What is the respiratory system?
The respiratory system is a set of organs and structures that enable the body to breathe, i.e. to bring oxygen to the cells and eliminate carbon dioxide. It comprises the upper respiratory tract (nose, pharynx, larynx) and the lower respiratory tract (trachea, bronchi, lungs).
What are the main organs of the respiratory system?
The main organs of the respiratory system are the lungs. They are responsible for gas exchange, where oxygen is absorbed into the blood and carbon dioxide is eliminated from the body during exhalation.
What are the most common disorders of the respiratory system?
Common disorders of the respiratory system include asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, bronchiolitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These conditions can lead to breathing difficulties, coughing, shortness of breath and other symptoms.
How can I maintain a healthy respiratory system?
To maintain a healthy respiratory system, it's essential to avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke. We also recommend regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, and limiting exposure to air pollution.
What are the symptoms of a respiratory infection?
Common symptoms of a respiratory infection include cough, runny nose, fever, muscle aches, fatigue and breathing difficulties. In the event of severe or persistent symptoms, we recommend that you consult a healthcare professional.
What treatments are available for respiratory disorders?
Treatments for respiratory disorders vary according to the specific diagnosis. They may include medications such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics (for bacterial infections) and respiratory therapy. In some cases, surgery may be required.
How can I improve my respiratory capacity?
To improve your breathing capacity, you can practice deep breathing exercises, such as abdominal breathing and diaphragmatic breathing. In addition, regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, running or swimming, can strengthen respiratory muscles and improve lung capacity.
What are the risks associated with air pollution for the respiratory system?
Air pollution can lead to an increase in respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis and lung infections. Fine particles and noxious gases present in polluted air can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen symptoms in people with pre-existing respiratory disorders.
How can I prevent respiratory illness in children?
To prevent respiratory illness in children, it's important to maintain a smoke-free environment, ensure adequate vaccination against diseases such as influenza and whooping cough, and promote good hand hygiene to reduce the spread of viral and bacterial infections.
When should I consult a doctor about respiratory problems?
You should consult a physician if you experience persistent respiratory symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing or chest pain. What's more, if you have a family history of respiratory illness or are exposed to risk factors such as smoking or air pollution, it's advisable to consult a health care professional on a regular basis for appropriate follow-up.
What are the effects of smoking on the respiratory system?
Smoking has harmful effects on the respiratory system, causing damage to the airways and lungs. It increases the risk of developing respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer. What's more, it can worsen symptoms in people already suffering from respiratory problems.
How are respiratory sleep disorders diagnosed?
Sleep disorders linked to the respiratory system, such as sleep apnea, are diagnosed using sleep studies such as polysomnography. This test records cerebral, cardiac, respiratory and muscular activities during sleep to identify respiratory interruptions and assess their severity.
What are the main causes of asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways whose exact causes are not fully understood. However, genetic and environmental factors, such as allergies, passive smoking, air pollution and respiratory infections, can contribute to the development of asthma.
How do inhaled medications work to treat respiratory diseases?
Inhaled medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, are commonly used in the treatment of respiratory diseases. They are administered by inhalation directly into the airways, enabling rapid absorption and targeted action to relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation.
What are the risks of respiratory complications during surgery?
The risk of respiratory complications during surgery depends on a number of factors, including the type of surgery, the patient's pre-existing health and the duration of anesthesia. Possible respiratory complications include atelectasis (lung collapse), postoperative pneumonia and breathing difficulties. Careful monitoring and preventive measures are essential to minimize these risks.
