The respiratory system takes in oxygen and releases carbon dioxide.

In addition to the lungs, additional organs such as the nose, trachea, and breathing muscles are involved in the respiratory system. 

The nasal cavity and trachea warm and moisten the air, while the nasal hairs capture dust particles. The ribcage protects the lungs, which contain thousands of tubes responsible for gas exchange, including the alveoli. 

Breathing muscles, such as the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, contribute to creating a vacuum within the chest, allowing air to be pulled in and exhaled. The respiratory system contributes to speaking by permitting air to travel through the vocal cords. 

Asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, hay fever, influenza, laryngitis, and pneumonia are common respiratory conditions.


Respiratory volume and rate

The respiratory rate is the quantity of breaths per minute. At rest, the usual respiratory rate for people is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. The respiratory volume is the amount of air that is inhaled and exhaled with each breath. The average respiratory volume per breath is approximately 500 ml.


Exchange of gases in the lungs

The difference in partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the alveoli and the blood drives the exchange of gases in the lungs. From the alveoli, oxygen diffuses into the blood, where it binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells to be transported to the body's tissues. During exhalation, carbon dioxide diffuses from the blood into the alveoli and is then ejected.


Respiratory control

The respiratory control center in the brainstem controls breathing. The respiratory control center monitors oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood and regulates the breathing rate and depth to ensure appropriate oxygenation and eliminate excess carbon dioxide.


Smoking and lung disease

This includes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and emphysema. The lining of the airways and alveoli are harmed by smoking, resulting in inflammation, scarring, and impaired lung function.


Pollution of the air and respiratory health

Air pollution, such as particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide, can also contribute to respiratory illness. Air pollution can inflame and damage the respiratory system, aggravating pre-existing respiratory diseases and raising the risk of respiratory infections.


The average human inhales and exhales approximately 20,000 times every day.

The only organs in the body that can float on water are the lungs.

Since the nose filters out several airborne particles and bacteria, breathing via the mouth rather than the nose can increase the risk of infection.

A variety of respiratory conditions, including lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema, can be caused by smoking.

Air pollution can also have a significant effect on respiratory health, especially for those with asthma or COPD.

Frequent physical activity helps strengthen respiratory muscles and enhance lung function.

In times of severe disease or damage, some medical therapies, such as oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation, may be required to assist the respiratory system.