Name: Cardo Dalisay Date: 09/05/2023

Section: BSA 3A

Bronchiole Function
The function of the bronchioles is to deliver air to a diffuse network of around 300 million alveoli in the
lungs.5 As you inhale, oxygenated air is pulled into the bronchioles. Carbon dioxide collected by the
alveoli is then released from the lungs as you exhale.

The smooth muscles that surround the airways will automatically constrict (close) and dilate (open) to
control the flow of air in and out of the lungs.

Dilation of the airways (bronchodilation) occurs when the lungs need more oxygen, such as during
exercise or at higher altitudes.
Narrowing of the airways (bronchoconstriction) can occur when irritants or allergens are inhaled.
While this is meant to keep foreign substances from entering the lungs, it can restrict breathing,
sometimes severely. Certain medications, inflammation, and disease can do the same. 6
Conditions That Affect Bronchioles
Lung disease can be classified as either obstructive or restrictive. Either type can result in breathing
difficulty and shortness of breath.
Obstructive lung diseases cause difficulty with exhaling air due to some form of blockage. Conditions
that are considered obstructive include:

 Asthma
 Bronchiolitis
 Emphysema
 Bronchiolitis obliterans
 Cystic fibrosis