Nose Physiology and Anatomy Flashcards
what are the functions of the nose?
to facilitate smell and respiration
How is the smell sensation conveyed?
by the olfactory epithelium in the roof of the nose
what nerve supplies the olfactory epithelium?
the 1st cranial nerve
what does the nose do to assist the normal process of respiration
it filters moistens and warms inspired air
what does the external portion of the nose consist of?
two nasal bones attached to the rest of the facial skeleton and to the upper and lower lateral cartilages
what divides the internal nose?
the midline septum
comprises of both bone and cartilage - it divides the nose in 2 from the external nose to the posterior chonae
what are the posterior chonae in continuity with?
the nasopharynx posteriorly
where are the paranasal sinuses
The paranasal sinuses open into the lateral wall of the nose and form a system of aerated chambers within the facial skeleton.
what is the nose blood supply?
derived from branches of both the internal and external carotid arteries
internal carotid artery supplies the upper nose via the anterior and posterior ethmoidal arteries
external carotid artery supplies the posterior and inferior portion of the nose via the superior labial artery, greater palatine artery and sphenopalatine artery
On the anterior nasal septum there is an area of confluence of these vessels (Little’s area)
what are the potential nasal symptoms?
blockage loss of smell discharge facial pain sneezing itch crusting epistaxis
what are the secondary nasal symptoms?
dry mouth sore throat snoring halitosis loss of taste
what is unilateral blockage or discharge?
when there is only nasal symptoms in 1 side of the nose - can be worrying
consideration in children with unilateral blockage or discharge
do they have a foreign body?
refer urgently
consideration in adults with unilateral blockage or discharge
nasal or paranasal tumour
refer urgently
