A & P Patho Copd

Anatomy of the lungs: The lungs are in the thoracic cavity on either sides of the heart and are cone shaped. Each lung is divided into superior and inferior lobes. The right lung also has a middle lobe on top of those two. They are spongy air filled organs. The trachea, which is also referred to as the windpipe, conducts air into the lungs through the bronchi. The bronchi are further divided into smaller branches called bronchioles. Those then end in clusters of microscopic air sacs called alveoli. The lungs are covered by a thin tissue layer called pleura, which further acts as lubricants for the lungs to slip with each breath.
Physiology of the lungs: The lungs working properly will result in the successful exchange of gases. During inhalation the diaphragm contracts, which draws air into the lungs. All the muscle groups act together expanding the lungs. The trachea pulls air into the lungs via the bronchi. The bronchioles then are a functional branch of the bronchi. The tiny pockets of alveoli store air briefly in order for oxygen to be absorbed in the bloodstream. Through the alveoli the gas exchange into the lungs occurs.
Pathophysiology of COPD
COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It is typically caused by inhaled irritants such as tobacco smoke. It is a chronic inflammation of the airways, lung tissue, and pulmonary blood vessels. It limits air flow and is irreversible. The inflammation causes excess mucus production. This results in chronic cough, dyspnea, and wheezing. The inflammation response is caused by a grouping of cells in the airways from neutrophils, T-lmyphocytes, and other inflammatory cells that trigger