WK 3c Mouth, Nose and Throat

What regions are involved in the ENT system?

The nose, throat (pharynx), and mouth.

What are the two main zones of the respiratory system?

Conducting zone and respiratory zone.

At rest, through which part do we predominantly breathe?

Nose.

What are the key functions of the nasal cavity?

Humidification, warming, and purification of air.

What are the paired nasal bones?

Nasal bones and lateral cartilages.

What anatomical term is used for the openings of the nose?

Nares or nostrils.

What is the structure that divides the nasal cavity down the middle?

Nasal septum.

What is the anterior part of the nasal septum made of?

Hyaline cartilage.

Which bone forms the bony posterior section of the nasal septum?

Vomer and ethmoid bones.

What forms the roof of the nasal cavity?

Cribriform plate.

What is the significance of the cribiform plate?

It is pierced by numerous small holes for olfactory nerves.

What is olfaction?

The process of smell.

What structure seals the nasal cavity when swallowing?

Soft palate.

What is the role of the inferior nasal conchae?

They increase the surface area and help with air turbulence.

What structure leads to the pharynx from the nasal cavity?

Posterior nares.

What term describes the infection of the sinuses?

Sinusitis.

What are the primary blood supplies to the nasal cavity?

Ophthalmic artery and maxillary artery.

What occupies the superior aspect of the nasal cavity?

Olfactory region.

What activates the olfactory receptor neurons?

Dissolved volatile molecules.

What happens to the olfactory receptors in case of COVID-19?

They can get damaged, leading to anosmia.

What parts make up the pharynx?

Nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngeopharynx.

What are the tonsils located in the nasopharynx called?

Pharyngeal tonsils or adenoids.

What connects the nasopharynx to the middle ear?

Auditory tubes.

How do the tonsils contribute to the immune response?

They help trap and eliminate pathogens.

What are the two main functions of the pharynx?

Passageway for air and food.

What is the role of the epiglottis?

Covers the larynx during swallowing to prevent food entry.

What are the main cartilages of the larynx?

Thyroid, cricoid, arytenoid, and epiglottis.

What is the thyroid prominence commonly known as?

Adam's apple.

What type of epithelium lines the vocal cords?

Stratified squamous epithelium.

Where does sound production occur in the larynx?

Vocal folds (cords).

How do we change pitch when speaking?

By adjusting the tension of the vocal cords.

What does the term glottis refer to?

The opening between the vocal cords.

What is the role of the mouth in the respiration and digestion?

Entrance to the alimentary canal, enabling both breathing and digestion.

What type of epithelium lines the oral cavity?

Thick stratified squamous epithelium.

What are the two main types of taste sensation?

General sensation and special sensation (taste).

Which nerves are responsible for taste?

Facial nerve (CN VII) and glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX).

Where on the tongue are taste receptors predominantly located?

Valate papillae.

What are the five basic tastes that can be perceived?

Sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami.

What is the primary role of gustatory cells?

To detect chemical substances in food and drinks.

How does smell affect taste?

Taste perception is significantly enhanced by smell.

What is anosmia?

Loss of the sense of smell.

What is the impact of aging on olfactory senses?

Gradual decline in the ability to smell.

What anatomical structures allow communication of the throat with the ears?

Auditory tubes.

What is the role of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)?

To protect the body from pathogens.

What does the pharyngeal plexus provide?

Nerve supply for sensation and movement of the pharynx.

What is the consequence of physical obstruction in the pharynx?

Sleep apnea or snoring.

Which cranial nerves are involved in sensory and motor functions in the pharynx?

Cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal) and X (vagus).

What is the medial aspect of the nasal cavity involved in?

Air filtration, humidification, and warming.

What does sinusitis cause in terms of symptoms?

Pain and pressure in the head.

What is the link between olfaction and memory?

Smell can trigger strong emotional responses and memories.

What type of cartilage is the epiglottis?

Fibroelastic cartilage.

What clinical consequence can arise from the vascularity of the nasal cavity?

Frequent nosebleeds (epistaxis).

How much mucus do humans produce daily?

Approximately four cups.

What happens to olfactory nerve cells after an infection?

They may regenerate after recovery.

What is the main purpose of the paranasal sinuses?

To lighten the skull and improve voice resonance.

What identifies a viral vs. bacterial infection based on mucus color?

Thick, white mucus often indicates sinus congestion; green mucus suggests a bacterial infection.