Respiratory System Chapter 4

Respiratory System

• The respiratory system provides oxygen to body tissues for cellular respiration, removes waste product carbon dioxide, and helps maintain acid-base balance.
• It also has non-vital functions, such as sensing odors, speech production, and straining (e.g., coughing).

Gross Anatomy of the Lungs

• The lungs are pyramid-shaped, paired organs connected to the trachea by the right and left bronchi.
• The inferior surface is bordered by the diaphragm, and the lungs are enclosed by the pleura, attached to the mediastinum.
• The right lung is shorter and wider than the left lung, and the left lung occupies a smaller volume.

Tobacco and Second-hand Smoke

• Tobacco and second-hand smoke are carcinogenic.
• Exposure to second-hand smoke can cause lung cancer in non-smokers, increasing the risk by up to 30%.
• Children living with smokers have a higher risk of respiratory infections, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), ear infections, and worsening asthma symptoms.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• COPD is a chronic condition representing respiratory diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• Symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, and sputum production.
• COPD has no cure, but shortness of breath can be controlled with bronchodilators; the best plan is to avoid triggers and getting sick.
• 80% of cases are associated with cigarette smoking.

Asthma

• Asthma is a common chronic condition affecting all age groups.
• It is characterized by inflammation, edema of the airway, and bronchospasms, which can inhibit air from entering the lungs.
• Attacks may be triggered by environmental factors, exercise, or stress.

Lung Cancer

• Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among both males and females.
• There are two types: small cell lung cancer (SCLC), linked to cigarette smoking, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which grows slowly.
• Risk factors include smoking, air pollution, family history of exposure to second-hand smoke, and exposure to carcinogens.

Terms Related to the Respiratory System

• Alveolar Duct: a tube composed of smooth muscle and connective tissue
• Autonomic: unconsciously regulates
• Benign: non-cancerous
• Cardiac Notch: an indentation on the surface of the left lung
• Carina: a ridge of cartilage separating the two main bronchi
• Defensins: lysozyme enzyme and proteins with antibacterial properties
• Diaphragm: a flat, dome-shaped muscle at the base of the lungs and thoracic cavity
• Dyspnea: difficulty breathing
• Eupnea: normal breathing
• Fauces: the opening between the oral cavity and the oropharynx
• Respiratory Zone: structures directly involved in gas exchange
• Conducting Zone: provide a route for incoming and outgoing air, remove debris and pathogens, and warm and humidify the incoming air

Diseases and Disorders

• Various diseases can affect the respiratory system, including asthma, emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), and lung cancer.