NASAL PHARYNX Meaning and
Definition
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The nasal pharynx is a specialized section of the pharynx, an anatomical structure located at the back of the throat. More specifically, it is the uppermost part of the pharynx, situated behind the nasal cavity and above the oral cavity. It serves as a passage for both air and food, directing inhaled air from the nasal cavity to the lungs while also allowing swallowed food to travel from the oral cavity to the esophagus.
The nasal pharynx plays a vital role in the respiratory and digestive systems. It is lined with a mucous membrane that produces mucus, which helps to moisten and protect the passages. Additionally, small hair-like structures called cilia are present in the nasal pharynx, which help to trap and sweep away any foreign particles that may have entered through the nose, preventing them from entering the lungs.
One notable feature of the nasal pharynx is the existence of the pharyngeal tonsils, also referred to as adenoids. Positioned at the roof of the nasal cavity, these lymphatic tissues help to detect and defend against foreign substances, boosting the immune response when necessary. However, in certain cases, the adenoids may become enlarged, leading to obstructions and breathing difficulties that require medical attention.
Overall, the nasal pharynx is a crucial component of the upper respiratory and digestive systems, contributing to the flow of air and the transportation of food, as well as serving as a defense mechanism against harmful substances.
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Pars nasalis pharyngis, nasopharynx, rhinopharynx, the upper end of the pharynx above the soft palate; anteriorly it opens into the nasal cavities.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NASAL PHARYNX
- nasal pharinx
- nasal pharqnx
- nasal pharxnx
- nasal phary.x
- nasal pharyfx
- nasal pharylx
- nasal pharyox
- nasal pharyn8
- nasal pharynh
- nasal pharynp
- nasal pharyny
- n asal pharynx
- na sal pharynx
- nas al pharynx
- nasa l pharynx
- nasal ph arynx
- nasal pha rynx
- nasal phar ynx
- nasal phary nx
- nasal pharyn x
Etymology of NASAL PHARYNX
The word "nasal" comes from the Latin word "nasus", which means "nose". The word "pharynx" also has a Latin origin, derived from the Greek word "pharugx", meaning "throat". When combined, "nasal pharynx" refers to the part of the throat that is connected to the nose.
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