What are the 7 Functions of the Lungs?

Exploring the 7 Vital Functions of the Lungs

Your lungs are vital organs of the respiratory system, acting as a network of organs and tissues responsible for breathing. Located on either side of the chest, your two lungs occupy the thoracic region, which is also called the thorax. It is the area that lies between the neck and the abdomen.

The Primary Functions of the Lungs

Here are seven primary functions of the lungs:

1. Supplying Oxygen and Removing Carbon Dioxide

The lungs supply oxygen to the body while removing other gases, like carbon dioxide. This exchange occurs 12 to 20 times per minute to maintain optimal respiratory function.

2. Creating Air Passage

After inhaling air, it travels into the lungs through the nose or mouth, down the pharynx, larynx, trachea, and bronchial tubes (two air passages). Clear (free from swelling and excessive mucus build-up) and open airways are essential for efficient breathing.

3. Transferring Oxygen to Blood

Inside the lungs, bronchioles lead to alveoli (tiny air sacs), where oxygen from inhaled air is transferred to blood. These tiny air sacs look like clusters of small round fruits. However, they play a vital role in respiration.

4. Supporting Circulation and Cellular Function

Upon oxygen absorption, blood leaves the lungs and is delivered to the heart. From this point, it is pumped throughout the body, ensuring that tissues and organs receive the necessary oxygen for energy production and proper functioning.

5. Balancing pH

While your body is filled with an excess of carbon dioxide, it can become more acidic. When the lungs sense this phenomenon (an increase in acidity), they respond by breathing faster to eliminate the excess CO2. This ultimately helps restore pH balance.

6. Protecting Body

The lungs defend the body against toxic agents by producing Immunoglobulin A, which helps prevent infections. In addition, the lungs use the mucociliary clearance procedure, where mucus traps dirt particles, pathogens, and more. Then, cilia push these particles upward, which allows the body to release them through coughing or destroy them via digestion.

7. Speech

Without proper airflow, a person would be unable to speak. The lungs are essential for speech, as they provide the necessary airflow. The air passing through the vocal cords causes them to vibrate, producing sound. Tips for Keeping Your Lungs Healthy and Functioning Properly

There are several ways of keeping the lungs healthy. They are:

1. Stop Smoking

Inhaling tobacco, even passively, may result in severe lung diseases, including lung cancer, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Continuous exposure progressively inflames the lungs, harms tissues, and narrows airways.

2. Prevent Infection

To reduce your risk of respiratory infection, practice regular handwashing, avoid gatherings during flu season, and consult your doctor about vaccines for influenza and pneumonia.

3. Do Workout

Consider working out every day. You can prefer aerobic exercises as they help improve lung capacity and stay fit. As a result, you can avoid contracting other illnesses that might affect the lungs.

4. Consider Annual Check-ups

Even without symptoms, routine health check-ups help identify issues early. This practice makes treatment more effective by improving the chances of successful recovery.

5. Avoiding Dirt Particle Exposure

Household and garden chemicals can harm your lungs, so it is advisable to wear a mask when using strong chemicals. Radon, a natural gas, contributes to a significant number of lung cancer deaths annually in non-smokers.

6. Opt for a Healthy Diet

Food acts as fuel for your body. Converting it into energy through the metabolism requires your lungs to be accomplished. A balanced diet is essential since no single food provides the necessary nutrients.

7. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps loosen the mucus in your lungs and airways, easing breathing. On the other hand, dehydration thickens the mucus, making breathing more difficult. It also increases your susceptibility to allergies and raises the risk of infections.

8. Improve Indoor Air Quality

Smoke, mould, radon, and other chemicals can affect the air quality of your house or working spaces. This situation is especially hazardous for those with chronic lung conditions. To solve this issue, consider dusting often, replacing filters, and avoiding smoke.

Keeping your lungs healthy and functioning correctly is simple. You need to follow the tips mentioned above and take some preventive measures. However, if you experience persistent breathing issues, seeking medical guidance to identify and address any underlying causes is essential.