Schleimhautsekretion

Schleimhautsekretion refers to the production and release of mucus, a viscous fluid, by the mucous membranes (Schleimhäute) that line various cavities and organs in the body. These membranes are found throughout the respiratory tract, digestive system, urinary tract, reproductive tract, and eyes. The mucus secreted plays a crucial role in protecting these surfaces and maintaining their proper function.

The composition of mucus varies depending on its location but generally consists of water, electrolytes, glycoproteins (mucins), and antimicrobial substances. Mucins are large molecules that give mucus its characteristic sticky and gel-like consistency. This viscosity is vital for trapping foreign particles such as dust, pathogens, and allergens.

In the respiratory system, Schleimhautsekretion helps to humidify inhaled air, warm it, and filter out irritants, preventing them from reaching the lungs. The trapped particles are then moved upwards by cilia and swallowed or expelled. In the digestive tract, mucus lubricates food as it passes, preventing damage to the intestinal lining, and also protects the stomach from its own acidic environment.

The production of mucus is a continuous process, but its rate and consistency can be influenced by various factors including inflammation, infection, hormonal changes, and environmental irritants. While normal Schleimhautsekretion is essential for health, excessive or abnormal secretion can indicate underlying medical conditions.