What are the lungs? Lungs and pulmonology (the science that studies diseases of the lungs and respiratory tract). Types and methods of lung examination

The lungs are a paired human respiratory organ. The lungs are located in the chest cavity, adjacent to the right and left of the heart. They have the shape of a semi-cone, the base of which is located on the diaphragm, and the apex protrudes 1-3 cm above the collarbone. For prevention, drink Transfer Factor. The lungs are located in the pleural sacs, separated from each other by the mediastinum - a complex of organs that includes the heart, aorta, superior vena cava, extending from the spinal column at the back to the anterior chest wall at the front. They occupy most of the chest cavity and are in contact with both the spine and the anterior chest wall.

The right and left lungs are not the same in both shape and volume. The right lung has a larger volume than the left (by approximately 10%), at the same time it is somewhat shorter and wider due to the fact that the right dome of the diaphragm is higher than the left (the influence of the voluminous right lobe of the liver), and the heart is located more to the left, than to the right, thereby reducing the width of the left lung. In addition, on the right, directly under the lung in the abdominal cavity, there is a liver, which also reduces the space.

The right and left lungs are located, respectively, in the right and left pleural cavities, or, as they are also called, pleural sacs. The pleura is a thin film consisting of connective tissue that covers the chest cavity from the inside (parietal pleura), and the lungs and mediastinum from the outside (visceral pleura). Between these two types of pleura there is a special lubricant that significantly reduces the friction force during breathing movements.

Each lung has an irregular conical shape with a base directed downwards, its apex is rounded, it is located 3-4 cm above the 1st rib or 2-3 cm above the clavicle in front, and in the back it reaches the level of the 7th cervical vertebra. At the top of the lungs, a small groove is noticeable, resulting from the pressure of the subclavian artery passing here. The lower border of the lungs is determined by percussion - tapping.

Both lungs have three surfaces: costal, inferior and medial (internal). The lower surface has a concavity corresponding to the convexity of the diaphragm, and the costal surfaces, on the contrary, have a convexity corresponding to the concavity of the ribs from the inside. The medial surface is concave and basically follows the contours of the pericardium; it is divided into an anterior part adjacent to the mediastinum and a posterior part adjacent to the spinal column. The medial surface is considered the most interesting. Here, each lung has a so-called gate, through which the bronchus, pulmonary artery and vein enter the lung tissue.

The right lung consists of 3, and the left lung of 2 lobes. The skeleton of the lung is formed by tree-like branching bronchi. The boundaries of the lobes are deep grooves and are clearly visible. On both lungs there is an oblique groove, which begins almost at the apex, it is 6-7 cm below it, and ends at the lower edge of the lung. The groove is quite deep and represents the boundary between the upper and lower lobes of the lung. On the right lung there is an additional transverse groove that separates the middle lobe from the upper lobe. It is presented in the form of a large wedge. On the anterior edge of the left lung, in its lower part, there is a cardiac notch, where the lung, as if pushed aside by the heart, leaves a significant part of the pericardium uncovered. From below, this notch is limited by a protrusion of the anterior edge, called the uvula, the part of the lung adjacent to it corresponds to the middle lobe of the right lung.

In the internal structure of the lungs there is a certain hierarchy that corresponds to the division of the main and lobar bronchi. According to the division of the lungs into lobes, each of the two main bronchi, approaching the gates of the lung, begins to divide into lobar bronchi. The right upper lobar bronchus, heading towards the center of the upper lobe, passes over the pulmonary artery and is called supraarterial, the remaining lobar bronchi of the right lung and all the lobar bronchi of the left pass under the artery and are called subarterial. The lobar bronchi, penetrating into the substance of the lung, are divided into smaller tertiary bronchi, called segmental, since they ventilate specific areas of the lung - segments. Each lobe of the lung consists of several segments. The segmental bronchi, in turn, are divided dichotomously (each into two) into smaller bronchi of the 4th and subsequent orders up to the terminal and respiratory bronchioles.

Each lobe or segment receives its blood supply from its own branch of the pulmonary artery, and the outflow of blood is also carried out through a separate influx of the pulmonary vein. Vessels and bronchi always pass through the thickness of the connective tissue, which is located between the lobules. Secondary lobules of the lung - so named to distinguish them from the primary lobules, which are smaller. Correspond to the branches of the lobar bronchi.

The primary lobule is the entire set of pulmonary alveoli, which is associated with the smallest bronchiole of the last order. The alveolus is the final section of the respiratory tract. In fact, the lung tissue itself consists of alveoli. They look like tiny bubbles, and neighboring ones have common walls. The inside of the walls of the alveoli are covered with epithelial cells, which are of two types: respiratory (respiratory alveocytes) and large alveocytes. Respiratory cells are very highly specialized cells that perform the function of gas exchange between the environment and the blood. Large alveocytes produce a specific substance - surfactant. Lung tissue always contains a certain number of phagocytes - cells that destroy foreign particles and small bacteria.

