Anatomical and physiological features of the respiratory system in children. Throat structure Treatment and prevention

It is located in the cranium. It is localized between the two cheekbones, thereby communicating the oral cavity and nasal cavity. Pharynx performs a large number of functions in general. In general, if described, then in the nasopharynx are located:

• Olfactory receptors.
• Surfaces for air purification from foreign substances.
• The sheath is mucous.
• Tonsils and tonsils, which perform a barrier and protective function (block the penetration of small particles, microorganisms and viruses, and are integral components of the immune system).

To understand what diseases occur, as well as how to treat them, it is important to know the structure and functions of the nasopharynx.

Structure

What is the nasopharynx and what is the structure? As described above, this organ is a kind of cavity. The anatomy of the nasopharynx is formed in such a way that it has specific openings through which it communicates with the nasal cavity. At the top of the pharynx, almost at the level of the skull bones (cheekbones), nasal root and temporal bones, there is a small cavity. The walls that form the cavity consist of muscles of small size and volume. They are not in one place, but are located everywhere and diverge on all walls. The surface is enveloped by epithelium, which has many layers. There are such walls:

There are some holes on the side walls. This is the exit point of the Eustachian tubes - they are also called auditory. The holes around are covered with special rollers, which consist of cartilage, thereby communicating the ear of the middle section with the external environment. This is necessary for the regulation of pressure and the evacuation of liquid, humidity. There is also another feature of these holes - they are needed to connect with the cavity where the eardrum is located. Due to this, normal conduction of various sounds and noises occurs.

Moving to the lower wall, the nasopharynx is limited by the soft palate, the function of which is necessary during the act of swallowing. The sky rises up, thereby blocking communication with the oral cavity. This is necessary so that food does not enter the respiratory tract. During the act of breathing, the palate is tightly attached to the tongue, namely to the root.

The upper wall of the cavity connects the sphenoid and occipital bones, thereby forming an articulation. The openings, which are the communication of the nasopharyngeal cavity with the nasal cavity, create the anterior wall. In medicine, they are also called choans.

But the back wall is formed and adjacent to the spine, namely to the first and second vertebrae of the cervical region. The wall is delimited from the spine by a special layer consisting of connective tissue of loose origin. Thanks to this anatomical structure of the chamber, the walls have a special mobility.

In general, all cavities in the human cranium communicate directly with each other through the nasopharynx.

tonsils

The human anatomy is so uniquely arranged that at the entrance gate (namely, the nasopharynx) there are “indicators” of the immune system, like a protection device. These are tonsils and multiple formations of the lymphatic system.

There are a lot of nasopharyngeal tonsils on the walls of the cavity:

• Tonsil localized in the lower section (lingual).
• Two tonsils located on the side walls (palatine).
• The only tonsil on the upper wall (adenoids).

All tonsils form a kind of protective gate, preventing any penetration of microbes, viruses and infections into the body.

Nasopharynx in babies

As for newborn babies, the anatomical structure of the nasopharynx is not fully formed in them. Babies have much smaller volume parameters of the organ, height and width. Also, there is no certain set that adults have.

The openings that communicate with the nasal cavity are small in size, and on examination it can be observed that they have the shape of a circle or triangle. In babies of 2-3 years of age, they increase in size and take on an oval shape, like in adults.

Organ function

As described above, the scheme of the nasopharynx is presented in the form of a so-called channel responsible for conducting air through the nasal passages. This section of the pharynx also houses the tonsils and mucous surfaces, which are responsible for several important functions in our body. In particular, the main tasks of the nasopharynx are:

1. Access of oxygen to the lungs from outside.
2. Warming. The inner shell is rich in tiny capillaries that provide heat transfer and warm the air. This contributes to a safer functioning of the lower respiratory tract, while not irritating them and preventing the occurrence of a number of diseases.
3. Protective. Due to the special structure of the shell (the presence of mucus, good blood supply), the inhaled oxygen is purified. The protective function is also performed by lymphoid formations located in the nasopharynx, such as the pharyngeal, lingual and tubal tonsils. Together with the palatine, they form the Pirogov-Waldeyer lymphadenoid pharyngeal ring, which protects against the penetration of infection to the human lungs.
4. The connection of the oropharynx with the nasal passages gives a person the opportunity to breathe not only through the nose, but also through the mouth opening.
5. Olfactory function. Receptors located in the nasopharynx are responsible for the perception of odors. Through the auditory tube, air masses from the nasopharynx enter the tympanic cavity, which maintains an equilibrium pressure with atmospheric pressure. It is also necessary for the correct conduction of the oscillations of the tympanic membrane to the labyrinth.

The structure of the human nasopharynx is unique. The body performs a huge number of functions.

The most common diseases

Diseases of the nasopharynx can be divided into 4 large groups:

1. Inflammatory. These diseases are characterized by symptoms of intoxication (apathy, disturbed sleep and appetite, febrile condition, chills), with tonsillitis - enlargement of the tonsils.
2. Allergic. Most often characterized by such symptoms: itching, soreness and / or redness in the throat, nasal discharge, lacrimation.
3. Oncological. Symptoms that are possible with this pathology: the presence of a neoplasm, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a sharp decrease in body weight by more than 7–10 kilograms per month, subfebrile condition (37 C) for more than 2 weeks, general weakness, swollen lymph nodes and / or tonsils.
4. Traumatic: bleeding, sharp pain, swelling and redness of the affected area, bone crepitus.

A little about the most common diseases:

• Nasopharyngitis is a pathological lesion of the membranes of the nasopharynx. For him, a lightning-fast onset, febrile temperature, pain in the temple area, difficulty in nasal breathing, runny nose, and sore throat are typical.
• Tonsillitis is an inflammatory process in the tonsils of the pharyngeal ring. Accompanied by complaints of soreness and difficulty in eating, a clinic of general intoxication.
• An abscess of a purulent nature, which begins to form as a result of damage to the lymph nodes and adjacent tissues. In this case, there will be unpleasant pain when swallowing, choking, often food gets into the nose, impaired nasal breathing, nasal voice, hyperthermia. A characteristic feature is the posture of the patient: the head is thrown back with an inclination to the affected side, swelling behind.
• Adenoids - a pathological increase in the pharyngeal tonsil, leading to difficulty in nasal breathing and even hearing loss.
• Nasal polyps. It is an overgrowth of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses. The main symptoms are nasal congestion, loss of smell, sinusitis, secondary infection.

If symptoms of a pathological process appear, you should consult a doctor. He will prescribe the appropriate treatment. Self-treatment is highly undesirable - this can only aggravate the process.

Features of the structure of the human nasopharynx

The nasopharynx is one of the sections of the human respiratory tract. It is a kind of channel that connects the nasal cavity with the upper part of the pharynx and serves to conduct air.

The region of the nasopharynx is separated from the oral cavity by a soft palate, which, during the respiratory process, fits snugly against the root of the tongue.

Air enters the nasopharynx from the nasal cavity through the so-called choanae - internal nasal openings.

The nasopharynx is not an organ as such, rather it is a space where the palatine tonsils are located, as well as mucous, olfactory and cleansing surfaces. It is part of the system responsible for carrying air into the alveoli of the lungs.

Although the nasopharynx is an empty area, this does not prevent it from performing important functions, including:

• Connective. We are talking about connecting the continuation of the oral cavity, that is, the pharynx, with the nasal sinuses. This makes it possible to carry out the respiratory process not only through the nasal passages, but also through the mouth;
• Warming. The structure of the nasopharynx determined the presence of mucous surfaces in its cavity, which contribute to an increase in the temperature of the air inhaled by a person. This allows the body to normally perceive the incoming air, while there is no irritation of the respiratory tract;
• Olfactory. In the cavity of the nasopharynx there are special mucous surfaces that have exceptional sensitivity and are able to capture and recognize odors that come with the inhaled air;
• Protective. Wet mucous membranes in the nasopharynx trap dust and various microbes that enter the cavity with air.

The performance of these functions is due to the fact that the anatomy of the human nasopharynx has a number of characteristic features.

The nasopharynx in medicine is considered as the highest, complexly arranged part of the pharynx. It is a small cavity, the top of which is located between the temples, approximately at the level of the root of the nose. The upper part of the human nasopharynx is connected to the occipital bone, and its posterior wall adjoins the first two vertebrae of the upper spinal column.

The walls of the nasopharynx are small bundles of branched muscle fibers. The lower part of the nasopharynx passes into the oral (or middle) part of the pharynx. On the side walls of the nasopharynx there are openings of the auditory tubes, which are called pharyngeal openings. They are surrounded on all sides by cartilaginous tissue, which led to the connection of the nasal part with the tympanic cavities. Such a message allows you to maintain a stable and uniform pressure level, which becomes the key to the transmission of sound vibrations.

On the vault of the nasopharynx and its side walls there are accumulations of lymphoid tissues that can trap infections and viruses that enter the body. These clusters are known as "tonsils". It is the tonsils, being part of the body's lymphatic system, that play an important role in protecting the body from viruses and bacteria that can enter with the incoming air.

This section contains the unpaired pharyngeal tonsil, the paired palatine tonsils, and the lingual tonsil. They form a kind of ring, which is involved in maintaining the body's defenses.

In the case of an inflammatory lesion of the tonsils, the infectious process can be significantly accelerated, affecting other human organs. In some cases (for example, with an increase in the pharyngeal tonsil), inflammation of the tonsils can significantly impede breathing ability. The growth of the nasopharyngeal tonsil can develop under the influence of various factors, including genetic characteristics.

Structure in newborns

In newborns, the structure of the nasopharynx has a number of features, since it is not fully formed and there is still a period of transformation. In particular, in infants, the nasopharynx is low and does not yet form a semblance of a semicircular vault, as in an adult. The width of the cavity is also small. The internal nasal openings (choanae), connecting the nasal cavity with the oral cavity, as well as the pharynx, have a round or triangular shape. Choans are characterized by rapid growth: by the second year of life, they double in size, and their shape gradually becomes oval.

Many people have no idea what a nasopharynx is. This organ consists of cavities that connect the nasal passages and the middle part of the pharynx.

On the surface of the mucous membranes are goblet cells that produce mucus. They maintain a certain humidity necessary for the normal functioning of the body. Next, we will take a closer look at how the human nasopharynx is arranged.

What are the parts of the nasopharynx?

Due to the large number of vessels, this organ warms the air, which then enters the human lungs. With the help of olfactory receptors, the patient can detect various compounds that are present in the air.

First you need to understand where the nasopharynx is located, and what parts this organ consists of. The nasal, oral and laryngeal regions can be distinguished.

At the same time, the pharynx is not only the upper part of the respiratory tract. This organ is the beginning of the digestive tract. Cold air constantly enters the nasopharynx, which can contain dangerous bacteria. Low temperatures weaken the body and can cause inflammation.

To understand the causes of diseases, you need to know the structure of the human nasopharynx in the context. When considering the scheme, you can determine the composition of this body.

The nasal part of the pharynx consists of small bundles of muscle fibers that are covered with a layer of epithelium. It includes several types of walls:

1. The upper wall (vault) adjoins the occipital part.
2. The lower part of the nasopharynx is located next to the soft palate. In the process of swallowing, it covers the oral cavity.
3. The back wall is located next to the cervical vertebrae. It is separated only by a layer of connective tissue.
4. The anterior part of the pharynx is adjacent to the nasal cavity, in which there are openings (choanae). With their help, air enters the human nasopharynx. You can understand how this process occurs in the photo, which clearly shows the holes in the nasopharynx.

It is most convenient for users to study the structure of the nasopharynx and larynx in pictures. Thanks to the visual representation, you can quickly figure out where the occipital or lower part of the organ is.

Holes in the side wall lead to the auditory tubes. In this way, the environment is connected to the middle ear. Sound waves hit the eardrums and cause vibrations.

The nasopharynx is a unique organ that unites almost all the voids in the human skull.

The tonsils are adjacent to the upper wall of the person. They consist of tissues of the lymphatic system and take part in the formation of the patient's immunity. A detailed diagram of the structure of the nasopharynx helps people understand its composition and functions.

Nasopharyngeal tonsils include:

• adenoids;
• palatine formations that are on both sides;
• lingual tonsil.

This structure serves to protect the pharynx from the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms. In infants, the cavities in the bones of the skull are in the process of formation.

The choanae are smaller than those of an adult. On the x-ray, you can see that they have a triangular shape.

At the age of 2 years, children experience a change in the configuration of the nasal passages. They take on a round shape. It is the choanae that provide air access from the environment to the nasopharynx.

Functions

The main task of the nasopharynx is to ensure a constant supply of air to the lungs.

With the help of special receptors, a person can distinguish between different odors.

There are a lot of hairs in the nasal passages. They trap harmful bacteria that can lead to infection of the nasopharynx. The protective function of the nasopharynx prevents the reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms on the mucous membranes.

Due to the abundance of blood vessels, the air warms up quickly enough. This mechanism helps to avoid colds. The secretion of mucus is necessary for the timely cleansing of the nose from pathogenic bacteria.

The superior fornix serves to maintain pressure in the cranium. Pathological changes occurring in this organ can cause constant headaches.

Features of the structure of the nasopharynx of infants

Unlike adults in newborns, this organ is not yet fully formed. The anatomy of the nasopharynx in patients can vary greatly. This is due to the individual characteristics of the organism.

The sinuses gradually develop, and by the age of 2 they take on an oval shape.

