Respiratory System Course 1

A series of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the respiratory system.

Upper Respiratory Tract

Consists of nasal cavity, pharynx, and larynx.

Lower Respiratory Tract

Includes trachea and main bronchi, divides into approximately 23 generations.

Alveoli

Interconnected sacs where gas exchange occurs in the lungs.

External Respiration

Movement of respiratory gases (O2 and CO2) between the external environment and body cells.

Internal Respiration

Also known as cellular respiration; oxidation of compounds in mitochondria to produce CO2.

Ventilation

Exchange of air between the atmosphere and the alveoli, comprising inspiration and expiration.

Mucus Secretions

Substances secreted by goblet cells to trap particles in inhaled air.

Ciliated Cells

Respiratory epithelial cells that remove mucus and foreign particles through ciliary movements.

Bronchodilation

Widening of the air passages, primarily mediated by adrenergic stimulation.

Bronchoconstriction

Narrowing of the air passages, often in response to irritants or allergens.

Dead Space

Portion of the respiratory system where airflow occurs but no gas exchange takes place.

Respiratory Rate

Number of breaths per minute, indicating the efficiency of breathing.

Fibrosis

Thickening and scarring of lung tissue that can arise from particle accumulation.

Spirometry

Test used to measure lung function and confirm conditions like asthma.

Hypoventilation

Decreased ventilation leading to increased blood CO2 levels.

Hyperventilation

Increased ventilation leading to decreased blood CO2 levels.

Eupnea

Normal, unlabored breathing.

Apnea

Temporary cessation of breathing.

Tachypnea

Increased respiratory rate, often over 20 breaths per minute.

Bradypnea

Decreased respiratory rate, often below 12 breaths per minute.

Dyspnea

Difficulty in breathing, often described as a feeling of shortness of breath.