The main function of the lungs is gas exchange, when the blood is enriched with oxygen and carbon dioxide is removed from the blood. The entry of oxygen-saturated air into the lungs and the removal of exhaled, carbon dioxide-saturated air to the outside are ensured by active respiratory movements of the chest wall and diaphragm and the contractility of the lung itself in combination with the activity of the respiratory tract. Unlike other parts of the respiratory tract, the lungs do not transport air, but directly carry out the transition of oxygen into the blood. This occurs through the membranes of the alveoli and respiratory alveocytes. In addition to normal breathing in the lung, there is collateral breathing, i.e., the movement of air bypassing the bronchi and bronchioles. It occurs between the peculiarly constructed acini, through pores in the walls of the pulmonary alveoli.

The physiological role of the lungs is not limited to gas exchange. Their complex anatomical structure also corresponds to a variety of functional manifestations: activity of the bronchial wall during breathing, secretory-excretory function, participation in metabolism (water, lipid and salt with the regulation of chlorine balance), which is important in maintaining acid-base balance in the body.

It is interesting to note that the blood supply to the lungs is dual, as they have two completely independent vascular networks. One of them is responsible for breathing and comes from the pulmonary artery, and the second provides the organ with oxygen and comes from the aorta. Venous blood flowing to the pulmonary capillaries through the branches of the pulmonary artery enters into osmotic exchange (gas exchange) with the air contained in the alveoli: it releases its carbon dioxide into the alveoli and receives oxygen in return. Arterial blood is brought to the lungs from the aorta. It nourishes the wall of the bronchi and lung tissue.

In the lungs, there are superficial lymphatic vessels located in the deep layer of the pleura, and deep ones located inside the lungs. The roots of the deep lymphatic vessels are the lymphatic capillaries, which form networks around the respiratory and terminal bronchioles, in the interacinus and interlobular septa. These networks continue into the plexuses of lymphatic vessels around the branches of the pulmonary artery, veins and bronchi.

The human lungs are the most important organ of the respiratory system. Their features are considered to be a pair structure, the ability to change their size, narrow and expand many times during the day. The shape of this organ resembles a tree and has numerous branches.

Where are the human lungs located?

The lungs are allocated a large, central part of the internal space of the chest. From the back, this organ occupies an area at the level of the shoulder blades and 3-11 pairs of ribs. The chest cavity containing them is a closed space in which there is no communication with the external environment.

The base of the paired respiratory organ is adjacent to the diaphragm, which separates the peritoneum and sternum. The neighboring insides are represented by the trachea, large main vessels, and the esophagus. Close to the paired respiratory structure is the heart. Both organs fit quite tightly to each other.

The shape of the lungs is comparable to a truncated cone pointing upward. This section of the respiratory system is located next to the collarbones and protrudes slightly beyond them.

Both lungs have different sizes - the one located on the right dominates its “neighbor” by 8-10%. Their shape is also different. mostly wide and short, while the second is often longer and narrower. This is due to its location and close proximity to the heart muscle.

The shape of the lungs is largely determined by the characteristics of the human constitution. With a thin physique, they become longer and narrower than with excess weight.

What are the lungs made of?

The human lungs are structured in a peculiar way - they completely lack muscle fibers, and a section reveals a spongy structure. The tissue of this organ consists of pyramid-shaped lobules, with their bases facing towards the surface.

The structure of the human lungs is quite complex, and is represented by three main components:

1. Bronchi.
2. Bronchioles.
3. Acini.

This organ is saturated with 2 types of blood - venous and arterial. The leading artery is the pulmonary artery, which gradually divides into smaller vessels.

In a human embryo, pulmonary structures begin to form at the 3rd week of pregnancy. After the fetus reaches 5 months, the process of formation of bronchioles and alveoli is completed.

By the time of birth, the lung tissue is fully formed, and the organ itself contains the required number of segments. After birth, the formation of alveoli continues until a person reaches 25 years of age.

“Skeleton” of the lungs – bronchi

The bronchi (translated from Greek as “breathing tubes”) are represented by hollow tubular branches of the trachea, connected directly to the lung tissue. Their main purpose is to conduct air - the bronchi are respiratory tracts through which oxygen-saturated air enters the lungs, and waste air flows saturated with carbon dioxide (CO2) are discharged back.

