When you breathe, the airway (respiratory) system supplies oxygen to your blood. Then your blood takes oxygen to all parts of the body.
The nose, mouth, throat (pharynx and larynx), and hollow spaces in the cheeks and around the eyes (sinuses) make up the upper respiratory tract. The trachea (windpipe), breathing tubes (bronchial tubes), bronchioles, and air sacs (alveoli) of the lungs make up the lower respiratory tract.
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.