Respiratory System – Parts, Functions & Conditions

Respiratory System

When one breathes, that is, exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, the organs and other parts which are involved in it are called the respiratory system.

The cells need oxygen to work, and when taking in oxygen, carbon dioxide gets released; this is called “waste gas”. As it travels through the bloodstream and reaches the lungs, it come out as carbon dioxide when you breath out.

This process is called “gas exchange”, and it is automatic.

Parts and functions of a Respiratory System

The respiratory system consists of two components,

Upper Respiratory Tract: This consists of the pharynx, the larynx, and the nose, which are situated out of the chest cavity.

Sinuses: Sinuses make the skull lighter as they are air-filled spaces along the nose.

Larynx: The larynx is necessary for speech.

Nasal Cavity: The mucous membrane that lines the nasal cavity inside the nose helps to capture the dust particles, and the tiny hairs known as cilia support moving them up the nose so they can be blown out or sneezed out.

Pharynx: Not just air but food too passes through the pharynx before they reach their respective destinations. The pharynx also plays a role in speech.

Lower Respiratory Tract: It is made of the lungs, trachea and all parts of the bronchial tree. Organs in the lower respiratory tract are situated inside the chest cavity.  

Bronchi: The bronchi supply air to the lungs as they branch into the lungs from the trachea and form a network of intricate passages.

Diaphragm: Diaphragm lets air into the lungs as they contract and relax. This is the main respiratory muscle.

Trachea: Trachea is the main airway to the lungs, situated below the larynx.

Lungs: They inhale oxygen to capillaries and exhale carbon dioxide. The lungs are one of the largest organs in the body.

Diseases that Affect the Respiratory System

It is very common for children to get a respiratory illness. They are also seen in few adults. Respiratory infections can affect both upper and lower respiratory tract.

Some of the upper respiratory infections are:

•  Epiglottitis
•  Pharyngitis
•  Common cold
•  Sinusitis
• Laryngitis

Some of the lower respiratory infections are:

•  Chest infection
•  Pneumonia
•  Bronchitis
•  Bronchiolitis

Generally, respiratory diseases are a result of bacteria or viruses entering the system. They are contagious and can be spread through coughing, touching contaminated surfaces and sneezing. RSV is one of the common upper respiratory viruses that are common and not life-threatening, but it can cause issues in children and older people.

Some of the common diseases that affect the respiratory system are:

•  Cystic fibrosis
•  Tuberculosis
•  Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
•  Asthma
•  Sarcoidosis
•  Lung cancer 
•  COPD
•  Pleural effusion

Tips to have a Healthy Respiratory System

There are ways to keep your respiratory system healthy and make it function optimally. Mentioned below are some of the ways to do it:

Quit smoking. Smoking causes irritation in the respiratory system and makes it difficult to breathe. The chances of getting affected by COPD and lung cancer are higher when a person smokes. Secondhand smoke is to be avoided as well.

Get regular health checkups. After the age of 30, it is advised that everyone get regular checkups as it can help them stay on top of any respiratory issues. If a person is at high risk of cancer, it is better to get lung cancer screening.

With the rising air pollution, it is important to check the air quality and follow the guidelines and recommendations accordingly.

Follow breathing exercises. It is known that breathing exercises not only improve lung function but also decrease stress.

It is important to stay physically fit as it makes the heart and lungs stronger. One can achieve this by doing regular exercises.

Vaccinating oneself will protect them against diseases like Pneumonia and RSV. Discuss with the physician what vaccines need to be administered according to the individual’s needs.

Hand washing is one of the easiest and best ways to avoid upper respiratory infections. Drinking enough water helps keep the mucus thin; this makes it easier for the person to breathe. When the mucous is thicker, there is a higher chance of infection.

Conclusion

The respiratory system is made of lungs, diaphragm, airways, throat, voice box, mouth and nose. The main function of the respiratory system is to take in oxygen and let out carbon dioxide through breathing.

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