Each half of the nose is surrounded by four air-bearing paranasal sinuses: the maxillary, ethmoidal labyrinth, frontal and sphenoid, which communicate on their side with the nasal cavity (Fig. 1.2). The nasal cavity has four walls: inferior, superior, medial and lateral; posteriorly, the nasal cavity communicates with the nasopharynx through the choanae; in front it remains open and communicates with the outside air through the openings (nostrils).

1-upper nasal passage; 2 - sphenoid sinus; 3 - superior nasal concha; 4 - pharyngeal mouth of the auditory tube; 5 - middle nasal passage; 6 - additional anastomosis of the maxillary sinus; 7 - hard palate; 8 - inferior nasal concha; 9 - lower nasal passage; 10 - vestibule of the nose, 11 - middle turbinate, 12 - frontal sinus and a button-shaped probe inserted into its lumen through the frontonasal canal.

The lower wall (bottom of the nasal cavity) is formed by two palatine processes of the upper jaw and, in a small area posteriorly, by two horizontal plates of the palatine bone (hard palate). Along the akin line, these bones are connected through a suture. Disturbances of this connection lead to various defects (cleft palate, cleft lip). In front and in the middle in the bottom of the nasal cavity there is a nasopalatine canal (canalis incisivus), through which the nerve and artery of the same name pass into the oral cavity, anastomosing in the canal with the great palatine artery. This circumstance must be kept in mind when performing submucosal resection of the nasal septum and other operations in this area in order to avoid significant bleeding. In newborns, the bottom of the nasal cavity comes into contact with the tooth germs, which are located in the body of the upper jaw.

The upper wall (roof) of the nasal cavity in front is formed by the nasal bones, in the middle sections - by the cribriform plate (lamina cribrosa) and cells of the ethmoid bone (the largest part of the roof), the posterior sections are formed by the anterior wall of the sphenoid sinus. The filaments of the olfactory nerve pass through the openings of the cribriform plate; the bulb of this nerve lies on the cranial surface of the cribriform plate.

It must be borne in mind that in a newborn, lamina cribrosa is a fibrous formation that ossifies only by the age of 3 years.

The medial wall, or nasal septum (septum nasi), consists of anterior cartilaginous and posterior bone sections (Fig. 1.3). The bony section is formed by the perpendicular plate (lamina perpendicularis) of the ethmoid bone and the vomer (vomer), the cartilaginous section is formed by quadrangular cartilage, the upper edge of which forms the anterior part of the dorsum of the nose. In the vestibule of the nose, anteriorly and downward from the anterior edge of the quadrangular cartilage, there is a skin-membranous movable part of the nasal septum (septum mobile) visible from the outside. In a newborn, the perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone is represented by a membranous formation, the ossification of which ends only by the age of 6 years. The nasal septum is usually not exactly in the midplane. Significant curvatures in the anterior section, more common in men, can cause breathing problems through the nose. It should be noted that in a newborn, the height of the vomer is less than the width of the choana, therefore it appears as a transverse slit; Only by the age of 14 does the height of the vomer become greater than the width of the choana and it takes the form of an oval, elongated upward.

1 - mucous membrane of the nasal cavity; 2 - perpendicular plate of the ethmoid bone; 3 - triangular lateral cartilage; 4 - quadrangular cartilage of the nasal septum; 5 - small cartilage of the nasal wing; 6 - medial leg of the large cartilage of the nasal wing; 7 - nasal ridge; 8 - wedge-shaped process of the cartilage of the nasal septum; 9 - opener

The structure of the lateral (outer) wall of the nasal cavity is more complex (Fig. 1.4). The medial wall and frontal process of the upper jaw, the lacrimal and nasal bones, the medial surface of the ethmoid bone, and in the posterior part, forming the edges of the choana, the perpendicular process of the palatine bone and the pterygopalatine processes of the sphenoid bone take part in its formation in the anterior and middle parts. On the outer (lateral) wall there are three nasal conchae (conchae nasales): lower (concha inferior), middle (concha media) and upper (concha superior). The inferior concha is an independent bone; the line of its attachment forms an arc, convex upward, which should be taken into account when puncturing the maxillary sinus and conchotomy. The middle and superior conchae are processes of the ethmoid bone. Often the anterior end of the middle shell is swollen in the form of a bubble (conhae bullosa) - this is the air cell of the ethmoid labyrinth. Anterior to the middle concha there is a vertical bony protrusion (agger nasi), which can be expressed to a greater or lesser extent. All nasal conchae, attached with one lateral edge to the lateral wall of the nose in the form of elongated flattened formations, with the other edge hang downwards and medially in such a way that under them the lower, middle and upper nasal passages are formed, respectively, the height of which is 2-3 mm. The small space between the superior concha and the roof of the nose, called the sphenoethmoidal space,