In the area of ​​the 4th thoracic vertebra in men (5 in women), the trachea is divided into left and right bronchi, directed to the corresponding lungs. They have a special branching system that resembles the structure of a tree crown in appearance. That is why the bronchi are often called the “bronchial tree”.

The primary bronchi do not exceed 2 cm in diameter. Their walls consist of cartilaginous rings and smooth muscle fibers. This structural feature serves to support the respiratory organs and ensures the necessary expansion of the bronchial lumen. The bronchial walls are actively supplied with blood and penetrated by lymph nodes, which allows them to receive lymph from the lungs and participate in the purification of inhaled air.

Each bronchus is equipped with several membranes:

• external (connective tissue);
• fibromuscular;
• internal (covered with mucus).

A progressive reduction in the diameter of the bronchi leads to the disappearance of cartilage tissue and mucous membrane, their replacement by a thin layer of cubic epithelium.

Bronchial structures protect the body from the penetration of various microorganisms and keep the lung tissue in an intact state. When protective mechanisms are violated, they lose the ability to fully resist the effects of harmful factors, which leads to the occurrence of pathological processes (bronchitis).

Bronchioles

After penetration into the lung tissue of the main bronchus, it divides into bronchioles (the terminal branches of the “bronchial tree”). These branches are distinguished by the absence of cartilage and have a diameter of no more than 1 mm.

The walls of the bronchioles are based on ciliated epithelial cells and alveolocytes that do not contain smooth muscle cells, and the main purpose of these structures is to distribute air flow and maintain resistance to it. They also provide sanitization of the respiratory tract and remove rhinobronchial secretions.

From the trachea, air goes directly into the alveoli of the lungs - small bubbles located at the ends of the bronchioles. The diameter of these “balls” ranges from 200 to 500 microns. The alveolar structure looks much like grape bunches.

The pulmonary alveoli are equipped with very thin walls, lined from the inside with surfactant (a substance that prevents adhesion). These formations make up the respiratory surface of the lungs. The area of ​​the latter is prone to constant fluctuations.

Acini

The acini are the smallest pulmonary unit. There are about 300,000 of them in total. The acini are the final point of division of the bronchial tree, and form lobules from which the segments and lobes of the entire lung are formed.

Lung lobes and bronchopulmonary segments

Each lung consists of several lobes separated by special grooves (fissures). The right one contains 3 lobes (upper, middle and lower), the left – 2 (the middle one is missing due to its smaller size).

Each lobe is divided into bronchopulmonary segments, separated from adjacent areas by connective tissue septa. These structures are shaped like irregular cones or pyramids. Bronchopulmonary segments are functional and morphological units within which pathological processes can be localized. Removal of this part of the organ is often performed instead of resection of lobes of the lung or the entire organ.

In accordance with generally accepted norms of anatomy, there are 10 segments in both lungs. Each of them has its own name and a specific location.

The protective lining of the lungs is the pleura.

The lungs are covered on the outside with a thin, smooth membrane - the pleura. It also lines the inner surface of the chest and serves as a protective film for the mediastinum and diaphragm.

The pulmonary pleura is divided into 2 types:

• visceral;
• parietal.

The visceral film is tightly connected to the lung tissue and is located in the cracks between the lobes of the lung. In the root part of the organ, this pleura gradually becomes parietal. The latter serves to protect the inside of the chest.

How the lungs work

The main purpose of this organ is to carry out gas exchange, during which the blood is saturated with oxygen. The excretory functions of the human lungs involve removing carbon dioxide and water from the exhaled air. Such processes serve the full course of metabolism in various organs and tissues.

Principle of pulmonary gas exchange:

1. When a person inhales, air travels through the bronchial tree into the alveoli. Also, streams of blood containing large amounts of carbon dioxide rush here.
2. After the gas exchange process is completed, CO₂ is released into the external environment through exhalation.
3. Oxygenated blood enters the systemic circulation and serves to nourish various organs and systems.

The respiratory act in humans occurs reflexively (in an involuntary manner). This process is controlled by a special structure located in the brain (breathing center).

The participation of the lungs in the act of breathing is considered passive and consists of expansion and contraction caused by movements of the chest. Inhalation and exhalation are ensured by the muscle tissue of the diaphragm and chest, due to which there are 2 types of breathing - abdominal (diaphragmatic) and thoracic (costal).

During inhalation, the volume of the inner part of the sternum increases. Then a reduced pressure arises in it, allowing air to fill the lungs without obstacles. When you exhale, the process reverses, and after relaxation of the respiratory muscles and lowering of the ribs, the volume of the thoracic cavity decreases.

Interesting to know. Standard lung capacity is 3-6 liters. The amount of air inhaled at a time is on average 1/2 liter. 16-18 breathing movements are performed in 1 minute, and up to 13,000 liters of air are processed throughout the day.

