MEJIA, Michelle Erika F.

BSN III-B NCM103(RESPI)

THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPIRATORY SYSTEM

The respiratory system does two very important things: it brings oxygen into our bodies, which we need for our cells to live and function properly; and it helps us get rid of carbon dioxide, which is a waste product of cellular function. The respiratory system consists of all the organs involved in breathing. These include the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs. The nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea and bronchi all work like a system of pipes through which the air is funneled down into our lungs. There, in very small air sacs called alveoli, oxygen is brought into the bloodstream and carbon dioxide is pushed from the blood out into the air. When something goes wrong with part of the respiratory system, such as an infection like pneumonia, it makes it harder for us to get the oxygen we need and to get rid of the waste product carbon dioxide. Common respiratory symptoms include breathlessness, cough, and chest pain. The respiratory system is vital to the whole functioning of the body. This system is essential in bringing in the oxygen required by every aspect of the body, from oxygen the cells need to function and replace cells that have died to the oxygen the muscles need. It also removes harmful gases such as carbon dioxide from the body. The lungs, its sub-parts, and the throat are central components of the respiratory system, as are the windpipe, voice box, and nose. Air is pulled in by the lungs through the nose and mouth. It travels down the throat and windpipe into the lungs. From the lungs, oxygen is delivered to the air sacs, called alveoli, and then sent into the blood.

Although the intake of oxygen is a large aspect of the importance of the respiratory system, releasing carbon dioxide occurs as a byproduct of the respiration process. Oxygen and carbon dioxide are combined while the body is making energy. The carbon dioxide that is in the cells is exchanged for oxygen in a process called gas exchange. Once it is pulled from the cells, the carbon dioxide is expelled from the body through exhaling.