upper respiratory tract in humans. Acute upper respiratory tract infection, unspecified (common cold). Description of the human respiratory system

The upper respiratory tract (URT) is represented by the nasal cavity and pharynx. The initial sections of the respiratory tract are the first to encounter viruses and bacteria, which cause a significant proportion of infectious diseases. Pathological processes also often develop as a result of injuries and systemic diseases. Some conditions are prone to spontaneous healing, a number of other disorders require the involvement of specialized medical care.

Diseases of the upper respiratory tract

Structure pathological disorders on the part of the URT, it is rational to divide according to several criteria.

Regarding the level inflammatory process classify:

• Rhinitis is a disease of the nasal cavity.
• Sinusitis is a pathology of the paranasal sinuses.
• Private variants of inflammation accessory sinuses: sinusitis (maxillary sinus), frontal sinusitis (frontal), ethmoiditis (lattice).
• Pharyngitis - diseases of the pharynx.
• Combined lesions: rhinosinusitis, rhinopharyngitis.
• Tonsillitis and angina - inflammatory response palatine tonsils.
• Adenoiditis - hypertrophy and inflammation of large pharyngeal lymphoid structures.

Pathologies of the upper respiratory tract develop under the influence of heterogeneous factors. The main causes of the defeat of the VDP are:

• mechanical damage, injury;
• ingress of foreign bodies;
• allergy;
• infections;
• congenital features and developmental anomalies.

Symptoms and treatment

The most significant proportion of diseases are inflammatory processes in the upper respiratory tract caused by viruses and bacteria. All respiratory infections characterized by the presence of catarrhal syndrome and general intoxication organism.

Typical manifestations of inflammation at the local level include:

• soreness;
• edema;
• redness;
• temperature rise;
• organ dysfunction.

With the defeat of the upper respiratory tract, a change in mucociliary clearance occurs. The formation of mucus by the cells of the respiratory epithelium is disrupted. For rhinitis initial stage characteristically abundant appearance liquid secretion. Subsequently, the composition of the discharge changes to mucous and viscous mucopurulent. Pain syndrome most inherent in inflammatory processes of other localization.

The manifestations of diseases are directly related to the level of damage and etiological factor. Data from the patient's story of what worries him, the typical clinic and the results of a special examination allow the doctor to make an accurate diagnosis.

Rhinitis

The condition develops as a result of exposure to infectious agents or upon contact with an allergen against the background of existing sensitization. An adult suffers up to 3-4 viral rhinitis per year. Bacterial inflammation of the nasal mucosa develops mainly against the background of an untreated runny nose.

Isolated rhinitis proceeds in several phases:

Infants with a runny nose are naughty, they cannot fully suckle their breasts.

The total duration of uncomplicated rhinitis is up to 7, sometimes up to 10 days. If a person promptly resorts to washing the nose with saline solutions and common methods treatment (hot foot baths, warming tea with raspberries, sufficient sleep), the duration of the onset of a runny nose is reduced by 2 times.

The adaptive mechanisms of pathogens cause the appearance of resistance to non-specific species protection. In weakened people, rhinitis can last up to 2-4 weeks and develop into a chronic form.

During an influenza epidemic, with the development of typical symptoms of this ARVI, a patient with easy flow disease is shown bed rest. Then, as the state improves, the activity expands. An important component in the treatment is the use of drugs that block neuraminidase (Oseltamivir, Zanamivir). The use of adamantanes (Remantadin) does not always reduce the viral load on the body.

Uncomplicated rhinitis with ARVI, as a rule, is cured with simple means. Use for colds vasoconstrictor drugs with concomitant irrigation of the nasal cavity with solutions of sea water. There are combined sprays and drops that combine a decongestive and salt component (for example, Rinomaris). The addition of bacterial inflammation requires the instillation of antibiotics. All patients are recommended enhanced drinking regimen(tea, fruit drinks, warm water). At poor tolerance elevated temperature resort to paracetamol or ibuprofen. The basis of treatment allergic rhinitis is the elimination of contact with the allergen, the reception antihistamines and subsequent hyposensitization therapy.

Sinusitis and rhinosinusitis

Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, as a rule, is a complication of the common cold. The basis of the disease is edema of the mucosa of the accessory sinuses, increased production of mucus in the latter and a violation of the outflow of secretions. Under such conditions, a favorable environment is created for the reproduction of bacterial flora. Gradually, pus accumulates in the sinuses.

Patients, in addition to nasal congestion, the appearance of mucopurulent discharge, are worried about headaches. Body temperature usually rises significantly. Lethargy and irritability develop. Diagnosis is confirmed by x-ray examination sinuses. The images visualize areas of reduced aeration and areas of darkening of the sinuses.

Treatment is aimed at eliminating the infectious agent. With bacterial inflammation, antibiotics are prescribed in tablet form (less often, in injection form). Shown usage vasoconstrictors, washing the nose and draining the focus of infection. Mucolytics (Rinofluimucil) contribute to the thinning of a viscous secretion and improve its removal from the areas of "stagnation" of mucopurulent contents. In some cases, a medical puncture of the sinus with evacuation of pus is indicated.

