Ninasõõred

Ninasõõred are the two external openings of the nasal cavity in the nose. They are separated by a septum and are lined with mucous membranes. Their primary function is to allow air to enter and exit the respiratory system. As air passes through the ninasõõred, it is warmed, humidified, and filtered by hairs (vibrissae) and mucus. This process helps protect the lungs from cold, dry, and contaminated air. The ninasõõred also play a role in the sense of smell, as airborne odor molecules are detected by olfactory receptors located within the nasal cavity, with air flow through the ninasõõred being essential for this detection. Conditions affecting the ninasõõred can include nasal congestion, dryness, or inflammation, which can impair breathing and the sense of smell.