Diseases of the nasopharynx in children. Peculiarities of the structure of the pharynx in children - ENT doctor of the highest category Anna Dmitrievna Gorbacheva. Children's and adult appointments, Kiev Anatomical structure of the throat

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 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 responsibility for vocal cords carries the larynx.

Pharynx

The pharynx, or as it is otherwise called “ pharynx", located behind oral cavity 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 helps keep the throat moist during eating and speaking.

Nasopharynx

The pharynx consists of three parts. These parts have their own location and perform certain functions. The most top part- This nasopharynx. From below, the nasopharynx is limited by the soft palate and when swallowing, the soft palate moves upward 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. The nasopharynx also has a passage that connects the middle ear and throat - this is the Eustachian tube.

Oropharynx

Oropharynx- This is the part of the pharynx that is located behind the oral cavity. The main function of the oropharynx is to promote air flow from the mouth to the respiratory organs. The nasopharynx is less mobile than the oropharynx. Therefore, as a result of the reduction muscle mass speech is formed in the oral cavity. In the oral cavity there is a tongue, which, with the help of the muscular system, helps move food into the esophagus and stomach. But the most important organs The oropharynx is the tonsils that 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 synchronized to simultaneously ensure the penetration of air into the lungs and food into the esophagus. This is achieved through a complex of nerve plexuses.

Larynx

Larynx located opposite the 4th -6th cervical vertebrae. Located above the larynx hyoid bone. In front of the larynx is formed by a group of hyoid muscles, the lateral parts of the larynx are adjacent to thyroid gland, located in the posterior region of the larynx laryngeal part throats.

The skeleton of the larynx is represented by a group of cartilages (paired and unpaired), which are connected to each other by muscles, joints and ligaments.

Unpaired cartilages include:

Cricoid
Thyroid
Epiglottic

Paired cartilages include:

Arytenoids
Corniculate
Wedge-shaped

No human organ can function without muscles. Muscular system The larynx is divided into three groups: muscles that narrow the glottis, muscles that dilate the vocal cords and muscles that tense 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 widens the glottis is the paired posterior cricoarytenoid muscle. The cricothyroid and vocalis muscles are considered muscles that tense the vocal cords.

Structure of the larynx

An entrance is distinguished in the laryngeal cavity. In front of this entrance is the epiglottis, on both sides there are aryepiglottic folds, the arytenoid cartilages are located posteriorly. The aryepiglottic folds are represented by wedge-shaped tubercles, and the arytenoid cartilages are represented by corniculate tubercles. Horn-shaped tubercles are located on the sides of the mucous membrane. In the cavity of the larynx there is a vestibule, interventricular region and subglottic region.

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

Interventricular department- This is the narrowest section of the larynx. It stretches from upper folds 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 membranes:

Mucous
Fibrocartilaginous
Connective tissue

The mucous membrane is formed by multinucleated prismatic epithelium. Vocal folds do not have this epithelium. They are formed by flat non-keratinizing epithelium. The fibrocartilaginous membrane is represented by hyaline cartilage and elastic cartilage. 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 connecting link between the larynx and other structures of the neck.

Main functions

Protective
Respiratory
Voice-forming

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

It is these glands that perform the protective function of the larynx. That is, if food gets into the vestibular apparatus, then thanks 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.

You need to know that the glottis closes reflexively when a foreign body enters it, which can result in laryngospasm. And this is already very dangerous; this 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 pitch and sonority of the voice depend on the anatomical structure of the larynx. If the ligaments are not sufficiently moistened, then friction occurs, and accordingly the elasticity of the ligaments is lost, and the voice becomes hoarse.

Pharynx in children early age relatively wide, the palatine tonsils are poorly developed, which explains the rare cases of sore throat in the first year of life. The tonsils are fully developed by the age of 4-5 years. By the end of the first year of life, almond tissue hyperplasias. But its barrier function at this age is very low. Overgrown almond tissue can be susceptible to infection, which is why diseases such as tonsillitis and adenoiditis occur.

The Eustachian tubes open into the nasopharynx and connect it to the middle ear. If an infection enters the middle ear from the nasopharynx, middle ear inflammation occurs.

