Respiratory System Functions, Disorders, etc.

function

exchange of oxygen and co2

breathing job

-O2 from atmosphere→lungs

-CO2 from lungs (waste)→atmosphere

-Regulate pH (acidity/alkalinity) of blood in order to maintain homeostasis

nasal cavity

-mucous membranes and cilia

-filtered and heated

septum

-right and left, cartilage

olfactory neurons

-smell receptors

-deep within epithelial cells, covered in mucous

pharynx parts

nasopharynx: posterior to nose

oropharynx: posterior to mouth

laryngopharynx: superior to larynx

adenoids

pharyngeal tonsils

tonsils

palatine tonsils; in oropharynx

protect respiratory tract opening

COPD

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, progressive and chronic respiratory disorder characterized by airflow limitation and long-term respiratory symptoms and dyspnea; usually diagnosed after patient lost some lung capacity

mucolytics

agents that loosen and break down mucus

bronchodilators

medications that expand bronchi by relaxing their smooth muscles, expectorants

status asthmaticus

life-threatening condition where treatment does not reverse bronchospasm

mild copd

minor difficulty with airflow, possible presence of chronic cough with sputum production, possibly unaware

moderate copd

apparent limitation in airflow, possible shortness of breath, patient possibly seeking medical intervention

severe copd

inadequate airflow, increase in shortness of breath, diminished quality of life

very severe

airflow limitations, significant impairment in quality of life, life threatening complications

chronic bronchitis

inflammation of bronchi caused by smoking and air pollution, also can be caused by viruses and bacteria, swelling of mucosa, productive cough, and chest pain

emphysema

decreased elasticity of alveoli; expand but cannot contract→ difficulty exhale. results in barrel-chested appearance. occurs with another respiratory disorder

orthopnea

standing or sitting upright for easier breathing

pneumonia

inflammatory condition affecting lungs and alveoli. inflammatory fluids collect and lung tissue loses spongy texture and consolidates. caused by infections, fungi, chemicals, and inhaled substances

lobar pneumonia

of bacterial origin and impacts an entire lobe. in young/healthy adults, treated with antibiotics. primary

bronchopneumonia

centered in bronchi and alveoli, in immunocompromised, secondary

pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)

associated with aids. caused by normal flora and causes no harm but when immune system fails it becomes opportunistic

ARDS

acute respiratory distress syndrome; lungs no longer function effectively