Topic: Disorders of Respiratory system

Definition: A chronic respiratory condition characterized by difficulty in breathing.
Cause: Inflammation of the bronchi and bronchioles (smaller airways in the lungs).
Symptoms:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Coughing
Mechanism: Inflammation narrows the airways, making it harder for air to flow in and out of the lungs.
Triggers: (Vary widely)
- Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
- Infections
- Exercise
- Cold air
- Smoke
- Stress

Definition: A chronic, progressive lung disease.
Cause: Damage to the alveolar walls (tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for gas exchange).
Effect: Decreased respiratory surface area, leading to reduced oxygen uptake and difficulty breathing.
Major Cause: Cigarette smoking.
Other Causes:
- Genetic factors
- Long-term exposure to air pollutants
Mechanism: Destruction of alveolar walls leads to larger, less efficient air spaces, reducing the lungs’ ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream.

Definition: Lung diseases caused by inhaling dust, fumes, or other irritants in the workplace.
Specific Example: Grinding and stone-breaking industries generate significant dust.
Body’s Defense Mechanism:
- Respiratory system has natural defenses to trap and remove inhaled particles (e.g., cilia, mucus).
Problem: In heavily polluted environments, these defenses can be overwhelmed.
Consequences of Long Exposure:
- Inflammation
- Fibrosis (proliferation of fibrous tissue)
- Serious lung damage
Fibrosis: Scarring of lung tissue, making it stiff and less elastic, further impairing breathing.
Prevention: Protective masks for workers in high-risk industries are crucial.
Other Examples:
- Exposure to asbestos
- Exposure to silica
- Exposure to coal dust
- Exposure to various chemicals

SBS