Features of the child's larynx

The larynx in children is funnel-shaped and is a continuation of the pharynx. In children, it is located higher than in adults, and has a narrowing in the area of the cricoid cartilage, where the subglottic space is located. The glottis is formed by the vocal cords. They are short and thin, which is responsible for the child’s high, sonorous voice. The diameter of the larynx in a newborn in the area of the subglottic space is 4 mm, at 5-7 years old - 6-7 mm, by 14 years old - 1 cm. Features of the larynx in children are: its narrow lumen, many nerve receptors, easy the resulting swelling of the submucosal layer, which can lead to severe breathing problems.

The thyroid cartilages form a more acute angle in boys over 3 years of age; from the age of 10, a typical male larynx is formed.

It is located in cranium. It is localized between the two cheekbones, thereby connecting the oral cavity and the nasal cavity. The pharynx performs a large number of functions in general. In general, if we describe it, then in the nasopharynx there are:

Olfactory receptors.
Surfaces for purifying air from foreign substances.
The membrane is mucous.
The tonsils and tonsils, which perform a barrier and protective function (block the penetration of small particles, microorganisms and viruses, and are integral components 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 its 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), the nasal root and temporal bones a small cavity is localized. The walls that form the cavity consist of muscles of small size and volume. They are not located in one place, but are located everywhere and spread to all the walls. The surface is covered with 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 tubes. The holes around them are enveloped with special rollers, which consist of cartilage, thereby connecting the ear of the middle section with the external environment. This is necessary to regulate pressure and evacuate liquid and humidity. There is also another feature of these holes - they are needed to connect to the cavity where the eardrum is located. Thanks to this, normal conduction of various sounds and noise 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 palate rises upward, thereby blocking the communication with the oral cavity. This is necessary to prevent food from entering the respiratory tract. During the act of breathing, the palate is tightly adjacent 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 between the nasopharyngeal cavity and the nasal cavity, create the anterior wall. In medicine they are also called choanae.

But the back wall is formed and adjacent to the spine, namely to the first and second vertebrae cervical spine. 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 special mobility.

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

Tonsils

Human anatomy is so uniquely structured that entrance gate(and this is the nasopharynx) there are “indicators” of the immune system, as a defense device. These are tonsils and multiple formations lymphatic system.

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

The amygdala is located in the lower part (lingual).
Two tonsils located on the lateral 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 children, their anatomical structure of the nasopharynx is not fully formed. Babies have much smaller organ volume parameters, height and width. There is also a certain vault missing that adults have.

The openings that communicate with the nasal cavity are small in size, and upon examination one can observe that they have the shape of a circle or triangle. In children aged 2–3 years, they increase in size and take on an oval shape, like in adults.

Organ function

As described above, the diagram of the nasopharynx is presented in the form of a so-called channel, which is responsible for conducting air through the nasal passages. This part 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:

Access of oxygen to the lungs from the outside.
Warming. Inner shell rich in tiny capillaries that provide heat exchange and warm the air. This contributes to safer functioning of the lower respiratory tract, without irritation and preventing the occurrence of a number of diseases.
Protective. Thanks to the special structure of the shell (presence of mucus, good blood supply), the purification of inhaled oxygen is ensured. A protective function is also performed by lymphoid formations located in the nasopharynx, such as the pharyngeal, lingual and tubal tonsils. Together with the palatines, they form the Pirogov-Waldeyer lymphadenoid pharyngeal ring, which protects against the penetration of infection into the human lungs.
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.
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 ensures the maintenance of equilibrium pressure with atmospheric pressure. It is also necessary for the correct conduction of vibrations of the eardrum to the labyrinth.

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

Most common diseases

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

Inflammatory. These diseases are characterized by symptoms of intoxication (apathy, sleep and appetite disturbances, fever, chills), and with tonsillitis - enlarged tonsils.
Allergic. Most often they are characterized by the following symptoms: itching, soreness and/or redness in the throat, nasal discharge, lacrimation.
Oncological. Symptoms possible with this pathology: the presence of a neoplasm, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a sharp decline body weight by more than 7–10 kilograms per month, low-grade fever (37 C) for more than 2 weeks, general weakness, enlarged lymph nodes and/or tonsils.
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. It is typically characterized by lightning-fast onset, febrile temperature, pain in the temple area, difficulty breathing through the nose, runny nose, and sore throat.
Tonsillitis is an inflammatory process in the tonsils of the pharyngeal ring. Accompanied by complaints of pain and difficulty 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 nearby tissues. In this case there will be unpleasant pain when swallowing, choking, often food gets into the nose, impaired nasal breathing, nasal voice, hyperthermia. Characteristic feature The patient’s position is: the head is thrown back with an inclination to the painful side, swelling in the back.
Adenoids are a pathological enlargement of the pharyngeal tonsil, leading to difficulty in nasal breathing and even decreased hearing.
Nasal polyps. It is a proliferation of the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses. The main symptoms are nasal congestion, loss of smell, sinusitis, and secondary infection.

