næse

Næse is the Danish term for the nose, the organ on the face that serves as the entry point to the respiratory tract and houses the sense of smell. The external nose consists of the nasal pyramid, supported by bone and cartilage, and the internal nasal cavity connects to the pharynx. The external nose includes the nostrils (nares) and the visible tip and bridge, while the internal nose contains the nasal septum and turbinates (conchae).

Functions: The nose conditions inhaled air by warming, humidifying, and filtering it. The nasal mucosa traps particles with mucus and is moved by cilia toward the pharynx. Olfactory receptors in the superior part of the nasal cavity enable the sense of smell, which is linked to flavor and memory. The nose also contributes to voice resonance and overall airway resistance.

Structure and innervation: The nose receives blood from facial and ophthalmic arteries; sensation is via branches of the trigeminal nerve and smell via the olfactory nerve. The internal passages include the nasal septum dividing the cavity and the turbinates increasing surface area for conditioning air and supporting drainage pathways to the paranasal sinuses.

Development and variation: The nose develops from facial prominences during embryonic life; nasal bones form and the septum divides the nasal cavity. Anatomical variation is common among individuals and populations, influencing airflow and olfactory capacity.

Clinical aspects: Common conditions include rhinitis, sinusitis, deviated septum, nasal polyps, and epistaxis. Injury or disease affecting nasal anatomy can impair breathing, smell, and voice resonance.