A - with preserved relief structure: 1 - sphenoid sinus; 2 - additional cell of the sphenoid sinus; 3 - superior nasal concha; 4 - upper nasal passage, 5 - middle turbinate; 6 - pharyngeal mouth of the auditory tube; 7 - nasopharynx; 8 - uvula; 9 - tongue; 10 - hard palate; 11 - lower nasal passage; 12 - inferior nasal concha; 13 - additional anastomosis of the maxillary sinus; 14 - uncinate process; 15 - semilunar fissure; 16 - ethmoidal bulla; 17-pocket of the ethmoidal bulla; 18 - frontal sinus; 19 - cells of the ethmoid labyrinth.

B - with opened paranasal sinuses: 20 - lacrimal sac; 21-pockets of the maxillary sinus; 22 - nasolacrimal canal; 23 - posterior cell of the ethmoidal labyrinth; 24 - anterior cells of the ethmoid labyrinth; 25 - frontonasal canal.

Usually referred to as the superior nasal meatus. Between the nasal septum and the nasal turbinates there remains a free space in the form of a gap (3-4 mm in size), which extends from the bottom to the roof of the nose - the common nasal passage.

In a newborn, the inferior concha descends to the bottom of the nose, there is a relative narrowness of all nasal passages, which causes the rapid occurrence of difficulty in nasal breathing in young children, even with slight swelling of the mucous membrane due to its catarrhal state.

On the lateral wall of the lower nasal meatus, at a distance of 1 cm in children and 1.5 cm in adults from the anterior end of the concha, there is an outlet of the nasolacrimal canal. This hole forms after birth; if its opening is delayed, the outflow of tear fluid is disrupted, which leads to cystic expansion of the canal and narrowing of the nasal passages.

The bone of the lateral wall of the inferior nasal meatus at the base is much thicker than at the line of attachment of the inferior concha (this must be kept in mind when puncturing the maxillary sinus). The posterior ends of the lower conchae come close to the pharyngeal mouths of the auditory (Eustachian) tubes on the lateral walls of the pharynx, as a result of which, with hypertrophy of the conchae, the function of the auditory tubes may be impaired and their disease may develop.

The middle nasal meatus is located between the lower and middle conchae; on its lateral wall there is a crescent-shaped (semilunar) fissure (hiatus semilunaris), the posterior section of which is located below the anterior one (first described by N.I. Pirogov). This gap opens into: in the posterior section - the maxillary sinus through an opening (ostium1maxillare), in the anterior superior section - the opening of the canal of the frontal sinus, which does not form a straight line, which must be kept in mind when probing the frontal sinus. The crescent-shaped fissure in the posterior section is limited by the protrusion of the ethmoidal labyrinth (bulla ethmoidalis), and in the anterior section by the uncinate process (processus uncinatus), which extends anteriorly from the anterior edge of the middle turbinate. The anterior and middle cells of the ethmoid bone also open into the middle nasal meatus.

The superior meatus extends from the middle concha to the roof of the nose and includes the sphenoethmoidal space. At the level of the posterior end of the superior concha, the sphenoid sinus opens into the superior nasal passage through an opening (ostium sphenoidale). The posterior cells of the ethmoidal labyrinth also communicate with the superior nasal meatus.

The mucous membrane of the nasal cavity covers all its walls in a continuous layer and continues into the paranasal sinuses, pharynx and middle ear; it does not have a submucosal layer, which is generally absent in the respiratory tract, with the exception of the subglottic region of the larynx. The nasal cavity can be divided into two sections: the anterior one - the vestibule (vestibulum nasi) and the nasal cavity itself (cavum nasi). The latter, in turn, is divided into two areas: respiratory and olfactory.

The respiratory region of the nasal cavity (regio respiratoria) occupies the space from the bottom of the nose upward to the level of the lower edge of the middle concha. In this area, the mucous membrane is covered with multirow cylindrical ciliated epithelium.

