ABSTRACT:
In this article, we will discuss about the fascinating physiology of human respiratory system. The human respiratory system is a complex network of organs and tissues that work together to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment. This vital system ensures the delivery of oxygen to the body’s cells and the removal of waste gases, playing a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. We will also provide related references to understand the concept deeply.
INTRODUCTION OF PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN RESPIRATORY SYSTEM:
The human respiratory system is a complex network of organs and tissues responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment. Understanding the physiology of this vital system is crucial for comprehending its functions and the various respiratory disorders. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the anatomy of the human respiratory system, supported by relevant references.
PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN RESPIRATORY SYSTEM:
The working mechanism of the human respiratory system can be divided into two main processes: ventilation and respiration. Ventilation refers to the movement of air in and out of the lungs. While respiration involves the exchange of gases between the lungs and the bloodstream.
1. VENTILATION:
The process of ventilation begins with the inhalation of air through the nose or mouth. The air then travels down the trachea, or windpipe, which branches into two bronchi that lead to the lungs. Within the lungs, the bronchi further divide into smaller bronchioles, which eventually terminate in tiny air sacs called alveoli. There are two processes involve in ventilation: inhalation and exhalation. Inhalation begins when air enters through nostrils. The rib cage and intercoastal muscles move upward and forward. The diaphragm become less dome like. The pressure of air in the chest cavity and lungs decreases. So, air enter into the lungs.
Exhalation begins when air moves out of the lungs. the rib cage and intercoastal muscles move downward and backward. The diaphragm becomes more dome like. The pressure of air in the chest cavity and lungs increases. So, air moves out of the lungs.
2. GASEOUS EXCHANGE:
The alveoli are the site of gas exchange in the respiratory system. They are surrounded by a network of capillaries, where oxygen from inhaled air diffuses into the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular metabolism, diffuses out of the blood and into the alveoli to be exhaled.
REGULATION OF PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN RESPIRATORY SYSTEM:
The regulation of the respiratory system is primarily controlled by the brain, specifically the medulla oblongata and the pons, which are located in the brainstem. These regions contain specialized cells called respiratory centers that monitor the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH in the blood.
1. LEVEL OF OXYGEN AND CARBON DIOXIDE:
When the oxygen levels in the blood decrease or carbon dioxide levels increase, the respiratory centers send signals to the muscles involved in breathing, such as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, to increase the rate and depth of breathing. This response, known as the respiratory drive, ensures that the body receives an adequate supply of oxygen and removes excess carbon dioxide.
2. OTHER REGULATORY FACTORS:
In addition to the brain, other factors can also influence the regulation of the respiratory system. For example, physical activity, emotions, and environmental conditions, such as altitude and air pollution, can all affect breathing patterns. Several regulatory mechanisms work together to maintain the balance of gases in the respiratory system. One such mechanism is the control of breathing rate and depth. Another important mechanism is the regulation of blood pH through the control of carbon dioxide levels. When carbon dioxide levels rise, the blood becomes more acidic, which can have detrimental effects on various bodily functions. To counteract this, the respiratory system increases the rate and depth of breathing to remove excess carbon dioxide and restore the blood’s pH balance.
3. IMMUNE REGULATORY FACTORS:
The human respiratory system is also subject to various regulatory mechanisms that protect the lungs from harmful substances. For example, the presence of irritants in the air can trigger a reflex called coughing, which helps to expel foreign particles or mucus from the respiratory tract. Similarly, the production of mucus in the respiratory tract helps to trap and remove dust, bacteria, and other harmful substances.
CONCLUSION-PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN RESPIRATORY SYSTEM:
In conclusion, the human respiratory system is a complex and highly regulated system that ensures the exchange of gases between the body and the environment. The working mechanism of this system involves the processes of ventilation and respiration, which are controlled by the brain and influenced by various factors. Understanding the functioning and regulation of the respiratory system is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being.
REFERENCES:
Proctor DF, Carpenter RG. The nasal airway in health and disease. Part I. Anatomy, physiology, and function. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 1982;91(4 Pt 1):364-371. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6350406/
Kim JH, Kim JH, Kim YH, et al. Anatomy of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses for endoscopic sinus surgery. J Craniofac Surg. 2018;29(2):e117-e120. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7883520/
Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. (2017). Principles of anatomy and physiology. John Wiley & Sons. https://bcs.wiley.com/he-bcs/Books%20?action=index&bcsId=6205&itemId=0470565101
