Respiratory Anatomy & Physiology
These air sacs are the site of gas exchange in the lungs.
Alveoli
This common lower respiratory infection causes inflammation and exudate in the lungs.
Pneumonia
This medication class suppresses the cough reflex.
Antitussives
Albuterol belongs to this class of bronchodilators.
Sympathomimetics (beta-2 agonists)
These medications reduce airway inflammation and are NOT for emergency use.
Inhaled steroids
These tiny hair‑like structures move mucus upward toward the throat.
Cilia
This chronic disease includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
This antitussive works by numbing the respiratory passages.
Benzonatate (Tessalon)
This class of bronchodilators is used for COPD maintenance and includes tiotropium.
Anticholinergics
This mucolytic is also used to treat acetaminophen overdose.
Acetylcysteine
This substance, made by Type II alveolar cells, keeps alveoli from collapsing.
Surfactant
This reversible condition involves bronchospasm and airway inflammation.
Asthma
Using nasal sprays like Afrin for more than 3–5 days can cause this rebound condition.
Rhinitis medicamentosa
This class of bronchodilators is used for COPD maintenance and includes tiotropium.
Xanthines (e.g., theophylline)
This drug prevents the release of histamine and is the only medication in its class.
Cromolyn (a mast cell stabilizer)
This nerve can cause bronchoconstriction when stimulated.
Vagus nerve
This hereditary disorder affects organs that produce mucus and leads to thick secretions.
Cystic fibrosis
This medication class blocks histamine and is used for allergies.
Antihistamines
These medications block leukotrienes and help prevent asthma symptoms.
Leukotriene receptor antagonists
These medications replace missing surfactant in premature infants.
Lung surfactants (e.g., Survanta, Curosurf)
This structure separates the lungs and contains the heart and major vessels.
This emergency condition occurs when alveoli fill with fluid after a severe body insult.
ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome)
This medication thins mucus and increases productive coughing.
Guaifenesin (Mucinex)
These injectable medications target eosinophils or IgE to reduce inflammation in severe asthma.
Immune modulators
This device delivers medication as a fine mist and is helpful for patients who cannot coordinate inhaler use.
Nebulizer