The Respiratory System Primary Function of Respiratory System

The Respiratory System

Primary Function of Respiratory System The respiratory system supplies the blood with oxygen so that the blood can deliver oxygen to all parts of the body. n And also removes carbon dioxide and water that cells produce. n

Respiration vs Breathing n Most people think respiration and breathing are the same thing. Actually, in science they are two VERY different things. n n Respiration – chemical process in which oxygen and glucose are used to produce energy inside cells. Other products of respiration are carbon dioxide and water. Breathing – refers to the movement of air into and out of your lungs.

Respiratory System Structure n Nasal Cavity (nose): Heats and humidifies air; mucus traps particles and bacteria; cells with cilia move the mucus into throat n Pharynx (throat): Connected to both nose and mouth. Cone shaped passageway leading to trachea. n Trachea (windpipe): Main tube connecting nose/mouth to lungs. Reinforced by rings of cartilage to protect and keep open; lined with cilia and mucus n Epiglottis: Flap that covers the entrance to the trachea. Prevents food/liquids from entering lungs.

Respiratory System Structure n n n Bronchi (bronchus): Two tubes that branch off of the trachea to direct air into the lungs. Lungs: Main organs of the respiratory system Bronchioles: Small branches of bronchi that end in alveoli. Alveoli: Tiny air sacs that function to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide from/to the blood. Capillaries: Blood vessels that are imbedded in the walls of the alveoli. While in the capillaries the blood discharges carbon dioxide into the alveoli and takes up oxygen from the air in the alveoli

Disorders

Asthma n n Chronic (long-term) lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. People who have asthma have inflamed airways. This makes the airways swollen and very sensitive. They tend to react strongly to certain inhaled substances. When the airways react, the muscles around them tighten. This narrows the airways, causing less air to flow into the lungs. The swelling also can worsen, making the airways even narrower. Cells in the airways may make more mucus than normal. Mucus is a sticky, thick liquid that can further narrow your airways.

Bronchitis n n Inflammation and thickening of the bronchiole tubes, usually as a result of a respiratory infection. Muscles become inflamed and mucus builds up.

Emphysema n Permanently damages the air sacs of the alveoli, drastically reducing the ability to absorb oxygen.

Interesting Facts About the Respiratory System!! About half a liter of water per day is lost through breathing. n Yawning brings more oxygen to the lungs. n Your right lung is larger than your left. n We breathe 13 pints of air every minute. n People under 30 take in double the amount of oxygen in comparison to someone who's 80 years old n