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The respiratory system is complex but essential for human functioning. Any
difficulties with breathing can affect the overall quality of a person's
life. The primary function of the respiratory system is gas exchange, which
involves delivering oxygen to the cells, while removing carbon dioxide. Other functions include the production and integration of surfactant and
other chemicals, defenses against infection, and the detoxification of drugs and
toxins.
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One major complication of respiratory problems, is
pneumothorax.
It is important to be able to assess and understand adventitious sounds.
The RALE repository provides
lung sounds.
With audio capabilities, you can locate the desired sound,
and click on the WAV button, not "real audio". It takes a while to download the sound. |
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Several other factors affect the work of breathing, including the forces of
atmospheric pressure. A site for understanding this and other various aspects of
respiratory function, is
Interactive Respiratory Physiology. |
The
definition of pneumothorax, is a condition in which air or gas has escaped
into the pleural space. The condition can be classified as either closed
(spontaneous), or open (traumatic) pneumothorax.
Select any of the links in the list below to access additional information. |