Non-respiratory functions

The functioning of the human lungs is in close relationship with various organs and systems. The healthy state of this paired organ contributes to the smooth, full functioning of the entire body.

In addition to the main function, the human lungs provide other important processes:

• participate in maintaining acid-base balance, coagulation (blood clotting);
• promote the removal of toxins, alcohol vapors, essential oils;
• retain and dissolve fatty microemboli, fibrin clots;
• affect the maintenance of normal water balance (normally, at least 0.5 liters of water per day evaporates through them, and in the event of extreme situations, the volume of fluid removed can increase several times).

Another non-gas exchange function of this organ is phagocytic activity, which consists of protecting the body from the penetration of pathogens and supporting the immune system. This organ also acts as a kind of “shock absorber” for the heart, protecting it from shock and negative external influences.

How to keep your lungs healthy

The lungs are considered a fairly vulnerable organ of the respiratory system, which means constant care for them. The following will help prevent the development of pathological processes:

1. Quitting smoking.
2. Prevention of severe hypothermia.
3. Timely treatment of bronchitis and colds.
4. Normalized cardio loads that occur when running, swimming, cycling.
5. Maintaining normal weight.
6. Moderate consumption of salt, sugar, cocoa, and spicy seasonings.

The presence of butter, olive oil, beets, seafood, natural honey, citrus fruits, fermented milk products, cereals, and walnuts in the diet contributes to keeping the organ in a healthy state. Vegetables and fruits should occupy at least 60% of the entire menu.

Among liquids, you should give preference to green and rosehip tea. Regular consumption of pineapples, which contain a special enzyme - bromelain, which helps destroy the tuberculosis bacillus, is considered beneficial.

Pulmonology(also called pneumology) deals with prevention (prevention), detection (diagnosis), and treatment lung diseases, bronchi, mediastinum and pleura. What lung diseases doctors allocate? What methods of examining the lungs exist?

Lungs: anatomy and functions

Lungs- an organ of the body located in the chest cavity and providing breathing. The human lungs consist of two lobes. The left half of the lungs (also called the left lung) is divided into two lobes, and the right half (right lung) is divided into three lobes. The lungs themselves do not have muscles and therefore breathing is carried out through the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. When the chest expands, a vacuum is created and fresh air is sucked in (inspiration). Exhalation (expiration) in most cases occurs spontaneously, due to the fact that the chest again contracts and squeezes air out of the lungs. The lungs are connected to the trachea (respiratory tract) through the bronchi. The trachea and bronchi perform the function of conducting air, and gas exchange occurs in the alveoli (vesicles). Here aerohematic exchange occurs, i.e. when you inhale, oxygen enters the blood and when you exhale, carbon dioxide is released.

Some lung diseases: Bronchial asthma

Bronchial asthma, often called simply asthma, is a chronic, inflammatory disease of the airways. Inflammation can lead to expiratory shortness of breath due to narrowing of the airways and restriction of airflow (bronchial obstruction). In this case, hyperproduction of mucus occurs, spasms of the smooth muscles of the bronchi appear and swelling of their mucous membrane forms.

An asthma attack can last from a few seconds to several hours. In Germany, about 10 percent of children and 5 percent of adults suffer from bronchial asthma. The airways of asthmatics react to certain, often common in nature irritants (for example, psychological stress, overwork) by being very sensitive and convulsively compressed. Other causes include allergens, respiratory tract infections, cold, medications, and air pollution. Asthma can be diagnosed through a medical history, physical examination, or pulmonary function test. Treatment for allergic asthma involves avoiding exposure to allergens.

Symptoms of an acute attack of asthma, as a rule, are mitigated by an aerosol (active ingredient: beta-2 agonists, corticosteroids, antileukotriene), doctors administer the medicine intravenously only in particularly severe cases.

Some lung diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

The term chronic obstructive pulmonary disease refers to a group of diseases of the bronchopulmonary system in which irreversible narrowing of the airways occurs and which are characterized by coughing, increased sputum production and suffocation during exertion. This primarily includes chronic obstructive bronchitis and emphysema, characterized by difficulty in exhaling. Most airway narrowing (obstruction) is caused by smoking, but COPD can also be caused by dust, fumes, and gases.

COPD has no cure, but medications can help alleviate symptoms, reduce the frequency of coughing attacks, and stop the progression of the disease. In addition, it is possible to increase physical activity and prevent relapses and complications, and thus improve the quality of life and increase its duration.

