The Respiratory System Flashcards
ventilation
the inflation and deflation of the lungs
gas exchange
primary function of the respiratory system
Nasal Cavity and Oral Cavity
where air is brought in and out of the
upper respiratory tract
Pharynx
the back of the throat
Nasopharynx
the back of the nasal cavity
Larynx
vocal cords or vocal box
Epiglottis
is a leaf-shaped flap in the throat that prevents food and water from entering the trachea and the lungs
Trachea
wind pipe
Bronchi
The bronchi are the two large tubes that carry air from your windpipe to your lungs
**Right Bronchus and the Left Bronchus
Aveoli
Bronchioles end in tiny air sacs called alveoli (say: al-VEE-uh-lie), where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide actually takes place
Lobes
The Right Lung contains 3 sections, called lobes. The Left Lung has 2 lobes.
Pleural Membrane
Lubricating elastic surface for lung movement when breathing
Pleural Space
The cavity that exists between the lungs and underneath the chest wall.
Diaphragm
Dome-shaped, muscular and membranous structure that separates the thoracic (chest) and abdominal cavities in mammals; it is the principal muscle of respiration.
Inhalation or Inspiration
Diaphragm contracts. Bringing oxygen into our bodies
Exhalation or Expiration
Diaphragm relaxes, it returns to its original position, pushing the air out of the lungs.
Pneumothorax
If air begins to accumulate in the pleural space, it is called Pneumothorax
Pleural Effusion
If fluid, such as blood or plasma accumulates in the plural space
Dyspnea
Difficulty breathing (”dys” means difficult, “pnea” means breathing)
Atelectasis
Collapsed lung or part of the lung
Thoracentesis
medical procedure to drain out fluid or air from the collapsed lung
