Nostril

Structure

The nostrils are framed by the alar cartilages of the nose. Inside, the vestibule is lined with skin and short, coarse hairs called vibrissae.

Function

Hairs filter out larger debris before air enters the deeper nasal cavity. Most healthy adults unknowingly alternate dominant airflow between the two nostrils through the nasal cycle.

Clinical note

A deviated nasal septum can narrow one nostril and produce chronic difficulty breathing through that side.