A feature of the children's body is that they have weaker muscles.

What diseases can occur in the nasopharynx

If symptoms of diseases of the nasopharynx appear, you need to contact an otolaryngologist. The doctor understands the smallest details that can help the patient.

When examining a person, the following diseases can be detected:

With laryngitis, the patient begins inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa. A bacterial infection can provoke the development of acute tonsillitis. A symptom of pharyngitis is inflammation of the mucous membrane of the throat.

Conclusion

The nasopharynx is constantly in contact with the air that comes from the human nasal passages. The danger to people is dangerous microorganisms that can get on the mucous membranes.

To prevent infection in the nasal passages, there are a large number of villi. They trap harmful bacteria and help to avoid various diseases.

In the process of vital activity, mucus is formed in the sinuses, which constantly removes harmful components. They get to the surface of human mucous membranes from the air.

Cold air can cause colds. You can increase the temperature due to the vessels that nourish the tissues of the mucous membranes. In the nasopharynx there is an extensive network of capillaries that feed the cells.

On the surface of this organ are receptors designed to detect smell. The cavities in the skull are connected to the organs of hearing. When sound waves hit, a person can determine the timbre, rhythm and volume of the sound.

On the side walls of the nasopharynx are the tonsils. They are composed of lymphoid tissue and consist of adenoids, palatine and lingual parts. Tonsils are directly involved in the formation of human immunity.

The cavity that connects the nasal passages and the middle part of the pharynx is the nasopharynx. Anatomists simultaneously attribute it to both the upper respiratory tract and the beginning of the digestive tract. Because of this location, it is indispensable in the body and is often prone to various diseases.

The structure of a person

The upper pharynx is conditionally divided into the following subsections:

For convenience, anatomists and otorhinolaryngologists distinguish the organs of the oropharynx, nasopharynx and pharynx proper.

Anatomy of the nasopharynx

It is connected with the passages of the nose through small oval holes - choan. The structure of the nasopharynx is such that the upper wall is in contact with the sphenoid bone and the occipital. The back of the nasopharynx borders on the vertebrae of the neck (1 and 2). In the side there are openings for the auditory (Eustachian) tubes. The middle ear is connected to the nasopharynx through the auditory tubes.

The muscles of the nasopharynx are represented by small branched bundles. In the nasal mucosa there are glands and goblet cells that are responsible for the production of mucus and humidification of the inhaled air. The structure also determines the fact that there are many vessels that contribute to the warming of cold air. The mucosa also contains olfactory receptors.

The anatomy of the nasopharynx in newborns differs from that in adults. In a newborn child, this organ is not fully formed. The sinuses grow rapidly and become the usual oval shape by the age of 2 years. All departments are saved, but the implementation of some functions is not possible at this moment. The muscles of the nasopharynx in children are less developed.

Oropharynx

The oropharynx is located at the level of the 3rd and 4th vertebrae of the neck, limited only by two walls: lateral and posterior. It is arranged in such a way that it is in this place that the respiratory and digestive systems intersect. The soft palate is fenced off from the oral cavity by means of the root of the tongue and the arches of the soft palate. A special mucous fold serves as a "flap" that isolates the nasopharynx during the act of swallowing and speech.

The pharynx has tonsils on its surfaces (upper and lateral). This accumulation of lymphoid tissue is called: pharyngeal and tubal tonsils. Below is a diagram of the pharynx in section, which will help you better imagine what it looks like.

Sinuses of the facial skull

The structure of the skull is such that sinuses (special cavities filled with air) are located in the front part. The mucous membrane differs little in structure from the mucous membrane of the cavity, but it is thinner. Histological examination does not reveal cavernous tissue, while the nasal cavity contains one. In an ordinary person, the sinuses are filled with air. Allocate:

• maxillary (maxillary);
• frontal;
• ethmoid bone (ethmoid sinuses);
• sphenoid sinuses.

At birth, not all sinuses are formed. By 12 months, the last sinuses, the frontal sinuses, have finished forming. The maxillary sinuses are the largest. These are paired sinuses. They are located in the upper jaw. Their device is such that they communicate with the passages of the nose by means of an exit under the lower passage.

There are sinuses in the frontal bone, the location of which determined their name. The frontal sinuses communicate with the nasal passages through the nasolabial canal. They are paired. The sinuses of the ethmoid bone are represented by cells that are separated by bone plates. Vascular bundles and nerves pass through these cells. There are 2 such sinuses. Behind the upper concha of the nose, the sphenoid sinus is located. It is also called the main. It opens into a wedge-shaped recess. She is not a couple. The table displays the functions performed by the paranasal sinuses.

Functions

The function of the nasopharynx is the intake of air from the environment to the lungs.

The structure of the nasopharynx determines its functions:

1. The main function of the nasopharynx is to conduct air from the environment to the lungs.
2. Performs an olfactory function. It generates a signal about the entry of odor into the nasal part, the formation of an impulse and its conduction to the brain thanks to the receptors that are localized here.
3. It performs a protective function due to the structural features of the mucous membrane. The presence of mucus, hairs and a rich circulatory network helps to purify and warm the air, protecting the lower respiratory tract. Tonsils play an important role in protecting the body from pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
4. It also implements a resonator function. The sinuses and vocal cords, localized in the pharynx, create a sound with a different timbre, which makes each individual special.
5. Maintain pressure in the cranium. By connecting the ear with the external environment, the nasopharynx allows you to maintain the necessary pressure.

Possible diseases

It is susceptible to various diseases due to its location and its functions. All diseases can be conditionally divided into groups:

Treatment and prevention

The doctor makes appointments depending on the nosology. If this is an inflammatory disease, then the treatment looks like this:

• to reduce the temperature "Aspirin", "Paracetamol";
• antiseptics: "Septefril", "Septolete";
• gargling: "Chlorphilipt", soda with iodine;
• nose drops ("Galazolin", "Aquamaris");
• if necessary - antibiotics;
• probiotics ("Lineks").

Hypothermia is contraindicated. It is worth keeping the immune system in good shape, and in the “dangerous” seasons (autumn, spring) it is minimal to arrive in a large crowd of people. If this is an allergic disease, then you should take the following drugs:

• anti-allergic ("Citrine", "Laratodin");
• drops in the nose ("Galazolin").

Prevention is to take antiallergic drugs during the flowering season, avoid contact with allergens.

If it is oncology, then self-medication is contraindicated and an urgent consultation of an oncologist is needed. Only he will prescribe the correct therapy and determine the prognosis of the disease. Prevention of oncological diseases is considered to be quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding stress as much as possible.

Trauma is treated like this:

• cold on the injured part of the body;
• anesthesia;
• in case of bleeding - tamponade, medical arrest of bleeding (hemostatic therapy, transfusion of blood substitutes);
• further assistance will be provided only in the hospital.

Diagnostics

Depends on the type of pathology and includes

• questioning the patient;
• inspection;
• analysis of blood, urine, nasal discharge;
• swab from the nose, oropharyngeal ring;
• x-ray of the sinuses and bones of the skull;
• endoscopic research methods.

Features of the structure of the pharynx in children

The structure of the nasopharyngeal apparatus in adults and in young children is very different, which is explained by its formation in the process of life. The structural features of the pharynx in children can explain why the body of a child under three years of age requires an attentive attitude, careful, not allowing the influence of numerous negative factors on it. Delays or abnormalities in the development of the nasopharynx often cause the development of some complex diseases.

The structural features of the pharynx in children mainly relate to such a department as the tonsils. This department is very important for immunity, but in the first few years of a child's life, prerequisites often arise for the removal of some of them. One of the myths is that there are two tonsils. This is not true, since the lymphatic pharyngeal ring consists of one pharyngeal, two tubal, two palatine, one lingual tonsils. Finally, this section of the pharynx in a baby is formed in the first months after birth, and it undergoes a number of significant changes.

Newborn children do not have developed palatine tonsils, they are only follicles - the rudiments of future organs. The formation of palatine tonsils from the follicles occurs by about six months, the stimulation of development occurs due to bacteria and toxic substances continuously attacking the baby's body. Parents need to know the structural features of the pharynx in children, since with an abnormal development of this area, you should immediately go for a consultation with a doctor and begin to control its further development.

For example, it is important to know that adenoids can cause difficulty in nasal breathing of a baby, which will affect its development, sleep, and digestion. These paired organs develop much more actively than other tonsils, and are finally formed at about two and a half years. After three months, the average size of the adenoids should be approximately 7x4x4 millimeters, and after a year they increase to a size of 11x8x5 millimeters. The average size of the pharyngeal tonsil should normally be 7x4x2 mm. Larger or smaller sizes indicate difficulties in the development of the child's body.

The structural features of the pharynx in children under one year old are due to the unusual shape of the nasopharyngeal cavity for an adult - it will be low and acute-angled. If the pharyngeal tonsil is greatly enlarged, then, as with abnormal sizes of the adenoids, the child will have difficulty breathing. The palatine tonsils finally mature in the second year of life. The lacunae of the palatine tonsils in children under two years of age are deep, narrow, branching, which is a prerequisite for the development of an inflammatory process in these places.

Often, the ENT doctor has to diagnose suppuration of the retropharyngeal lymph nodes (or retropharyngeal lymphadenitis), which are located between the nasopharyngeal vault and the esophagus. The fact is that these nodes are regional for the tympanic cavity and the back of the nasopharynx, therefore, during infectious attacks, it is these nodes that suffer in the first place. After the age of five, these lymph nodes atrophy, as a result of which such a diagnosis is not made for children older than this age.

The peculiarity of the structure of the pharynx in children also lies in the fact that it reaches its maximum development by the age of five to seven years. It is at this age that an increased incidence of children is observed, and the maximum number of vaccinations is also made, which mobilizes the entire lymphoid tissue to develop increased protection against infections. Therefore, these tissues are hypertrophied at this age, intensively form active immunity with local production of antibodies that fight endogenous and exogenous penetration of pathogenic microorganisms.

Remedies for nasal congestion

Swelling of the nasal mucosa

Deviated septum

The appearance of various tastes in the mouth

Teas for colds

Adenoids: causes, symptoms, treatment

Medicines for sore throat

How to remove an ear plug

Hearing is getting worse… What to do?

Dry cough attack

Nasal polyps: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

7. Features of the structure of the pharynx in children

The lymphatic pharyngeal ring (Waldeyer-Pirogov ring), consisting of the pharyngeal, 2 tubal, 2 palatine, lingual tonsils and lymphoid tissue of the posterior pharyngeal wall, is poorly developed before birth and in the first months after birth. In the postnatal period, the tonsils undergo a number of changes. In newborns, the tonsils are underdeveloped and functionally inactive. The palatine tonsils are not yet fully developed, forming follicles are detected in them, and development takes a long time.

The main part of the lymphoid ring of the pharynx is presented at birth in the form of small spherical clusters of lymphocytes. "Reactive centers" in them appear in the first 2-3 months of life. The final development of the follicles is completed in the first 6 months of a child's life, and sometimes by the end of the 1st year. In infants, the active development of the lymphoid ring begins. Adenoids are formed more actively than other tonsils. The folds of the mucous membrane thicken, elongate, taking the form of rollers, between which furrows are clearly visible. In children of the 1st year of life, the nasopharyngeal cavity is low and acute-angled, and therefore even a slight increase in the pharyngeal tonsil can significantly impair nasal breathing.

In newborns, the integumentary epithelium is multi-row cylindrical. There are few furrows, they are shallow. In the underlying tissue, lymphoid cellular elements such as small and medium-sized lymphocytes, many blood vessels and mucous glands are diffusely located. Development palatine tonsil begins with the formation of folds of the mucous membrane, which are penetrated by lymphoid tissue. Lingual tonsil develops due to the accumulation of lymphoid tissue at the root of the tongue. Tonsil tissue after birth is in a state of constant irritation. In young years pharyngeal tonsil covered with multi-row cylindrical ciliated epithelium, in older children and adults - with squamous epithelium.

palatine tonsils reach full development in the 2nd year of life. The lacunae of the palatine tonsils in young children are deep, narrow at the mouth, densely branching, often extending to the capsule. Lacunas do not always go deep into the tonsils, sometimes they turn sharply and go under the integumentary epithelium; narrow passages of individual lacunae end in extensions. All this contributes to the occurrence of the inflammatory process. Tubal tonsils reach their maximum development in childhood. In children, there is less lymphoid tissue in the region of the root of the tongue than in adults; the crypts of the lingual tonsil are smaller and less branched.

In young children, between the prevertebral aponeurosis and the muscles of the pharynx, from the arch of the nasopharynx to the entrance to the esophagus, between the two sheets of the aponeurosis, there are retropharyngeal lymph nodes and loose connective tissue on both sides of the spine in a chain. These nodes are regional for the posterior parts of the nose, nasopharynx and tympanic cavity. Their suppuration leads to the formation of a pharyngeal abscess.

In the region of the nasopharynx, the pharyngeal space is divided by a ligament into two halves; therefore, pharyngeal abscesses in the upper pharynx are more often unilateral.

