The mystery of our nose: Why do we only have one nostril?

We use our noses every day, for breathing, smelling, speaking, etc., but have you noticed an interesting phenomenon - we only have one nostril for breathing? Whether you are reading this article, sleeping, walking, or tasting food, this phenomenon seems to happen all the time. So, why is it like this? Today, let's unveil this mystery together.

1. Structure of the nasal cavity

First, let's understand the structure of the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is composed of bones, cartilage and mucous membranes, and is rich in blood vessels and nerves. Its main function is to warm, moisten and filter the air. In our nasal cavity, there are two nostrils, which breathe alternately.

2. Nasal Cycle

In the late 19th century, scientists discovered an interesting phenomenon they called the "nasal cycle." This cycle refers to the fact that our nostrils alternate between breathing and breathing over a period of time. If you touch your nostrils with your fingers, you will find that one nostril is breathing and the other is barely breathing. This cycle switches about every two to three hours.

3. Cause Analysis

So why do we only have one nostril for breathing? This is actually a result of natural evolution. When we breathe through one nostril, the temperature and humidity in the nasal cavity will change. If we only breathe through one nostril for a long time, it may have an adverse effect on the environment in the nasal cavity. Therefore, every once in a while, our nostrils will be switched to ensure that the environment in the nasal cavity remains stable.

In addition, the nasal cycle also helps us maintain good health. When we breathe through one nostril, the blood vessels in the nasal cavity on that side will constrict, making the nasal cavity on that side more unobstructed. When we switch to the other nostril, the blood vessels in the original nasal cavity will dilate, helping us to expel dirt and bacteria in the nasal cavity. This helps us keep our respiratory system clean and healthy.

4. Expansion of cold knowledge

Some people may ask, why can't we breathe through both nostrils at the same time? Actually, this is because our nostrils work alternately. When we breathe through one nostril, the other nostril will rest. This ensures that our breathing is smoother and helps us maintain good health.

Some people may find that they don't have a noticeable nasal cycle. This doesn't mean there's something wrong with your nose, it just means your nasal cycle may be weak or less noticeable. Everyone's body is different, so don't worry about your nasal cycle being different from others.

There are some ways to help you feel your nasal cycle. For example, you can gently touch your nostrils with your fingers to feel the changes in the size of the airflow. Or you can block one nostril with a piece of paper before going to bed, and then record the time when the paper falls while you sleep. This can help you understand your nasal cycle.

Finally, if you find that your nasal cycle is abnormal or you have other nasal discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time. Because some common diseases, such as colds and rhinitis, may affect the normal progress of the nasal cycle. If you have any concerns or questions, it is best to consult a professional doctor or otolaryngologist.

Through the above analysis, we can understand why we only have one nostril for ventilation. This is due to the role of the nasal cycle and the result of natural evolution. Every once in a while, our nostrils will switch to ensure that the environment in the nasal cavity remains stable. At the same time, this also helps us keep our respiratory system clean and healthy. If you want to know more about the little knowledge about the nose or have other questions, you can always consult a professional doctor or search for relevant information to get more information.