The Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems Answers

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on the heart and blood vessels.

The lungs need to remain elastic so they can effectively move oxygen into the body and carbon dioxide out of the body. By smoking, you are actually introducing carbon monoxide into the body, which is toxic. Tars and other chemicals will settle on the cilia of the lungs and cannot be removed; which further degrades the functionality of the respiratory system. Two conditions that develop when a person smokes are emphysema and bronchitis.

Mucus and cilia help filter dust and dirt. Cilia are small, hair-like structures in the nasal passage and trachea. Mucus is also found in the nasal passage and the trachea.

Generally, many cardiovascular diseases are related to lifestyle behaviors. Factors that contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease include lack of a balanced diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and the lack of regular doctor visits.

Mucus lines the respiratory passages, including the trachea and bronchi, where it traps dust, germs, and other particles. Tiny cilia lining these passages sweep the mucus toward the throat, where it can be swallowed or coughed out. Together, mucus and cilia help keep the lungs clean and protect them from infection and irritation.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death because they are common, can develop gradually without noticeable symptoms, and may suddenly cause fatal heart attacks or strokes. Risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets affect many people and can damage the heart and blood vessels over time.

Smoking exposes the respiratory system to harmful chemicals that irritate and inflame the airways, damage the cilia that clear mucus, and destroy lung tissue, making it harder to breathe and exchange oxygen. Two conditions that can develop are chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the workload on the heart and can help lower blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels. It also reduces the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes that can damage the heart and blood vessels.

The larynx is also called the voice box. While its main function is to allow a person to speak, it also protects the trachea.

The larynx is also called the voice box. It contains the vocal cords, which produce sound, and it helps direct air into the lower respiratory tract while helping keep food and liquid out of the airway when swallowing.