Tonsils reach their maximum size by 5-7 years. At this age, children have the highest infectious incidence and an increased need for protection against infections. At the same age, children receive the largest number of preventive vaccinations, which mobilize the entire lymphoid tissue for the production of immunity. Hypertrophy of the lymphoid tissue is due to the intensive formation of active immunity with local production of antibodies during the endo- or exogenous route of penetration of the infectious agent into the lymphoid tissue of the pharynx. With the accumulation of antibodies in the body and the improvement of the immune system after 9-10 years, the child begins the age-related involution of the lymphoid tissue with its partial degeneration and replacement with fibrous, connective tissue. The size of the tonsils is reduced, and for years their small remnants usually remain, sometimes they completely disappear due to atrophy of the lymphoid tissue. In this period, a thin peripheral belt of mature lymphocytes appears, the number of reticular cells in the center of the tonsils increases.

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Features of the structure and development of the respiratory system in children

The structure of the respiratory system in children during the neonatal period creates numerous prerequisites for acute respiratory diseases. Therefore, the baby should be protected from exposure to infectious factors. We also suggest learning about all the structural features of the respiratory system in children in order to have a general idea of ​​​​how the gradual development of the nose and paranasal sinuses, throat and larynx, bronchi and lungs occurs.

According to medical statistics, respiratory diseases in children are much more common than in adults. This is due to age-related features of the structure of the respiratory system and the originality of the protective reactions of the child's body.

Throughout its length, the respiratory tract is divided into upper (from the opening of the nose to the vocal cords) and lower (larynx, trachea, bronchi), as well as lungs.

The main function of the respiratory system is to provide body tissues with oxygen and remove carbon dioxide.

The process of formation of the respiratory organs in most children is completed by the age of 7, and in subsequent years there is only an increase in their size.

All airways in a child are much smaller and have narrower gaps than in an adult.

The mucous membrane is thin, tender, vulnerable, dry, since the glands in it are poorly developed, secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) is produced little.

This, as well as a rich blood supply, softness and compliance of the cartilaginous framework of the respiratory tract, a low content of elastic tissue, contribute to a decrease in the barrier function of the mucous membrane, a fairly rapid penetration of pathogens into the bloodstream, create a predisposition to narrowing of the airways as a result of rapidly occurring edema or compression of compliant respiratory tubes from outside.

Features of the structure of the nose and paranasal sinuses in a child (with photo)

The structural features of the nose in children are primarily in small sizes, which shortens the path for the passage of air masses. In a young child, the nose is relatively small. The structure of the nose in a child is such that the nasal passages are narrow, the lower nasal passage is formed only by the age of 4, which contributes to the occurrence of frequent runny nose (rhinitis). The mucous membrane of the nose is very delicate, contains many small blood vessels, so even a slight inflammation causes it to swell and further narrow the nasal passages. This leads to a violation of nasal breathing in a child. The baby begins to breathe through his mouth. Cold air is not warmed and cleared in the nasal cavity, but directly enters the bronchi and lungs, which leads to infection. It is no coincidence that many lung diseases in children begin with a “harmless” runny nose.

Children from an early age need to be taught proper breathing through the nose!

At birth, only the maxillary (maxillary) sinuses are formed in a child, so sinusitis can develop in young children. Completely all sinuses develop by 12-15 years. The structure of the nose and sinuses in a child is constantly changing as the bones of the facial skull grow and form. Gradually, the frontal and main paranasal sinuses appear. The ethmoid bone with a labyrinth is formed during the entire first year of life.

Look at the structure of the child's nose in the photo, which shows the main anatomical developmental processes during the first year of life:

The structure of the throat and larynx in a child (with photo)

Continues the nasal cavity of the pharynx. The structure of the throat in a child provides reliable immune protection against the invasion of viruses and bacteria: it has an important formation - the pharyngeal lymphatic ring, which performs a protective barrier function. The basis of the lymphopharyngeal ring is the tonsils and adenoids.

By the end of the first year, the lymphoid tissue of the pharyngeal lymphatic ring is often hyperplastic (grows), especially in children with allergic diathesis, as a result of which the barrier function decreases. The overgrown tissue of the tonsils and adenoids is colonized by viruses and microorganisms, chronic foci of infection are formed (adenoiditis, chronic tonsillitis). There are frequent tonsillitis, SARS. In the case of a severe form of adenoiditis, a long-term violation of nasal breathing contributes to a change in the facial skeleton and the formation of an "adenoid face".

The larynx is located in the front upper part of the neck. Compared with adults, the larynx in children is short, funnel-shaped, has delicate, pliable cartilage and thin muscles. In the region of the subglottic space there is a distinct narrowing, where the diameter of the larynx increases with age very slowly and is 6–7 mm at 5–7 years old, and 1 cm at 14 years old. There are a large number of nerve receptors and blood vessels in the subglottic space, so it develops easily swelling of the submucosal layer. This condition is accompanied by severe respiratory disorders (stenosis of the larynx, false croup) even with small manifestations of a respiratory infection.

Look at the structure of the child's throat and larynx in the photo, where the most important structural parts are highlighted and marked:

Features of the structure and development of the bronchi and lungs in children

The continuation of the larynx is the trachea. The trachea of ​​an infant is very mobile, which, combined with the softness of the cartilage, sometimes causes it to slit-like fall on exhalation and is accompanied by the appearance of expiratory dyspnea or rough snoring breathing (congenital stridor). Symptoms of stridor usually disappear by 2 years of age. In the chest, the trachea divides into two large bronchi.

Features of the bronchi in children lead to the fact that with frequent colds, chronic bronchitis develops, which can turn into bronchial asthma. Considering the structure of the bronchi in children, it is clear that their size at a newborn age is relatively small, which leads to partial blockage of the lumen of the bronchi with mucus in cases of bronchitis. The main functional feature of the bronchi of a small child is the lack of drainage and cleansing functions.

The bronchi of babies are very sensitive to the effects of harmful environmental factors. Too cold or hot air, high humidity, gas pollution, dustiness lead to stagnation of mucus in the bronchi and the development of bronchitis.

Outwardly, the bronchi look like a branched tree, turned upside down. The smallest bronchi (bronchioles) end in small vesicles (alveoli) that make up the lung tissue itself.

The structure of the lungs in children is constantly changing, as they grow continuously in a child. In the first years of a child's life, the lung tissue is full-blooded and low-air. In the alveoli, the process of gas exchange, which is vital for the body, takes place. Carbon dioxide from the blood passes into the lumen of the alveoli and is released through the bronchi into the external environment. At the same time, atmospheric oxygen enters the alveoli and then into the blood. The slightest violation of gas exchange in the lungs due to inflammatory processes causes the development of respiratory failure.

The chest is surrounded on all sides by muscles that provide breathing (respiratory muscles). The main ones are the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm. During inhalation, the respiratory muscles contract, which leads to expansion of the chest and an increase in lung volume due to their expansion. The lungs seem to suck in air from the outside. During exhalation, which occurs without muscle effort, the volume of the chest and lungs decreases, the air comes out. The development of the lungs in children inevitably leads to a significant increase in the vital volume of these important organs.

The child's respiratory system reaches completion in its structure by the age of 8-12, but the formation of its function continues until the age of 14-16.

In childhood, it is necessary to highlight a number of functional features of the respiratory system.

• The respiratory rate is greater the younger the child. Increased breathing compensates for the small volume of each respiratory movement and provides oxygen to the child's body. At the age of 1-2 years, the number of breaths per minute is 30-35, at 5-6 years old - 25, at 10-15 years old - 18-20.
• The child's breathing is more superficial and arrhythmic. Emotional and physical stress increase the severity of functional respiratory arrhythmia.
• Gas exchange in children occurs more intensively than in adults, due to the rich blood supply to the lungs, the speed of blood flow, and the high diffusion of gases. At the same time, the function of external respiration can easily be disturbed due to insufficient lung excursions and expansion of the alveoli.

When the baby gets sick, the mother, even before the doctor arrives, tries to independently examine the throat of the child, but nothing really works out. This is because there is no clear idea of ​​how a healthy throat should look, and how a sick one should look. Redness of the larynx is not always a sign of a serious illness, and the absence of redness, which in most cases mothers try to see, is not always a sign of health. It is necessary to understand everything in order.

Symptoms

Children often have sore throats, there can be many reasons - from allergies to a chemical burn, but most often children are affected by respiratory viruses. There may also be bacterial inflammation, injury.

You need to see what is happening with the child’s neck when the baby begins to show certain symptoms or openly complain about them:

• pain when swallowing;
• labored breathing;
• runny nose;
• headache, chills;
• sudden fever, fever;
• enlargement of the submandibular lymph nodes;
• refusal to drink and eat.

How to conduct an inspection?

If a mother glanced at the throat of a child who languidly made “aaaaa”, this cannot be considered an examination.

There are certain rules for examining the throat:

• The child should be placed near a window facing the sunny side. If there is no such window or there is not enough natural light, you can use a small flashlight.
• It is clear that not every home has a medical spatula, but everyone has an ordinary tablespoon. With clean hands washed with soap, take a clean spoon, pour boiled water over its handle. After that, you no longer need to touch the handle with your hands.
• Using a spoon, gently press down on the center of your tongue. If you press on the tip, you can not see anything. If you press on the root, then the child will definitely vomit, as this is the easiest and easiest way to cause a gag reflex.

• The tonsils are best seen, but to assess their condition, you need to ask the child to open his mouth as wide as possible so that the tongue is pressed against the lower lip.
• To assess the condition of the posterior wall of the larynx, it makes sense to lightly press the tongue with a spatula or spoon.
• The child should breathe through the mouth, taking deep breaths., in which the tongue reflexively drops somewhat. So the region of the tonsils and the lateral parts of the larynx is much easier to consider.

In order not to confuse the palatine tonsil with the pharyngeal one, you need to at least in general terms imagine the structure of the throat.

Norm

A normal healthy throat looks like this:

• There are no visible changes, wounds, ulcers in the oral cavity. The tongue is clean, with little or no physiological coating.
• Tonsils are not enlarged, symmetrical, have a pale pink tint. Plaque, vesicles, ulcers, enlarged tubercles with pronounced boundaries and seals are not visible on them.
• The palate and palatine arches are pink- sometimes more, and sometimes less saturated, but uniform. There are no plaque, abscesses, spots on them.
• The lateral parts of the larynx are normally not swollen, pink.
• The back of the larynx, rich in blood vessels, may be redder than the rest of the throat, but only the condition of the vessels should be assessed - whether they are enlarged, whether there are pronounced tubercles, abscesses and plaque.

What does pathology look like?

Visual signs of a sore throat are much more diverse and indicate well-defined diseases. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a qualified doctor, who will be based not only on an examination of the throat, but also on the total value of other symptoms, as well as the results of laboratory tests.

However, knowledge of the distinguishing features of throat pathologies has not interfered with any parent. This is useful at least in order to know in which cases to urgently call an ambulance, and in which - to go to an appointment at a clinic or call a doctor at home.

In the early stages sore throats tonsils become bright red, after a few hours they are covered with a white coating. Abscesses, separate areas of a purulent or necrotic nature may appear. The lumen of the larynx may be narrowed. With such inflamed tonsils, nearby lymph nodes may swell.

Angina is always accompanied by high fever, severe intoxication. After an acute period, follicular tonsillitis may begin, which is well distinguished on examination due to a bright sign - loose purulent plaque on the tonsils.

How to recognize a sore throat, see the following video.

• Necrotic angina characterized by dead gray areas of lymphoid tissue on the tonsils, sometimes the process extends to the palatine arches and the tongue.

• Fungal angina, as a rule, is accompanied by redness and inflammation of the tonsils, the appearance of visual friability, as well as a yellowish-green coating. Fungi in the throat are most often related to the genus Candida.

• Pharyngitis- a common childhood disease that quite often begins to develop with a viral disease, with allergies, with some fungal infections (less often), as well as with bacterial infection. Almost all types of pharyngitis affect the mucous membrane of the larynx.
• In the simplest form ( catarrhal pharyngitis) there is a slight redness, as well as a slight swelling in the larynx, which does not affect either the tonsils or the palate.
• With a visible increase in the pharyngeal tonsils, pronounced redness and swelling of the larynx itself, we can talk about a possible hypertrophic pharyngitis.
• Atrophic pharyngitis associated with atrophy of the mucous membrane, the throat is “lacquered”, a bright sign is the vessels on the back of the pharynx. They become larger, visually they become, as it were, smaller.

• Granular pharyngitis the easiest to determine: the back wall of the larynx is covered with granules resembling growths in the throat. Mucus clots may be observed.

• May occur candidiasis. This disease is also called thrush of the throat, for its characteristic fungal plaque. Body temperature with white plaque in the larynx rarely rises, complaints of difficulty with swallowing and pain may or may not be. The most important visual symptom is a white cheesy coating on the larynx and palate, sometimes on the tonsils. These parts of the larynx may be slightly enlarged, inflamed.

• Adenoids- This is often a childhood disease. It is accompanied by difficulty in nasal breathing, night snoring, and sometimes hearing loss. At home, it is impossible to discern the state of the adenoids due to their anatomical location. After all, the adenoids in the throat are located in the vault of the nasopharynx. Only a doctor is capable of seeing them, assessing the size, degree of swelling, stage of the disease - using a special mirror, with which he can look behind the soft palate.

• Diphtheria. This is an infectious disease that most often affects the oropharynx. With diphtheria, the child will have enlarged tonsils, an inflamed swollen throat. A characteristic visual sign of the disease is membranous plaque in the larynx and tonsils. The plaque can be extensive, or it can be islands, it is difficult to remove with a spatula, and after that red bleeding spots remain. Usually the film has a grayish color. With diphtheria, swelling of the neck can develop, lymph nodes often become inflamed, the temperature rises to 38.0-39.0 degrees.

