The lungs are filled with millions of these tiny air sacs, the alveoli, surrounded by a network of tiny blood vessels. This is where gas exchange occurs: oxygen from the air we breathe in passes into the blood through the thin walls of the alveoli, and at the same time, carbon dioxide from the blood passes into the alveoli to be exhaled. It's a constant and efficient exchange.

All this process is orchestrated by the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles, which contract and relax to expand and contract the lungs, creating the movement of inhalation and exhalation.

What Can Affect the Functioning of the Respiratory Tract?

Although our respiratory system is very resilient, various conditions can affect its functioning, making it difficult to breathe freely. Examples of these include:

Respiratory infections. These are the most common, caused by viruses or bacteria that inflame the airways and increase mucus production. This causes cough, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing (dyspnoea).

Respiratory allergies. They arise when the immune system overreacts to allergens, causing inflammation in the airways.

Chronic respiratory diseases. Long-term conditions that damage the lungs and airways, often progressive.

Environmental factors and habits. Continuous exposure to irritants harms lung function. Tobacco is the leading cause of chronic respiratory diseases and increases the risk of infections, while air pollution also inflames the airways.

Understanding these factors is key to taking care of our respiratory health and maintaining an active and healthy life.