If symptoms of a pathological process appear, you should consult a doctor. He will prescribe appropriate treatment. Self-medication is extremely 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 canal that connects the nasal cavity with top part pharynx and serves to conduct air.

The nasopharynx area is separated from the oral cavity by the soft palate, which, during the respiratory process, fits tightly to the root of the tongue.

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

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

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

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 determines 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, without irritation of the respiratory tract;
Olfactory. In the cavity of the nasopharynx there are special mucous surfaces that are exceptionally sensitive and capable of capturing and recognizing odors that come with the inhaled air;
Protective. Moist 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, complex part of the pharynx. It is a small cavity, the apex 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 is adjacent to 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 lateral 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 determined 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 roof 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 important role in protecting the body from viruses and bacteria that can penetrate with incoming air.

This section contains the unpaired pharyngeal tonsil, paired palatine tonsils and lingual tonsil. They form a kind of ring that is involved in maintaining protective forces body.

In case of inflammatory lesion of the tonsils infectious process can accelerate significantly, affecting other human organs. In some cases (for example, with an enlarged pharyngeal tonsil), inflammation of the tonsils can significantly impede breathing. 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 ahead. In particular, in infants the nasopharynx is not high and does not yet form a semblance of a semicircular arch, 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, are round or triangular shape. Choanae is characterized rapid growth: by the second year of life they double in size, and their shape gradually becomes oval.

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

On the surface of the mucous membranes there 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 works.

What parts does the nasopharynx consist of?

Thanks to the large number of vessels, this organ warms the air, which subsequently 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.

Moreover, 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 temperature weakens the body and can cause inflammation.

To understand the causes of diseases, you need to know the cross-sectional structure of the human nasopharynx. When considering the diagram, 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:

The upper wall (arch) adjoins the occipital part.
The lower part of the nasopharynx is located next to the soft palate. During swallowing, it blocks the oral cavity.
The posterior wall is located next to the cervical vertebrae. It is separated only by a layer of connective tissue.
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 located.

Holes in the side wall lead to the auditory tubes. In this way the environment is connected to the middle ear. Sound waves hit 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 a 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.

The nasopharyngeal tonsils include:

adenoids;
palatal formations, which are located on both sides;
lingual tonsil.

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

The choanae are smaller in size than those of an adult. On an 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 access of air 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 different odors.

There are a large number 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 proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms on the mucous membranes.

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

The upper vault 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 can vary greatly between patients. This is due to individual characteristics body.

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

The peculiarity of children's bodies is that they have weaker muscles.

What diseases can occur in the nasopharynx

If symptoms of nasopharyngeal diseases appear, you should consult an otolaryngologist. The doctor understands the smallest details that can help the patient.

When examined, the following diseases may be detected in a person:

With laryngitis, the patient begins to experience inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa. Bacterial infection may provoke development acute sore throat. A sign of pharyngitis is inflammation of the throat mucosa.

Conclusion

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

To prevent infection in the nasal passages in large quantities there are villi. They trap harmful bacteria and help avoid various diseases.

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

Cold air can cause colds. The temperature can be increased due to the vessels that nourish the mucous tissues. The nasopharynx contains an extensive network of capillaries that nourish the cells.

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

The tonsils are located on the lateral walls of the nasopharynx. They are composed of lymphoid tissue and consist of the 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 the upper respiratory tract and the beginning of the digestive tract. Because of this location, it is indispensable in the body and is often susceptible to various diseases.

Human structure

The upper part of the pharynx is conventionally divided into the following subsections:

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

Anatomy of the nasopharynx

It is connected to the passages of the nose through small oval openings - the choana. The structure of the nasopharynx is such that the upper wall is in contact with sphenoid bone and occipital. Rear end The nasopharynx borders the cervical vertebrae (1 and 2). In the lateral ones there are openings of the auditory (Eustachian) tubes. The middle ear connects to the nasopharynx through the auditory tubes.

