year 10- alveoli Flashcards
how many alveoli in one cubic mm of lung tissue?
170
alveoli function
Diffusion- gas exchange between O2 and co2
Allows the gasses to move between our lungs and bloodstream
what is alveolus derived from
The Latin word for ‘little cavity’
what slows down the alveoli’s function
aging, smoking
what is the alveolus wall called and made up of
EPITHELIUM one cell thick two types of cells type one: covers 95% of the alveolar surface and consitutes the air-blood barrier type two: smaller and produces the surfactant that coats the inside surface and reduces tension. keeps the shape of the alveolus
alveolar capillary
a network of tiny blood vessels that make the o/co2 exchange
red blood cells
carry oxygenated blood through the body
maintain the body’s homeostasis (steady internal and chemical conditions)
WhAt is the medical condition to do with alveoli
EMPHYSEMA
what is emphysema
-inflammation in the lungs
-causes the dilation and destruction of alveoli
-in addition to the loss of alveoli the cellular walls of the air sacs begin to lose their elasticity
-this makes it difficult to expel air from the lungs
(A condition called air trapping)
-this inability leads to further dialation of the alveoli and decrease of function
what is emphysema classified as
A Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Results of emphysema
- decreased level of oxygen in blood (hypoxemia)
- Increased level of co2 in blood (hypercapnia)
causes of emphysema
- smoking (2nd hand too)
- exposure to vapours and fumes
- air pollution
- asthma
emphysema treatments
- it is irreversible and progressive so the goals are to slow progression
- medication
- oxygen therapy
- pulmonary rehabilitation
- immunisations
- excersise
- lung surgery to remove damaged tissue
what medication is used on emphysema
bronchodilators, glucoerticoids, antibiotics
how do immunisations help emphysema
prevent infections that worsen the disease
