The human respiratory system is a series of organs responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The cells of the human body require a constant stream of oxygen to stay alive. The respiratory system provides oxygen to the body’s cells while removing carbon dioxide, a waste product that can be lethal if allowed to accumulate. There are 3 major parts of the respiratory system: the airway, the lungs, and the muscles of respiration.
Parts of the respiratory system:
-The mouth, nose, and nasal cavity.
-The pharynx, commonly called the “throat,” connects the mouth and nasal passages with the esophagus and larynx.
-The larynx, a muscular organ commonly called the “voice box,” which is essential for human speech and contains the vocal cords and allows air to pass into and out of the lungs. -The trachea is commonly referred to as the “windpipe” and is a cartilaginous tube extending into the two bronchial tubes .
-The bronchi, which are the major air passages in and out of the lungs.
-The alveoli, which are tiny sacs in the lungs and the location where gas exchange occurs.
Diseases and risk factors:
Diseases and conditions of the respiratory system fall into two categories: Infections, such as influenza, bacterial pneumonia and enterovirus respiratory virus, and chronic diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
-Asthma.
-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease -(COPD)
-Chronic Bronchitis
-Emphysema
-Lung Cancer
-Cystic Fibrosis/ Bronchiecta
-Pneumonia
-Pleural Effusion.
In addition to tobacco smoke, other risk factors include air pollution, occupational chemicals and dusts, and frequent lower respiratory infections during childhood. CRDs are not curable, however, various forms of treatment that help dilate major air passages and improve shortness of breath can help control symptoms and increase the quality of life for people with the disease.
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Stage 2: Respiratory system