Under the epithelium is the actual tissue of the mucous membrane (tunica propria), consisting of connective tissue collagen and elastic fibers. There are a large number of goblet cells that secrete mucus, and tubular-alveolar branched glands that produce serous or serous-mucosal secretion, which exits through the excretory ducts to the surface of the mucous membrane. Somewhat below these cells on the basement membrane are basal cells that do not undergo desquamation. They are the basis for the regeneration of the epithelium after its physiological and pathological desquamation (Fig. 1.5).

The mucous membrane along its entire length is tightly fused with the perichondrium or periosteum, which forms a single whole with it, therefore during the operation the membrane is separated along with these formations. In the area of ​​predominantly the medial and lower parts of the inferior concha, the free edge of the middle concha and their posterior ends, the mucous membrane is thickened due to the presence of cavernous tissue, consisting of dilated venous vessels, the walls of which are richly supplied with smooth muscles and connective tissue fibers. Areas of cavernous tissue can sometimes occur on the nasal septum, especially in its posterior part. The filling and emptying of cavernous tissue with blood occurs reflexively under the influence of a variety of physical, chemical and psychogenic stimuli. The mucous membrane containing cavernous tissue,

1-direction of mucociliary flow; 2 - mucous gland; 3 - periosteum; 4 - bone; 5-vena; 6-artery; 7 - arteriovenous shunt; 8 - venous sinus; 9 - submucosal capillaries; 10 - goblet cell; II - hair cell; 12 - liquid mucus component; 13 - viscous (gel-like) component of mucus.

It can instantly swell (thereby increasing the surface and warming the air to a greater extent), causing a narrowing of the nasal passages, or contract, exerting a regulating effect on respiratory function. In children, cavernous venous formations reach full development by 6 years. At a younger age, rudiments of Jacobson's olfactory organ are sometimes found in the mucous membrane of the nasal septum, located at a distance of 2 cm from the anterior edge of the septum and 1.5 cm from the bottom of the nose. Cysts can form here and inflammatory processes can develop.

The olfactory region of the nasal cavity (regio olfactoria) is located in its upper sections, from the vault to the lower edge of the middle turbinate. In this area, the mucous membrane is covered by the olfactory epithelium, the total area of ​​which in one half of the nose is about 24 cm2. Among the olfactory epithelium, ciliated epithelium is located in the form of islands, which performs a cleansing function here. The olfactory epithelium is represented by olfactory fusiform, basal and supporting cells. The central fibers of the spindle-shaped (specific) cells pass directly into the nerve fiber (fila olfactoria); the tops of these cells have protrusions into the nasal cavity - olfactory hairs. Thus, the fusiform olfactory nerve cell is both a receptor and a conductor. The surface of the olfactory epithelium is covered with the secretion of specific tubular-alveolar olfactory (Bowman's) glands, which is a universal solvent of organic substances.

The blood supply to the nasal cavity (Fig. 1.6, a) is provided by the terminal branch of the internal carotid artery (a.ophthalmica), which in the orbit gives off the ethmoidal arteries (aa.ethmoidales anterior et posterior); these arteries supply the anterosuperior sections of the walls of the nasal cavity and the ethmoidal labyrinth. The largest artery of the nasal cavity is a.sphe-nopalatina (a branch of the internal jaw artery from the system of the external carotid artery), it leaves the pterygopalatine fossa through the hole formed by the processes of the vertical plate of the palatine bone and the body of the main bone (foramen sphenopalatinum) (Fig. 1.6, b ), gives nasal branches to the lateral wall of the nasal cavity, the septum and all paranasal sinuses. This artery projects on the lateral wall of the nose near the posterior ends of the middle and inferior turbinates, which must be kept in mind when performing operations in this area. A feature of the vascularization of the nasal septum is the formation of a dense vascular network in the mucous membrane in the area of ​​its anterior third (locus Kisselbachii), here the mucous membrane is often thinned (Fig. 1.6, c). Nosebleeds occur more often from this area than from other areas, which is why it is called the “bleeding zone of the nose.” Venous vessels accompany the arteries.

A feature of the venous outflow from the nasal cavity is its connection with the venous plexuses (plexus pterigoideus, sinus cavernosus), through which the nasal veins communicate with the veins of the skull, orbit and pharynx, as a result of which there is the possibility of the spread of infection along these pathways and the occurrence of rhinogenic intracranial and orbital complications, sepsis, etc.