There is a method of treatment with the help of YAMIK, carried out without a puncture. In this case, the contents of the sinuses are literally “sucked out” by a special device. The otolaryngologist may prescribe complex drops (Markova and others).

Sinusitis often occurs against the background of rhinitis. In such patients, a combination of pathological symptoms is observed. The condition is classified as rhinosinusitis.

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis

Acute inflammation of the pharynx is considered mainly as acute respiratory viral infections or acute respiratory infections - depending on the viral or bacterial origin. Patients are concerned about coughing, feeling of a lump and sore throat. Unpleasant sensations are aggravated by swallowing. General state may worsen: there is a rise in temperature, weakness, lethargy.

On examination, there is granularity rear wall pharynx, pustules and raids may appear. Mucous membrane loose, red. Often given state accompanied by an increase in palatine tonsils. Tonsillitis is also manifested by friability of the lymphoid tissue, hyperemia, with a bacterial lesion, the appearance of purulent plugs or translucent follicles with pus. The patient's anterior cervical lymph nodes increase and become painful.

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis can be combined and isolated, but with a persistent local picture.

Treatment of viral diseases is carried out by irrigating the throat with antiseptic solutions (Chlorhexidine, Miramistin, Yoks). Effective Results gives the use of infusions and decoctions of chamomile, rinsing with soda-salt water. The patient is shown frequent warm drink. Food must be mechanically processed (ground, boiled). Antipyretics are used symptomatically if necessary. At bacterial etiology diseases are prescribed appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Deviated septum

This condition is represented by a persistent deviation of the bony and/or cartilaginous structures of the septum from the median plane and is quite common. The curvature is formed due to injuries, prolonged improper treatment chronic rhinitis, individual characteristics development. Allocate various forms deformities, including ridges and spikes of the septum. The condition is often asymptomatic and does not require medical attention.

In some patients, the pathology manifests itself in the form of:

Due to the difficulty of aeration of the paranasal sinuses, a pronounced curvature can be complicated by sinusitis and otitis media. If, against the background of the existing symptoms, another ENT pathology develops, they resort to surgical alignment of the septum.

Bleeding from the nose

The condition develops after injuries, with systemic and respiratory diseases. There are three degrees of nosebleeds:

• insignificant, in which the blood stops on its own, blood loss is minimal (several milliliters);
• moderate, up to 300 ml of blood is lost, hemodynamics is stable;
• strong or severe - loss of more than 300 ml, there are violations of the work of the heart and even the brain (with blood loss up to 1 liter).

As a self-help at home, it is necessary to apply cold to the bridge of the nose, press the nostril on the side of the bleeding. The head is tilted forward (it cannot be thrown back). The best would be the introduction of turunda soaked in hydrogen peroxide. In the absence of stopping bleeding, specialized nasal tamponade or cauterization of the bleeding vessel is required. In case of heavy blood loss, the infusion of solutions and the introduction of medicines(aminocaproic acid, Dicinon, etc.).

Also, the pathology of the upper respiratory tract includes other diseases of the nasal cavity and pharynx, which are diagnosed by an otolaryngologist (hematomas, perforations with a feeling of whistling through a pathological hole in the septum, adhesions and bridges between the mucosa, tumors). In such cases, only a specialist is able to conduct a comprehensive examination, the results of which determine the volume and tactics of treatment.

In general cases, the presence of an inflammatory process in the respiratory tract is accompanied by such signs:

• elevated temperature;
• headache;
• sleep problems;
• aches in the joints;
• aching in the muscles as after hard work;
• lack of appetite;
• nausea and often vomiting.

Depending on the site of the primary localization of the infection, other specific signs are also found.

In particular, if we are talking about such a problem as rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose), then the patient at the first stage:

• abundant snot appears;
• he sneezes all the time;
• as edema develops, breathing becomes difficult.

Pharyngitis is acute illness throat. a bright sign ailments are:

• difficulty swallowing;
• resi;
• lump feeling;
• itching in the palate.

Laryngitis is an inflammation that affects the larynx. Its consequences are:

• dry irritating cough;
• hoarseness;
• plaque on the tongue.

Tonsillitis is a process that specifically affects the tonsils. The latter noticeably increase in size, which makes it difficult to swallow normally. Mucous membranes in this area turn red and inflamed. She is also a pathology that affects the upper respiratory tract - tracheitis. This disease is very feature- dry agonizing cough, not passing sometimes within a month.

The development of parainfluenza is evidenced, first of all, by the relatively low temperature for viral infections, which does not exceed 38 degrees. Hyperemia usually persists for 2 days in the presence of symptoms common to the group under consideration, which are not too pronounced. Almost always, the disease mentioned above becomes the background for the development of laryngitis.

It is also worth mentioning the adenovirus infection. It also mainly affects the respiratory tract and gradually leads to the development of:

• pharyngitis;
• tonsillitis.

Moreover, they often suffer from it and digestive system and organs of vision.

Treatment with drugs

To combat pathologies of the type in question, the doctor usually prescribes a set of tools that allow you to quickly improve the patient's condition.