The muscles of the nasopharynx are represented by small branched bundles. The nasal mucosa contains glands and goblet cells that are responsible for producing mucus and humidifying the inhaled air. The structure also determines that there are many vessels here that help warm the cold air. The mucosa also contains olfactory receptors.

The anatomy of the nasopharynx in newborns differs from that in adults. In a newborn baby, this organ is not fully formed. Sinuses grow quickly and become habitual oval shape already by 2 years of age. All departments have been preserved, but the implementation of some functions is impossible 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: the lateral and the posterior. It is designed in such a way that it is at this point that the respiratory and digestive systems intersect. The soft palate is separated from the oral cavity by 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 cross-section of the pharynx, which will help you better imagine what it looks like.

Facial sinuses

The structure of the skull is such that in the front part there are sinuses (special cavities filled with air). The mucous membrane differs little in structure from the mucous cavity, but it is thinner. At histological examination cavernous tissue is not detected, while nasal cavity contains one. U ordinary person sinuses are filled with air. Highlight:

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

At birth, not all sinuses are formed. By 12 months, the last sinuses, the frontal ones, finish forming. Maxillary sinuses- the largest. These are paired sinuses. They settled in upper jaw. Their structure is such that they communicate with the passages of the nose through an exit under the lower passage.

The frontal bone has sinuses, the location of which determines their name. The frontal sinuses communicate with the nasal passages through the nasofrontal 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 superior concha of the nose, the sphenoid sinus is located. It is also called the main one. It opens into a wedge-ethmoid recess. She is not a couple. The table shows the functions performed by the paranasal sinuses.

Functions

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

The structure of the nasopharynx determines its functions:

The main function of the nasopharynx is to conduct air from the environment to the lungs.
Performs an olfactory function. It generates a signal about the arrival of the smell in the nasal part, the formation of an impulse and its conduction to the brain thanks to the receptors that are localized here.
It performs a protective function due to the structural features of the mucous membrane. The presence of mucus, hairs and a rich blood network helps clean and warm the air, protecting the lower respiratory tract. Tonsils play an important role in protecting the body from pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
It also implements a resonator function. The sinuses and vocal cords, located in the pharynx, create sound with a different timbre, which makes each individual unique.
Maintaining pressure in the cranium. By connecting the ear to 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 divided into groups:

Treatment and prevention

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

to reduce temperature “Aspirin”, “Paracetamol”;
antiseptics: “Septefril”, “Septolete”;
gargling: “Chlorphilipt”, soda with iodine;
nasal drops (“Galazolin”, “Aquamaris”);
if necessary, antibiotics;
probiotics (Linex).

Hypothermia is contraindicated. It is worth keeping your immune system in good shape, and during the “dangerous” seasons (autumn, spring) to stay in large crowds of people as little as possible. If this is an allergic disease, then you should take the following medications:

antiallergic (“Citrine”, “Laratodin”);
nasal drops (“Galazolin”).

Prevention is to take antiallergic medications during the flowering season and avoid contact with allergens.

If it is oncology, then self-medication is contraindicated and an urgent consultation with an oncologist is needed. Only he will prescribe the correct therapy and determine the prognosis of the disease. Prevention oncological diseases smoking cessation, adherence to healthy image life, maximum stress avoidance.

The injury is treated as follows:

cold on the injured area of the body;
anesthesia;
in case of bleeding - tamponade, drug control of bleeding (hemostatic therapy, transfusion of blood substitutes);
Further assistance will only be provided in a hospital.

Diagnostics

Depends on the type of pathology and includes

patient interview;
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 young children is very different, which is explained by its formation during 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, careful attitude that does not allow numerous negative factors to influence 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 concern such a section as the tonsils. This section 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 tonsil. This section of the baby’s pharynx is finally formed in the first months after birth, and undergoes a number of significant changes.

Newborn children do not have developed palatine tonsils; they only represent follicles - the rudiments of future organs. The formation of palatine tonsils from follicles occurs around six months; development is stimulated 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 if there is abnormal development of this area, they should immediately consult a doctor and begin to monitor its further development.

For example, it is important to know that adenoids can cause difficulty in a baby’s nasal breathing, which will affect his 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 sizes of 11x8x5 millimeters. The average size of the pharyngeal tonsil should normally be 7x4x2 millimeters. 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 of age are due to the unusual shape of the nasopharynx cavity for an adult - it will be low and acute-angled. If the pharyngeal tonsil is greatly enlarged, then, as with abnormally sized 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, and branched, which is a prerequisite for the development of an inflammatory process in these places.

