Respiratory_system

Respiratory System

The system responsible for breathing, gas exchange, and regulating oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the body.

Inhalation

The process of taking air into the lungs.

Exhalation

The process of expelling air from the lungs.

Gas Exchange

The process where oxygen is absorbed and carbon dioxide is released in the alveoli of the lungs.

Nasal Cavity

The large air-filled space above and behind the nose, responsible for conditioning the air.

Paranasal Sinuses

Air spaces located in the bones of the skull that decrease weight and increase voice resonance.

Pharynx

The common passageway for air and food, also known as the throat.

Larynx

The voice box responsible for sound production and preventing food from entering the airways.

Trachea

The windpipe, a tubular organ that conducts air to the bronchi.

Bronchial Tree

A branching system of air-conducting pathways leading from the trachea to the lungs.

Alveolus

The air sac in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Pulmonary Surfactant

A lipid molecule produced by cuboidal cells that reduces surface tension in alveoli.

Eupnea

Normal breathing.

Tachypnea

Fast breathing.

Bradypnea

Slow breathing.

Apnea

No breathing.

Hyperpnea

Deep breathing.

Hypopnea

Shallow breathing.

Dyspnea

Difficulty breathing.

Pleurisy

Inflammation of the pleura, causing pain while breathing.

Asthma

A chronic inflammatory disease of the lungs characterized by wheezing and shortness of breath.

Emphysema

A chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) where the lung tissues necessary for support and function are destroyed.