For a local effect on the foci of inflammation, it is advisable to use such fairly effective medicines:

• Thymol;
• Chlorhexidine;
• Furacilin;
• Hexetidine.

In the presence of bacterial infection prescribe antibiotics (tablets or sprays):

• Polymyxin;
• Framycetin;
• Fusafungin.

To reduce the severity of sore throat, the following anesthetics are allowed:

• Tetracaine;
• Lidocaine.

Perfectly softens discomfort preparations containing menthol and eucalyptus oil.

To fight viruses appoint:

• Lysozyme;
• Interferon.

Useful for strengthening immunity and restorative vitamin complexes. For young children, drugs should be used on plant-based, and also those that contain bee products.

From modern medicines It is worth highlighting the antibiotic Bioparox. This remedy is produced in the form of an aerosol and is used for inhalation. Due to the fact that the drug comes directly to the focus of inflammation, even very acute ailments are treated quickly. The medicine is shown in situations if it is detected:

• laryngitis;
• tracheobronchitis;
• pharyngitis;
• rhinosinusitis.

Often the causative agent is some fungal infection. Hexetidine will help here. This tool is supplied to pharmacies in the form of:

• spray;
• rinse solution.

ethnoscience

If we are talking about rhinitis, then freshly squeezed beetroot juice will help. It must be instilled directly into the nose every 4 hours.

Warm boiled potatoes can also reduce the severity of symptoms. To do this, put his slices:

• on the forehead;
• to the nostrils.

Inhalation is a fairly simple, but extremely effective procedure. Here you will need:

• half liter hot water;
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda;
• eucalyptus oil no more than 10 drops.

It is recommended to breathe healing steam before going to bed. Knowledgeable people it is also advised to eat crushed lemon mixed with a few tablespoons at night natural honey. In one sitting, you must immediately consume the whole fruit along with the peel.

Help and rinsing with a decoction based on the following medicinal herbs taken in equal parts:

• chamomile;
• Linden;
• eucalyptus leaves;
• mint.

A collection in the amount of 6 tablespoons is poured into boiling water and kept for an hour in a thermos. It is advised to use the drug at least 5 times a day. Propolis tincture relieves inflammation well. For this, 10 grams of the product is taken and added to half a glass of alcohol. Infuse the medicine for a week in a dark place, shaking daily. Also used for rinsing, diluting 10-15 drops with half a glass of warm water.

Eliminate sore throat egg yolks. 2 pieces are ground with sugar to a thick white foam and slowly eaten.

A decoction of dill seed is taken after meals, two tablespoons. Prepare it like this:

• a glass of hot water is placed in a water bath;
• fall asleep dried raw materials;
• heat for 5 minutes without bringing to a boil;
• last up to half an hour.

Human breathing is complex physiological mechanism, which provides the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between cells and the external environment.

Oxygen is constantly absorbed by the cells and at the same time the process of removal from the body is going on. carbon dioxide, which is formed as a result of biochemical reactions occurring in the body.

Oxygen is involved in the oxidation reactions of complex organic compounds with their final decay to carbon dioxide and water, during which the energy necessary for life is formed.

In addition to vital gas exchange, external respiration provides other important features in the body, for example, the ability to sound production.

This process involves the muscles of the larynx, respiratory muscles, vocal cords and oral cavity, and it itself is possible only when exhaling. The second important "non-respiratory" function is sense of smell.

Oxygen in our body is found in a small amount- 2.5 - 2.8 liters, and about 15% of this volume is in a bound state.

At rest, a person consumes approximately 250 ml of oxygen per minute and removes about 200 ml of carbon dioxide.

Thus, when breathing stops, the supply of oxygen in our body lasts only a few minutes, then damage and cell death occur, and the cells of the central nervous system suffer first of all.

For comparison: a person can live without water for 10-12 days (in the human body, the water supply, depending on age, is up to 75%), without food - up to 1.5 months.

With intensive physical activity oxygen consumption increases sharply and can reach up to 6 liters per minute.

Respiratory system

The function of respiration in the human body is carried out by the respiratory system, which includes the organs of external respiration (upper respiratory tract, lungs and chest, including its bone and cartilage frame and neuromuscular system), organs for the transport of gases by blood ( vascular system lungs, heart) and regulatory centers that ensure the automatism of the respiratory process.

Rib cage

The thorax forms the walls of the chest cavity, which houses the heart, lungs, trachea, and esophagus.

It consists of 12 thoracic vertebrae, 12 pairs of ribs, sternum and connections between them. front wall chest short, it is formed by the sternum and costal cartilages.

The back wall is formed by the vertebrae and ribs, the vertebral bodies are located in the chest cavity. The ribs are connected to each other and to the spine mobile joints and take an active part in breathing.

The spaces between the ribs are filled with intercostal muscles and ligaments. From the inside, the chest cavity is lined with parietal, or parietal, pleura.

respiratory muscles

The respiratory muscles are divided into those that inhale (inspiratory) and those that exhale (expiratory). The main inspiratory muscles include the diaphragm, external intercostal and internal intercartilaginous muscles.

The accessory inspiratory muscles include the scalene, sternocleidomastoid, trapezius, pectoralis major and minor.

