Clin Med - Nasal Cavity Disorders Flashcards
(151 cards)
Interesting nose facts (4)
-1 L mucus swallowed each day -nostrils take turns inhaling -most humans differentiate
Functions of the nose
-olfaction - CN I -humidification -protection -speech -respiration
Contents of the nasopharynx
-adenoid tissue (in children) -opening to eustachian tubes -opening to sphenoid sinus -opening to tear ducts -sinus drainage ports
Where are the opening to the tear ducts located within the nasopharynx?
inferior turbinate meatus
If adenoids are large in adults, what should you consider?
HIV
What areas make up the upper respiratory tract?
-nasal cavity -pharynx -larynx
Nares inspection on physical exam looks for what?
discharge, flaring, or narrowing
Flaring of the nares may indicate what?
respiratory distress
Narrowing of the nares may indicate what?
chronic nasal obstruction and mouth breathing
the nasal cavity opens posteriorly into the nasopharynx through what?
the choanae
Mucosa lines the nasal cavity with the exception of what area?
the nasal vestibule - it is lined with skin
Divisions of the nasal mucosa
-superior one third = olfactory area -inferior two thirds = respiratory area
What structure is contained w/i the olfactory area?
the peripheral organ of smell; sniffing draws air to this area
Normal appearance of the nasal mucosa
deep pink color (pinker than mouth mucosa)
Infection/inflammation has what effect on the nasal mucosa?
increased redness
Nasal mucosa appearance in allergies
-decreased color -pale -boggy turbinates **
What turbinates are visible upon examination?
usually only see the inferior, sometimes middle
Sinuses
Air-filled, paired extensions of the nasal cavities within the bones of the skull; only maxillary and ethmoid present at birth, by age 3 all present
Lining of sinuses and its purpose
• Lined with mucous membranes and cilia – Move secretions to passageways that drain into the nose • Openings are called ostia (narrow, tortous openings)
Function of the sinus mucosa
• Heats and humidifies inspired air • Wash the sinuses free of air pollutants, bacteria, dust and other substances
What are the only sinuses that you can examine on physical exam?
frontal and maxillary
maxillary sinuses
• Lateral wall of the nasal cavity in the maxillary bone underneath zygomatic arch • One each side of nose - symmetrical • Pear shaped with opening at top.
Where do the maxillary sinuses drain?
upwards to the middle meatus
Frontal sinuses
• Located in frontal bone superior to the nasal cavities (above eyebrows) • May be small or completely absent (5%) • Unique to each individual (could be asymmetrical)