luftvei

Luftvei is the Norwegian term for the airway, the passages that conduct air between the external environment and the lungs. In humans it is typically divided into the upper airways—comprising the nasal cavity, sinuses, pharynx, and larynx—and the lower airways, including the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles. The distal alveolar regions are the site of gas exchange and are not part of the conducting airway.

The airways perform ventilation and conditioning of inspired air. They filter and trap particles, warm and humidify the air, and protect the lungs through mucociliary clearance and the cough reflex. Structural support varies along the tract: cartilage reinforces the trachea and major bronchi, while smaller airways contain smooth muscle that can constrict or dilate to regulate airflow.

Disorders of the luftvei can lead to obstruction or impaired ventilation. Common conditions affecting the airway include infections such as laryngitis, epiglottitis, and croup; inflammatory or allergic diseases such as asthma; chronic obstructive conditions like chronic bronchitis and COPD; and trauma or choking from foreign bodies. Acute airway compromise is a central concern in emergency medicine, with management focusing on maintaining or securing an open airway, ensuring adequate oxygenation, and treating the underlying cause. In medical settings, airway protection may involve techniques ranging from supplemental oxygen and suction to visualization of the airway and advanced support if needed.

Maintaining airway health involves prompt treatment of respiratory infections, avoiding irritants, vaccination where appropriate, and addressing risk factors such as smoking and environmental exposures.