Some lung diseases: Pulmonary fibrosis

More than 100 different lung diseases can lead to pulmonary fibrosis. With pulmonary fibrosis, due to an inflammatory reaction, the connective tissue in the lungs (alveoli and blood vessels) grows together and, as a result, an insufficient amount of oxygen enters the blood. The lungs become rigid (inelastic) and breathing becomes difficult, thereby limiting physical activity. Due to the fact that the causes of pulmonary fibrosis are not always known, this disease is divided into two types: with known and unknown (ideopathic fibrosis) etiology.

The most common cause of fibrosis is inhalation of abset or certain organic substances (for example, protein components of pollen or components of pigeon droppings). Computed tomography (CT), pulmonary function testing, and bronchoscopy are used for diagnosis. If the cause of the disease is known, contact with the irritating substance must first be eliminated, and then therapy is carried out with anti-inflammatory medications (for example, cortisone or azathioprine). In some cases, other methods of therapy may be required.

Some lung diseases: Bronchial carcinoma and lung cancer (lung carcinoma)

Cancer in the lungs or bronchi is called lung cancer (lung carcinoma) or bronchogenic cancer. In Germany, lung carcinoma is the third most common cancer. Smoking is considered the main cause of the risk of lung cancer, namely in 80-90 percent of cases in men and in 30-60 percent of cases in women. Further risk factors include dusts and gases in the workplace (e.g. asbestos, quartz dust, arsenic, chromates, nickel and aromatic hydrocarbons), environmental influences (radioactive noble gas radon, high levels of air pollution) and, to some extent, , genetic predisposition.

Pulmonary carcinoma makes itself felt very late and the symptoms of this disease often resemble manifestations of the most common pulmonary diseases: cough, shortness of breath or weight loss. If a tumor is suspected in the lung area, radiography is performed, as well as, in many cases, computed tomography and bronchoscopy. Therapy is based on tumor removal, chemotherapy or radiation therapy (irradiation), and, depending on the circumstances, a combination of these procedures.

Some lung diseases: Emphysema

Emphysema is often considered a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), in which irreversible processes of expansion and destruction of the vesicles in the lungs (alveoli) occur. Due to the destruction of the alveolar wall under the influence of enzymes, larger bubbles begin to form in which air accumulates. Despite the fact that there is air in the lungs, patients experience attacks of suffocation. As a result, the body lacks oxygen, which can lead to organ damage. Smoking is considered the main cause of emphysema. Further risk factors include polluted indoor air, open fires, inhalation of gases and dusts (aerosols) in the workplace, possible genetic predisposition and frequent respiratory infections.

Diagnosis of emphysema can be made through pulmonary function tests (eg, spirometry), blood tests, and imaging tests (eg, chest x-ray). Along with immediately stopping smoking or avoiding other irritants, the lung can be reduced through surgery, i.e. remove the largest bubbles. In extreme cases, a transplant of part of the lung or the entire organ may be required.

Some lung diseases: Pulmonary pressure (pulmonary hypertension)

This disease is characterized by increased blood pressure in the pulmonary circulation, which leads to shortness of breath, decreased oxygen supply to the body and decreased physical performance. Along with this, chest pain and swelling of the legs may occur. The causes of pulmonary hypertension have not been fully identified. However, there is evidence that this lung disease is more common in people living with HIV, patients with autoimmune diseases, and in patients taking certain medications (eg, appetite suppressants or psychogenic stimulants).

A genetic predisposition cannot be ruled out either. As symptoms develop, frequent measurements of the electrical field produced by the heart (ECG), chest x-ray, and pulmonary function tests are performed, but pulmonary pressure is only indicated by transthoracic echocardiography and chest ultrasound. Experts measure pressure in the pulmonary circulation with a special catheter (catheterization of the right heart). Pulmonary hypertension is treated primarily with medication.

Some lung diseases: Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial mucosa. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic. Chronic bronchitis is a form of bronchitis that is accompanied by a constant cough with sputum production for at least 3 months a year for 2 or more years. The cause of bronchitis is not pathogens, but cigarette smoke (or rather, the substances included in its composition) or other irritating substances that enter the body through the respiratory tract. Unlike chronic bronchitis, with acute bronchitis we are talking about recently occurring inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, accompanied by cough, sputum, fever and other symptoms uncharacteristic of chronic bronchitis. The cause of this disease, in most cases, is viruses, and in some cases - bacteria. As a rule, chronic bronchitis does not require drug treatment and goes away without medical intervention; only bacterial bronchitis is treated with antibacterial agents (antibiotics). To prevent chronic bronchitis from developing into chronic obstructive bronchitis or even pulmonary emphysema, the patient must avoid inhaling irritating substances (dust, gases or vapors). Today, there are drugs that alleviate the symptoms of chronic bronchitis.