• Laryngitis is accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx. On examination, there is severe redness and swelling of the throat. Then the redness spreads to the mucous membrane of the epiglottis.

The vessels of the posterior wall of the larynx are greatly enlarged, blood can seep out of them, this is expressed by the appearance of red dots. Red dots are characteristic, by the way, of complicated influenza. With laryngitis, a child usually has a hoarse voice, a dry, barking cough that gets worse at night.

• Whooping cough- a contagious bacterial disease that is accompanied by severe bouts of coughing. Sometimes accompanied by inflammation of the larynx, which is mechanical in nature. With constant strong bouts of choking cough, the mucous throat is irritated. However, a visual examination of the larynx alone cannot be the basis for a diagnosis.

• scarlet fever it is very easy to recognize just by examining the baby's throat. The most striking sign is the so-called scarlet tongue: in the first days - with a white coating and with barely visible bubbles, and then - a rich, bright crimson-scarlet color, with a pronounced granular structure. The tonsils are inflamed, often covered with a pimple-like rash.

With a severe course of this contagious disease, small sores on the throat can be observed. Its other characteristic symptoms will also help to recognize scarlet fever - reddening of the skin, the appearance of a rash (with the exception of the nasolabial triangle).

ENT > Children's ENT diseases > How to remove snot from the nasopharynx in a child: basic methods

Quite often, snot accumulates in the nasopharynx in children, which cause difficulty breathing, capriciousness, etc. In any case, no matter what caused their appearance, the snot must be removed.

Causes of snot in the nasopharynx

There are many reasons why at one point a child begins to accumulate snot in the nasopharynx.

These include:

• Infection. In this case, pathogenic bacteria and microbes enter the body, which begin their destructive action. And the protective reaction of the body is just snot, which begin to stand out more and more in order to protect the mucous membrane.
• Inappropriate conditions. Sometimes in children, if the room is very dry or, conversely, very humid air, snot may appear. Moreover, it will be transparent in color and flow constantly. Or just stagnate somewhere inside, causing nasal congestion.
• vascular response. Some children have a peculiar reaction of blood vessels to certain stimuli. So, for example, if we talk about babies who eat the mixture, then sometimes during feeding, mucus is secreted from the nose.
• Allergy. Today, many children suffer from allergies. The reason for this is poor environmental conditions, as well as heredity. With allergies. a child has a clear and slightly liquid mucus from the nose. At the same time, the baby scratches his nose, constantly sneezes, his eyes may swell.
• The child bumped his nose. Sometimes, due to injury, the nasopharyngeal mucosa swells a little, which causes mucus to be released.
• A foreign object has entered the nose, and the body thus tries to push it out and defend itself.
• Curvature of the septum. Some children, for certain reasons, have a deviated septum from birth. This can only be detected by a specialist by conducting an examination, during which he will notice that one nasal passage is narrower than the other.
• Chronic runny nose. namely, the constant use of vasoconstrictor drops. Most drugs of this type are highly addictive, due to which mucus begins to stand out.

Read also: Conservative treatment of adenoids in children: symptoms of the disease and basic principles of treatment

There are many reasons for the appearance of mucus in the nasopharynx. But the main thing is to remove it in time, as it causes great discomfort to the baby.

The frequent appearance of mucus in the baby's nasopharynx makes parents think about how to clean it up without constantly resorting to drugs and antibiotics. In the event that the appearance of mucus is caused by a simple runny nose (not bacterial) or simply by pollen getting into the nose, then in this case one can resort to washing the nose.

It is believed that for children it is best to use such drugs made from sea water as Aqua Maris and Aqua Lor. But their cost sometimes does not allow some parents to purchase drugs often.

In the case of Aqua Lore and Aqua Maris, there are different types that differ from each other in the intensity of the jet flow. Depending on the age of the child, one or another type should be selected. Washing should be done at least four to five times a day. If you do it more, then on the contrary it will be better.

Salt water, in addition to helping to remove mucus, moisturizes the mucosa, and also disinfects a little.

If it is not possible to go and buy one of these drugs at a pharmacy, then you can buy Essentuki 17 mineral water, which is approximately the same in composition as Aqua Maris. Before flushing, gases must be released. After that, a pipette is taken, mineral water is drawn into it and the baby is buried in the nose. After a few minutes, water will flow from the nose, and mucus will also come out with it.

A useful video on how to properly bury the nose of a baby.

For those who do not have the physical ability to go to the pharmacy (for example, one at home with a child), you can take a teaspoon of salt and mix it with a glass of boiled water. Wash with this solution. It is believed that washing the nose with salt water contributes not only to a better removal of mucus, but also to a speedy recovery.

Read also: Acute pharyngitis in children: features of development and various methods of treatment

Inhalations in the fight against snot

Another very good method to remove mucus from the nasopharynx is to inhale. It is advisable to carry out this only if there is an inhaler and saline solution at home.

It is best to do inhalation three times a day (after sleep, before daytime sleep and at night). If the child does not resist and he likes this procedure, then it is better to do it once or twice more. There will be no harm, but a lot of benefits.

Some doctors say to do inhalations with interferon, but only when it is a viral disease, and in addition to removing mucus, you also need to help the body fight the infection.

In the event that the accumulation of mucus is caused by a bacterial infection, then inhalation is not recommended.

Allergic rhinitis: causes and treatment

One of the most common reasons why mucus accumulates in a child's nose is an allergic reaction. Some children react to dust mites. It sounds a little scary, but this only happens if the bed has not been changed for a long time. In children, the nose immediately begins to block up and flow from it.

Also, mucus appears when flowers bloom and from simple dust.

Whatever caused the appearance of mucus, it must be removed urgently, as the edema can spread further. It is best not to resort to vasoconstrictor drugs, as their frequent use can be addictive.

First of all, you need to remove the allergen, and then give the child an antihistamine.

At the same time, rinse the baby's nose with salt water to remove particles of the allergen. Usually, these activities help to remove mucus from the nasopharynx.

Drug treatment of snot in the nasopharynx

Treatment with drugs

See also: How to treat a very red throat in a child - medicines and folk remedies

If we are talking about a common cold, then the mucus in the first days of the nasopharynx will not be removed. Sometimes a runny nose in children begins with a simple congestion, and during the examination by a doctor, it turns out that mucus flows down the nasopharynx.

In this situation, it is necessary to carry out such treatment as if mucus was flowing from the nose, because the infection must be treated. It is allowed to drip the child twice a day for three days with vasoconstrictor drops (so that the effect of other medicines is better, and breathing is easier), antiviral drops or antibiotics (in some cases it is better to immediately start dripping antibiotics, especially when the snot is thick and does not blow your nose ).

Before using any drops, rinse your nose with salt water to remove mucus and germs. You need to do this as often as possible.

After three days of intensive treatment, the amount of mucus will decrease, but now it needs to be blown out.

What and how to treat inflammation of the nasopharynx?

If the child does not know how to do this, then you need to purchase Otrivin Baby and do it to him. It is also best to rinse your nose with water before blowing your nose.

Quite often, infants accumulate mucus in the nose. And since they do not know how to breathe through their mouths, this can be very dangerous. To clean the nose, you need to take cotton wool, smoke a flagellum from it and grease it with oil, and then clean it with light and not strong rotational movements. Experienced parents very quickly remove mucus from the baby's nasopharynx, as they know exactly in which case which drug or method should be resorted to.

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In the human body, there are 8 tonsils, which are located in the mouth, nose and pharynx. The tonsils are “stuffed” with immune cells, so their main role is to create a barrier for pathogenic bacteria trying to enter the body. One of the tonsils (the third pair) is nasopharyngeal and is an accumulation of lymphoid tissue, which is located behind the nose behind the tongue hanging from the sky, passes a stream of air through itself when inhaling and cleanses it of microbes, allergens, viruses and other foreign agents.

Adenoids are pathological hypertrophy (growth) of the nasopharyngeal tonsil. The third pair of tonsils is very well developed in childhood, and with age, from about 12 years old, begins to decrease. In some adults, the nasopharyngeal tonsil is completely atrophied. A high percentage of adenoids in children aged 3-10 years is associated with age-related features. But adenoids are possible both in adolescents, during puberty, and in adults.

The reasons

There are 5 main reasons that lead to the appearance of adenoids in childhood:

Frequent SARS
Usually a child who lives in a large city and visits children's institutions gets sick with colds no more than 6-8 times a year.

When pathological microflora enters the nasopharynx, the upper respiratory tract is affected (rhinitis, tracheitis, pharyngitis). In response to this, the nasopharyngeal tonsils increase, as they begin to actively produce immune defense cells.

After the ARVI subsides, the tonsils return to their previous size. But if the child is sick often, then the tonsils do not have time to decrease. A new infection is an overgrowth of lymphoid tissue.

Weakened immunity
Outwardly, the child looks healthy, and parents may not be aware of the presence of a persistent "walking" infection in his body. These can be herpes or Epstein-Bar viruses, chlamydia, mycoplasma, Giardia and others.

All of these infections are often hidden and undermine the body's defenses, which provokes hypertrophy of the nasopharyngeal tonsils.

Photo: localization of adenoids

Allergy
Currently, there is a trend towards an increase in children with allergies. This is due to the disturbed ecology, with potentially dangerous compounds contained in household chemicals, with preservatives and other things.

Allergens, as well as pathogenic microbes, cause the growth of adenoids.

Heredity
Polylymphadenopathy - the growth of lymphoid tissue in many parts of the body is a constitutional feature and is inherited.

Degrees

There are three degrees of severity of adenoids, depending on the percentage of proliferation of lymphoid tissue and the clinical picture:

• the first degree - the growth of the third pair of tonsils and the overlap of 33% of the opening communicating with the nasopharynx;
• the second degree - the overlap of 66% of the hole with adenoids;
• third degree - almost the entire hole is closed, about 99%.

Symptoms of adenoids

The first characteristic sign of adenoids is difficulty breathing through the nose, which is completely unrelated to SARS or nasal trauma.

• In the first (mild) degree, difficulty in nasal breathing during sleep is especially noticeable, when the child assumes a horizontal position. He has a sniffle in his sleep.
• In the second degree, the child begins to snore at night, breathes through the mouth, mucus from the nose flows down the throat.

  The child has swelling of the nasopharynx

  Sleep is disturbed, the baby does not get enough sleep, becomes irritable and capricious. You may stop breathing during sleep (apnea).

• In the third degree, the nose does not completely let the air flow through, as a result of which the child is forced to breathe through the mouth not only at night, but also during the day. An “adenoid” face is formed in him: the nasolabial folds are smoothed out, the mouth is ajar, the look becomes unintelligible, the lower jaw sags.

In severe cases, the constantly dripping mucus under the baby's nose irritates and inflames the skin, which later forms eczema. Hearing problems appear, the infection from the adenoids passes to the middle ear, children do not hear well.

The child begins to study worse, perceives the material poorly, is not able to concentrate. And, of course, a child with adenoids often has colds, from which he does not “get out”.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of adenoids is carried out on the basis of characteristic complaints, examination of the posterior wall of the oropharynx with a special mirror and additional methods:

• finger method. Currently not applicable. The doctor feels the nasopharyngeal tonsils with a finger through the mouth, on the basis of which he makes a conclusion about their increase.
• X-ray of the nasopharynx. It gives information only about the increase in the tonsils, but does not allow us to judge the presence of an inflammatory process in them.
• Endoscopy. A small-diameter tube with a video camera at the end is inserted through the nose, and the adenoids are displayed on the monitor. The endoscopic method allows you to establish their size, localization, overlapping of the openings of the auditory tubes. This is the most informative, safe and painless examination.

Examination before surgery (adenotomy):

• general blood and urine tests;
• blood chemistry;
• blood for clotting;
• pediatrician consultation.

Treatment of adenoids

Adenoids are treated by an otorhinolaryngologist (ENT). Treatment can be conservative and operational. The decision on surgical intervention is made taking into account the severity, severity of symptoms, the presence of concomitant pathology and contraindications.

Conservative therapy

Conservative treatment of adenoids consists in regular washing of the nasopharynx with decoctions of medicinal herbs (infusion of calendula, chamomile, celandine, mint, St. John's wort, eucalyptus leaves and others) or saline solutions (sea salt is used).

After washing, it is necessary to instill medicinal preparations with anti-inflammatory and drying effects (solutions of protargol, collargol, albucid) into the nose.

Glucocorticoids (dexamethasone) are also prescribed, which help to relieve swelling and reduce adenoids.

It is necessary to take vitamins: ascorbic acid, ascorutin, vitamin D.

Physiotherapy is carried out (UVI of the nasopharynx, electrophoresis with drugs, laser therapy).

Aromatherapy has a good effect. In the absence of results from conservative treatment, the question of surgery is decided.

Surgery to remove adenoids

Indications:

• lack of effect from conservative therapy;
• recurrence of the disease 4 or more times a year;
• development of complications;
• apnea;
• frequent otitis media and SARS.

Contraindications for adenotomy:

• blood diseases;
• infectious diseases 4 weeks before surgery;
• flu epidemic;
• severe cardiovascular pathology.

Surgical removal of adenoids is currently performed under general anesthesia endoscopically.

