The Respiratory System How important is breathing? We eat, talk, walk, think and work everyday. All these activities or movements, be it simple or complicated, can only be done with so-called "burning energy" using food as source of energy and in the presence of oxygen that we breathe in. Oxygen get into our body through inhalation while carbon dioxide, a poisonous by-product produced from metabolism is eliminated from our body though exhalation. The exchange of gases, which is vital for cells survival could not happen without proper function of the respiratory system. Respiratory system consists of the mouth, nose, throat, trachea, lungs, and diaphragm. It is important to maintain a healthy respiratory system so we can breath properly and efficiently. Breathing supply cells with oxygen to repair, build, grow and reproduce. Respiratory System Disorders The respiratory system is a very important part of healthy daily living. This is where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide occur. The lungs need to function well in order to maintain our good health. Some common disorders of the respiratory system includes: 1. Asthma For asthmatic patients, their respiratory system airway is hypersensitive and when triggered, the airway constricts. The constricted airways interrupt the flow of air and cause trouble in breathing. Asthma attacks can be brought on by triggers, such as smoke of tobacco, factory fumes, cleaning solvents, infections, pollens, dust, certain foods such as shellfish, milk and peanuts, cold air, etc. However, triggers that initiate asthma attacks are highly individual. 2. Acute Bronchitis Acute bronchitis is caused by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which is the primary airways to the lungs. The inflammation usually due to bacterial or viral infection. When the respiratory infection has weakened an individual's resistance, the symptoms of bronchitis will appear such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, increased mucus and fatigue. Acute bronchitis lasts from four to six weeks. 3. Sinusitis Sinuses are hollow air spaces in the bone behind your cheeks, eyebrows and jaw. They secrete mucus, a fluid that cleans bacteria and other particles out of the air you breathe in. Tiny hairs sweep mucus out of the sinuses to drain out through your nose. Sinusitis means the lining of sinuses are infected or inflamed. The congested sinus cavities lead to pain and inflammation. Acute sinusitis often starts as a cold, which then turns into a bacterial infection. Allergies, pollutants, nasal problems and certain diseases can also cause sinusitis. 4. Pneumonia Pneumonia is an infection of the lung, usually caused by a virus or bacteria infection. Three common causes are bacteria, viruses and fungi. You can also get pneumonia by accidentally inhaling a liquid or chemical. The most common type of pneumonia is pneumococcal pneumonia, a bacterial infection which accounts for up to a quarter of all pneumonia cases. There is a mild type of pneumonia or it can require intensive-care hospitalization. The elderly and infant under 2 years old are especially vulnerable to pneumonia. Wellness Tips For Respiratory System • No smoking Enforce "No Smoking Policy" at home and work place. Avoid second-hand smoke as well. • Water Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily, preferably lukewarm water, for cleansing and thinning the mucus in the passage of the respiratory airways. • Keep irritants at bay Clean your home regularly to remove possible allergens such as dust, dust mites, pollen, etc. Maintain clean pillow, blankets and comforters. • Regular physical fitness or activities Jogging, brisk walking, swimming, cycling, rope jumping, yoga and other aerobic exercises and physical activities can help make your heart and lung stronger and healthier. • Breathing Yes, breathing, or more accurate, deep breathing by flexing your diaphragm rather than breathing shallowly by flexing your rib cage. It helps to fill the lung with fresh air, and eliminates air which is full of toxins and impurities out of the body. recommendations Besides practicing the wellness tips above, include some health supplements into your daily diet works best to promote a healthy respiratory system. A good combination of the products listed below exerts synergistic effect in maintaining a strong respiratory system