Lymphatic flow from the anterior sections of the nose is carried out to the submandibular lymph nodes, from the middle and posterior sections - to the deep cervical ones. It is important to note the connection of the lymphatic system of the olfactory region of the nose with the interthecal spaces, carried out along the perineural tracts of the olfactory nerve fibers. This explains the possibility of meningitis after surgery on the ethmoid labyrinth.

A - lateral wall of the nasal cavity: 1 - posterolateral nasal arteries; 2 - anterolateral nasal artery; 3-nasopalatine artery; 4 - great palatine artery; 5 - ascending palatine artery; 6 - small palatine artery; 7 - main palatine artery; b - medial wall of the nasal cavity: 8 - anterior ethmoidal artery; 9 - anterior artery of the nasal septum; 10 - mucous membrane of the nasal septum; 11 - upper jaw; 12 - language; 13 - lower jaw; 14 - deep artery of the tongue; 15 lingual artery; 16 - posterior artery of the nasal septum; 17 - perforated (sieve) plate of the ethmoid bone; 18 - posterior ethmoidal artery; c - blood supply to the septum of the nasal cavity 19 - Kisselbach zone; 20 - a dense network of anastomoses of the arteries of the nasal septum and the system of the internal sphenopalatine artery.

In the nasal cavity, olfactory, sensitive and secretory innervations are distinguished. Olfactory fibers (fila olfactoria) extend from the olfactory epithelium and penetrate through the cribriform plate into the cranial cavity to the olfactory bulb, where they form synapses with the dendrite of the cells of the olfactory tract (olfactory nerve). The parahippocampal gyrus (gyrus hippocampi), or seahorse gyrus, is the primary center of smell, the hippo-

1 - nerve of the pterygoid canal; 2 - infraorbital nerve; 3 - sphenopalatine nerve; 4 - posterolateral nasal branches; 5 - basal palatal node; 6 - posterolateral nasal branches; 7-posterior palatine nerve, 8 middle palatine nerve; 9 - anterior palatine nerves; 10 - nasopalatine nerve; 11 - nasal mucosa; 12 - oral mucosa; 13 - mylohyoid muscle; 14 - genioglossus muscle; 15 - geniohyoid muscle; 16 - maxillary-hyoid nerve; 17 - muscle that covers the velum palatine; 18 - internal pterygoid muscle; 19 - lingual nerve; 20 - internal pterygoid nerve; 21 - superior cervical ganglion; 22 - nodular ganglion of the vagus nerve: 23 - auriculotemporal nerve. 24 - ear node; 25 - drum string; 26 - jugular node of the vagus nerve; 27 - VIII pair of cranial nerves (vestibular-cochlear nerve); 28 - facial nerve; 29 - greater superficial petrosal nerve; 30 - mandibular nerve; 31 - semilunar node; 32 - maxillary nerve; 33 - trigeminal nerve (large and small portions).

The campa (horn of Ammon) and the anterior perforated substance are the highest cortical centers of smell.

Sensitive innervation of the nasal cavity is carried out by the first (n.ophthalmicus) and second (n.maxillaris) branches of the trigeminal nerve (Fig. 1.7). The anterior and posterior ethmoidal nerves depart from the first branch of the trigeminal nerve, which penetrate into the nasal cavity along with the vessels and innervate the lateral sections and vault of the nasal cavity. The second branch participates in the innervation of the nose directly and through an anastomosis with the pterygopalatine ganglion, from which the posterior nasal nerves mainly arise to the nasal septum. The inferior orbital nerve departs from the second branch to the mucous membrane of the bottom of the nasal cavity and the maxillary sinus. The branches of the trigeminal nerve anastomose with each other, which explains the irradiation of pain from the nose and paranasal sinuses to the area of ​​the teeth, eyes, dura mater (pain in the forehead, back of the head), etc. The sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation of the nose and paranasal sinuses is represented by the nerve of the pterygopalatine canal (vidian nerve), which originates from the plexus on the internal carotid artery (superior cervical sympathetic ganglion) and the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve (parasympathetic portion).

The nose is a perfect and rather complex human sensory organ. Conventionally, it is divided into three large parts: the external nose, the nasal cavity and. The visible part of the organ is formed over 15 years of life and often becomes the cause of significant experiences for a person, not corresponding to his ideas of beauty. Striving for the ideal, it is worth taking into account that any operations in the nasal area can disrupt its structure and lead to many unpleasant consequences.

The nasal cavity is an anatomical formation from which the human respiratory system originates. A number of processes take place in it to ensure humidification, purification and heating of the inhaled air. In addition, it performs a number of other vital functions due to its complex anatomy.

