The nose comes in many different shapes and sizes. Each person has a unique specimen. Nevertheless, it always consists of bones and cartilage. It also has an outer and an inner part. Both are divided into the following areas:
- Nasal vestibule
- nasal passage
- olfactory nerves
- Triangular cartilage
- wing cartilage
- Septal cartilage
- Nasal concha
The outer part of the nose
The outer shell of the olfactory organ consists mainly of bone and cartilage tissue. Several rigid bones with numerous extensions form its base. Some of the extensions lead into the maxillary bone, while others enter the frontal bone. The nasal bone is also located directly between the eyes. Due to its central location, it is particularly frequently affected by injuries and fractures.
The bones take up very little space inside the nose. A much larger part is filled by cartilage . These are very mobile and protect the bones from injury. However, the nose does not only have a single continuous cartilage, but rather numerous individual elements, which in most cases are arranged in pairs.
The triangular cartilage and the nasal tip cartilageare responsible for the characteristic shape of the nose. Both protect the skeleton and keep the nose in shape. The wing cartilages, on the other hand, shape the nostrils and give them the necessary support. It also has the so-called septal cartilage. This arises from the bone and divides the nose into two different spaces.
The inner part of the nose
The vestibule is located directly in the entrance area. This extends from the outer end of the nostril to the lower edge of the triangular cartilage. It occupies a special position in the nose as, unlike all the other elements, it is not lined with a mucous membrane. Instead, it has normal facial skin.
The nasal cavity is located behind the vestibule. It comprises a total of three turbinates and the bony lamellae. These are covered with a thick mucous membrane and protrude from the lateral nasal wall into the main cavity. Thanks to their ledge-like structure, they increase the surface area of the nasal mucosa enormously and also regulate the air flow within the nose.
A nasal passage runs under each of the three turbinates. The lower of the three ducts opens into the tear duct. Part of the tear fluid is therefore drained through this. While the upper duct is only connected to one paranasal sinus , the middle duct leads to three paranasal sinuses. The two so-called choanas are also located at the back of the nasal cavity. These are openings that transport the air we breathe into the lungs via the windpipe.
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The human nose performs numerous functions. In addition to essential biological functions, it also fulfills social functions. These are primarily divided into the following aspects:
- Adaptation of the air we breathe
- Identification of odors
- Sound and voice production
Adaptation of the air we breathe
Breathing in fresh air also brings dirt particles and bacteria into the nose. For this reason, it intercepts a large proportion of unwanted substances and transports them out again. The nasal hairs therefore represent a first barrier of the immune system. Furthermore, foreign bodies are expelled by the sneeze reflex with a powerful blast of air. Finally, the nasal mucosa is lined with a layer of so-called cilia. These hairs, technically known as cilia, use a wave motion to transport many pathogens into the throat so that they are either swallowed or coughed up.
The lungs generally prefer warm and slightly moist air. For this reason, the nasal mucosa supplies the passing air masses with fluid and warms them with the help of blood vessels. In this way, the nose favors optimal processing of the air we breathe in the lungs.
Identification of odors
Humans also use this sensory organ to identify different odors. This function is performed by the olfactory mucosa in the upper part of the nose. It analyzes the components of the air flowing past and then transmits a signal to the olfactory bulb. This is where the olfactory nerves are located, which transmit the signals to the olfactory center in the brain. Although this process is complex, it takes only a few moments. In this way, the nose enables a quick analysis of the scents present, so that the body can rid itself of malodorous substances that are classified as potentially toxic.
Sound and voice formation
Finally, the nose also plays a decisive role in communication. It serves as a resonance chamber for the body, enabling the formation of complex sounds. In this way, it contributes greatly to voice formation and enables better communication. This function is always noticeable when the nose is blocked by a cold. In these situations, the human voice usually sounds very muffled and the formation of isolated sounds is difficult for those affected.
Bacteria and viruses attack every part of the nose and sometimes cause serious illnesses. These are generally divided into diseases of the external nose, the internal nose and the paranasal sinuses.
Nasal diseases include, among others
Malformations and skin diseases occur mainly in the area of the external nose. In addition to nasal fistulas and teeth, these also include so-called nasal clefts. Many deformities are caused by a hereditary disease. In some cases, however, viruses or accidents are also responsible. Many people also suffer from nasal furuncles in the course of their lives. These cause severe redness and swelling of the entire face. At the same time, nasal furuncles are accompanied by severe pain and a high temperature. As the pus formed in the boils also reaches the brain via the blood and lymph channels, this skin disease can even be fatal in some cases.
The inner nose is mainly affected by harmless diseases. These are generally accompanied by an obstruction of nasal breathing. However, in addition to inflammation and runny nose, they often also cause nosebleeds. The blood vessels in the dried out nasal mucosa swell so much that they burst. Bleeding from the back of the nose is much rarer. However, these cases are very dangerous as they can lead to severe blood loss.
Finally, diseases also attack the paranasal sinuses. These include influenza and sinusitis in particular. These diseases severely impede breathing, so they must always be treated by a doctor.
