Nose Anatomy

The nose is one of the most prominent features of our face. Although the shape and size differ from person to person, all noses function the same. It is an important part of the respiratory system and the organ responsible for the sense of smell.

In this article, we will explore the anatomy of the nose, including location, components, and different parts. All this information will help you to understand more about its framework and how these structures are manipulated in nose surgery.

What Is A Nose?

The nose is defined as a midline pyramidal structure sticking out from the face.

It is the first part of the respiratory system leading to pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs. It has multiple functions but the most widely known role is providing the sense of smell.

Anatomy Of Nose

We will look at the anatomy of the nose in detail, which can be divided into external and internal components for description purposes.

Parts Of External Nose

The visible part of the nose is called the external nose. It is made up of bones and cartilages that help to maintain the shape. The external nose has several parts, including:

• Root: Located superiorly, the root connects to the head through the narrow nasal bridge and is supported by bone.
• Apex: The apex is directed inferiorly and is usually cartilaginous.
• Dorsum: The part of the nose between the root and apex is called dorsum.
• Ala Nasi: The lateral walls of the nasal cavity are called wings of the nostril or ala nasi.

Did you know the nose is not solely made of bone? Yes, you heard it right. It includes both bony and cartilaginous structures.

• Bony Part: The nasal root is formed by nasal, maxillary and frontal bones.
• Cartilaginous Root: This is formed by various cartilages such as:
  • • Alar Cartilage forming the lateral walls of the nose.
      • Major alar cartilage forms the apex.
      • Minor alar cartilage forms the ala nasi
    • Lateral Processes Of Septal Cartilage: These form the dorsum of the nose.
    • Septal Cartilage: This forms the central wall of the nose known as septum.

Note:- The external nose is covered by skin and it has no underlying fat pad. Therefore any injury or trauma can lead to nosebleeds and fractured nose easily.

Parts Of Internal Nose

The inner side of the nose has structures that are not visible and hidden by the skin lined bones and cartilages. These structures mainly help in carrying out different functions of the nose:

• Nasal Cavity: The hollow space inside the nose, that is lined by a mucous membrane. It allows free air to pass in from outside into lungs through a long passage.
• Septum: The nasal cavity is divided into two parts, right and left, by a wall called septum.
• Nostrils (Nares): The two openings to the inside of the nose are located inferior to apex, which are called nostrils or nares.
• Nose hairs: Small hairs inside the nose that helps to trap dirt and dust.
• Cilia: Tiny hairlike structures that move trapped particles towards nostrils for removal. Cilia are located throughout the respiratory tract and other body parts.
• Nerve cells: These nerves connect with the brain and are responsible for the sense of smell.
• Paranasal Sinuses: Air-filled cavities inside the facial bones that are connected to the inside of the nose. They produce mucus and keep the flowing air moist and warm.
• Turbinates: These are bony projections inside the nasal cavity that increase the surface area and help to keep the air warm and moist.

Functions Of Nose

Nose has many important functions related to breathing and sense of smell, including:

• Entry point of air into your body
• Cleans and filters the incoming air from dust
• Warms and moistens outside air so it can flow easily into lungs
• Provides sense of smell
• Contributes to voice production during speaking

• Loss of smell
• Pain around nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Bleed from nose
• Dripping nose
• Pressure or stuffiness in or around nose

Common Conditions Of Nose

Some common health conditions can frequently cause the symptoms mentioned above. These include:

• Congestion (the most common condition, usually caused by different bacteria and viruses)
• Deviated septum
• Nasal polyps
• Broken nose due to trauma
• Nosebleed
• Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever)
• Chronic sinusitis

What Can I Do To Have A Healthy Nose?

Nose is a vital organ and its proper functioning requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy. Here are some tips:

• Avoid smoking and stay away from people smoking around you.
• Have plenty of fluids to keep yourself hydrated.
• Keep your home and office clean and free of dust.
• Irrigate your nasal cavity with a spray or neti pot to clean and moisten it.
• Get an air filter installed at your home to remove pathogens and allergens.