Respiratory system plays one of the most vital roles in our body. It facilitates body’s respiration process.

This system is composed of different respiratory organs which include the nose, throat, mouth, diaphragm and lungs. The main function of the respiratory organs is to convert the inhaled air into oxygen. The cells in our body require oxygen for them to function properly. Therefore, once the respiratory system declines, it may lead to serious complications.

The respiration process usually starts with the inhalation of air through either the mouth or the nose. Once the air enters in these organs, it will then pass through the throat in which the first part that will function is the larynx, which is also referred to as voice box. Once it passed through the larynx, trachea will be the next part. This organ is also called as windpipe – a thin cylinder that joins the bottom part of the larynx into our chest.

Most of the organs in which the respiratory system is composed of can be found in the chest cavity. The bottom part of the trachea is divided into two thin cylinders which are referred to as bronchi. The oxygen passes through these bronchi into the alveoli – millions of small air pockets. The main function of these pockets is to keep and hold the breathed in air and carry it to the bloodstream. Alveoli are also responsible for ridding unnecessary materials from our bloodstream including the carbon dioxide.

A chemical that cannot be used as energy by the cells is the carbon dioxide. And through respiration, our body can get rid of these chemical materials. Carbon dioxide is being exhaled by either the mouth or the nose when the alveoli depose it from the bloodstream.

Respiratory system also includes the diaphragm- a group of muscles that can be found in our chest which loosen and constrict during the respiration process. It facilitates and controls the concurrent flow of oxygen and carbon dioxide. When fresh air enters the respiratory pathways, the diaphragm constricts and loosens when the carbon dioxide exits.

When one or more parts/organs of the respiratory system decline to function properly, it may lead to breathing complications and serious pulmonary problems. One of the most common respiratory diseases is bronchitis. This is where the bronchial tubes are irritated and accumulate excessive mucus. The excessive accumulation of mucus in the bronchial tubes can make a sufferer to cough profusely with the intent to get rid of mucus from the bronchi.

Another common respiratory condition is asthma. This condition is more serious and is considered as lifelong. A person with asthma may experience constriction in their lungs in the presence of smoke or dust. People who have this condition may have to use inhaler – a device that aids a sufferer to loosen the lungs and facilitates proper breathing. They usually come as medication.

Simply put: Respiratory system….

  • Facilitates proper inhalation and exhalation process
  • Converts air into oxygen and carry it into the bloodstream

Rids carbon dioxide and other waste materials from the bloodstream

Tags: , , , ,