Some lung diseases: Pneumonia (pneumonia)

Pneumonia or pneumonia is acute or chronic inflammation of the lung tissue. The disease can be bacterial (caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae), viral and fungal. Inflammation affects the alveoli, the lung tissue between them, or the blood vessels. Those at particular risk include the elderly, infants and children, and people with weakened immune systems, i.e. those whose immune system is not yet fully developed or does not work properly. Pneumonia can be diagnosed in most cases through physical examination and clinical presentation. Often, to clarify the diagnosis, an X-ray of the lungs is performed or a sputum test is performed to identify the pathogen. The main drugs for treating pneumonia are usually antibiotics.

The most common research methods in pulmonology

IN pulmonology Auscultation means listening to the body, usually the lungs and heart, carried out in most cases using a stethoscope. Auscultation is part of the physical examination of the patient at the doctor's appointment. When auscultating the lungs, the doctor is faced with the task of finding out whether respiratory sounds are normal or pathological, and also paying attention to secondary respiratory sounds (wheezing and pleural friction noise). Auscultation is an integral part of the diagnosis of lung diseases in pulmonology.

Blood gas analysis

Blood gas analysis determines the ratio (partial pressure) of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood, as well as the pH value and acid-base balance. Based on this analysis, the condition of patients with lung diseases, respiratory disorders or oxygen deficiency is monitored (e.g. COPD).

Body plethysmography (plethysmography of the whole body, extensive study of lung function)

Body plethysmography (whole body plethysmography, extensive study of lung function) is a research method in the pulmonology section of medicine, through which lung parameters and respiratory mechanics are measured (for example, respiratory resistance, residual volume and total lung volume). Since this method of studying pulmonary function is quite complex, it is usually carried out only in clinics and only by qualified specialists. For the study, patients are placed in special devices - plethysmographs, in which various parameters are measured by changing pressure. IN pulmonology Body plethysmography is used to monitor the progress of a disease or therapy, as well as to diagnose lung diseases (for example, asthma or COPD).

Bronchoscopy (examination of the trachea and bronchi)

Bronchoscopy is carried out using a bronchoscope, which is inserted through the mouth or nose and penetrates the bronchi through the trachea. A bronchoscope is a soft, flexible tube that has a camera and a light source at the front end. Using a camera, the doctor examines the patient's airway. Through the bronchocombe, it is possible to insert miniature forceps, with which specialists can take tissue samples (biopsy) or remove foreign bodies, as well as inject and pump out fluid (eg, viscous mucus).

The very small ultrasound head allows you to obtain an ultrasound image of the airway walls. Bronchoscopy is also used to clarify the diagnosis of lung diseases, for example, with X-ray changes in the lungs of unknown origin, bronchial tumors, infectious diseases of the respiratory tract and with a prolonged cough of unknown etiology, incl. coughing up blood.

Lung scintigraphy

Lung scintigraphy is a research method that evaluates ventilation (ventilation scintigraphy) and blood circulation (perfusion scintigraphy) lungs. During perfusion scintigraphy, the patient is injected intravenously with protein particles labeled with radioactive isotopes, the depth of penetration into the lungs depends on blood flow. Using a special camera (gamma camera), the injected protein particles are converted into an image. During a ventilation scintigraphy, the patient inhales a radioactive gas or aerosol. After obtaining several images using a gamma camera, the distribution of gas in the lungs can be determined.

Pleural puncture

During pleural puncture, a hollow needle is inserted into the pleural fissure (the space between the pulmonary and costal pleura or between the pulmonary pleura and the diaphragm), through which fluid is removed from the pleural cavity (pleural fissure). Pleural puncture is used both for diagnostic purposes (for example, for pleural effusion, lung tumors, pneumonia) and for therapeutic purposes (for the treatment of pneumothorax or for evacuation of pleural effusion - drainage of the pleural cavity).

Spiroergometry

Spiroergometry (ergospirometry or ergospirography) in pulmonology- a method for the diagnostic study of lung diseases, in which respiratory gases are measured at rest and during increasing exercise. Using this method, specialists determine the functioning of the heart, blood circulation, respiration and muscle metabolism, as well as the level of physical performance. During ergospirometry, the patient sits on an ergometer treadmill or bicycle ergometer and wears a tight-fitting breathing mask equipped with a flow meter. This measures tidal volume, oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations, as well as heart rate via exercise ECG and blood pressure. Spiroergometry very often diagnoses respiratory failure syndrome, which is detected only during physical activity.

Spirometry

Spirometry (spiriography) in pulmonology measures pulmonary and tidal volume (e.g. vital capacity, inspiratory capacity and inspiratory and expiratory reserve volume) and air flow rate (e.g. forced expiratory volume in 1 second, peak expiratory flow rate and inhalation), in order to study lung function. During spirometry, the patient's nose is closed with a special clamp and he breathes through his mouth into a closed vessel. Spirometry is the most common method in pulmonology.