The nasal cavity is divided by the septal plate into 2 approximately equal parts. These halves are connected to the external environment through the external nose, formed from bones and cartilage. The skeleton is covered by muscle tissue and skin.

The septum has a rather complex anatomy. In the area of ​​the wings of the nose, it begins with a movable membranous region, continues with a small cartilaginous plate - an irregular quadrangle, communicated through its angles with the bones: nasal, ethmoid and palatine.

Cartilage ends in a bony area, formed at the site of fusion of the ridges of the upper jaws, vomer, ethmoid, frontal, and sphenoid bones.

The nasal cavity communicates with everyone through channels.

The nasal cavity is limited by 3 walls:

1. Upper. It is called the arch of the nose. Formed by the sphenoid, frontal, ethmoid bones and the inner surface of the nasal bones.
2. Bottom. It is called the bony palate because it separates the nasal cavity from the oral cavity. It is formed as a result of the fusion of the process of the upper jaw with the horizontal plate of the palatine bone. Pathologies in this area often cause defective conditions: cleft palate or cleft lip.
3. Lateral. It is formed by the nasal, maxillary, sphenoid, palatine, ethmoid and lacrimal bones.

On the lateral wall of the nasal cavity are 3 sinks. They are plate-shaped and stacked on top of each other, as seen in the image below. The upper and medial conchae are represented by processes of the ethmoid bone, the lower one is an independent formation.

The nasal turbinates form 3 paired nasal passages:

1. Upper- the smallest passage, located in the back of the nasal cavity, in contact with the palatine opening.
2. Average stroke- the widest and longest. It is formed not only by bone tissue, but also by fontanelles of the mucous membrane. Through the falciform fissure, the medial passages communicate with. On the rear walls they have funnel-shaped extensions, through which the passages communicate with the frontal sinuses.
3. Bottom stroke limited by the bottom of the cavity and the lower shell. In the area of ​​its fornix, the nasolacrimal duct opens with a hole, through which liquid secretions flow from the space of the eye orbits. This anatomical connection leads to the fact that during crying, mucus is intensely separated into the nasal cavity, and when there is a runny nose, tears are released from the eyes.

The area between the nasal concha and the septal plate is called the common nasal meatus.

Device of the nasal mucosa

Conventionally, the nasal cavity is divided into 3 areas:

1. vestibule covered with flat epithelial cells (glands and hair follicles are located in the area of ​​the skin), passing into the mucous membrane. The latter contains anatomical devices for the cavity to perform its functions.
2. Respiratory area- this is a section of the mucous membrane adapted for processing the air entering the nasal cavity. It is located at the level of the middle and lower moves.
3. Olfactory region is part of the mucous membrane responsible for the perception of odors. The department is located at the top level.

The mucous membrane is covered ciliated epithelial cells- cells with many microscopic cilia on their free edge. These cilia continuously carry out wave-like movements towards the exit of their nasal cavity. With their help, small particles of air dust are removed from it.

The nasal mucosa covers all surfaces of the cavity except the vestibule and.

Shell contains secretory cells and glands. Their active work helps to humidify the air entering the respiratory tract and clean it of contaminants (the secretion envelops foreign particles for their subsequent removal).

The shell is entangled dense network of capillaries and small vessels, forming plexuses in the area of ​​the inferior and middle conchas of the nose. The air is heated through a well-developed vascular bed. Also, cells (leukocytes) enter the nasal cavity through thin capillary walls, ensuring the neutralization of bacterial and microbial components.

Functions of the nasal cavity

The structure and functions of the human nasal cavity are interconnected. Due to its anatomical features, it provides performing functions:

1. Respiratory. Air enters and exits the respiratory tract through the cavity. At the same time, it is cleansed, moistened and heated. The physiology of human breathing is designed in such a way that the volume of air inhaled through the nose is several times greater than the volume inhaled through the mouth.
2. Olfactory. Odor recognition begins with the peripheral processes of the olfactory nerve capturing the smallest odorous particles of a substance. The information then goes to the brain, where the smell is analyzed and perceived.
3. Resonator. The nasal cavity, together with the vocal cords and the oral cavity, ensures the formation of the individual sound of the voice (participates in the formation of sound resonance). During a cold, the nose is blocked, which is why the human voice sounds different.
4. Protective. Secretory epithelial cells secrete special bactericidal substances (mucin, lysozyme). These substances bind pathogenic particles, which are then (with the help of ciliated epithelium) removed from the cavity. A dense capillary network ensures the formation of the body's immune gate (leukocytes capture and destroy bacteria, fungi, viruses). Sneezing is also protective in nature: it is a strong reflex exhalation due to irritation of the olfactory nerve by coarse particles.

