Hengitysreittien

The respiratory system consists of pathways that facilitate breathing and gas exchange in the body. These pathways begin at the external nares, or nostrils, where air enters the respiratory system. The air then passes through the nasal cavity, where it is filtered, warmed, and humidified before continuing its journey.

From the nasal cavity, air moves into the pharynx, a shared pathway for both respiratory and digestive systems. It then enters the larynx, which houses the vocal cords and serves as a protective valve preventing food and liquid from entering the airway. Below the larynx lies the trachea, a reinforced tube that extends into the chest cavity.

The trachea branches into the right and left bronchi, each leading to a separate lung. Within the lungs, the bronchi continue to divide into progressively smaller bronchioles, eventually terminating in clusters of tiny air sacs called alveoli. It is in the alveoli that oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged with the bloodstream.

The entire respiratory tract is lined with specialized cells and mucus that help trap foreign particles and pathogens. Proper functioning of these pathways is essential for maintaining adequate oxygen levels and removing waste gases from the body. Various conditions can affect these pathways, including infections, allergies, and chronic diseases like asthma.