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

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

Nasal decongestants

Swelling of the nasal mucosa

Deviated nasal septum

The appearance of different tastes in the mouth

Teas for colds

Adenoids: causes, symptoms, treatment

Medicines for sore throat

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7. Peculiarities of the structure of the pharynx in children

Lymphatic pharyngeal ring (Waldeyer-Pirogov ring), consisting of pharyngeal, 2 tubal, 2 palatine, lingual tonsils and lymphoid tissue back wall pharynx, before birth and in the first months after birth, it is poorly developed. 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 visible 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 accumulations of lymphocytes. “Reactive centers” appear in them in the first 2-3 months of life. The final development of 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 form more actively than other tonsils. The folds of the mucous membrane thicken and lengthen, taking on the appearance of ridges, between which grooves are clearly visible. In children of the 1st year of life, the nasopharyngeal cavity is low and acute-angled, and therefore even a slight enlargement of the pharyngeal tonsil can significantly disrupt nasal breathing.

In newborns, the integumentary epithelium is multirowed 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 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. After birth, the tonsil tissue is in a constant state of irritation. In young years pharyngeal tonsil covered with multi-row cylindrical ciliated epithelium, in older children and adults - flat 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 branched, often extending to the capsule. The lacunae are not always directed deep into the tonsils; sometimes they turn sharply and go under the integumentary epithelium; the narrow passages of individual lacunae end in expansions. All this contributes to the occurrence of the inflammatory process. Tubal tonsils reach their greatest development in childhood. Children have less lymphoid tissue in the area of the tongue root than 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 layers of the aponeurosis, the retropharyngeal lymph nodes and loose tissue are located in a chain. connective tissue on both sides of the spine. These nodes are regional to the posterior parts of the nose, nasopharynx and tympanic cavity. Their suppuration leads to the formation of a retropharyngeal abscess.

In the area of the nasopharynx, the retropharyngeal space is divided into two halves by a ligament, so retropharyngeal abscesses in upper sections pharynxes are often one-sided.

Tonsils reach their greatest size by 5-7 years. At this age, children experience the highest incidence of infectious diseases and an increased need for protection against infections. At the same age, children are given greatest number preventive vaccinations, which mobilize all lymphoid tissue to produce immunity. Hypertrophy of lymphoid tissue is due to the intensive formation of active immunity with local production of antibodies during endo- or exogenous route penetration of an infectious agent into the lymphoid tissue of the pharynx. As antibodies accumulate in the body and the immune system improves after 9-10 years, the child begins age-related involution of lymphoid tissue with partial degeneration and replacement with fibrous, connective tissue. The size of the tonsils decreases, and small remnants usually remain for years; sometimes they completely disappear due to atrophy of the lymphoid tissue. During this period, a thin peripheral belt of mature lymphocytes appears, and 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

Structure respiratory system in children during the neonatal period creates numerous preconditions for acute respiratory diseases. Therefore, the baby should be protected from exposure to infectious factors. We also suggest that you learn about all the structural features of the respiratory system in children in order to have general idea about how the nose and paranasal sinuses, throat and larynx, bronchi and lungs gradually develop.

According to medical statistics Respiratory diseases are much more common in children than in adults. This is due age characteristics the structure of the respiratory system and the uniqueness of the protective reactions of the child’s body.

Along their 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 oxygen to the body tissues 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 their size only increases.

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

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

This, as well as the rich blood supply, softness and pliability of the cartilaginous framework of the respiratory tract, and the low content of elastic tissue contribute to a decrease in the barrier function of the mucous membrane, the fairly rapid penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the bloodstream, and create a predisposition to narrowing of the respiratory tract as a result of rapidly occurring swelling or compression of the pliable respiratory tract 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 its small size, which causes a shortening of the path for the passage of air masses. A young child's nose is relatively small. The structure of a child's nose 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 nasal mucosa is very delicate and contains many small blood vessels, so even slight inflammation causes it to swell and further narrow the nasal passages. This leads to impaired nasal breathing in the child. The baby begins to breathe through his mouth. Cold air does not warm up and is not cleaned 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 their nose!

