23.1 Introduction to the Upper Respiratory System
2 min read•june 18, 2024
The is our body's first line of defense against airborne threats. From the nose to the , each part plays a crucial role in filtering, warming, and humidifying the air we breathe. It's like a sophisticated air purification system built right into our bodies.
Understanding this system is key for nurses. It helps us recognize signs of respiratory issues and provide better care. Whether it's treating a stuffy nose or managing more serious conditions, knowing how these parts work together is essential for effective patient care.
Anatomy and Physiology of the Upper Respiratory System
Nose, nasal cavity, and sinuses
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- Nose protrudes from face contains allowing air entry and exit
- divided by septum lined with mucous membranes and
- traps particles and pathogens cilia sweep them toward for removal
- Blood vessels warm and humidify incoming air
- in roof detect odors (vanilla, coffee)
- Paranasal sinuses are hollow spaces in surrounding bones (frontal, maxillary, ethmoid, sphenoid)
- Lined with mucous membranes continuous with nasal cavity
- Lighten skull weight, resonate speech, produce moisturizing mucus
Rhinitis and sinusitis
- inflames nasal mucosa causing congestion, discharge, sneezing, itching (nose, eyes, throat)
- Treat with antihistamines (allergic), decongestants, nasal corticosteroids
- inflames paranasal sinuses causing facial pain/pressure, discharge, headache, congestion
- Treat with antibiotics (bacterial), decongestants, corticosteroids, saline irrigation
Pharynx and larynx
- Pharynx (throat) is muscular tube connecting nasal/oral cavities to larynx and esophagus
- Divided into , ,
- Air passes nasal cavity to larynx (breathing), food passes oral cavity to esophagus (swallowing)
- Modifies laryngeal sound waves for speech
- Larynx (voice box) is cartilaginous structure connecting pharynx to
- Contains that vibrate to produce speech sounds
- Pitch depends on vocal cord tension and length
- is elastic cartilage covering larynx during swallowing to prevent aspiration (food/liquid entering airway)
- Contains that vibrate to produce speech sounds
Key Terms to Review (42)
Acute Laryngitis: Acute laryngitis is a sudden inflammation of the larynx, the voice box located in the throat. This condition leads to swelling and irritation of the vocal cords, resulting in hoarseness, pain, and difficulty speaking or swallowing.
Acute Sinusitis: Acute sinusitis is a sudden and severe inflammation of the sinuses, the air-filled cavities within the bones of the face. This condition is typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection that leads to the accumulation of mucus and pus in the sinus cavities, resulting in various uncomfortable symptoms.
Allergic Rhinitis: Allergic rhinitis is a condition characterized by an inflammation of the nasal passages, typically caused by an allergic response to environmental triggers such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. It is a common upper respiratory condition that can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
Alveoli: Alveoli are the tiny air sacs located at the ends of the respiratory bronchioles in the lungs. They are the functional units of the respiratory system, responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air and the bloodstream during the process of respiration.
Auditory Tubes: The auditory tubes, also known as the Eustachian tubes, are narrow passageways that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat (nasopharynx). They play a crucial role in maintaining equal air pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment, which is essential for proper hearing and balance.
Bronchi: The bronchi are the main air passages that branch off from the trachea and carry air into and out of the lungs. They are the first part of the lower respiratory system, responsible for conducting air to and from the alveoli where gas exchange occurs.
Chronic Laryngitis: Chronic laryngitis is a persistent inflammation of the larynx, or voice box, that can lead to long-term changes in the voice. It is characterized by ongoing hoarseness, vocal fatigue, and difficulty speaking that lasts for more than three months.
Chronic Sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis is a persistent inflammation of the sinuses, the air-filled cavities located around the nose and eyes. It is characterized by long-lasting symptoms that can significantly impact a person's quality of life and daily activities.
Cilia: Cilia are small, hair-like projections found on the surface of certain cells, particularly those lining the respiratory tract. These microscopic, vibrating structures play a crucial role in the body's defense mechanisms and facilitate the movement of fluids and particles across epithelial surfaces.
Conchae: The conchae are bony or cartilaginous structures that project from the lateral walls of the nasal cavity, increasing the surface area for air to flow over during respiration. They are an important anatomical feature of the upper respiratory system.
Epiglottis: The epiglottis is a flap-like structure located at the base of the tongue that plays a crucial role in the upper respiratory system. It acts as a valve that covers the opening to the larynx, preventing food and liquid from entering the airway during swallowing.
Eustachian Tubes: The Eustachian tubes are small, narrow passageways that connect the middle ears to the back of the throat (nasopharynx). They play a crucial role in the upper respiratory system by regulating air pressure and allowing drainage of fluid from the middle ears.
Glottis: The glottis is the opening between the vocal folds (also known as the vocal cords) in the larynx. It is a critical structure in the upper respiratory system that plays a vital role in phonation, breathing, and airway protection.
Goblet Cells: Goblet cells are specialized epithelial cells found in the mucous membranes of the respiratory and digestive tracts. They are responsible for the production and secretion of mucus, a viscous and lubricating substance that traps dust, pathogens, and other foreign particles, protecting the underlying tissues from damage and infection.
Hyposmia: Hyposmia is a reduced ability to detect or identify odors, often experienced as a partial or diminished sense of smell. This condition can have various underlying causes and is commonly associated with certain neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, as well as upper respiratory system conditions.