The expiratory muscles include the internal intercostal, rectus, subcostal, transverse, as well as the external and internal oblique muscles of the abdomen.

The mind is the master of the senses, and the breath is the master of the mind.

Diaphragm

Since the thoracic septum, the diaphragm, has an extremely importance in the process of breathing, consider its structure and functions in more detail.

This extensive curved (bulge upward) plate completely delimits the abdominal and chest cavity.

The diaphragm is the main respiratory muscle and the most important organ of the abdominal press.

In it, a tendon center and three muscle parts are distinguished with names according to the organs from which they begin, respectively, the costal, sternal and lumbar regions are distinguished.

During contraction, the dome of the diaphragm moves away from the chest wall and flattens, thereby increasing the volume of the chest cavity and decreasing the volume abdominal cavity.

With simultaneous contraction of the diaphragm with the abdominal muscles, intra-abdominal pressure increases.

It should be noted that the parietal pleura, pericardium and peritoneum are attached to the tendon center of the diaphragm, that is, the movement of the diaphragm displaces the organs of the chest and abdominal cavity.

Airways

The airway refers to the path that air travels from the nose to the alveoli.

They are divided into airways located outside the chest cavity (these are the nasal passages, pharynx, larynx and trachea) and intrathoracic airways (trachea, main and lobar bronchi).

The process of respiration can be conditionally divided into three stages:

External, or pulmonary, human respiration;

Transport of gases by blood (transportation of oxygen by blood to tissues and cells, while removing carbon dioxide from tissues);

Tissue (cellular) respiration, which is carried out directly in cells in special organelles.

External respiration of a person

We will consider the main function of the respiratory apparatus - external respiration, in which gas exchange occurs in the lungs, that is, the supply of oxygen to the respiratory surface of the lungs and the removal of carbon dioxide.

In the process of external respiration, the respiratory apparatus itself takes part, including the airways (nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea), lungs and inspiratory (respiratory) muscles, which expand the chest in all directions.

It is estimated that the average daily ventilation of the lungs is about 19,000-20,000 liters of air, and more than 7 million liters of air pass through the human lungs per year.

Pulmonary ventilation provides gas exchange in the lungs and is supplied by alternating inhalation (inspiration) and exhalation (expiration).

Inhalation is an active process due to the inspiratory (respiratory) muscles, the main of which are the diaphragm, external oblique intercostal muscles and internal intercartilaginous muscles.

The diaphragm is a muscular-tendon formation that delimits the abdominal and thoracic cavities, with its contraction, the volume of the chest increases.

With calm breathing, the diaphragm moves down by 2-3 cm, and with deep forced breathing, the excursion of the diaphragm can reach 10 cm.

When inhaling, due to the expansion of the chest, the volume of the lungs passively increases, the pressure in them becomes lower than atmospheric pressure, which makes it possible for air to penetrate into them. During inhalation, air initially passes through the nose, pharynx, and then enters the larynx. nasal breathing in humans it is very important, since when air passes through the nose, humidification and warming of the air occur. In addition, the epithelium lining the nasal cavity is able to retain small foreign bodies that enter with air. Thus, the airways also perform a cleansing function.

The larynx is located in the anterior region of the neck, from above it is connected to the hyoid bone, from below it passes into the trachea. Front and sides are right and left lobe thyroid gland. The larynx is involved in the act of breathing, protection of the lower respiratory tract and voice formation, consists of 3 paired and 3 unpaired cartilages. Of these formations in the process of breathing important role performs the epiglottis, which protects the respiratory tract from foreign bodies and food. The larynx is conventionally divided into three sections. In the middle section are the vocal cords, which form the narrowest point of the larynx - the glottis. The vocal cords play a major role in the process of sound production, and the glottis plays a major role in breathing practice.

Air enters the trachea from the larynx. The trachea begins at the level of the 6th cervical vertebra; at level 5 thoracic vertebra it divides into 2 main bronchi. The trachea itself and the main bronchi consist of open cartilaginous semicircles, which ensures their constant shape and prevents them from collapsing. The right bronchus is wider and shorter than the left, is located vertically and serves as a continuation of the trachea. It divides into 3 lobar bronchi right lung divided into 3 parts; left bronchus - into 2 lobar bronchi (the left lung consists of 2 lobes)

Then the lobar bronchi divide dichotomously (in two) into bronchi and bronchioles of smaller sizes, ending with respiratory bronchioles, at the end of which there are alveolar sacs, consisting of alveoli - formations in which, in fact, gas exchange occurs.

The walls of the alveoli contain a large number of tiny blood vessels- capillaries, which serve for gas exchange and further transportation of gases.

The bronchi with their branching into smaller bronchi and bronchioles (up to the 12th order, the wall of the bronchi includes cartilaginous tissue and muscles, this prevents the bronchi from collapsing during exhalation) outwardly resemble a tree.

Terminal bronchioles approach the alveoli, which are a branching of the 22nd order.

The number of alveoli in the human body reaches 700 million, and their total area is 160 m2.

By the way, our lungs have a huge reserve; at rest, a person uses no more than 5% of the respiratory surface.