At birth, only the maxillary (maxillary) sinuses are formed in the child, so sinusitis can develop in young children. All sinuses develop completely by the age of 12 - 15 years. The structure of a child's nose and sinuses is constantly changing as the bones grow and form. facial skull. The frontal and main paranasal sinuses gradually appear. The ethmoid bone with its labyrinth is formed throughout the first year of life.

Look at the structure of a child’s nose in the photo, which shows the main anatomical processes of development 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 a child’s throat provides reliable immune protection from the invasion of viruses and bacteria: it contains 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 often hyperplasias (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 populated by viruses and microorganisms, chronic foci of infection are formed (adenoiditis, chronic tonsillitis). Frequent sore throats and acute respiratory viral infections are observed. In the case of severe adenoiditis, long-term disruption of nasal breathing contributes to changes in the facial skeleton and the formation of an “adenoid face.”

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

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

The trachea is a continuation of the larynx. The trachea of an infant is very mobile, which, combined with the softness of the cartilage, sometimes causes a slit-like collapse during exhalation and is accompanied by the appearance expiratory dyspnea or rough snoring (congenital stridor). Manifestations of stridor, as a rule, disappear by 2 years. In the chest, the trachea divides into two large bronchi.

The characteristics of the bronchi in children lead to the development of Chronical bronchitis, which can go into bronchial asthma. Considering the structure of the bronchi in children, it is clear that their size in newborns is relatively small, which causes partial blockage of the bronchial lumen with mucus in cases of bronchitis. The main functional feature of the bronchi small child- insufficiency of drainage and cleaning functions.

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

Externally, 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, since they are constantly growing in the child. In the first years of a child's life lung tissue full-blooded and lacking in air. The process of gas exchange, vital for the body, occurs in the alveoli. Carbon dioxide from the blood passes into the lumen of the alveoli and is released into the external environment through the bronchi. At the same time, atmospheric oxygen enters the alveoli and then into the blood. The slightest disturbance in 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, causing 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 muscular effort, the volume of the chest and lungs decreases, and 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 completeness in its structure by 8–12 years, but the formation of its function continues until 14–16 years.

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

The younger the child, the higher the respiratory rate. Increasing 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 shallow and arrhythmic. Emotional and physical exercise 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, blood flow speed, and high diffusion of gases. Simultaneously function external respiration can easily be disrupted due to insufficient lung excursions and alveolar straightening.

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 nasopharynx area is separated from the oral cavity by the soft palate, which, during the respiratory process, fits tightly to the root of the tongue.

Air enters the nasopharynx from the nasal cavity through the so-called choanae - the internal nasal openings.
The nasopharynx is not an organ as such, rather it is the space where the palatine tonsils are located, as well as mucous, olfactory and cleansing surfaces. It is part of the system responsible for conducting 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 determines 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, without irritation of the respiratory tract;
Olfactory. In the cavity of the nasopharynx there are special mucous surfaces that are exceptionally sensitive and capable of capturing and recognizing odors that come with the inhaled air;
Protective. Moist 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.

On the roof 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 penetrate with incoming air.

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

In the case of inflammatory damage to the tonsils, the infectious process can significantly accelerate, affecting other human organs. In some cases (for example, with an enlarged pharyngeal tonsil), inflammation of the tonsils can significantly impede breathing. 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 ahead. In particular, in infants the nasopharynx is not high and does not yet form a semblance of a semicircular arch, 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. Choanae 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 the nasopharynx is. This organ consists of cavities that connect the nasal passages and the middle part of the pharynx.

What parts does the nasopharynx consist of?

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.

Moreover, 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 temperature weakens the body and can cause inflammation.

To understand the causes of diseases, you need to know the cross-sectional structure of the human nasopharynx. When considering the diagram, 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:

The upper wall (arch) adjoins the occipital part.
Bottom part The nasopharynx is located next to the soft palate. During swallowing, it blocks the oral cavity.
Back wall located next to the cervical vertebrae. It is separated only by a layer of connective tissue.
Anterior part of the pharynx 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.

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 a 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.

The nasopharyngeal tonsils include:

adenoids;
palatal formations, which are located on both sides;
lingual tonsil.

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

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

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 different odors.

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

The upper vault 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. Anatomy The nasopharynx may vary greatly among patients. This is due to the individual characteristics of the body.

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

The peculiarity of children's bodies is that they have weaker muscles.

What diseases can occur in the nasopharynx

If symptoms of nasopharyngeal diseases appear, you should consult an otolaryngologist. The doctor understands the smallest details that can help the patient.

