The Not-So-Secret Holes You Use to Breathe
Where Do They Go and What Do They Do?
In addition to your mouth, there are other holes in your head that you use to breathe. You may not be aware of them, but they're there, and they play an important role in your respiratory system.
The Holes in Your Nose
The most obvious holes you use to breathe are your nostrils. When you inhale, air enters your nose and travels through the nasal passages. The nasal passages are lined with mucus, which helps to trap dust, pollen, and other particles from entering your lungs. The air is then warmed and moistened as it travels through the nasal passages.
The Holes in Your Throat
In addition to your nostrils, there are also holes in your throat that you use to breathe. These holes are called the glottis and the epiglottis. The glottis is a small opening between the vocal cords. The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage that covers the glottis when you swallow. This prevents food and liquid from entering your lungs.
The Holes in Your Lungs
The final set of holes you use to breathe are located in your lungs. These holes are called the alveoli. The alveoli are tiny air sacs that are lined with capillaries. The capillaries are tiny blood vessels that allow oxygen to pass from the lungs into the bloodstream. The oxygen is then transported throughout the body to cells, where it is used to produce energy.
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