Upper Respiratory Tract: Organs Involved in Breathing and Air Filtration.

Organs in Upper Respiratory tract

Nose, Nasal Cavity, Sinuses, Pharynx, Larynx

The upper respiratory tract is composed of several organs that participate in breathing and filter the air that enters the body. The organs that make up the upper respiratory tract include the:

1. Nose: It is the primary organ of the respiratory system and performs several functions such as warming, humidifying, and filtering the air that we breathe. The nose is lined with tiny hairs called cilia, which help trap dust, bacteria, and other airborne particles before they enter the lungs.

2. Nasal Cavity: This is the space inside the nose that extends from the nostrils to the back of the throat. The nasal cavity is lined with a mucous membrane that contains tiny hair-like projections called cilia, which help trap and remove harmful particles in the air.

3. Sinuses: The sinuses are air-filled cavities located in the bones of the skull. They are connected to the nasal cavity and help decrease the weight of the skull. However, their main function is to produce mucus, which helps moisten and warm the air we breathe.

4. Pharynx: The pharynx is a muscular tube that connects the nose and mouth to the larynx (voice box) and esophagus (food pipe). It is responsible for transporting air and food to their respective destinations in the respiratory and digestive systems.

5. Larynx: The larynx is located at the top of the trachea (windpipe) and contains the vocal cords. It is responsible for producing sound during speech and regulating the flow of air during breathing.

6. Epiglottis: The epiglottis is a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue. It helps prevent food and drink from entering the respiratory system by closing off the larynx during swallowing.

Overall, the organs of the upper respiratory tract work together to ensure that we breathe in clean, filtered air and transport it to the lungs for exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

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