Not so long ago, adenotomy was performed blindly, which led to a recurrence of the disease in half of the cases. Under the control of a video camera inserted into the nasopharynx, the growths of the lymphoid tissue are cut off, and the bleeding vessels are cauterized with a laser, liquid nitrogen or electric current.

After operation

The child stays in the hospital for 1-3 days, and then at home for 10-14 days.

On the first or second day, a rise in temperature and abdominal pain is possible. This is a reaction to surgery.

Vomiting blood clots once or twice is not a dangerous symptom (it is possible that the child swallowed blood clots during the operation).

Consequences and prognosis

The prognosis for adequate and timely treatment of adenoids is favorable.

However, the consequences of adenoids in children are formidable, and are observed in advanced cases (at the third stage):

Chronic inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract

As a result of the fact that unpurified air enters the body plus the constant swallowing of infected mucus and pus with adenoids, the child develops

These diseases can become a starting point in the development of bronchial asthma.

Hearing loss

The nasal cavity communicates with the middle ear cavity through the auditory tube. The overgrown lymphoid tissue of the adenoids blocks the opening of the auditory tube in the nose, which makes it difficult for air to enter the middle ear. Because of this, the eardrum loses elasticity, becomes immobile - hearing is reduced. Otitis media (inflammation of the middle ear) is also not uncommon.

Decline in school performance

Difficult nasal breathing leads to a lack of oxygen, resulting in impaired cerebral circulation. The child becomes inattentive, distracted, poorly concentrated and remembers. Not the last role in this is played by sleep disturbance (drowsiness during the day, constant fatigue). Possible mental retardation, enuresis (bedwetting).

Changes in the facial skeleton and chest

Due to impaired breathing, a “chicken” chest is formed - a chest flattened from the sides and a protruding sternum. The skull has a dolichocephalic shape, the lower jaw is elongated and droops. Characterized by a sloping chin. An incorrect bite is formed, the teeth begin to grow crooked, which also contributes to their cariousness.

Problems with the digestive tract

Constant ingestion of infected mucus leads to inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines (gastritis and enteritis).

Speech disorders

Changes in the bones of the facial skull lead to a decrease in the mobility of the soft palate, and, as a result, to the formation of incorrect and incomprehensible sounds.

Other chronic diseases

Against the background of adenoids, palatine tonsils (chronic tonsillitis) are often affected, hypertrophied nasopharyngeal tonsils (adenoiditis) become inflamed, joints, kidneys, blood vessels (vasculitis) can also be involved in the process, the cardiovascular system, as a rule, anemia develops.

Adenoiditis

Adenoid growths (vegetations) are a pathological enlargement of the nasopharyngeal tonsil.

They occur mainly in childhood. In children with enlarged adenoids, nasal breathing is difficult due to mechanical obstruction and chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. The characteristic signs of adenoiditis in a child are a constantly half-open mouth, snoring during sleep, and frequent headache. Such children quickly get tired during physical and mental stress, lag behind in physical development. The face becomes puffy, the lower lip sags. "Adenoid" children are absent-minded, often suffer from urinary incontinence, tongue-tied tongue, their sense of smell is reduced.

Adenoiditis: acute and chronic

Adenoiditis is an inflammatory disease of an enlarged pharyngeal tonsil. Most often occurs in children of preschool and primary school age. Inflammation proceeds similarly to the inflammatory process in the palatine tonsils with angina. Long-term chronic adenoiditis, like tonsillitis, can lead to severe complications and the spread of infection to the kidneys, heart, blood vessels, joints and other organs.

Causes of adenoiditis

The following factors predispose to the development of adenoiditis: artificial feeding of a child, a monotonous, predominantly carbohydrate diet, the presence of rickets (vitamin D deficiency), diathesis, allergies, hypothermia, environmental factors, for example, prolonged exposure to places with dry, polluted air. Acute adenoiditis develops in young children due to the activation of the microbial flora of the nasopharynx under the influence of hypothermia or as a complication of any infectious disease.

Adenoiditis in children.

Snot in the nasopharynx: in children and adults. Causes and treatment

Symptoms

The clinical picture of acute adenoiditis is characterized by the appearance of mucopurulent discharge from the nasopharynx - they flow down the back of the pharynx and are visible during examination, fever, difficulty in nasal breathing. Very often, in acute adenoiditis, the Eustachian (auditory) tube is involved in the inflammatory process, which is manifested by congestion, pain in the ear, and hearing loss.

Chronic adenoiditis is a consequence of acute inflammation of the adenoids. Manifestations of the disease: a slight increase in body temperature (subfebrile condition), the child's mental and physical development is lagging behind, increased fatigue, poor school performance, impaired attention, drowsiness along with poor sleep, headache, loss of appetite, nocturnal cough in a child (due to purulent discharge from the inflamed tonsil running down the back of the pharynx). Often, chronic adenoiditis is accompanied by chronic eustachitis, which is accompanied by progressive hearing loss.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of acute and chronic adenoiditis is made by an otorhinolaryngologist!

Adenoiditis in children treatment

To remove infectious pathogens from the surface of the nasopharyngeal tonsil and reduce the volume of adenoids, it is necessary to wash both halves of the nose with sterile sea water 3 times a day (Aqualor Baby, Aqualor Soft, Aqualor Norm, Aqualor Mini).

After washing with severe nasal congestion and a pronounced violation of nasal breathing, you can drip vasoconstrictor drops into the child's nose (they relieve swelling of the mucous membrane and restore nasal breathing). Buried 1 - 2 drops in each nostril. Treatment with vasoconstrictor drugs should not last longer than 5-7 days, since their longer use can lead to the development of serious complications (one of them is the development of a "medicated" runny nose in a child, which is very difficult to get rid of in the future). The decision to prescribe vasoconstrictor drops is made by an ENT doctor!

In chronic adenoiditis, antiallergic drugs are prescribed. The dosage of drugs depends on the age of the child and is determined by the doctor.

Mandatory in chronic adenoiditis is the intake of children's vitamin-mineral complexes, which help strengthen overall immunity and reduce the number of exacerbations.

An important component of adequate treatment of adenoiditis is a balanced diet. From the patient's diet, it is necessary to exclude all products that are potential allergens: chocolate, cocoa, etc. It is recommended to increase the consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, berries, to exclude easily digestible carbohydrates from the diet (semolina, fresh pastries, confectionery).

Outdoor games, swimming in the pool and open water, as well as breathing exercises are recommended. In acute adenoiditis, it prevents the transition of the disease into a chronic form, in chronic adenoiditis, it helps to preserve nasal breathing and prevent the development of hypertrophy of the pharyngeal tonsil (adenoids). In an acute process, breathing exercises should be started during the recovery period, in a chronic process - in the interval between exacerbations of the disease.

Exercise 1. Starting position: sitting or standing. Slowly inhale and exhale through one nostril, then inhale and exhale through both nostrils, then inhale through the right nostril - exhale through the left, then inhale through the left nostril, exhale through the right, then inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth. When performing the exercise, the child either closes one nostril in turn, or an adult helps him. After completing this exercise, the child sits (stands) calmly for some time, and the adult massages his nostrils - while inhaling, he runs his index finger along the nostrils, while exhaling, he taps the nostrils with his index fingers.
Exercise 2. Inflate balloons or inflatable toys.
Exercise 3 Exercise "gurgling". Take a bottle or a deep plate, immerse a rubber tube about 40 cm long with a hole 1 cm in diameter into it, put the other end of the tube into the child's mouth. The child should inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth (“gurgle”). The duration of the exercise is 5 minutes. It is performed daily for several months.

Sore throat in a child: how to treat

Nasopharyngeal tonsil: adenoids, adenoiditis, allergic rhinitis Clinic. The first and main signs of adenoids (hyperplasia of the nasopharyngeal tonsil) are difficulty in nasal breathing and sleep with an open mouth. The degree of violation of nasal breathing depends on the size, shape and structure of the adenoids, the ratio of their volume to the size of the nasopharyngeal cavity, as well as concomitant inflammatory changes - adenoiditis. A significant difficulty in nasal breathing leads to mouth breathing, insufficient moisture, warming and purification of the inhaled air, constant cooling of the oral cavity, pharynx and lower respiratory tract. The mass of microbes and dust particles inhaled during oral breathing settles on the mucous membrane of the larynx, trachea, leading to colds, frequent tonsillitis, pharyngitis, diseases of the bronchi and lung tissue. Adenoid vegetations (AV) during sleep can increase due to venous stasis and cause severe respiratory dysfunction up to respiratory arrest due to intermittent obstruction of the upper respiratory tract - obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Therefore, children with adenoids often sleep with their mouths open, restlessly, often snore, saliva flowing from an open mouth wets the pillow. Often in children with adenoids and adenoiditis, mucus flows from the nasopharynx into the oropharynx and laryngopharynx, which leads to a persistent cough. The inflammatory process often spreads to the nasal cavity, forming rhinitis, sinusitis with copious discharge from the nose, irritating the skin of the vestibule of the nose and upper lip, which becomes hyperemic, thickened, and cracked. A similar condition can be noted in the period of exacerbation of allergic rhinitis (AR). Difficult nasal breathing caused by adenoids and adenoiditis often leads to impaired ventilation of the paranasal sinuses with the development of their chronic inflammation. Difficulty in nasal breathing with adenoiditis leads to venous congestion in the meninges, impaired memory and decreased intelligence. At the same time, children have poor sleep with night terrors, dreams, snoring, with episodes of motor restlessness, nocturnal enuresis (due to an increase in carbon dioxide and oxygen deficiency in the blood, which leads to relaxation of the sphincters). Difficulty in nasal breathing and limited mobility of the soft palate due to circulatory disorders in it, as well as changes in the volume of the upper resonators (nasopharynx, paranasal sinuses) cause a violation of speech function, called rhinolalia clausa posterior. At the same time, children hardly pronounce nasal consonants, their speech is deaf, jerky. Children with adenoids, breathing through the mouth, are in a state of constant oxygen starvation. Their chest is narrower and laterally flattened, the sternum protrudes forward (“chicken breast”). Many authors point to the connection of adenoiditis with diseases of the middle ear. This relationship is based on mechanical blockage of the auditory tube or compression of its pharyngeal mouth by adenoid growths. Frequent otitis media, caused by chronic adenoiditis, can lead to hearing loss, which will affect the formation of the child's speech. Chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal tonsil (adenoiditis) causes intoxication, sensitization of the body, disrupts the protective ability of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, contributes to the emergence and development of local and general diseases. Chronic adenoiditis is characterized by symptoms of intoxication - general weakness, subfebrile condition, dysfunction of the cardiovascular system; local changes (violation of nasal breathing, mucopurulent discharge from the nose, a strip of mucus along the back of the throat), a disorder of the state of the nervous system (irritability, disturbing sleep, enuresis). Diagnostics hyperplasia of the nasopharyngeal tonsil (adenoids II-III degree) is based on the data of the clinical picture (see above) and endoscopic examination of the nasopharynx, in which you can see adenoid tissue of varying degrees of size with the usual pink color of the surface, gaps are visible. With adenoiditis, endoscopic examination of the nasopharynx demonstrates the lymphoid tissue of the nasopharyngeal tonsil with mucopurulent contents in the lacunae, on the surface of the tonsil and the back wall of the pharynx. Diagnosis of allergic rhinitis and adenoiditis is carried out in conjunction with an allergist. At otorhinolaryngological endoscopic examination, the nasal mucosa is pale, in the nasal passages there is a transparent mucous discharge. The surface of the nasopharyngeal tonsil is pale, edematous, enlarged. Immunological blood tests are characterized by an increased content of IgE, both general and type-specific. On the recommendation of an allergist, skin prick tests with antigen can be delivered. Before proceeding to the treatment of pathology associated with the nasopharyngeal tonsil, it is necessary to highlight a number of fundamentally important facts: The pharyngeal tonsil is one of the structurally formed accumulations of the so-called lymphoid tissue associated with mucous membranes and is involved in the mechanisms of immune defense. Just like other formations of the lymphopharyngeal ring, the pharyngeal tonsil, together with nonspecific protective factors (mucociliary transport, production of lysozyme, interferon, etc.), performs a barrier function of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. Due to the high role of the lymphoid tissue of the pharynx in the formation of the body's immunological defense, today the indications for surgical treatment of lesions of the palatine and pharyngeal tonsils are significantly narrowed, and priority is given to conservative therapy. In addition, it should be taken into account that, according to different authors, the frequency of postoperative recurrences of AV ranges from 5 to 75%. This is facilitated by insufficiently complete removal of the AV during the operation, the features of the anatomical structure of the skull and nasal part of the pharynx, infection of the lymphoid tissue and, most importantly, allergy. In children suffering from allergic diseases of the respiratory tract (allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma), there is often an increase in the volume of the pharyngeal tonsil due to allergic edema. Surgical treatment gives a very short-term result and leads to a rapid relapse of the disease or, as noted by many authors, can lead to asthma attacks, if it was not there before. Adaptive responses of the immune system is a long process, which is determined by the gene regulation of its development and interaction with environmental factors. The lymphoid organs of the pharynx of a young child respond to the respiratory antigenic load (viruses, bacteria, etc.) with significant hyperplasia. Pathogens can persist for a long time in lymphoid formations. This is typical for persistent viral infections (intracellular pathogens, herpes viruses, etc.). The presence of intracellular pathogens (virus) allows secondary bacterial infections to form. The combined pathogenic flora "virus + microbe" determines the recurrent and chronic course of the inflammatory process. Scientific publications have shown that under conditions of infection with certain types of viruses of the lymphoid formations of the pharynx (palatine tonsils), the immune response has features and is characterized by the absence of activation of humoral protection. On the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, there is no increase in the production of antibodies of secretory IgA (slgA), IgA, IgM, IgI, but hyperproduction of IgE (reaginic antibodies) occurs. Treatment: elimination- irrigation therapy is an important component of the complex therapy of inflammation in the nasal cavity, in the sinuses, and the nasopharynx. Its purpose is the mechanical removal of mucus, which, under conditions of inflammation and impaired mucociliary transport, makes it possible to wash off mucus containing many components of inflammation (microorganisms, destroyed cells with released aggressive components, etc.) from the surface of the epithelial layer. All of these mucus constituents can enhance epithelial cell destruction and promote inflammation. Without the restoration of mucociliary transport, it is difficult to obtain a full-fledged effect from a drug administered to the mucous membrane. The choice of preparations for washing with moistening of the mucous membrane of the nose and pharynx is quite wide: Salin 0.65% (NaCl solution), preparations based on sea water Aquamaris, Physiomer, Marimer, Aqualor. A device and composition for washing the nose Dolphin has been developed. Antiviral treatment. There are few drugs that directly affect the virus. Basically, targeted etiotropic treatment is possible with herpes virus infections and influenza. The following drugs have been developed and used to treat diseases caused by herpes virus infection: acyclovir (dose for adults 200 mg every 4 hours, for children under 2 years old - 1/2 adult dose, course duration 7-10 days), valocyclovir (Valtrex ) 500 mg 3 times a day. Antiviral treatment is carried out in the acute period of the disease or in case of relapse. In a latent state, a persistent virus is inaccessible to drugs. In the complex therapy of viral infections, immunomodulatory drugs play an important role. In the acute period of the disease, human leukocyte interferon (IFN) can be used. Of the recombinant IFNs, Viferon is the most popular - a recombinant IFN-a2b with antioxidants - vitamins C and E. The drug is highly effective in the acute period of a viral disease. In the treatment of persistent viral infection in a latent state, the use of bacterial lysates on the nasal mucosa (IRS-19), pharynx (Imudon), etc., as well as interferonogen inducer preparations, is indicated. In particular, there is a positive experience with the use of systemic immunomodulators - immunoryx, bronchomunal, ribomunil, cycloferon, etc. Antibacterial drugs. Their use in classical dosages is indicated for acute adenoiditis with the corresponding clinical picture: a pronounced temperature reaction (more than 38 ° C), a sharp restriction of nasal breathing, mucopurulent discharge on the back of the pharynx. Aminopenicillins (amoxicillin), cephalosporins (cefuroxime axetil, cefixime, ceftibuten, etc.), macrolides (azithromycin, clindamycin, etc.) are prescribed. In pediatric practice, soluble forms of Solutab drugs, as well as suspensions and syrups, are preferred. Experience is accumulating in the treatment of recurrent and chronic forms of adenoiditis with low doses of macrolides. The explanation for the positive effect of long-term antibiotic therapy lies in the immunomodulatory effects of macrolides, and also in the fact that small doses of macrolides can disrupt the ability of bacteria to adhere to epithelial cells. Given the current data on the resistance of microbes to any type of antibiotics during their inactive state in biofilms, these treatment regimens are also recommended for use in adenoiditis. Anti-inflammatory therapy. In this section, there is reason to consider the role of glucocorticosteroids (GCS) in the treatment of all forms of dysfunction of the nasopharyngeal tonsil. GCS (systemic, inhaled, nasal) are widely used to treat respiratory diseases. They are among the drugs with a pronounced anti-inflammatory activity (prednisolone, beclomethasone, dexamethasone, budesonide, fluticasone, mometasone, etc.). The use of corticosteroids in the treatment of nasopharyngeal tonsils is one of the effective non-surgical methods of treatment. However, it should be noted that indications for the use of systemic corticosteroids for the treatment of adenoiditis are strictly limited. Currently, there is a possibility of their local application. New forms have been developed - intranasal hormonal preparations (IGCS). They are well studied, have a high clinical effect and low systemic bioavailability.

