Parts of the Inner Nose

Nostrils

• The nostrils are the first stage through which air gets pulled into the respiratory system; the air passage connects to the nasal cavity where the air is warmed and moistened and interpretations of scents are passed to the brain. Hairs in the nostrils filter out dust and microscopic particles.

Bone and Mucus Membrane

• The bone and mucus membrane comprise a very thin wall that separates the top of the nasal cavity from the brain. A small area on the membrane contains millions olfactory receptor nerves that can differentiate between thousands of different smells.

Turbinates

• Turbinates are shelves and folds in the nasal cavity that warm the air and add moisture to it as it passes through on the way to the lungs. The moisture added by the turbinates makes breathing more comfortable.

Sinuses

• The sinuses are empty spaces in the nasal cavity lined with a mucous membrane that also play a role in humidifying and warming air that is inhaled through the nose. These empty spaces reduce the weight of the skull and facial bones and add resonance to the voice. These empty air spaces must be equalized to avoid pain when pressure in them is increased or decreased.