Lung function

Lung function refers to the process by which the lungs take in oxygen from the air and expel carbon dioxide from the body. This process is essential for the survival of all mammals, including humans.

Anatomy of the Lungs

The lungs are a pair of spongy, air-filled organs located on either side of the chest. They are part of the respiratory system, which also includes the trachea, bronchi, and diaphragm. The right lung is slightly larger than the left lung, and is divided into three lobes, while the left lung has two lobes.

Lung Function Tests

Lung function tests, also known as pulmonary function tests, are used to measure how well the lungs are working. These tests can determine the amount of air the lungs can hold, how quickly air can move in and out of the lungs, and how well the lungs are able to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the blood.

Spirometry

Spirometry is the most common type of lung function test. It measures how much air you can breathe in and out, and how fast you can blow air out of your lungs.

Lung Volume Tests

Lung volume tests measure the total amount of air the lungs can hold. They are often used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as COPD and asthma.

Diseases Affecting Lung Function

Several diseases and conditions can affect lung function, including:

• Asthma: A chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it difficult to breathe.
• Pneumonia: An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs.
• Lung cancer: A type of cancer that begins in the lungs.

See Also

• Respiratory system
• Pulmonary function test
• Spirometry
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pneumonia
• Lung cancer

Lung function Resources
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