Main Functions:

• Breathing (Ventilation): Moving air in and out of the lungs.

• Gas Exchange: Oxygen enters the blood, and carbon dioxide leaves the blood.

• Regulation of Blood pH: Helps control the acid-base balance in the body.

• Protection: Filters out harmful particles and pathogens from the air.

How Breathing Works:

• Inhalation: Diaphragm contracts, chest expands, and air enters the lungs.

• Exhalation: Diaphragm relaxes, chest contracts, and air leaves the lungs.

Gas Exchange:

• Oxygen enters the blood in the alveoli.

• Carbon Dioxide leaves the blood and is exhaled.

Common Problems:

• Asthma: Narrowed airways make it hard to breathe.

• COPD: Long-term lung damage, often from smoking.

• Pneumonia: Infection causing lung inflammation.

• Bronchitis: Inflammation of the airways,often due to inflammation.