PHYSICAL WELLNESS

your air intake vents

NOSE + MOUTH

The nose and mouth are like the front doors and air vents of your body’s ventilation system. They let fresh air in, filter it, warm it, and humidify it before it reaches your lungs. Most of the time, you don’t think about it — until congestion, dryness, or irritation signals a problem.

  • Bring air into the respiratory system

  • Filter dust, pollen, and pathogens (nose has tiny hairs and mucus)

  • Warm and humidify incoming air to protect the lungs

  • Support sense of smell (nose) and taste (mouth)

  • Assist in speech and vocalization

NOSE + MOUTH BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for nose + mouth related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Nasal Passages - Airway through the nose that filters and humidifies air

Mouth - Secondary air intake that allows breathing and speaking

Cilia - Tiny hair-like structures that trap dust and pathogens

Mucus - Sticky fluid that traps particles and keeps tissues moist

Sinuses - Air-filled spaces that help warm and filter air

WHAT NOSE + MOUTH WORKS WITH

NOSE + MOUTH + OTHER SYSTEMS

  1. Trachea → Carries air to and from the lungs

  2. Sinuses → Help warm, humidify, and filter air in the nasal passages

  3. Lungs & Alveoli → Receive the cleaned, warmed air for gas exchange

  4. Diaphragm & Intercostal Muscles → Help move air in and out of the lungs

  5. Immune System → Mucus and cilia trap pathogens, working with immune defenses

  6. Nervous System → Detects irritants (sneezing reflex) and controls breathing patterns

a HealthY nose + mouth…

A healthy nose and mouth keep airways clear, support smooth breathing, protect your lungs, and help you smell, taste, and communicate. Proper hydration, good hygiene, and avoiding irritants keep these air vents working at their best.