Hurry up to cure nasopharyngitis in a child: about the most important thing

The safety of ICS has been proven in scientific and clinical studies. It has been shown that even long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids (up to 1 year) does not disrupt the function of the endocrine glands of the child, does not adversely affect his growth. Of the well-known IGCS on the Russian market, mometasone furoate (Nasonex) is allowed for use from the age of 2, from 4 years - fluticasone propionate (Flixonase), from 6 years - budesonide (Tafen).

The nasopharynx is the cavity that connects the middle part of the pharynx and the nasal passages. Relate scientists simultaneously to the beginning of the digestive tract and to the upper respiratory tract. Because of this location, the role of the nasopharynx in the human body is immeasurable. This cavity is often prone to many diseases, as air constantly enters through it, which may contain disease-causing organisms or be supercooled.

Anatomical structure

The study of the structure of the nasopharynx is necessary in order to understand the principle of operation of this organ and to know how to deal with certain diseases.

The nasopharynx, with the help of special quadrangular openings called choanae, communicates the oral and nasal cavities.

The upper wall of the nasopharynx adjoins the occipital and sphenoid bones. The back borders with the first and second cervical vertebrae. In the side walls there are openings through which the nasopharynx communicates with the middle ear through the auditory tubes.

Placed in the nasopharynx:

• olfactory receptors;
• mucous membrane;
• coatings for air filtration from foreign substances;
• nasopharyngeal tonsils and tonsils, which protect the body from viruses and harmful microorganisms entering it.

The structure of the muscular system of the nasopharynx is represented by small bundles with numerous branches. The nasal mucosa contains goblet cells and glands that are responsible for humidifying the inhaled air and secreting mucus. In view of one of its functions, warming, this organ has many vessels that contribute to the heating of cold air.

The structure of the organ is unique, and the functions of the nasopharynx are extremely important for the normal functioning of the body.

Oropharynx

Below the nasopharynx, at the level of the third and fourth cervical vertebrae, is the oropharynx, which is limited by the lateral and posterior walls. The oropharynx is the intersection of the digestive and respiratory systems. The oral cavity is isolated from the nasopharyngeal cavity by the arches of the soft palate and the root of the tongue. It has a mucous fold that isolates the nasopharynx when food is swallowed or the speech apparatus is strained (talking).

Organ structure in children

The nasopharyngeal organ in newborns is not fully formed. The anatomy of the nasopharynx in each child is very different from each other due to the individual characteristics of the development of the organism.

The paranasal sinuses develop in stages, and only by the age of two do the baby take the desired oval shape. This development occurs due to weak muscles in babies. And the tonsils are finally formed only in the first months after birth.

The role and functions of the body

The cavity in the form of a so-called channel, which is the nasopharynx, is responsible for supplying and filtering the air that comes from the nasal passages. The tonsils and mucous membranes, which are also located in this part of the pharynx, are responsible for important functions of the human body. In particular, there are several key tasks of the nasopharynx.

The path of oxygen to the respiratory system from outside.

Warming. A large number of tiny vessels and capillaries that are in the inner shell provide heat exchange and heat the air coming from outside. Thanks to the heated air, the functioning of the lower parts of the respiratory system is safer, and they are not irritated and insured against many diseases.

Protective. Due to the excellent blood supply and, cleaning and filtering of the inhaled air is provided. Lymphoid formations that are in the nasopharynx, such as tubal, pharyngeal and lingual tonsils, perform a protective function. Together, these tonsils form a lymphatic pharyngeal ring that protects the lungs from various infections.

. Receptors located in the nasopharyngeal organ are responsible for the perception of odors.

The auditory tube passes air from the nasopharynx into the middle ear cavity, which maintains atmospheric pressure with equilibrium pressure.

The conjugation of the nasal passages with the oropharynx through the nasopharynx allows a person to breathe through the nose and mouth opening.

Possible diseases

Diseases of the nasal cavity are divided into four categories.

Allergic. Symptoms of such diseases are manifested through redness and in the throat, lacrimation, itching, discharge from the nose.

Inflammatory. With such diseases of the nasopharynx, general intoxication of the body is most often observed:

• chills;
• apathy;
• febrile condition;
• appetite and sleep disorders.

And with tonsillitis - an increase in the size of the nasopharyngeal tonsils.

Traumatic. This category includes diseases characterized by bleeding, bone crepitus, sharp pain, redness and swelling of the affected area.

Oncological. The symptoms characteristic of this group of diseases include the presence of a malignant neoplasm, difficulty in swallowing or breathing, a decrease in body weight by 7-10 kg per month, general weakness of the body, an increase in the size of lymphatic formations, persistent subfebrile temperature more than a crescent.

Most of the causes of nasopharyngeal diseases can be corrected with medication or lead a healthy lifestyle. However, a predisposing factor in the occurrence of oncological and allergic pathologies of this organ is a burdened heredity, which in no way can be neutralized.

More dangerous pathologies

Any diseases of the nasopharynx are managed. The most common and dangerous pathologies are:

• and complications caused against its background (inflammation of the tonsils).
• Abscess - purulent (complication of tonsillitis).
• - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx.
• Adenoid vegetation - an increase in the size of the nasopharyngeal tonsils. With this pathology, breathing through the nose is completely impaired.
• - acute inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx.

You can protect yourself from diseases of this organ by the following preventive measures:

• Rational and proper nutrition.
• The use of mineral and vitamin complexes.
• A healthy lifestyle is partly sports and physical education.
• Daily airing of premises.

Diagnostics

Modern diagnostic methods include various examinations and activities, the purpose of which depends on the type of disease.

The structure of the organ is complex, for this reason, with complex forms of pathologies, patients are usually prescribed endoscopic, ultrasound and x-rays.

The most common activities are:

• questioning the patient;
• examination of the affected area with special mirrors;
• analysis of secretions from the nose, urine and blood;
• puncture of the paranasal sinuses;
• ultrasound procedure;
• x-ray of the bones of the skull and sinuses;
• computerized examination of the nasal cavity.

Interesting fact! It is thanks to the structure of the nasopharynx that all the voids located in the skull are interconnected.

Video: The structure of the pharynx and vocal cords

The pharynx moves food into the digestive system and air into the respiratory system. The vocal cords work thanks to the larynx.

Pharynx

The pharynx has three parts - the nasopharynx, the oropharynx and the swallowing section.

Nasopharynx

Oropharynx

Swallowing department

Larynx

Opposite the cervical vertebrae (4-6 vertebrae). Behind - directly the laryngeal part of the pharynx. In front - the larynx is formed due to the group of hyoid muscles. Above is the hyoid bone. Laterally - the larynx adjoins its lateral parts to the thyroid gland.

Four muscles narrow the glottis: thyroid-arytenoid, cricoarytenoid, oblique arytenoid and transverse muscles. Only one muscle expands the glottis - the posterior cricoarytenoid. She is a couple. The vocal cords are tensed by two muscles: the vocal and cricothyroid muscles.

The larynx has an entrance.

Behind this entrance are the arytenoid cartilages. They consist of horn-shaped tubercles that are located on the side of the mucous membrane. Front - epiglottis. On the sides - scoop-epiglottic folds. They consist of wedge-shaped tubercles.

The vestibule - stretches from the vestibular folds to the epiglottis, the folds are formed by the mucous membrane, and between these folds is the vestibular fissure. The interventricular section is the narrowest. Stretches from the lower vocal folds to the upper ligaments of the vestibule. Its very narrow part is called the glottis, and it is created by the intercartilaginous and membranous tissues. Subvoice area. Based on the name, it is clear what is located below the glottis. The trachea expands and begins.

The larynx has three membranes:

The mucous membrane - unlike the vocal cords (they are from a flat non-keratinizing epithelium) consists of a multinucleated prismatic epithelium. Fibrocartilaginous sheath - consists of elastic and hyaline cartilages, which are surrounded by fibrous connective tissue, and provides the entire structure of the larynx. Connective tissue - the connecting part of the larynx and other formations of the neck.

Protective - in the mucous membrane there is a ciliated epithelium, and there are many glands in it. And if the food got past, then the nerve endings carry out a reflex - a cough, which brings the food back from the larynx into the mouth. Respiratory - associated with the previous function. The glottis can contract and expand, thereby directing air currents. Voice-forming - speech, voice. The characteristics of the voice depend on the individual anatomical structure. and the state of the vocal cords.

In the picture the structure of the larynx

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Smoking Inhalation of smoke Inhalation of dusty air ARI Whooping cough Scarlet fever Influenza

The throat and larynx are important components of the body with a huge range of functions and a very complex structure. It is thanks to the throat and lungs that people breathe, the oral cavity is used for eating food, and also performs a communicative function. After all, we owe the ability to make articulate sounds to the mouth and tongue, and communication through speech is the main form of human communication.

How is the human throat?

The anatomy of the throat is quite complex and interesting to study, not only for the purpose of general development. Knowledge about the structure of the throat helps to understand how to carry out its hygiene, why it is necessary to protect the throat, how to prevent the occurrence of diseases and effectively treat diseases if they occur.

The throat consists of the pharynx and larynx. The pharynx (pharynx) is responsible for getting air through the respiratory tract into the lungs and for moving food from the mouth into the esophagus. The larynx (larynx) regulates the functioning of the vocal cords, provides the production of speech and other sounds.