Thoracoscopy

Thoracoscopy is a method of endoscopic examination of the chest (lat. Thorax) and thoracic pleura. Using a thin tube - a laparoscope, with a built-in camera, a light source and a device for washing and suction, the chest cavity is examined. The lapaproscope can be used to take tissue samples (biopsy), perform surgery, or administer medications.

Lungs- the main part of the human respiratory system, which play the main function in the process of breathing and supplying oxygen to the blood.

Where are they located in the human body? Which doctor should I see if I have problems with my lungs?

Location of the lungs in the human body

The lungs are located in the human chest, which, due to its shape, affects the appearance of the respiratory organ. They can be narrow or wide, elongated.

This organ is located starting from the collarbone down to the nipples, at the level of the thoracic and cervical spine. They are covered by the ribs, as they are vital for humans.

The lungs are separated from other internal organs not related to the respiratory system (spleen, stomach, liver and others) by the diaphragm. The chest and middle part of the lungs contain the heart and blood vessels.

Such a respiratory organ has a convex part that touches the ribs, therefore it is called costal

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Human lung anatomy

The right lung is one tenth larger in volume than the left, however, it is shorter. The left lung is narrower, this is due to the fact that the heart, being in the middle of the chest, moves more to the left, taking away some space from the lung.

Each part of the organ has the shape of an irregular cone, its base is directed downward, and its apex is rounded, slightly extending above the rib.

The lungs have three parts:

1. Lower. Located at the diaphragm, adjacent to it.
2. Costal. The convex part touching the ribs.
3. Medial. The concave part touching the spine.

The lungs consist of:

1. Pulmonary alveoli
2. Bronkhov
3. Bronchioles

The bronchial system is the framework of the main respiratory organ. Each part of the lung consists of multiple pyramidal lobules

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It is very important to support and strengthen the body not only with the absence of stress, good sleep, nutrition and vitamins, but also with the help of natural herbal remedies.

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Blood supply to the lungs

One of the functions of the lungs– gas exchange in the blood. For this reason, blood flows both arterial and venous.

The latter flows to the pulmonary capillaries, releases carbon dioxide, and receives oxygen in return.

Pulmonary alveoli They are small bubbles with a thick network of capillaries. The exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide directly depends on these “balls”; they provide the blood with oxygen.

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Lung specialist

If a person has complaints related to the lungs, he can make an appointment with pulmonologist– a specialist who examines and treats the respiratory organ.

Can be referred to him attending physician, otolaryngologist, infectious disease specialist, if complications are observed after colds, flu, tonsillitis, bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, when harmful bacteria descend down the bronchi into the lungs.

In case of tuberculosis, it is not the pulmonologist who deals with the lungs, but phthisiatrician A surgeon who operates on the respiratory organs is called a thoracic surgeon.

The main cause of bronchitis accompanied by sputum is a viral infection. The disease occurs due to damage by bacteria, and in some cases, when the body is exposed to allergens.

Now you can safely purchase excellent natural drugs that alleviate the symptoms of the disease, and in up to a few weeks allow you to completely get rid of the disease.

Types and methods of lung examination

To understand exactly what disease has affected the respiratory organ, it is necessary to conduct diagnostic studies. What are they?

Common lung diseases

1. Pneumonia. An inflammatory process in the lungs, caused by microbes and viruses.
   The main symptom is a severe cough, high temperature, disruption of the sebaceous glands, shortness of breath (even at rest), chest pain, sputum streaked with blood.
2. Cancer. Caused by a bad habit (smoking), a hereditary factor. The appearance of cancer cells in the respiratory organ leads to their rapid proliferation and the appearance of malignant tumors.
   They make breathing difficult and spread to other internal organs. It ends in death if you start treating it in the last stages, or not treat it at all.
3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
   Restriction of air flow in the lungs.
   It starts with a normal cough and mucus production.
   If treatment is not started on time, it will be too late and the disease will become irreversible.
4. Tuberculosis. A highly contagious disease. Called by Koch's wand. It affects not only the lungs, but also other internal organs, for example, the intestines, bone tissue, and joints.
5. Emphysema. The main symptom is shortness of breath. The pulmonary alveoli burst and merge into large air sacs that cannot cope with their function. This makes breathing difficult.
6. Bronchitis. The mucous membrane of these organs becomes inflamed and swells. An abundant secretion of mucus begins, which the human body tries to get rid of. This causes coughing attacks.
7. Asthma. Contraction of fascicular and striated muscles. The airways narrow, and attacks occur when the patient begins to lack oxygen in the body. Often asthma occurs against the background of allergies.