Conclusion

The nasal cavity is a complex anatomical formation. In order to understand what function the nasal cavity performs, it is necessary to know the features of its structure (mucous membranes, cartilage and bone skeleton). Being the entrance for air on its way to the human lungs, it performs a respiratory, protective, olfactory function, and also participates in the formation of the voice.

Most people are concerned about the shape of the nose, and few people think about how it works. Since even minor problems with the organ of smell can instantly affect a person’s well-being, the necessary measures should be taken in a timely manner to eliminate them. All colds should be treated in a timely manner and do not forget about daily care.

The tissues of the lungs are quite delicate, and therefore the air entering them must have certain characteristics - be warm, moist and clean. When breathing through the mouth, these qualities cannot be achieved, which is why nature created the nasal passages, which, together with neighboring sections, make the air ideal for the respiratory organ. With the help of the nose, the inhaled stream is cleared of dust, moistened and warmed. Moreover, it does this while passing through all departments.

Functions of the nose and nasopharynx

The nose consists of three parts. They all have their own characteristics. All sections are covered with a mucous membrane and the more of it, the better the air is processed.

It is important that this type of tissue is not susceptible to pathological conditions. In general, the nose performs the following functions:

• Heating cold air and preserving it;
• Cleansing from pathogens and air pollutants (using the mucous surface and hairs on it);
• Thanks to the nose, each person has his own and unique timbre of voice, that is, the organ also works as a resonator;
• Discrimination of odors by olfactory cells located in the mucosa.

Each part of the nose is structured differently and is responsible for a specific job. At the same time, the rather complex structure of osteochondral tissue allows for better processing of the incoming air flow into the lungs.

General structure

When we talk about departments, we mean the three components of the nasal system. They differ in their structure. Moreover, for each person, some elements may differ in general, but at the same time play their role in the process of breathing and smell, as well as protection. Therefore, to simplify, the following parts are distinguished:

• Outdoor;
• Nasal cavity;
• Sinuses.

They all have common features among all people, but at the same time they also have differences. This depends on the individual anatomical characteristics, as well as on the age of the person.

Structure of the external part

The outer part is formed by the bones of the skull, cartilaginous plates, muscle and skin tissue. The shape of the external nose resembles a triangular irregular pyramid, in which:

• The apex is the bridge of the nose between the eyebrows;
• The dorsum is the surface of the olfactory organ, consisting of two lateral bones;
• Cartilaginous tissue continues the bone, forming the tip and wings of the nose;
• The tip of the nose meets the columella, a septum that forms and separates the nostrils;
• All this is covered from the inside with mucous membranes and hairs, and on the outside – with skin.

The wings of the nose are supported by muscle tissue. A person does not actively use them, and therefore they are attributed more to the facial department, which helps to reflect the emotional state of a person.

The skin in the nose area is quite thin and equipped with a large number of blood vessels and nerve endings. The columella is usually not perfectly straight and has a slight curvature. At the same time, in the area of ​​the septum there is also a Kisselbach zone, where there is a large accumulation of blood vessels and nerve endings, almost at the very surface of the integument.

This is why nosebleeds occur most often here. Also, this area, even with minimal trauma to the nose, gives severe pain.

If we talk about the differences in this part of the olfactory organ in different people, then in adults it can differ in shape (which is influenced by previous injuries, pathologies, as well as heredity), and in adults and children – in structure.

The nose is formed until about 15 years of age, although according to statistical data from researchers, the nose “matures” and grows with a person throughout life.

Newborns have a different nose from an adult. The outer part is quite small, although it consists of the same sections. But at the same time, it is just beginning to develop, and therefore children of this period often immediately pick up all sorts of inflammations and pathogens.

The olfactory organ in children cannot perform the same functions as in adults in full. The ability to warm air develops at about 5 years of age. Therefore, even in frosts of -5 - -10 degrees, the tip of a child’s nose quickly freezes.

