The Respiratory System Grace, William, Iris, Miles Period 1

Main function The main function of the respiratory system is gas exchange In order for us to get air, we take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. The lungs are the main organ used to carry out this exchange as we breathe. Red Blood Cells collect the oxygen and take it to where it is needed. Fun Fact: After about four minutes without oxygen, brain cells begin to die, which can lead to brain damage and ultimately death.

Respiratory Organs The Lungs take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide The Airway Brings Oxygen To The Lungs The Diaphragm contracts to expand the chest cavity, allowing the lungs to take in air

Maintaining Homeostasis Gas exchange (replacing carbon dioxide with oxygen) Regulates intake of air Expels carbon dioxide from the blood Helps maintain consistent blood pH by regulating carbon dioxide levels

Working With Other Systems Skeletal System Provides structure for airway Laryngeal skeleton (cartilage in throat) act as vocal chords Muscular System Pushes air in and out of the lungs using mainly the diaphragm Digestive System Provides energy for muscles in respiratory system Immune System Protects respiratory system from foreign particles Lymphatic System Regulates fluids in the lungs Nervous System Receptors and sensors activate the nervous system in response to changes in lungs Exocrine System Relies on kidneys to regulate the levels of oxygen in the bloodstream

Working with the Circulatory System The diaphragm is located underneath the heart When air enters the lungs it flows into the alveoli (air sacs in lungs) and passes into surrounding blood vessels Oxygenates red blood cells (hemoglobin) The oxygen travels towards the heart, where it will get pumped into other parts of the body as needed

The Breathing Process Inhalation Diaphragm contracts, moving downward Chest cavity and lungs expand Air travels through the windpipe into lungs Exhalation Diaphragm relaxes, moving upward Chest cavity contracts Carbon dioxide rich air is expelled from lungs

Diseases - Asthma In a person without asthma, the muscles around the tube are relaxed making airflow easy. In a person with asthma, the muscles tighten, so the tube becomes inflamed, which makes breathing difficult. Air enters the respiratory system from the nose and the mouth and travels through the bronchial tubes. A lot of things can cause asthma: pollen, exercise, cold air, and respiratory infections. ubes.

Diseases - Lung Cancer A cancerous tumor grows in the lungs Symptoms: Chronic dry cough with blood, weakness or fatigue, pain in the chest and ribs, frequent respiratory infections. If left untreated it will lead to death Has occurred in all ages but more common in Second most common cancer in both males and females