The lungs are located in the chest above the diaphragm but below the collarbones. They are protected as an important vital organ by the ribs. Diseases related to the respiratory system are very common.

Lungs- vital organs responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the human body and performing the respiratory function. The human lungs are a paired organ, but the structure of the left and right lungs is not identical to each other. The left lung is always smaller and is divided into two lobes, while the right lung is divided into three lobes and is larger. The reason for the reduced size of the left lung is simple - the heart is located in the left part of the chest, so the respiratory organ “gives” place to it in the chest cavity.

Location

The anatomy of the lungs is such that they are closely adjacent to the heart on the left and right. Each lung has the shape of a truncated cone. The tops of the cones protrude slightly beyond the clavicles, and the bases are adjacent to the diaphragm, which separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. On the outside, each lung is covered with a special two-layer membrane (pleura). One of its layers is adjacent to the lung tissue, and the other is adjacent to the chest. Special glands secrete a fluid that fills the pleural cavity (the space between the layers of the protective membrane). The pleural sacs, isolated from each other, which enclose the lungs, have a mainly protective function. Inflammation of the protective membranes of the lung tissue is called.

What are the lungs made of?

The lung diagram includes three important structural elements:

• Pulmonary alveoli;
• Bronchi;
• Bronchioles.

The framework of the lungs is a branched system of bronchi. Each lung consists of many structural units (lobules). Each lobe has a pyramidal shape, and its average size is 15x25 mm. The apex of the lung lobule includes a bronchus, the branches of which are called small bronchioles. In total, each bronchus is divided into 15-20 bronchioles. At the ends of the bronchioles there are special formations - acini, consisting of several dozen alveolar branches covered with many alveoli. Pulmonary alveoli are small vesicles with very thin walls, intertwined with a dense network of capillaries.

- the most important structural elements of the lungs, on which the normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body depends. They provide a large area for gas exchange and continuously supply the blood vessels with oxygen. During gas exchange, oxygen and carbon dioxide penetrate through the thin walls of the alveoli into the blood, where they “meet” red blood cells.

Thanks to microscopic alveoli, the average diameter of which does not exceed 0.3 mm, the area of ​​the respiratory surface of the lungs increases to 80 square meters.

Lobule of lung:
1 - bronchiole; 2 - alveolar ducts; 3 - respiratory (respiratory) bronchiole; 4 - atrium;
5 - capillary network of alveoli; 6 - alveoli of the lungs; 7 - alveoli in section; 8 - pleura

What is the bronchial system?

Before entering the alveoli, air enters the bronchial system. The “gate” for air is the trachea (the breathing tube, the entrance to which is located directly under the larynx). The trachea consists of cartilaginous rings that ensure the stability of the breathing tube and maintain a lumen for breathing even in conditions of rarefied air or mechanical compression of the trachea.

Trachea and bronchi:
1 - laryngeal protrusion (Adam's apple); 2 - thyroid cartilage; 3 - cricothyroid ligament; 4 - cricotracheal ligament;
5 - arcuate tracheal cartilages; 6 - annular ligaments of the trachea; 7 - esophagus; 8 - bifurcation of the trachea;
9 - main right bronchus; 10 - left main bronchus; 11 - aorta

The inner surface of the trachea is a mucous membrane covered with microscopic villi (the so-called ciliated epithelium). The purpose of these villi is to filter the air flow, preventing dust, foreign bodies and debris from entering the bronchi. The ciliated or ciliated epithelium is a natural filter that protects the human lungs from harmful substances. Smokers experience paralysis of the ciliated epithelium, when the villi on the mucous membrane of the trachea cease to perform their functions and freeze. This leads to the fact that all harmful substances enter directly into the lungs and settle, causing serious diseases (emphysema, lung cancer, chronic bronchial diseases).

Behind the sternum, the trachea branches into two bronchi, each of which enters the left and right lungs. The bronchi enter the lungs through the so-called “gates,” located in the depressions located on the inside of each lung. Large bronchi branch into smaller segments. The smallest bronchi are called bronchioles, at the ends of which the above-described alveoli are located.

The bronchial system resembles a branched tree that penetrates the lung tissue and ensures uninterrupted gas exchange in the human body. If large bronchi and trachea are reinforced with cartilaginous rings, then smaller bronchi do not need strengthening. In the segmental bronchi and bronchioles only cartilaginous plates are present, and in the terminal bronchioles there is no cartilaginous tissue.

The structure of the lungs provides a unified structure, thanks to which all human organ systems are uninterruptedly supplied with oxygen through the blood vessels.