The throat is located in the region of the 4th and 6th cervical vertebrae and in appearance resembles a cone tapering to the bottom. The throat starts from the hyoid bone and, going down, the transition to the trachea. The upper part of this channel provides its strength, and the lower part is connected to the larynx. The throat and pharynx merge into the oral cavity. On the sides are large vessels, behind - the pharynx. In the human throat is the epiglottis, cartilage, vocal cords.

The larynx is surrounded by nine hyaline cartilages, united by joints, that is, movable joints. The largest of the cartilages is the thyroid. It is formed from two parts visually resembling square plates. Their connection forms an Adam's apple, located on the front side of the larynx. The Adam's apple is the largest cartilage of the larynx. The quadrangular plates of cartilage in men are combined almost at an angle of 90 degrees, which is why the Adam's apple clearly protrudes on the neck. In women, the Adam's apple is palpable, but it is more difficult to distinguish it on the surface of the neck, since the plates are aligned at an angle of more than 90 degrees. From the outer side of each plate, both in men and women, two small cartilages depart. They have an articular plate that connects to the cricoid cartilage.

The cricoid cartilage is shaped like a ring due to the arches on the sides and front. Its task is to provide a mobile connection with the thyroid and arytenoid cartilage.

The arytenoid cartilage, which performs a speech function, consists of hyaline cartilage and elastic processes to which the vocal cords are attached. The epiglottic cartilage, located at the root of the tongue and visually similar to a leaf, also joins them.

The epiglottis, together with the epiglottic cartilage, performs a very important function - it separates the respiratory and digestive tracts. At the moment of direct swallowing of food, the “gate” to the larynx closes, so that food does not penetrate into the lungs and vocal cords.

The voice is also formed thanks to cartilage. Some of them provide tension to the ligaments of the throat, which affects the timbre of the voice. Others, arytenoid, pyramid-shaped, allow movement of the vocal cords and regulate the size of the glottis. Its increase or decrease is reflected in the volume of the voice. This system is limited to vocal folds.

The difference in the structure of the throat of an adult and a child is insignificant and consists only in the fact that babies have smaller cavities. Therefore, throat diseases in babies, accompanied by severe swelling, threaten to block the access of air to the respiratory tract.

In women and children, the vocal cords are shorter than in men. In infants, the larynx is wide, but short, and is three vertebrae higher. The timbre of the voice depends on the length of the larynx. In adolescence, the formation of the larynx is completed, and the voice of the boys changes significantly.

The human pharynx consists of several parts. Let's consider each of them in more detail.

The nasopharynx is located behind the nasal cavity and is connected to it with the help of holes - choana. Below the nasopharynx passes into the middle pharynx, on the sides of which are the auditory tubes. Its inner part consists of a mucous membrane, completely covered with nerve endings, mucus-producing glands and capillaries. The main functions of the nasopharynx are warming the air inhaled into the lungs, moistening it, filtering microbes and dust. Also, it is thanks to the nasopharynx that we can recognize and feel odors.

The oral part is the middle fragment of the throat, consisting of the uvula and tonsils, limited by the hyoid bone and the palate. Connects to the mouth with the help of the tongue, ensures the movement of food through the digestive tract.

Tonsils perform a protective and hematopoietic function. The pharynx also contains palatine tonsils, called tonsils or lymphoid accumulations. The tonsils produce immunoglobulin, a substance that can resist infections. The main function of the entire oropharynx is to deliver air to the bronchi and lungs.

The lower part of the pharynx is connected to the larynx and passes into the esophagus. It provides swallowing movements and breathing, is controlled by the lower part of the brain.

Throat and larynx functions

Summarizing the above, the throat and larynx perform:

Protective function - the nasopharynx warms the air when inhaled, cleans it of microbes and dust, and the tonsils produce immunoglobulin to protect against microbes and viruses. The voice-forming function - the cartilages control the movement of the vocal cords, while changing the distance between the cords regulates the volume of the voice, and the force of their tension - the timbre. The shorter the vocal cords, the higher the pitch of the voice. Respiratory function - air enters first into the nasopharynx, then into the pharynx, larynx and trachea. Villi on the surface of the epithelium of the pharynx prevent foreign bodies from entering the respiratory tract. And the very structure of the nasopharynx helps to avoid asphyxia and laryngospasms.

Prevention of throat diseases

In the cold season in countries with a temperate climate, it is very easy to get sick with a cold or sore throat. To avoid throat diseases and viral diseases, you should:

Clear your throat with gargles. For rinsing, you need to use warm water, gradually reducing its temperature. Instead of water, you can use a decoction of medicinal plants - calendula or sage, pine cones, eucalyptus. Change your toothbrush once a month and after an illness, so as not to be re-infected with microbes left on the brush, visit the dentist. Constantly strengthen the immune system with a varied and nutritious diet, drink not too hot tea with lemon or fruit drink from wild berries and fruits. For prophylactic purposes, you can use a decoction and rosehip syrup, propolis, garlic. If possible, limit contact with sick people, use gauze bandages. Avoid hypothermia, getting your feet wet in cold weather. Periodically ventilate the room, carry out wet cleaning. At the first symptoms of a sore throat, protect it from the cold, take antiviral drugs. The ideal medicine for the throat is honey - a natural antiseptic. Honey should be consumed not only during illness, but also for prevention every day. Seek medical attention promptly. Only after consulting a doctor and on his recommendation, you can take antibiotics. Any course of treatment with a favorable course of the disease is better to complete in order to avoid complications.

Do not forget that the throat and larynx must be carefully protected, since their diseases, especially in an acute form, are fraught with serious consequences. If you could not avoid the disease, you should visit a doctor, because self-medication and uncontrolled use of folk recipes can undermine your health.

The complex structure of the throat is due to the many interacting and complementary elements that perform important functions for the human body. Knowledge in the field of throat anatomy will help to understand the work of the respiratory and digestive systems, to carry out the prevention of throat diseases and to choose an effective treatment for the diseases that have arisen.

Pharynx and larynx: structural features, functions, diseases and pathologies

The throat is a human organ that belongs to the upper respiratory tract.

Functions

The throat helps move air to the respiratory system and food through the digestive system. Also in one of the parts of the throat are the vocal cords and the protective system (prevents food from getting past its path).

Anatomical structure of the throat and pharynx

The throat contains a large number of nerves, the most important blood vessels and muscles. There are two parts of the throat - the pharynx and the larynx. Their trachea continues. The functions between the parts of the throat are divided as follows:

• The pharynx moves food into the digestive system and air into the respiratory system.
• The vocal cords work thanks to the larynx.

Pharynx

Another name for the pharynx is the pharynx. It starts at the back of the mouth and continues down the neck. The shape of the pharynx is an inverted cone.

The wider part is located at the base of the skull for strength. The narrow lower part connects to the larynx. The outer part of the pharynx continues the outer part of the mouth - it has quite a lot of glands that produce mucus and help moisten the throat during speech or eating.

Nasopharynx

Uppermost part of the throat. She has a soft palate that limits her and, when swallowing, protects her nose from food entering it. On the upper wall of the nasopharynx there are adenoids - an accumulation of tissue on the back wall of the organ. The Eustachian tube connects the nasopharynx with the throat and middle ear. The nasopharynx is not as mobile as the oropharynx.

Oropharynx

Middle part of the throat. Located behind the oral cavity. The main thing that this organ is responsible for is the delivery of air to the respiratory organs. Human speech is possible due to contractions of the muscles of the mouth. Even in the oral cavity is the tongue, which promotes the movement of food into the digestive system. The most important organs of the oropharynx are the tonsils, they are most often involved in various diseases of the throat.

Swallowing department

The lowest part of the pharynx with a speaking name. It has a complex of nerve plexuses that allow you to maintain synchronous operation of the pharynx. Thanks to this, air enters the lungs, and food enters the esophagus, and everything happens at the same time.

Larynx

The larynx is located in the body as follows:

• Opposite the cervical vertebrae (4-6 vertebrae).
• Behind - directly the laryngeal part of the pharynx.
• In front - the larynx is formed due to the group of hyoid muscles.
• Above is the hyoid bone.
• Laterally - the larynx adjoins its lateral parts to the thyroid gland.

The larynx has a skeleton. The skeleton has unpaired and paired cartilages. Cartilage is connected by joints, ligaments and muscles.

Unpaired: cricoid, epiglottis, thyroid.

Paired: horn-shaped, arytenoid, wedge-shaped.

The muscles of the larynx, in turn, are also divided into three groups:

• Four muscles narrow the glottis: thyroid-arytenoid, cricoarytenoid, oblique arytenoid and transverse muscles.
• Only one muscle expands the glottis - the posterior cricoarytenoid. She is a couple.
• The vocal cords are tensed by two muscles: the vocal and cricothyroid muscles.

The larynx has an entrance.

• Behind this entrance are the arytenoid cartilages. They consist of horn-shaped tubercles that are located on the side of the mucous membrane.
• Front - epiglottis.
• On the sides - scoop-epiglottic folds. They consist of wedge-shaped tubercles.

The larynx is divided into three parts:

• The vestibule - stretches from the vestibular folds to the epiglottis, the folds are formed by the mucous membrane, and between these folds is the vestibular fissure.
• The interventricular section is the narrowest. Stretches from the lower vocal folds to the upper ligaments of the vestibule. Its very narrow part is called the glottis, and it is created by the intercartilaginous and membranous tissues.
• Subvoice area. Based on the name, it is clear what is located below the glottis. The trachea expands and begins.

The larynx has three membranes:

• The mucous membrane - unlike the vocal cords (they are from a flat non-keratinizing epithelium) consists of a multinucleated prismatic epithelium.
• Fibrocartilaginous sheath - consists of elastic and hyaline cartilages, which are surrounded by fibrous connective tissue, and provides the entire structure of the larynx.
• Connective tissue - the connecting part of the larynx and other formations of the neck.

The larynx is responsible for three functions:

• Protective - in the mucous membrane there is a ciliated epithelium, and there are many glands in it. And if the food got past, then the nerve endings carry out a reflex - a cough, which brings the food back from the larynx into the mouth.
• Respiratory - associated with the previous function. The glottis can contract and expand, thereby directing air currents.
• Voice-forming - speech, voice. The characteristics of the voice depend on the individual anatomical structure. and the state of the vocal cords.

In the picture the structure of the larynx

Diseases, pathologies and injuries

There are the following problems:

Associated problems that cause a sore throat:

To determine the exact cause of pain and irritation in the throat and to prescribe the appropriate treatment, consult a doctor immediately.

A popular video on the structure and functions of the larynx:

How is the human throat

The throat and larynx are vital components of the body, they are multifunctional and their structure is surprisingly complex. With their help, breathing, eating, human communication becomes possible, that is, colloquial speech.

How the throat and larynx are arranged

What a person’s throat consists of can be understood by seeing the throat in a section - this will be the most obvious. It includes the larynx and pharynx.

The pharynx itself is located behind the mouth. It goes down the neck. After that, it is gradually connected with the larynx. The pharynx has a conical shape. A wide zone of the organ is adjacent to the region of the base of the human skull.

The continuation of the mouth goes in the form of an outer part. There are also glands. They produce a special slimy mass for food intake.

Learn how to make burnt sugar for a cough.

How is the human throat:

• the nasopharynx is its upper part. In the nasopharynx there is a soft palate, it plays the role of a limiter when swallowing, and also prevents food from entering the nose. Adenoids are attached from above.
• The oropharynx is the intermediate, middle part of the pharynx. It is located behind the mouth of each person. This organ ensures uninterrupted entry of air into the lungs. The speech function of a person becomes possible precisely due to the contractions of the oropharynx. The tongue is also located in the oropharynx and moves food through the esophagus. The tonsils here serve as a kind of filter and retain harmful substances that enter the oropharynx from the outside, and do not allow them to move on.
• the swallowing department is part of the structure of the human throat and larynx. It intertwines many nerves involved in the coordinated work of the oropharynx. Therefore, a person clearly gets air only into the lungs. In this case, food enters only into the esophagus. This process happens synchronously.

The larynx is localized in the body in the area of ​​​​the fourth vertebra. A tangle of several muscles can be seen in front of the organ. They are located just under the tongue.

If we consider the scheme of the human throat, we can see that the larynx has its own skeleton. It has a lot of cartilage. They are interconnected by small muscles and ligaments.

Learn how to gargle with baking soda.

• the vestibule has such a property as stretching.
• The interventricular compartment is the narrowest part of the larynx, containing the glottis.
• the subvocal region is located at the bottom of the glottis. When this area is made larger, the trachea begins.

The larynx also has three types of membranes: mucous, fibrocartilaginous and connective tissue.

The functions of the larynx can be called:

• protective. In the event that suddenly food gets past, then specific fibers cause a cough, which contributes to the withdrawal of food back.
• respiratory. This function is most directly related to the protective one. Due to the compression and unclenching of the glottis, the movement of air flows occurs.
• the formation of a person's voice and its individual characteristics. This is influenced by the anatomy of the human throat. The speech function of a person and his voice is dependent on the state of the vocal cords.

Important. You can see everything in detail in the photo of the structure of the human throat with a description.

In young children

The structure of the throat in a child is significantly different from an adult. This is due to the fact that organs in a child can form throughout the entire period of maturation and growth.

An organ such as the tonsils in a child has its own distinctive features. It is generally accepted that there are only two tonsils, but this is far from the case.