When examined, the following diseases may be detected in a person:

laryngitis;
angina;
pharyngitis;
paratonsillitis;
inflammation of the adenoids.

With laryngitis, the patient begins to experience inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa. A bacterial infection can trigger the development of acute sore throat. A sign of pharyngitis is inflammation of the throat mucosa.

Conclusion

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

Structure of the larynx

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

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

Cold air can cause colds. The temperature can be increased due to the vessels that nourish the mucous tissues. The nasopharynx contains an extensive network of capillaries that nourish the cells.

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

Human structure

The upper part of the pharynx is conventionally divided into the following subsections:

upper;
intermediate;
lower.

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

Anatomy of the nasopharynx

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

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

Oropharynx

Facial sinuses

The structure of the skull is such that in the front part there are sinuses (special cavities filled with air). The mucous membrane differs little in structure from the mucous cavity, but it is thinner. Histological examination does not reveal cavernous tissue, while the nasal cavity contains it. The average person's sinuses are filled with air. Highlight:

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

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

Functions

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

The structure of the nasopharynx determines its functions:

The main function of the nasopharynx is to conduct air from the environment to the lungs.
Performs an olfactory function. It generates a signal about the arrival of the smell in the nasal part, the formation of an impulse and its conduction to the brain thanks to the receptors that are localized here.
It performs a protective function due to the structural features of the mucous membrane. The presence of mucus, hairs and a rich blood network helps clean and warm the air, protecting the lower respiratory tract. Tonsils play an important role in protecting the body from pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
It also implements a resonator function. The sinuses and vocal cords, located in the pharynx, create sound with a different timbre, which makes each individual unique.
Maintaining pressure in the cranium. By connecting the ear to 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 divided into groups:

inflammatory;
allergic;
oncological;
injuries.

Table of diseases.

Diseases	Symptoms	Predisposing factors
Inflammatory	1. Deterioration general condition, malaise, weakness, fever.	1. Hypothermia.
	2. Sore throat.	2. Reduced immunity.
	3. Redness of the throat, enlarged tonsils.	3. Contact with sick people.
	4. Sore throat.	4. Being in a large crowd of people during the high morbidity season.
	5. Congestion, nasal discharge.
Allergic	1. Itching.	1. Contact with an allergen.
	2. Redness.	2. Burdened heredity.
	3. Nasal discharge.	3. Availability allergic reactions in the anamnesis.
	4. Sore throat.	4. Flowering season.
	5. Watery eyes.
Oncological	1. Presence of a neoplasm.	1. Burdened heredity.
	2. Difficulty breathing.	2 Smoking.
	3. Difficulty swallowing.	3. Contact with a source of gamma radiation (work in an X-ray room, etc.).
	4. Drastic weight loss of more than 7-10 kg per month.
	5. General malaise, weakness, enlarged tonsils and lymph nodes.
	6. Temperature around 37°C for more than 2 weeks.
Injury	1. Sharp pain.	1. History of trauma.
	2. Bleeding.
	3. Crepitation of bones.
	4. Swelling of the affected area.
	5. Redness of the affected area.

Treatment and prevention

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

to reduce temperature “Aspirin”, “Paracetamol”;
antiseptics: “Septefril”, “Septolete”;
gargling: “Chlorphilipt”, soda with iodine;
nasal drops (“Galazolin”, “Aquamaris”);
if necessary, antibiotics;
probiotics (Linex).

antiallergic (“Citrine”, “Laratodin”);
nasal drops (“Galazolin”).

Prevention is to take antiallergic medications during the flowering season and avoid contact with allergens.

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

The injury is treated as follows:

cold on the injured area of the body;
anesthesia;
in case of bleeding - tamponade, drug control of bleeding (hemostatic therapy, transfusion of blood substitutes);
Further assistance will only be provided in a hospital.

Diagnostics

Depends on the type of pathology and includes

patient interview;
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.

The lymphatic pharyngeal ring (Waldeyer-Pirogov ring), consisting of the pharyngeal, 2 tubal, 2 palatine, lingual tonsils and lymphoid tissue of the posterior wall of the pharynx, 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 visible in them, and development takes a long time.

