Mucous membranes are rich with mucous glands that secrete mucus to help keep the membranes moist.
Examples of mucous membranes include lips, mouth, nasal passages, middle ear, and theeustachian tube.
One of the types, epithelium, is subdivided into two categories: mucous membranes and serous membranes.
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Because mucous membranes are prone to becoming dry when not adequately hydrated, the lips frequently can become dry.
Under normal circumstances, your saliva helps to keep your lips moist.
This is an important function of your immune system, helping to keep harmful germs out of the body.
The fluid can be sterile or infected, and often contains secreted IgA antibodies and white blood cells.
Peristalsis works in a wave-like motion to assist food movement.
This helps the mucous membranes remain relatively unchanged throughout the aging process.
Mucous membranes also replace themselves quite quickly.
However, studies have found that oral mucosa becomes increasingly thin with age.
A thorough oral exam may help tip your healthcare provider off as to what problem you may be having.
you’re able to help keep your mucous membranes moist by drinking plenty of water.
you’re free to also use a humidifier, preferably acool mist humidifier.
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