Gas exchange at the level of the alveoli is continuous, it is carried out by the method of simple diffusion due to the difference in the partial pressure of gases (the percentage of the pressure of various gases in their mixture).

The percentage pressure of oxygen in the air is about 21% (in the exhaled air its content is approximately 15%), carbon dioxide - 0.03%.

Video "Gas exchange in the lungs":

calm exhalation- passive process due to several factors.

After the cessation of contraction of the inspiratory muscles, the ribs and sternum descend (due to gravity) and the chest decreases in volume, respectively, intrathoracic pressure increases (becomes higher than atmospheric pressure) and air rushes out.

The lungs themselves have elastic elasticity, which is aimed at reducing the volume of the lungs.

This mechanism is due to the presence of a film lining the inner surface of the alveoli, which contains a surfactant - a substance that provides surface tension inside the alveoli.

So, when the alveoli are overstretched, the surfactant limits this process, trying to reduce the volume of the alveoli, while at the same time not allowing them to subside completely.

The mechanism of elastic elasticity of the lungs is also provided by muscle tone bronchioles.

Active process involving accessory muscles.

During deep expiration, the abdominal muscles (oblique, rectus and transverse) act as expiratory muscles, with the contraction of which the pressure in the abdominal cavity increases and the diaphragm rises.

The auxiliary muscles that provide exhalation also include the intercostal internal oblique muscles and the muscles that flex the spine.

External respiration can be assessed using several parameters.

Respiratory volume. The amount of air that calm state enters the lungs. At rest, the norm is approximately 500-600 ml.

The volume of inhalation is slightly larger, since less carbon dioxide is exhaled than oxygen is supplied.

Alveolar volume. The part of the tidal volume that participates in gas exchange.

Anatomical dead space. It is formed mainly due to the upper respiratory tract, which are filled with air, but do not themselves participate in gas exchange. It makes up about 30% of the respiratory volume of the lungs.

Inspiratory reserve volume. The amount of air that a person can additionally inhale after a normal breath (can be up to 3 liters).

Expiratory reserve volume. Residual air that can be exhaled after a normal expiration individual people reaches 1.5 l).

Breathing rate. The average is 14-18 respiratory cycles per minute. It usually increases with physical activity, stress, anxiety, when the body needs more oxygen.

Minute volume of lungs. It is determined taking into account the respiratory volume of the lungs and the respiratory rate per minute.

AT normal conditions the duration of the exhalation phase is longer than the inhalation, approximately 1.5 times.

Of the characteristics of external respiration, the type of respiration is also important.

It depends on whether breathing is carried out only with the help of an excursion of the chest (thoracic, or costal, type of breathing) or the diaphragm takes the main part in the process of breathing (abdominal, or diaphragmatic, type of breathing).

Breathing is above consciousness.

For women, the thoracic type of breathing is more characteristic, although breathing with the participation of the diaphragm is physiologically more justified.

With this type of breathing, the lower sections of the lungs are better ventilated, the respiratory and minute volume of the lungs increases, the body expends less energy on the breathing process (the diaphragm moves more easily than the bone and cartilage frame of the chest).

Breathing parameters throughout a person's life are automatically adjusted, depending on the needs at a certain time.

The respiratory control center consists of several links.

As the first link in regulation the need to maintain a constant level of oxygen and carbon dioxide tension in the blood.

These parameters are constant; with severe disorders, the body can exist for only a few minutes.

The second link of regulation- peripheral chemoreceptors located in the walls of blood vessels and tissues that respond to a decrease in the level of oxygen in the blood or to an increase in the level of carbon dioxide. Irritation of chemoreceptors causes a change in the frequency, rhythm and depth of breathing.

The third link of regulation- actually respiratory center, which consists of neurons (nerve cells) located at various levels of the nervous system.

There are several levels of the respiratory center.

spinal respiratory center located at the level spinal cord, innervates the diaphragm and intercostal muscles; its significance is in changing the force of contraction of these muscles.

Central respiratory mechanism (rhythm generator) located in medulla oblongata and the pons, has the property of automatism and regulates breathing at rest.

Center located in the cerebral cortex and hypothalamus, ensures the regulation of breathing during physical exertion and in a state of stress; the cerebral cortex allows you to arbitrarily regulate breathing, produce unauthorized breath holding, consciously change its depth and rhythm, and so on.

It should be noted one more important point: deviation from the normal rhythm of breathing is usually accompanied by changes in other organs and systems of the body.

Simultaneously with a change in the respiratory rate, the heart rate is often disturbed and blood pressure becomes unstable.

We offer to watch the video a fascinating and informative film "The Miracle of the Respiratory System":

Breathe properly and stay healthy!

Article plan

Respiratory system

The respiratory system is the collection of human organs that provide external respiration. The respiratory system has the following main sections:

• upper respiratory tract;
• lower respiratory tract;
• Lungs.

The respiratory system begins to function at the moment of birth, and ends its functioning after the death of a person. The work of the presented system is to perform the following functions:

• Thermoregulation of the human body;
• The ability to talk;
• The ability to distinguish odors;
• Carries out humidification of the air that a person inhales;
• Takes part in lipid and salt metabolism.

