what structure is considered the guardian of the airways

What is the function of upper airways?

The upper airways comprises the nasopharynx, larynx the trachea and the main bronchi which allow the flow of gases in and out of the lungs. In addition these structures have an important function in warming and humidifying air to prevent contamination of the lower airways.

What are the anatomical structures of the upper airway?

The upper airway is made up of a surprising number of components. The actual anatomical structures are the: Nose, palate, facial bones, l arynx, and cricoid cartilage. These structures create several cavities; the Nasopharynx, Oropharynx, Laryngopharynx, and Glottis.

Why is the division between the upper and lower airway significant?

The division between upper and lower airway is significant because any foreign material in the lower airway is considered "aspirated" and has a significant risk of causing to respiratory complications. TRACHEA: The trachea is composed of several C-shaped cartilage rings and is coated with the same mucosal and cilial cells as the nasal air passages.

What is the function of the airway passages in the lungs?

Up to the level of the 16th generation the function of the airway passages is to ensure the flow of air and its humidification.

What are the structures that transfer air?

As in the upper airway, there are structures that transfer air; the trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, and structures that allow oxygen and carbon dioxide to be exchanged with the blood, the alveoli.

What is the upper airway?

Upper Airway. The upper airway is the "A" of the ABC's as such, it takes on special importance in any emergency response. As the entry point for oxygen any damage to, or blockage of, the structures in the upper airway can rapidly result in unconsciousness or death. The anatomy of the upper airway can be broken down into the nose, mouth, and throat.

What are the thin walls of the lungs called?

ALVEOLI : the alveoli are the millions of thin-walled sacs inside the lungs which are surrounded by microscopic blood vessels (capillaries). The thin walls and a significant amount of blood flow allow oxygen and carbon dioxide to be easily exchanged. The alveoli are the end of the airway.

What is the primary airway used by most conscious adults to breathe?

NOSE (Nasopharynx): The nose is the primary airway used by most conscious adults to breathe. The space behind the nostrils (the nasopharynx) is filled with blood-rich tissue covered in mucus, which warms and cleans incoming air.

What is the mechanism that covers the opening of the trachea, the glottis when food is?

The Epiglottis is the mechanism that covers the opening of the trachea, the glottis when food is swallowed. It acts as a "trap door" which closes when swallowing to prevent food from entering the lower airway.

Which bronchus points downward?

The right mainstem bronchus points downward at a sharper angle than the left. This is why foreign bodies or aspirated material are more likely to get stuck in, or pass through, the right mainstem bronchus.

Where is the trachea located?

The trachea sits anterior (in front of) the esophagus. BRONCHI: The bronchi are hollow tubes that branch off of the trachea at the carina into right and left bronchi, these are known as the main stem bronchi. They then further subdivide into smaller bronchi for each lobe of the right and left lung.