The picture shows a diagram of the structure of the human nasal cavity

Anatomy of the nasal cavity

The physiology and anatomy of the nose primarily implies the internal structure in which vital processes occur. The organ cavity has its own boundaries, which are formed by the bones of the skull, oral cavity, and eye sockets. Consists of the following parts:

• The nostrils, which are the entrance gates;
• Hoan - two holes in the back of the internal cavity that lead to the upper half of the pharynx;
• The septum consists of cranial bones with a cartilaginous plate, which forms the nasal passages;
• The nasal passages, in turn, consist of walls: superior, medial internal, lateral external, and also formed by the maxillary bones.

If we talk about the departments of this area, they can be conditionally divided into lower, middle, upper with the corresponding respiratory passages. The upper passages exit to the frontal sinuses, the lower one carries the lacrimal secretion into the cavity. The middle one leads to the maxillary sinuses. The nose itself consists of:

• The vestibules are zones of epithelial cells within the wings of the nose with a large number of hairs;
• The respiratory zone is responsible for producing mucus to humidify and cleanse the air of pollutants;
• The olfactory area helps to distinguish odors due to the presence of corresponding receptors and olfactory cilia in the tissues.

In children, the internal structure is generally similar to that of an adult, but at the same time it is located quite densely due to the underdevelopment of the department. That is why this department gives frequent complications in the form.

The passages of the nose are narrow, and the structure of the mucous membrane is distinguished by a large number of blood vessels, which provokes almost immediate swelling under the influence of hypothermia, a pathogen or an allergen.

Simple and accessible information about the structure of the nasal cavity in our video:

The structure of the paranasal sinuses

The sinuses are an additional device for air ventilation, which are also lined with mucous surfaces and are a natural extension of the nasal passage system. The department consists of:

• The maxillary sinuses are the largest section of this type with a wide opening that is covered by the mucous membrane, leaving only a small gap. It is precisely because of the peculiarities of this structure that all sorts of infectious lesions of this section often develop with difficult removal of “waste products”. They are located on the sides of the nose in the area of ​​the cheeks under the eyes.
• The frontal sinus is located in the area above the eyebrows just above the bridge of the nose.
• The third largest section is the cells of the ethmoid bone.
• The sphenoid sinus is the smallest.

Each department can be affected by a specific disease, which is named accordingly. In general, pathologies of this part of the nose are called sinusitis.

The paranasal sinuses are extremely important in the structure of the nose, as they ultimately warm and moisturize the air flow coming from the outside, and also organize the sense of smell. Free cavities reduce the weight of the skull, reducing the load on the spine. In case of injury, they help soften the force of the blow, and also participate in the formation of the timbre of the voice.

At birth, a child has formed cells of the ethmoid labyrinth and the rudiments of the maxillary sinuses. Gradually, the structure of the labyrinth changes, increasing in volume. The maxillary cavities are finally formed only by the age of 12. The frontal and sphenoid sinuses begin to develop only from 3-5 years.

Visual video with diagrams of the structure and location of the paranasal sinuses:

Common pathologies and diseases

External nose

Taking into account the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the nose, each section can affect its own range of diseases and injuries. For the external department it is:

• Erysipelas;
• Burns and injuries;
• Developmental anomalies;
• Eczema;
• Sycosis of the nasal vestibule;
• and rosacea.

Nasopharynx

The inside of the nose, in turn, can be affected by the following pathologies.

The nasal cavity is the beginning of the human respiratory tract. This is the air channel that connects the nasopharynx with the external environment. The nasal cavity contains the olfactory organs; in addition, the incoming air is warmed and purified here.

Structure

The outer side of the nose consists of the nostrils or wings, the middle part or back and the root, which is located in the frontal lobe of the face. The bones of the skull form its walls, and the palate limits it on the side of the mouth. The entire nasal cavity is divided into two nostrils, each of which has a lateral, medial, superior, inferior and posterior wall.

The nasal cavity is built with the help of bone, membranous and cartilaginous tissue. The whole of it is divided into three shells, but only the last of them is considered true, since it is formed by bone. Between the shells there are passages through which air passes; these are the top passage, the middle passage and the bottom passage.

On the inside of the cavity is the mucous membrane. The mucous membrane has a small thickness and performs several functions at once: it cleans and warms the air, and also helps to distinguish odors.

Functions

The main functions of the nasal cavity:

• respiratory function, which ensures the supply of oxygen to body tissues;
• protective function that guarantees cleaning from dust, dirt and harmful microorganisms, humidifying and warming the air;
• resonator function, which guarantees the imparting of sonority and individual coloring to the voice;
• olfactory function, which allows you to distinguish different shades of aromas.

