Nasal

Nasal is an adjective relating to the nose. It derives from Latin nasus and, in anatomy and medicine, designates structures, regions, and processes associated with the nasal cavity and external nose in humans and other animals. The term also appears in phonetics to describe nasalized sounds.

Anatomy: The external nose projects from the face and is supported by bones and cartilage. The internal nasal cavity is divided by the nasal septum and opens to the pharynx via the choanae. It contains turbinates (conchae) that increase surface area for air conditioning. The mucous membrane lines the cavity and humidifies and filters inhaled air, traps particles, and houses goblet cells and ciliated epithelium. The olfactory epithelium is located in the superior region and provides the sense of smell. The septum consists of cartilage anteriorly and bone posteriorly.

Function: The nose conditions inhaled air, supports olfaction, and contributes to voice resonance. Breathing through the nose influences humidification, filtration, and immune defense, aiding overall respiratory function.

Clinical relevance: Common conditions include rhinitis (allergic or infectious), sinusitis, and nasal polyps, which can cause obstruction. Deviated septum may impair airflow. Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, can arise from vascular sites in Kiesselbach’s plexus. Management ranges from medications and nasal irrigation to surgical procedures such as septoplasty or endoscopic sinus surgery.

Other uses: In linguistics, nasal describes sounds produced with airflow through the nasal cavity, such as m, n, and ng. Etymology traces to Latin nasus.