The main part of the lymphoid ring of the pharynx consists of 2-4 thin folds of the mucous membrane of the anterior part of the tonsils, running in the sagittal plane, and 6 in the posterior part, shorter and slightly bent anteriorly, located in the frontal plane. Presented at birth in the form of small spherical clusters of lymphocytes. “Reactive centers” appear in them in the first 2-3 months of life. The final development of follicles is completed in the first 6 months of a child’s life, and sometimes by the end of the 1st year. The average size of the pharyngeal tonsil is normally 7x4x2 mm in newborns.

In infants, the active development of the lymphoid ring begins.

Differentiation of the follicles of the palatine tonsils occurs earlier, at 5-6 months of life, since after birth the body immediately begins to be exposed to bacteria and toxic substances that stimulate the formation of follicles.

Adenoids form more actively than other tonsils. The folds of the mucous membrane thicken and lengthen, taking on the appearance of ridges, between which grooves are clearly visible. The average size of the tonsil: after 3 months 10x7x4 mm and after 1 year 11x8x5 mm, the tonsil reaches full development by 2-3 years.

In children of the 1st year of life, the nasopharyngeal cavity is low and acute-angled, and therefore even a slight enlargement of the pharyngeal tonsil can significantly disrupt nasal breathing.

Microscopically, the structure of the tonsils in fetuses, newborns and infants is different.

In fruits, the integumentary epithelium of the mucous membrane is multirowed, cylindrical. In the subepithelial layer, lymphoid tissue is located in a thin strip consisting mainly of lymphoblasts, small and medium-sized lymphocytes. The reticular stroma is quite well defined. Blood vessels are filled with blood.

The development of the palatine tonsil begins with the formation of folds of the mucous membrane, which are penetrated by lymphoid tissue.

The lingual tonsil develops due to the accumulation of lymphoid tissue at the root of the tongue.

After birth, the tonsil tissue is in a constant state of irritation.

In children in the first half of life, well-defined follicles with clear boundaries are already visible; The integumentary epithelium of the tonsils is multilayered flat, with sections of multirow cylindrical.

In children older than 6 months, in the subepithelial tissue there are relatively many mature lymphoid follicles of various sizes and shapes with well-defined “reactive centers”. They are usually located around the furrows. There are many blood vessels among the lymphoid cells and in the connective tissue stroma.

At an early age, the pharyngeal tonsil is covered with multirow cylindrical ciliated epithelium; in older children and adults, it is covered with squamous epithelium.

The 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 branched, often extending to the capsule. The lacunae are not always directed deep into the tonsils; sometimes they turn sharply and go under the integumentary epithelium; the narrow passages of individual lacunae end in expansions. All this contributes to the occurrence of the inflammatory process.

In children over 5 years of age, hyperplasia of the follicles is observed, which are often separated from the surrounding lymphoid tissue.

Tubal tonsils reach their greatest development in childhood.

Children have less lymphoid tissue in the area of the tongue root than 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 layers of the aponeurosis, a chain of retropharyngeal lymph nodes and loose connective tissue are located on both sides of the spine. These nodes are regional to the posterior parts of the nose, nasopharynx and tympanic cavity. Their suppuration leads to the formation of a retropharyngeal abscess.

In the area of the nasopharynx, the retropharyngeal space is divided into two halves by a ligament, so retropharyngeal abscesses in the upper parts of the pharynx are often unilateral.

After 4-5 years, these lymph nodes atrophy, and therefore retropharyngeal lymphadenitis does not occur in older children and adults.

Young children are characterized by hypertrophy (age-related evolution) of lymphoid tissue. Enlargement of the tonsils is caused by hypertrophy of lymphoid follicles, as well as an increase in their number.

Tonsils reach their greatest size by 5-7 years. At this age, children experience the highest incidence of infectious diseases and an increased need for protection against infections. At the same age, children receive the largest number of preventive vaccinations, which mobilize all lymphoid tissue to develop immunity. Hypertrophy of lymphoid tissue is caused by the intensive formation of active immunity with local production of antibodies during endo- or exogenous penetration of an infectious agent into the lymphoid tissue of the pharynx.

As antibodies accumulate in the body and the immune system improves after 9-10 years, the child begins age-related involution of lymphoid tissue with partial degeneration and replacement with fibrous, connective tissue. The size of the tonsils decreases, and by the age of 16-20, small remnants of them usually remain, sometimes they completely disappear due to atrophy of the lymphoid tissue. During this period, a thin peripheral belt of mature lymphocytes appears, and the number of reticular cells in the center of the tonsils increases.