Nares

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Nares are the nostrils, or the two openings of the nose in many animals. These are the parts of the body that air enters and exits during breathing. The term "nares" is derived from the Latin word for nose. In humans, the nares are separated by the septum.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The nares are located on the anterior part of the human face. They are the external part of the respiratory system, leading into the nasal cavity. Each naris is a round or oval opening that allows the passage of air. The size and shape of the nares can vary greatly among individuals and between different animal species.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the nares is to provide an entry and exit point for air as part of the respiratory process. They also have a role in the sense of smell, as the air passing through the nares contains odor molecules that are detected by the olfactory system. In addition, the nares help to filter and humidify the air before it reaches the lungs.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities or injuries to the nares can affect breathing and the sense of smell. Conditions such as nasal polyps, deviated septum, and rhinitis can cause obstruction of the nares. Surgical procedures such as rhinoplasty and septoplasty can be performed to correct these conditions.

See also[edit | edit source]

Nares Resources
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