Airway
Airway
Airway (/ˈeərweɪ/), from the Old English air and way, refers to the part of the body that allows the passage of air from the nose and mouth to the lungs. It is a crucial component of the respiratory system and plays a vital role in the process of respiration.
Etymology
The term "airway" is derived from the Old English words air and way, which literally means the way for air. It has been in use since the late 19th century to refer to the passage through which air enters and leaves the lungs.
Anatomy of the Airway
The airway is divided into two main parts: the upper airway and the lower airway.
The upper airway includes the nose and nasal cavity, the mouth, pharynx (throat), and the upper part of the larynx (voice box).
The lower airway consists of the lower part of the larynx, the trachea (windpipe), bronchi, and bronchioles, ending at the alveoli, where the exchange of gases occurs.
Related Terms
- Respiratory System: The group of tissues and organs in the body that enable respiration. The airway is a crucial part of this system.
- Trachea: Also known as the windpipe, it is a tube that connects the pharynx and larynx to the lungs, allowing the passage of air.
- Bronchi: The main passageway into the lungs which divides from the trachea.
- Alveoli: Tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Airway
- Wikipedia's article - Airway
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