Human Respiratory System comprises of the lungs, airways, diaphragm, windpipe, throat, mouth, and nasal passages. Respiration is the process of breathing in and out through this system. The respiratory system's function is to allow gas exchange to all parts of the body.
The primary function of the respiratory system is to supply the blood with oxygen in order for the blood to deliver oxygen to all parts of the body. The human respiratory system can be subdivided into an upper respiratory tract and a lower respiratory tract based on anatomical features. The upper respiratory tract includes the nasal passages, pharynx and the larynx, while the lower respiratory tract comprises the trachea, the primary bronchi and lungs.
Respiration is essential for life. Every once in a while coughs, sneeze, or hiccup reminds us about this body system. A cough is the way the system clears the airway. A sneeze is caused by an irritation in the upper airway. A hiccup is a spasm of the diagram.
There are many diseases that can harm and even destroy the respiratory system. Asthma is an increasingly common disease that causes coughing and makes it hard to breathe. Lung cancer is a major cause of death particularly among smokers. Tuberculosis is a disease caused by bacteria that can destroy the lungs. Minor respiratory problems in the form of a sore throat, cough, or bronchitis are commonly experienced by people.
People in certain jobs are more likely to have respiratory problems. For example, airline pilots and flight attendants often have respiratory problems. Black lung has historically been a problem of coal miners.
The Human Biology site has complete details about the various aspects of human anatomy.
Divisions of the Human Respiratory System