In addition, a clear structure respiratory system performs an important function in the immune system, providing additional protection of the human body from environment. There are several types of breathing, such as:

• Thoracic, which is most often present in the female;
• Abdominal, which is most often present in the male.

What is the structure of the upper respiratory tract? The upper respiratory tract includes:

• nose;
• Parts of the oral cavity;
• oral pharynx;
• Nasal pharynx.

At the moment of inhalation, the air first of all appears in the nose, it is in it that the first stage of its purification takes place, which takes place with the help of hairs. The network, consisting of the blood vessels of the nasal mucosa, performs the warming of the air that is inhaled by the person.

Droplets of mucus in a person's nose perform a moisturizing effect. In this way, the air is prepared for the conditions that prevail in the human lungs. After that, the air passes to the pharyngeal cavity, which in turn is divided into several sections.

Moreover, it is in this place that the paths of the respiratory system and the esophagus intersect. The air that a person inhales passes through the pharynx to the lower respiratory tract.

What is the structure of the lower respiratory tract? The lower respiratory tract has the following structure:

• Trachea or, as it is also called the windpipe;
• Larynx;
• Lungs.

Air from the pharynx initially passes into the larynx. The larynx has the ability to overlap the trachea and connect with the bronchial tube and pharyngeal cavity. If the larynx did not have such an opportunity, then a person could not cough. After that, the air passes from the larynx to the trachea.

Note that the diaphragm is not part of the airway, but is still considered an integral part of the respiratory system.

Respiratory disease

At the moment, there are a huge number of diseases of the respiratory system of the human body, and each of them in one way or another causes some discomfort to the patient, thereby complicating his life.

Some of the most common symptoms of a respiratory disease are, for example, a runny nose and cough, and some symptoms can even be fatal. The functioning of the respiratory system must necessarily be stable, because a deviation from the norm can lead to clinical death, as well as irreversible changes in the human brain.

As a rule, such well-known diseases as:

• Pharyngitis;
• Angina;
• Tonsillitis;
• Acute respiratory disease;
• tracheitis;
• acute respiratory viral disease;
• sinusitis;
• rhinitis;
• laryngitis.

Lower respiratory diseases include:

• bronchitis;
• tuberculosis;
• pulmonary infarction;
• bronchial asthma;
• sarcoidosis;
• pulmonary emphysema;
• pneumonia;
• occupational lung diseases.

Main symptoms

Usually manifested by symptoms that are caused by the penetration of the virus, which causes intoxication of the whole organism. What are the symptoms of this disease?

So, the main symptoms of respiratory disease:

• Strong headache;
• Bad sleep;
• High temperature;
• Prostration;
• Pain in the muscles;
• poor appetite;
• Vomiting;
• convulsions;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Pain when eating;
• The whole body hurts;
• dry throat;
• Sore throat;
• The appearance of hoarseness;
• Enlarged lymph nodes;
• The appearance of white spots on the tonsils;
• Fever;
• Body temperature can reach 39⁰С;
• Brief loss of consciousness;
• Weakened reaction;
• Increased or vice versa reduced activity.

For example, rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nose, in which there is severe runny nose, difficult breathing, as well as frequent sneezing. Pharyngitis is called inflammation of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, and there are acute and chronic forms of the disease. With pharyngitis, some perspiration and pain are noticed when eating food.

Laryngitis is called inflammation of the larynx, which can pass to the vocal cords, and is accompanied by hoarseness, as well as barking cough. Tonsillitis refers to infectious diseases, which manifests itself in acute inflammation lymphadenoid rings of the pharynx, usually tonsils.

With this disease, there is an increase in the tonsils, redness of the mucous membranes and pain when eating. Tracheitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the trachea, in which there is a dry cough and heaviness in the chest.

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchi. Bronchitis is accompanied by an increase in the volume of secretion in the bronchi, resulting in sputum production and coughing. Also, bronchitis can be accompanied by damage to the small bronchi, and this leads to the appearance of shortness of breath.

Respiratory treatment

Airway inflammation is not one of the most serious illnesses, so the treatment is not something very complicated. What is the treatment for airway inflammation? When treating laryngitis, doctors recommend less strain on the vocal cords. The most important thing in the treatment of tonsillitis, tracheitis and bronchitis is the exclusion from your diet of food that can irritate the throat.

That is, get rid of sour, salty, hot, cold and spicy foods. It is also contraindicated to drink alcohol and smoke, as tobacco smoke and alcohol also lead to irritation of the mucous membranes.

With sore throat, you need to drink a large amount of liquid, and ideal option there will be the use of vitamin drinks, such as rosehip decoctions or berry fruit drinks.

Antipyretic drugs are used to lower body levels. As a rule, the doctor prescribes drugs that include interferon and lysozyme, as well as mineral-vitamin complexes.

Naturally, if the disease has bacterial form, then the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, but taking them at your discretion is strictly contraindicated, as you may incorrectly analyze the symptoms that have arisen and decide on the treatment.

Treatment of pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, tracheitis and bronchitis with antibiotics is necessary only for acute forms, and with chronic pharyngitis The use of antibiotics is generally required to prevent the occurrence of various complications diseases.

