Human Anatomy - Respiratory System

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the anatomy and function of the respiratory system, as outlined in the lecture notes.

Upper and Lower Airway

The two main divisions of the respiratory system, with the upper airway including structures such as the nose and larynx, and the lower airway including the trachea and bronchi.

Respiratory Epithelium

Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium that lines the respiratory tract, containing goblet cells that produce mucus.

Paranasal Sinuses

Air-filled spaces within the bones of the face that help to lessen the weight of the skull and play a role in sound resonance.

Heimlich Maneuver

An emergency procedure to expel an object blocking the airway, typically performed by thrusting up and inward on the abdomen.

Nasal Cavity Boundaries

Includes structures such as the hard palate (inferior), nasal septum (medial), and nares (anterior).

Diaphragm

A dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities and is essential for breathing.

Cricothyrotomy

An emergency procedure to create an airway through the cricothyroid membrane when conventional intubation is not possible.

Larynx (Voice Box)

A structure connecting the laryngopharynx with the trachea, composed of cartilaginous plates and involved in sound production.

Asthma

A condition characterized by bronchial smooth muscle spasms, leading to narrowed airways and difficulty breathing.

Pleural Effusion

Excessive buildup of fluid in the pleural space, resulting in difficulty breathing and potential unproductive cough.