FSC- respiratory system

• What is the primary function of the respiratory system?


  To ensure ventilation of the lungs
• How do the intercostal muscles and diaphragm work during inspiration?


  • Intercostal muscles contract, lifting the ribs
  • Diaphragm contracts and moves downward
  • Increases chest cavity volume
  • Decreases pressure, causing air to flow into the lungs
• What happens during expiration in the respiratory system?


  • Intercostal muscles relax, allowing ribs to move downward
  • Diaphragm relaxes and moves upward
  • Decreases chest cavity volume
  • Increases pressure, pushing air out of the lungs
• What is the role of the trachea in the respiratory system?


  It serves as the airway to the lungs
• What are the pleural membranes?


  They are membranes surrounding the lungs
• What are bronchi?


  They are the main passageways that branch from the trachea into the lungs
• What are bronchioles?


  They are smaller branches of the bronchi
• What is the function of the diaphragm?


  It helps in the process of breathing by contracting and relaxing
• How does gas exchange occur in the lungs?


  Oxygen passes from alveoli into blood, while carbon dioxide diffuses from blood into alveoli
• What factors maximize the rate of diffusion in the lungs?


  • Large surface area to volume ratio
  • Good blood supply
  • Short diffusion distance
  • Moisture levels
  • Body temperature
• Why is a large surface area to volume ratio important for gas exchange?


  It increases the available space for gases to diffuse
• How does a good blood supply enhance gas exchange?

  It maintains a steep concentration gradient for diffusion
• Why is a short diffusion distance beneficial for gas exchange?


  It speeds up the transfer of gases between alveoli and blood
• How do moisture levels affect gas exchange?


  Moist surfaces facilitate the dissolving of gases for efficient diffusion
• How does body temperature influence the rate of diffusion?


  Higher temperatures increase the kinetic energy of molecules, accelerating diffusion
• What is a concentration gradient?


  It is the difference in concentration of a substance between two areas
• What are the main causes of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?


  • Smoking (leading cause)
  • Long-term exposure to environmental pollutants
  • Occupational exposure to dust and irritants
  • Secondhand smoke/passive smoking
  • Genetics
• What are the impacts of COPD on the respiratory system?


  • Narrowed airways causing shortness of breath
  • Increased mucus production leading to cough and infections
  • Emphysema reducing surface area for gas exchange
  • Reduced lung elasticity limiting airflow
  • Decreased oxygen levels causing shortness of breath
• What systemic effects does COPD have on the body?


  • Inflammation
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Fatigue and sleep disturbance
  • Cognitive impairments
• What cardiovascular effects are associated with COPD?


  • Increased risk of heart disease
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Heart failure due to chronic inflammation and low oxygen levels
• What musculoskeletal effects can result from COPD?


  • Muscle weakness and wasting
  • Osteoporosis due to long-term steroid use
• What psychological effects can COPD have on individuals?


  • Stress and anxiety
  • Depression due to living with a chronic illness
• What are the treatments for COPD?


  • Inhalers for bronchodilators or corticosteroids
  • Oral or inhaled steroids
  • Lifestyle changes (smoking cessation, nutrition, exercise)
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation
  • Surgery (lung volume reduction or transplants)
• What is the purpose of inhalers in COPD treatment?


  They deliver bronchodilators or corticosteroids to open airways and reduce inflammation
• How do steroids help in the treatment of COPD?


  They reduce airway inflammation and swelling
• What is pulmonary rehabilitation?


  It combines exercise, education, and support to improve physical conditioning
• What are the side effects and risks associated with COPD treatments?


  • Rapid heart rate, tremors, dry mouth
  • Risk of overuse reducing effectiveness
  • Weight gain, increased blood sugar, osteoporosis
  • Long-term risks include infection and gastrointestinal issues
  • Surgery risks: infection, blood clots, organ rejection
• Why is correct technique vital when using inhalers?


  It ensures the medication is delivered effectively
• What is the biggest risk associated with lung transplants for COPD patients?


  Organ rejection
• Why might not all individuals with COPD be well enough to survive surgery?


  Due to the severity of their condition
• What are the potential side effects of long-term steroid use in COPD treatment?


  Weight gain, increased blood sugar, osteoporosis, mood changes
• What are the considerations for lifestyle changes in COPD management?


  They require supportive planning and individual participation
• What are the side effects of pulmonary rehabilitation?


  Muscle soreness and fatigue