The function of the alveoli is so important in the human respiratory system. Without the alveoli, humans are unable to inhale and exhale properly. Therefore, alveolar health must always be maintained so that it can function optimally.
Alveoli are collections of air sacs or alveoli that are shaped like small bubbles in the lungs, precisely at the very ends of the respiratory tract ( bronchioles ).
Alveoli are arranged in groups and stuck to one another like tightly bound grapes. Uniquely, these air sacs are composed of elastin fibers so they can inflate and deflate like a balloon.
In the human respiratory system , the alveoli are the smallest structures. Although small, the function of the alveoli is very important in the process of gas exchange in the lungs.
Know the Function of Alveoli in the Lungs
When a person breathes, air moves through the respiratory system in the following order:
- Air enters through the mouth or nose, then down the trachea (windpipe).
- Air moves through the airways which are the branches of the trachea (bronchi) and heads to even smaller passages, the bronchioles.
- Air enters the alveoli in the lungs.
The function of the alveoli is to take in inhaled oxygen and release carbon dioxide . That is, the alveoli are where the exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide occurs during the process of inhaling and exhaling.
Alveoli have walls that are lined with one cell and are in direct contact with capillaries. In the walls of the alveoli, inhaled oxygen moves to the capillaries, then blood picks up oxygen and releases carbon dioxide to the alveoli to be exhaled.
To push air in and out of the alveoli, the diaphragm and chest muscles generate pressure inside the chest.
When a person inhales, the diaphragm, which is between the chest and abdominal cavities, contracts, then the alveoli expand to take in oxygen.
Conversely, when a person exhales, the alveoli shrink and return to their normal size to push carbon dioxide out through the mouth or nose.
Various Diseases that Interfere with Alveolar Function
Alveoli can carry out their functions properly if the tissue is healthy. However, the structures in the lungs can be damaged or their function disrupted due to infection or irritation in the respiratory organs, scars in the lung tissue, and even heart problems.
Some common lung diseases that can affect alveolar function include:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD )
- Asma
- Fibrosis paru
- Lung cancer
- Pneumonia
Lung disease generally occurs due to various factors, such as smoking, air pollution, and the effects of aging. In order for the alveoli to function properly and the lungs are kept healthy, there are several ways that can be done, namely:
- Wear a face mask when in a polluted environment
- Do not smoke.
- Keeping the immune system strong, for example by vaccination, consuming healthy food, and exercising regularly
- Using an air purifier or indoor air purifier .
When alveolar function is impaired, there are several symptoms to watch out for, such as experiencing a chronic cough for 8 weeks or more, frequent shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing up blood, or persistent chest pain.
If you experience these symptoms, you should not hesitate to consult a doctor . That way, the cause can be identified and handled appropriately.
