Anatomy of Nose
The diagram of nose anatomy shows that it is a complex organ with both respiratory and olfactory functions. An overview of the anatomy of nose is as follow:
External Nose
The external nose is a complex structure that is pyramidal in shape. External nose diagram shows the structure is made up of: Nasal bones, Flexible cartilage, Fatty tissue, Nasal septum, Lateral and greater nasal cartilages.
Nasal Cavity
The diagram of nasal cavity shows this structure as a large, air-filled space in the middle of the face, above and behind the nose. The nasal cavity function in respiratory system and provides a passage for inhaled air.
- Septum: The nasal septum divides the nasal cavity into right and left sides. It is made up of cartilage and bone.
- Turbinates (Conchae): Structures on the lateral walls of the nasal cavity that help humidify and filter the air.
- Meatus of nose: Spaces between the turbinates that form passageways for air to flow through the nasal cavity.
Paranasal Sinuses
Paranasal sinuses are a group of four paired air-filled spaces that surround the nasal cavity. They are located in the bones around the nose, including the frontal, maxillary, ethmoid, and sphenoid bones.
- Frontal Sinuses: Located in the forehead region, above the eyes.
- Ethmoid Sinuses: Situated between the eyes.
- Sphenoid Sinuses: Located behind the ethmoid sinuses, deep within the skull.
- Maxillary Sinuses: Positioned in the cheekbones.
Nasopharynx
- The upper part of the throat behind the nose, connecting the nasal cavity to the throat.
- Nasopharynx is a muscular, box-shaped passageway that allows air to pass from the nose into the windpipe and lungs.
Also Read: Difference Between Bone And Cartilage
Olfactory Region
- The olfactory region is the superior nasal concha and the upper third of the septum.
- These structures are innervated by the olfactory nerves.
- The roof of the nasal cavity contains the olfactory epithelium, which contains specialized cells responsible for detecting odors.
Blood Supply and Innervation
- The nose receives blood supply from branches of the internal and external carotid arteries.
- The trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V) provides sensory innervation to the nose.
Nasolacrimal Duct
- The nasolacrimal duct, also known as the tear duct, is a small opening in the corner of the eye, near the nose, that drains tear fluid into the nasal cavity.
- It is made up of the upper and lower lacrimal canaliculus, the lacrimal sac, and the nasolacrimal duct.
- The nasal mucosa lines the nasal cavity and is covered in cilia that help filter and move mucus.
Accessory Structures
Some Accessory Structures are:
- External Nasal Cartilages: Provide structure to the external nose.
- Ligaments and Muscles: Support the movement and function of the nose.
- Sebaceous Glands: Produce sebum to keep the skin of the nose moist.
- Vibrissae: Coarse hairs in the nostrils that trap larger particles from the inhaled air.
Also Read: Lung Volumes And Capacities
Diagram of Nose
A Diagram of nose gives us an understanding of the nose‘s structure and function. The nose is a complex organ composed of bone and cartilage. The diagram of nose anatomy shows two nostrils separated by the septum, facilitating the inhalation and exhalation of air. Internally, the nose contains the olfactory epithelium which is responsible for detecting smells and is connected to the respiratory system, playing a crucial role in breathing and the sense of smell.
The labelled diagram of nose is given below:
Table of Content
- What is Nose?
- Anatomy of Nose
- Conclusion – Diagram of Nose
- FAQs on Diagram of Nose