They include in their composition one pharyngeal, two palatine, two tubal and one lingual tonsils.

This section of the pharynx will form in an infant only after a few months of life and will continue to change in the future.

Newborns do not have clearly defined palatine tonsils, instead of them there are only their rudiments. They are fully formed only by six months.

Lacunas also differ in their structure - they are branched and deep. This is a common cause of inflammation in this area in children.

Such paired organs as adenoids can be called formed by the age of 2.5 years.

The maximum development of the pharynx in a child occurs at 5-7 years. At the same age, morbidity in children predominates. At the age of 3-16 years, the larynx of boys is longer than the larynx of girls. The top and inlet of the larynx in children is much smaller than in adults, and they do not have the correct shape. The vocal cords in children are much shorter than in adults.

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Conclusion

It is very important to monitor such an important organ as the throat, take timely measures to combat abnormalities in its development and diseases. If you suspect the development of any disease, consult a doctor.

Directory of major ENT diseases and their treatment

All information on the site is for informational purposes only and does not claim to be absolutely accurate from a medical point of view. Treatment must be carried out by a qualified doctor. By self-medicating, you can harm yourself!

Throat structure

The throat is an organ that belongs to the upper respiratory tract and

promotes the movement of air into the respiratory system, and food into the digestive tract. The throat contains many vital blood vessels and nerves, as well as the muscles of the pharynx. There are two sections in the throat: the pharynx and the larynx.

The trachea is a continuation of the pharynx and larynx. The pharynx is responsible for moving food into the digestive tract and air into the lungs. And the larynx is responsible for the vocal cords.

What is the throat made of?

Pharynx

The pharynx, or "pharynx" as it is called, is located behind the mouth and extends down the neck. The shape of the pharynx is a cone turned upside down. The upper part of the cone, wider, is located at the base of the skull - this gives it strength. The lower part, narrower, is connected to the larynx. The outer layer of the pharynx is a continuation of the outer layer of the oral cavity. Accordingly, this layer has numerous glands that produce mucus. This mucus is involved in moistening the throat during meals and speech.

Nasopharynx

The throat consists of three parts. These parts have their location and perform certain functions. The uppermost part is the nasopharynx. From below, the nasopharynx is limited by the soft palate and when swallowing, the soft palate moves up and covers the nasopharynx, thereby preventing food from entering the nose. The upper wall of the nasopharynx has adenoids. Adenoids are a collection of tissue located on the back wall of the nasopharynx. Also, the nasopharynx has a passage that connects the middle ear and throat - this is the Eustachian tube.

Oropharynx

The oropharynx is the part of the pharynx that is located behind the mouth. The main function of the oropharynx is the promotion of air flow from the mouth to the respiratory organs. The nasopharynx is less mobile than the oropharynx. Therefore, as a result of the contraction of the muscle mass of the oral cavity, speech is formed. The tongue is located in the oral cavity, which, with the help of the muscular system, helps to move food into the esophagus and stomach. But the most important organs of the oropharynx are the tonsils, which are most often involved in throat diseases.

The lowest part of the throat performs the function of swallowing. The movements of the throat must be very clear and synchronous in order to simultaneously ensure the penetration of air into the lungs and food into the esophagus. This is ensured by a complex of nerve plexuses.

Larynx

The larynx is located opposite the 4th -6th cervical vertebrae. Above the larynx is the hyoid bone. Anteriorly, the larynx is formed by a group of hyoid muscles, the lateral parts of the larynx are adjacent to the thyroid gland, and the laryngeal part of the pharynx is located in the posterior region of the larynx.

The skeleton of the larynx is represented by a group of cartilages (paired and unpaired), which are interconnected by means of muscles, joints and ligaments.

Unpaired cartilages include:

Paired cartilages include:

No human organ can function without muscles. The muscular system of the larynx is divided into three groups: the muscles that narrow the glottis, the muscles that expand the vocal cords, and the muscles that strain the vocal cords. The muscles that narrow the glottis can be divided into several groups: cricoarytenoid, thyroarytenoid, transverse and oblique arytenoid muscles. The only muscle that expands the glottis is the paired posterior cricoarytenoid muscle. The cricothyroid and vocal muscles are referred to as muscles that tense the vocal cords.

The structure of the larynx

In the cavity of the larynx, an entrance is distinguished. In front of this entrance is the epiglottis, on both sides - aryepiglottic folds, arytenoid cartilages have determined their location behind. The aryepiglottic folds are represented by sphenoid tubercles, and the arytenoid cartilages are represented by horn-shaped tubercles. Horn-shaped tubercles are located on the sides of the mucous membrane. In the cavity of the larynx there is a vestibule, an interventricular region and a subvocal region.

The vestibule of the larynx extends from the epiglottis to the vestibular folds. The mucous membrane forms folds of the vestibule. Between them is a vestibular gap.

The interventricular compartment is the narrowest part of the larynx. It stretches from the upper folds of the vestibule to the lower vocal cords. The narrowest part of the larynx is the glottis. It is formed by membranous tissue and intercartilaginous tissue.

The larynx has three layers:

The mucous membrane is formed by multinucleated prismatic epithelium. The vocal folds do not have this epithelium. They are formed by squamous non-keratinized epithelium. The fibrocartilaginous membrane is represented by hyaline cartilages and elastic cartilages. These cartilages are surrounded by fibrous connective tissue. Their main function is to provide a framework for the larynx. The connective tissue membrane serves as a link between the larynx and other formations of the neck.

Main functions

• Protective
• Respiratory
• Voice-forming

Protective and respiratory functions go side by side, on the same level. The respiratory function ensures the flow of air into the lungs. Control and direction of air is due to the fact that the glottis has the function of contraction and expansion. The mucous membrane has a ciliated epithelium, which contains a huge number of glands.

It is these glands that carry out the protective function of the larynx. That is, if food gets into the vestibular apparatus, then due to the nerve endings that are located at the entrance to the larynx, a cough occurs. Coughing moves food from the larynx to the mouth.

It is necessary to know that the glottis closes reflexively when a foreign body enters it, as a result, laryngospasm can occur. And this is already very dangerous, such a condition can lead to suffocation and even death.

The voice-forming function is involved in the reproduction of speech, as well as the sonority of the voice. It should be noted that the height and sonority of the voice depend on the anatomical structure of the larynx. If the ligaments are not moistened enough, then friction occurs, and accordingly the elasticity of the ligaments is lost, and the voice becomes hoarse.

Features of the structure and development of the respiratory system in children

The structure of the respiratory system in children during the neonatal period creates numerous prerequisites for acute respiratory diseases. Therefore, the baby should be protected from exposure to infectious factors. We also suggest learning about all the structural features of the respiratory system in children in order to have a general idea of ​​​​how the gradual development of the nose and paranasal sinuses, throat and larynx, bronchi and lungs occurs.

According to medical statistics, respiratory diseases in children are much more common than in adults. This is due to age-related features of the structure of the respiratory system and the originality of the protective reactions of the child's body.

Throughout its length, the respiratory tract is divided into upper (from the opening of the nose to the vocal cords) and lower (larynx, trachea, bronchi), as well as lungs.

The main function of the respiratory system is to provide body tissues with oxygen and remove carbon dioxide.

The process of formation of the respiratory organs in most children is completed by the age of 7, and in subsequent years there is only an increase in their size.

All airways in a child are much smaller and have narrower gaps than in an adult.

The mucous membrane is thin, tender, vulnerable, dry, since the glands in it are poorly developed, secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) is produced little.

This, as well as a rich blood supply, softness and compliance of the cartilaginous framework of the respiratory tract, a low content of elastic tissue, contribute to a decrease in the barrier function of the mucous membrane, a fairly rapid penetration of pathogens into the bloodstream, create a predisposition to narrowing of the airways as a result of rapidly occurring edema or compression of compliant respiratory tubes from outside.

Features of the structure of the nose and paranasal sinuses in a child (with photo)

The structural features of the nose in children are primarily in small sizes, which shortens the path for the passage of air masses. In a young child, the nose is relatively small. The structure of the nose in a child is such that the nasal passages are narrow, the lower nasal passage is formed only by the age of 4, which contributes to the occurrence of frequent runny nose (rhinitis). The mucous membrane of the nose is very delicate, contains many small blood vessels, so even a slight inflammation causes it to swell and further narrow the nasal passages. This leads to a violation of nasal breathing in a child. The baby begins to breathe through his mouth. Cold air is not warmed and cleared in the nasal cavity, but directly enters the bronchi and lungs, which leads to infection. It is no coincidence that many lung diseases in children begin with a “harmless” runny nose.

Children from an early age need to be taught proper breathing through the nose!

At birth, only the maxillary (maxillary) sinuses are formed in a child, so sinusitis can develop in young children. Completely all sinuses develop by 12-15 years. The structure of the nose and sinuses in a child is constantly changing as the bones of the facial skull grow and form. Gradually, the frontal and main paranasal sinuses appear. The ethmoid bone with a labyrinth is formed during the entire first year of life.

Look at the structure of the child's nose in the photo, which shows the main anatomical developmental processes during the first year of life:

The structure of the throat and larynx in a child (with photo)

Continues the nasal cavity of the pharynx. The structure of the throat in a child provides reliable immune protection against the invasion of viruses and bacteria: it has an important formation - the pharyngeal lymphatic ring, which performs a protective barrier function. The basis of the lymphopharyngeal ring is the tonsils and adenoids.

By the end of the first year, the lymphoid tissue of the pharyngeal lymphatic ring is often hyperplastic (grows), especially in children with allergic diathesis, as a result of which the barrier function decreases. The overgrown tissue of the tonsils and adenoids is colonized by viruses and microorganisms, chronic foci of infection are formed (adenoiditis, chronic tonsillitis). There are frequent tonsillitis, SARS. In the case of a severe form of adenoiditis, a long-term violation of nasal breathing contributes to a change in the facial skeleton and the formation of an "adenoid face".

The larynx is located in the front upper part of the neck. Compared with adults, the larynx in children is short, funnel-shaped, has delicate, pliable cartilage and thin muscles. In the region of the subglottic space there is a distinct narrowing, where the diameter of the larynx increases with age very slowly and is 6–7 mm at 5–7 years old, and 1 cm at 14 years old. There are a large number of nerve receptors and blood vessels in the subglottic space, so it develops easily swelling of the submucosal layer. This condition is accompanied by severe respiratory disorders (stenosis of the larynx, false croup) even with small manifestations of a respiratory infection.

Look at the structure of the child's throat and larynx in the photo, where the most important structural parts are highlighted and marked:

Features of the structure and development of the bronchi and lungs in children

The continuation of the larynx is the trachea. The trachea of ​​an infant is very mobile, which, combined with the softness of the cartilage, sometimes causes it to slit-like fall on exhalation and is accompanied by the appearance of expiratory dyspnea or rough snoring breathing (congenital stridor). Symptoms of stridor usually disappear by 2 years of age. In the chest, the trachea divides into two large bronchi.

Features of the bronchi in children lead to the fact that with frequent colds, chronic bronchitis develops, which can turn into bronchial asthma. Considering the structure of the bronchi in children, it is clear that their size at a newborn age is relatively small, which leads to partial blockage of the lumen of the bronchi with mucus in cases of bronchitis. The main functional feature of the bronchi of a small child is the lack of drainage and cleansing functions.

The bronchi of babies are very sensitive to the effects of harmful environmental factors. Too cold or hot air, high humidity, gas pollution, dustiness lead to stagnation of mucus in the bronchi and the development of bronchitis.

Outwardly, the bronchi look like a branched tree, turned upside down. The smallest bronchi (bronchioles) end in small vesicles (alveoli) that make up the lung tissue itself.

The structure of the lungs in children is constantly changing, as they grow continuously in a child. In the first years of a child's life, the lung tissue is full-blooded and low-air. In the alveoli, the process of gas exchange, which is vital for the body, takes place. Carbon dioxide from the blood passes into the lumen of the alveoli and is released through the bronchi into the external environment. At the same time, atmospheric oxygen enters the alveoli and then into the blood. The slightest violation of gas exchange in the lungs due to inflammatory processes causes the development of respiratory failure.

The chest is surrounded on all sides by muscles that provide breathing (respiratory muscles). The main ones are the intercostal muscles and the diaphragm. During inhalation, the respiratory muscles contract, which leads to expansion of the chest and an increase in lung volume due to their expansion. The lungs seem to suck in air from the outside. During exhalation, which occurs without muscle effort, the volume of the chest and lungs decreases, the air comes out. The development of the lungs in children inevitably leads to a significant increase in the vital volume of these important organs.

The child's respiratory system reaches completion in its structure by the age of 8-12, but the formation of its function continues until the age of 14-16.

In childhood, it is necessary to highlight a number of functional features of the respiratory system.

• The respiratory rate is greater the younger the child. Increased breathing compensates for the small volume of each respiratory movement and provides oxygen to the child's body. At the age of 1-2 years, the number of breaths per minute is 30-35, at 5-6 years old - 25, at 10-15 years old - 18-20.
• The child's breathing is more superficial and arrhythmic. Emotional and physical stress increase the severity of functional respiratory arrhythmia.
• Gas exchange in children occurs more intensively than in adults, due to the rich blood supply to the lungs, the speed of blood flow, and the high diffusion of gases. At the same time, the function of external respiration can easily be disturbed due to insufficient lung excursions and expansion of the alveoli.