Laryngitis: Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx, often resulting in hoarseness or loss of voice. It can be acute or chronic and may be caused by infections, irritants, or overuse.
Laryngopharynx: The laryngopharynx is the lower part of the pharynx, or throat, that connects the larynx (voice box) to the esophagus. It plays a crucial role in the upper respiratory system by facilitating the passage of air to and from the lungs, as well as the swallowing of food and liquids.
Larynx: The larynx, commonly known as the voice box, is a crucial part of the upper respiratory system. It is a complex structure that houses the vocal cords and plays a vital role in speech, swallowing, and protecting the airway.
Mucociliary Clearance: Mucociliary clearance is a vital defense mechanism in the upper respiratory system that involves the coordinated action of mucus and cilia to remove inhaled particles, pathogens, and other foreign substances from the airway. This process helps maintain the health and function of the respiratory tract.
Mucociliary Escalator: The mucociliary escalator is a protective mechanism in the respiratory system that uses a combination of mucus production and the coordinated beating of cilia to remove foreign particles, microbes, and other irritants from the airways. It is a critical component of the body's innate defense against respiratory infections and airborne pollutants.
Mucus: Mucus is a thick, sticky substance produced by specialized cells in the upper respiratory system. It serves as a protective barrier against environmental irritants, pathogens, and foreign particles, playing a crucial role in the overall function of the upper respiratory tract.
Nasal Cavity: The nasal cavity is the air-filled space within the nose that serves as the primary passageway for air to enter and exit the respiratory system. It is a crucial component of the upper respiratory system, playing a vital role in the body's respiratory and olfactory functions.
Nasal Septum: The nasal septum is the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two nostrils and nasal cavities. It is a crucial anatomical structure within the upper respiratory system that helps to regulate airflow and maintain proper nasal function.
Nasopharynx: The nasopharynx is the upper part of the pharynx, located behind the nasal cavity. It is a crucial component of the upper respiratory system, serving as a passageway for air flow and playing a role in various respiratory functions.
Nostrils: The nostrils are the external openings of the nose that allow air to flow in and out of the respiratory system. They are the primary entry points for inhaling and exhaling air, playing a crucial role in the upper respiratory system.
Olfactory: Olfactory pertains to the sense of smell, which involves the detection and perception of odorants by the nasal cavity. It plays a crucial role in respiratory health, influencing both protective reflexes and overall well-being.
Olfactory Receptors: Olfactory receptors are specialized sensory neurons located in the nasal cavity that detect and respond to various odor molecules, allowing for the sense of smell. These receptors play a crucial role in the upper respiratory system by initiating the process of olfaction, which is the perception and identification of different scents.
Oropharynx: The oropharynx is the middle part of the pharynx, or throat, located between the soft palate and the epiglottis. It is a crucial component of the upper respiratory system, responsible for various functions essential for breathing, swallowing, and speech.
Pharyngitis: Pharyngitis is the inflammation of the pharynx, causing a sore throat. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections and commonly affects the upper respiratory system.
Pharynx: The pharynx is a muscular funnel-shaped passageway that connects the nasal cavity, oral cavity, and larynx, serving as a common pathway for both the respiratory and digestive systems. It plays a crucial role in the upper respiratory system and the gastrointestinal system.
Respiratory Epithelium: The respiratory epithelium is the specialized lining of the respiratory tract, which includes the nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and alveoli. It serves as a protective barrier and plays a crucial role in the respiratory system's functions.
Rhinitis: Rhinitis is the inflammation of the nasal mucous membranes, characterized by symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. It can be caused by allergens, infections, or irritants.
Sinus cavities: Sinus cavities are air-filled spaces located within the bones of the skull and face, connected to the nasal passages. They play a role in humidifying and filtering air, as well as producing mucus.
Sinusitis: Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, often caused by infections, allergies, or other irritants. It leads to symptoms such as nasal congestion, pain around the face and eyes, and a runny nose.
Streptococcal Pharyngitis: Streptococcal pharyngitis, also known as strep throat, is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It is a common upper respiratory tract infection that primarily affects the structures within the upper respiratory system.
Trachea: The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a cartilaginous tube that connects the larynx (voice box) to the lungs, serving as the main airway for the respiratory system. It plays a crucial role in the introduction of the upper and lower respiratory systems.
Turbinates: Turbinates are small, scroll-like bony structures located within the nasal cavity that help to regulate airflow and humidity in the upper respiratory system. They play a crucial role in the overall functioning of the nose and sinuses.
Upper respiratory conditions: Upper respiratory conditions are medical issues that affect the upper part of the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and larynx. These conditions often involve infections, allergies, or inflammation.
Upper respiratory system: The upper respiratory system includes the nose, nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, and larynx. It is responsible for filtering, warming, and humidifying the air we breathe.
Vibrissae: Vibrissae are stiff, specialized hairs found on the muzzle or other parts of the body in many mammals. They are highly sensitive tactile organs that help animals detect and respond to their environment through touch.
Viral Rhinitis: Viral rhinitis, also known as the common cold, is an acute inflammation of the nasal passages caused by a viral infection. It is one of the most common upper respiratory tract infections, affecting people of all ages and typically resolving within 7-10 days without specific treatment.
Vocal Cords: The vocal cords, also known as the vocal folds, are two bands of elastic muscle tissue located within the larynx. They play a crucial role in the production of speech and vocalization by vibrating to create sound waves that are then shaped and amplified by the upper respiratory system.