Næsen

Næsen is the Danish term for the nose, the external organ of the face that forms the central feature of the nasal region and functions as part of the upper respiratory and olfactory systems.

Anatomically, the external nose consists of nasal bones, the frontal processes of the maxilla, and various cartilages that shape the tip, bridge, and nostrils. The nasal cavity behind the nostrils includes the nasal septum and turbinates, and is lined with mucosa and ciliated epithelium. The nostrils give access to the internal airways, while the internal structures help regulate airflow and condition the air entering the lungs.

Functions include warming, humidifying, and filtering inspired air; housing the olfactory receptors that enable the sense of smell; and contributing to voice resonance. The nose also plays a role in protecting the lower respiratory tract by trapping particles and pathogens.

Innervation and circulation involve the olfactory nerve for scent perception, with general sensation carried by branches of the trigeminal nerve. Blood supply is provided by branches of the facial artery and the sphenopalatine arteries, with venous drainage to facial veins and the pterygoid plexus. Lymphatic drainage typically targets submandibular and deep cervical nodes.

Clinical relevance covers common conditions such as deviated septum, nasal polyps, allergic rhinitis, and epistaxis (nosebleeds). Trauma, infections, and inflammatory processes can affect both appearance and function, sometimes necessitating medical treatment or reconstructive procedures such as septoplasty or rhinoplasty.

Etymology: In Danish, næsen is the definite form of næse, the noun for the organ commonly referred to as the nose; the term derives from historical Germanic roots shared with related languages.