Nasenhöhle

The Nasenhöhle, or nasal cavity, is a large air-filled space above and behind the nose in the face. It is part of the respiratory system and is lined with a mucous membrane that helps to warm, humidify, and filter inhaled air. The nasal cavity is divided into two halves by the septum, a wall of cartilage and bone. Each half contains three turbinates, bony shelves that increase the surface area of the nasal cavity. This increased surface area allows for more efficient warming, humidification, and filtering of air.

The nasal cavity plays a crucial role in olfaction, the sense of smell. Olfactory receptors, located in the roof of the nasal cavity, detect airborne molecules and send signals to the brain, where they are interpreted as smells. The nasal cavity also contributes to voice resonance, affecting the sound of speech. It connects to the paranasal sinuses, air-filled cavities within the bones of the skull that also contribute to warming and humidifying air. Infections or inflammation of the nasal cavity can lead to conditions like sinusitis and rhinitis.