Diseases of the nasal cavity

The most common diseases:

• vasomotor rhinitis, which is caused by a decrease in vascular tone from the submucosa of the lower conchae;
• allergic rhinitis, which occurs due to an individual reaction to irritants;
• hypertrophic rhinitis, which occurs as a result of other types of rhinitis and is characterized by an increase in connective tissue;
• medicinal rhinitis develops due to improper use of medications;
• adhesions after nasal injuries or surgical interventions;
• polyps, which are growths of the nasal mucosa due to advanced rhinosinusitis;
• neoplasms, which include osteomas, papillomas, fibromas, cysts.

Treatment of any diseases of the nose should be carried out immediately and professionally, since breathing problems can lead to disruptions in the functioning of almost all human organs.

Studies of the nose and paranasal sinuses

The examination of the nasal cavity is usually carried out in three stages. At the first stage, an external examination of the nose and examination of the projection sites of the paranasal sinuses on the face are carried out. The external nose, anterior and inferior walls of the frontal sinuses, anterior walls of the maxillary sinuses, submandibular and cervical lymph nodes are palpated.

At the second stage, rhinoscopy is performed, which can be anterior, middle and posterior. It is carried out using special lighting, for example, a frontal reflector or an autonomous light source. For a better examination, a nasal speculum is used - a nasal dilator. And at the last stage, the respiratory and olfactory functions of the nasal cavity are assessed.

Structure

The nasal cavity is the beginning of the human respiratory system. This is a kind of air channel through which communication occurs with the external environment through the use of the nasal openings and from the back with the nasopharynx. It contains the olfactory organs; its main functions are to carry out the process of warming, purifying incoming air and freeing it from various unnecessary particles.

In the anterior region there is an external nose, the connection of which with the pharyngeal cavity is ensured by openings in the posterior region. The cavity itself is divided into two sections, each having five walls, which are called lower, upper, medial, lateral and posterior. The partition between the two halves has a deviation to the side, so there is no talk of symmetry between them. The lateral wall is characterized by the most complex structure, since three nasal conchae hang from it into the inner part. Their function is to separate three types of moves from each other: upper, middle and lower.

Along with bone tissue, the nasal cavity includes cartilaginous and membranous parts, which are characterized by a significant degree of mobility.

The nasal cavity, in its very initial part, is covered on the inside with epithelial tissue, which is a continuation of the skin. The connective tissue layer, which is located under the epithelium, contains the sebaceous glands and the root parts of the stubble hair.

The cavities are supplied with blood through the anterior and posterior ethmoidal and sphenoid arteries; a wedge-shaped vein located on the palate is responsible for the drainage of blood. Lymph flows into the lymph nodes located under the lower jaw and chin.

Mucous membrane

In addition, the following types of disorders in the nasal cavity are possible:

1. Synechia of the nasal cavity. Involves the formation of adhesions as a result of various injuries and surgical operations. It is eliminated through laser exposure, after which there remains a minimal risk of re-occurrence of adhesions.
2. Polyps. Polyposis is one of the manifestations of chronic rhinosinusitis, which is characterized by changes in the structure of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses. A polyp can be eliminated from the nose by destroying its stem, and the operation to eliminate them can be repeated at intervals of ten days.

Treatment

When treating diseases of the nasal cavity, it is important to use two methods: surgical and conservative. The conservative method involves removing swelling of the nasal cavity, using medications to eliminate inflammation that has arisen, and preventing the spread of harmful microorganisms. The use of antibiotics is quite effective in solving the problem. In addition, in some cases, it may be recommended to use agents that narrow the nasal mucosa. The drugs are used topically and as a general remedy.

Surgical intervention may be recommended if necessary to restore the patency of the nasal passages and restore full ventilation of the nasal sinuses. It is carried out in case of chronic forms of the disease, the presence of foreign bodies in the nose, as well as the appearance of soft formations in the form of cones. Operations require special tools and devices. The decision on the need for surgical intervention can only be made by a specialist after conducting appropriate research.

Rinsing the nasal cavity

It is recommended to rinse the nose if swelling and mucus occur, which is typical for colds and infectious diseases. Nasal rinsing means the introduction of a set of hygienic and preventive measures that ensure the elimination of allergens and microbial mucus, reduction of inflammation and swelling. It is effective to rinse the nose with special solutions that have bactericidal and healing properties.