Incorrect or inadequate treatment of the acute form of the disease, inflammation of the respiratory tract can progress to chronic forms. Moreover, pay attention to the fact that the chronic form has less pronounced symptoms than the acute form.

Therefore, with this form of the disease, they do not look much at the symptoms, but treat the disease itself, thereby muffling the symptoms. The treatment of chronic forms of inflammation of the respiratory tract is quite lengthy, since it includes not only the elimination of foci of infections, but also simultaneous treatment diseases gastrointestinal tract, violations endocrine systems and many more.

As a rule, the hypertrophic form of a chronic disease is treated by cauterization of the lymphoid tissue, using electric current or cold. And the treatment of the atrophic form of the disease is to increase the secretion of mucus and reduce the level of dryness of the throat, as well as to stimulate the regenerative processes of the mucous membranes.

Prevention of respiratory disease

To reduce the risk of the presented disease, you need to use the following methods of prevention:

• Refuse bad habits such as alcohol abuse and smoking.
• Restore disturbed nasal breathing;
• Strengthen immunity.

• Do not buy various cough drops as it is a waste of money. They cannot cure the throat, but only ease the discomfort.
• No need to rely only on gargling. In addition, inflammation of the mucous membranes with pharyngitis in chronic form in general, it is impossible to treat by rinsing with a solution of soda, as this greatly dries out and complicates the treatment of the disease.
• No need to use nose drops very often. Frequent use of nasal drops can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat as the drops run from the nose down the throat.

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Attention, only TODAY!

1. RESPIRATORY

2. UPPER AIRWAY

2.2. PHARYNX

3. LOWER AIRWAY

3.1. LARYNX

3.2. TRACHEA

3.3. MAIN BRONCHI

3.4. LUNGS

4. PHYSIOLOGY OF BREATH

List of used literature

1. RESPIRATORY

Respiration is a set of processes that ensure the entry of oxygen into the body and the removal of carbon dioxide (external respiration), as well as the use of oxygen by cells and tissues for the oxidation of organic substances with the release of the energy necessary for their vital activity (the so-called cellular or tissue respiration ). In unicellular animals and lower plants, the exchange of gases during respiration occurs by diffusion through the surface of the cells, in higher plants - through the intercellular spaces that permeate their entire body. In humans, external respiration is carried out by special respiratory organs, and tissue respiration is provided by blood.

Gas exchange between the body and the external environment is provided by the respiratory organs (Fig.). Respiratory organs are characteristic of animal organisms that receive oxygen from the air of the atmosphere (lungs, tracheae) or dissolved in water (gills).

Picture. Human respiratory organs

The respiratory organs consist of the airways and respiratory organs- lungs. Depending on the position in the body, the respiratory tract is divided into upper and lower sections. The respiratory tract is a system of tubes, the lumen of which is formed due to the presence of bones and cartilage in them.

The inner surface of the respiratory tract is covered with a mucous membrane, which contains a significant number of glands that secrete mucus. Passing through the respiratory tract, the air is cleaned and humidified, and also acquires the temperature necessary for the lungs. Passing through the larynx, air plays an important role in the formation of articulate speech in humans.

Through the respiratory tract, air enters the lungs, where gas exchange takes place between the air and the blood. Blood gives off excess carbon dioxide through the lungs and is saturated with oxygen up to necessary for the body concentration.

2. UPPER AIRWAY

The upper respiratory tract includes the nasal cavity, bow pharynx, oropharynx.

2.1 NOSE

The nose consists of the outer part, which forms the nasal cavity.

The external nose includes the root, back, apex and wings of the nose. The root of the nose is located in the upper part of the face and is separated from the forehead by the nose bridge. The sides of the nose join in the midline to form the back of the nose. From top to bottom, the back of the nose passes into the top of the nose, below the wings of the nose limit the nostrils. The nostrils are separated along the midline by the membranous part of the nasal septum.

outer part of the nose external nose) has a bone and cartilaginous skeleton, formed by the bones of the skull and several cartilages.

The nasal cavity is divided by the nasal septum into two symmetrical parts, which open in front of the face with the nostrils. Posteriorly, through the choanae, the nasal cavity communicates with the nasal part of the pharynx. The nasal septum is membranous and cartilaginous anteriorly, and bony posteriorly.

Most of the nasal cavity is represented by the nasal passages, with which the paranasal sinuses (air cavities of the skull bones) communicate. There are upper, middle and lower nasal passages, each of which is located under the corresponding nasal concha.

The superior nasal passage communicates with the posterior cells ethmoid bone. The middle nasal passage communicates with the frontal sinus maxillary sinus, middle and anterior cells (sinuses) of the ethmoid bone. The lower nasal passage communicates with the lower opening of the nasolacrimal canal.

In the nasal mucosa, the olfactory region is distinguished - a part of the nasal mucosa covering the right and left upper nasal conchas and part of the middle ones, as well as the corresponding section of the nasal septum. The rest of the nasal mucosa belongs to the respiratory area. In the olfactory region are nerve cells, which perceive odorous substances from the inhaled air.

In the anterior part of the nasal cavity, called the nasal vestibule, are the sebaceous, sweat glands and short coarse hair - vibris.

