Description:

 

The nose is made up of bones and cartilage, with skin and tissue surrounding it. Air initially flows into the nasal cavity through the nostrils. Within the nostrils are hairs to trap possibly infectious particles. On top of the cavity is the olfactory epithelium, which contains sensory cells to allow the sense of smell. Around the cavity are paranasal sinuses. These are hollow cavities around the skull, including the cheekbones, forehead, eyes, and nose (maxillary, frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses, respectively). They enter the cavity through a drainage pathway, and although the function of the sinus is not completely clear, it is believed that they contribute to voice quality, reducing the weight of the skull, and balancing pressure.