The word "nasolacrymal" is used to describe the duct that connects the nasal cavity to the tear sac. The spelling of this word can be confusing to some, but it makes more sense when broken down phonetically. The first syllable "naso-" is pronounced as /ˈneɪzoʊ/, while the second part "-lacrymal" is pronounced as /lækrɪməl/. So when combined, the word is pronounced as /neɪzoʊˈlækrɪməl/. Remembering the phonetic breakdown can help with remembering the spelling of this word.
Nasolacrimal refers to the anatomical structure or processes associated with both the nose (nasal) and the flow of tears (lacrimal). The term is derived from the combination of the Latin words "nasus" (nose) and "lacrima" (tear). It commonly pertains to the nasolacrimal duct, a thin tubular passage connecting the corner of the eye with the nasal cavity.
The nasolacrimal duct, also known as the tear duct, is a vital component of the lacrimal system, responsible for draining tears from the surface of the eye. Tears are produced by the lacrimal gland and spread across the surface of the eye before they drain into this duct. The nasolacrimal duct's primary function is to transport these tears into the nasal cavity, where they are eventually expelled or swallowed.
Issues associated with the nasolacrimal system may cause problems with tear drainage, leading to epiphora (excessive tearing) or even infections. Blocked nasolacrimal ducts can result from various causes, including congenital abnormalities, inflammation, trauma, or certain medical conditions. Treatment options for such obstructions range from conservative measures like warm compresses and massage to surgical procedures that aim to rectify or bypass the blockage.
Overall, the term nasolacrimal reflects the intricate relationship between the nose and the flow of tears, particularly emphasizing the connection between tear production, flow, and drainage through the nasolacrimal duct.
Relating to the nasal and the lacrymal bones, or to the nasal fossae and the lacrymal ducts.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "nasolacrimal" is derived from two Latin terms: "nasus" meaning "nose" and "lacrima" meaning "tear". The combination of these two terms refers to the anatomical structure that relates to the passage of tears from the eye to the nose. Specifically, it pertains to the nasolacrimal duct, which is responsible for draining tears from the eye to the nasal cavity.