Blood supply and lymphatic drainage of the nasal cavity

The mucous membrane of the nasal cavity is supplied with blood by branches of the maxillary artery, branches from the ophthalmic artery. Deoxygenated blood flows from the mucous membrane along the sphenopalatine vein, which flows into the pterygoid plexus.

Lymphatic vessels from the nasal mucosa are sent to submandibular lymph nodes and submental lymph nodes.

Innervation of the nasal mucosa

Sensitive innervation of the nasal mucosa (anterior part) is carried out by branches of the anterior ethmoid nerve from the nasociliary nerve. The back of the side wall and septum of the nose is innervated by branches of the nasopalatine nerve and the posterior nasal branches from the maxillary nerve. The glands of the nasal mucosa are innervated from the pterygopalatine ganglion, the posterior nasal branches and the nasopalatine nerve from the autonomic nucleus of the intermediate nerve (part of the facial nerve).

2.2 SIP

This is a section of the human alimentary canal; connects oral cavity with the esophagus. From the walls of the pharynx, the lungs develop, as well as the thymus, thyroid and parathyroid gland. Performs swallowing and participates in the process of breathing.

The lower respiratory tract includes the larynx, trachea and bronchi with intrapulmonary branches.

3.1 LARYNX

The larynx occupies a median position in the anterior region of the neck at the level of 4-7 cervical vertebrae. The larynx is suspended above the hyoid bone, below it is connected to the trachea. In men, it forms an elevation - a protrusion of the larynx. In front, the larynx is covered with plates of the cervical fascia and hyoid muscles. Front and sides of the larynx cover the right and left lobes of the thyroid gland. Behind the larynx is the laryngeal part of the pharynx.

Air from the pharynx enters the laryngeal cavity through the entrance to the larynx, which is bounded in front by the epiglottis, laterally by the aryepiglottic folds, and behind by the arytenoid cartilages.

The cavity of the larynx is conditionally divided into three sections: the vestibule of the larynx, the interventricular section and the subvocal cavity. In the interventricular region of the larynx is the human speech apparatus - the glottis. The width of the glottis during quiet breathing is 5 mm, during voice formation it reaches 15 mm.

The mucous membrane of the larynx contains many glands, the secretions of which moisten the vocal folds. In the region of the vocal cords, the mucous membrane of the larynx does not contain glands. In the submucosa of the larynx there is a large number of fibrous and elastic fibers that form the fibrous-elastic membrane of the larynx. It consists of two parts: a quadrangular membrane and an elastic cone. The quadrangular membrane lies under the mucous membrane in upper section larynx and participates in the formation of the vestibule wall. At the top, it reaches the aryepiglottic ligaments, and below, its free edge forms the right and left ligament vestibule. These ligaments are located in the thickness of the folds of the same name.

The elastic cone is located under the mucous membrane in lower section larynx. The fibers of the elastic cone start from top edge arcs of the cricoid cartilage in the form of a cricoid ligament, go up and somewhat outward (laterally) and are attached in front to inner surface thyroid cartilage (near its angle), and behind - to the base and vocal processes of the arytenoid cartilages. The upper free edge of the elastic cone is thickened, stretched between the thyroid cartilage in front and the vocal processes of the arytenoid cartilages behind, forming a VOICE LINK (right and left) on each side of the larynx.

The muscles of the larynx are divided into groups: dilators, constrictors of the glottis and muscles that strain the vocal cords.

The glottis expands only when one muscle contracts. This is a paired muscle that starts on the posterior surface of the plate cricoid cartilage, goes up and attaches to the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage. Narrow the glottis: lateral cricoarytenoid, thyroarytenoid, transverse and oblique arytenoid muscles.

The cricoid muscle (steam) begins in two bundles from the anterior surface of the cricoid cartilage arch. The muscle goes up and is attached to the lower edge and to lower horn thyroid cartilage. When this muscle contracts, the thyroid cartilage leans forward and the vocal cords tighten (tension).

Voice muscle - steam room (right and left). Each muscle is located in the thickness of the corresponding vocal fold. Muscle fibers are woven into vocal cord to which this muscle is attached. The vocal muscle starts from the inner surface of the angle of the thyroid cartilage, in its lower part, and is attached to the vocal process of the arytenoid cartilage. Contracting, it strains the vocal cord. When a part of the vocal muscle contracts, the corresponding section of the vocal cord is tensed.

Blood supply and lymphatic drainage of the larynx

Branches of the superior laryngeal artery from the superior thyroid artery and branches of the inferior laryngeal artery from the inferior thyroid artery approach the larynx. Venous blood flows through the veins of the same name.

The lymphatic vessels of the larynx flow into the deep cervical lymph nodes.

Innervation of the larynx

The larynx is innervated by branches of the superior laryngeal nerve. At the same time, its outer branch innervates the cricothyroid muscle, the inner - the mucous membrane of the larynx above the glottis. The inferior laryngeal nerve innervates all the other muscles of the larynx and its mucous membrane below the glottis. Both nerves are branches vagus nerve. The laryngopharyngeal branches of the sympathetic nerve also approach the larynx.