Did you know that your lungs are much more than an organ for breathing? As part of our respiratory system, our lungs allow us to take in oxygen from the air and exhale carbon dioxide. Besides, They are one of the most essential organs of the human body, essential for the breathing process., without which life could not develop. However, they also play a key role in other metabolic actions that often go unnoticed. For this reason, in Supercurioso we made a compilation of the best curiosities of the lungs
10 curiosities of the lungs that you did not know
The human body is curious, because all our structures work intelligently to keep us alive. And although all of them are interesting, today it is the turn of the lungs. Remember that maintaining good health, both physical and mental, should be one of our priorities, so we share these health claims and you are exercise apps. Ideal for us to always give our best.
1. One lung is bigger than the other
The lungs are the largest organs in our body (when expanded they are even longer than the skin). For adults, they typically have a volume of between 6 to 8 liters. They have two parts: the right lung and the left lung. The right lung has three lobes while the left lung has two lobes.
Although it is common to think that both are the same, the truth is that it is not so. Indeed, the right lung is larger than the left due to the fact that it possesses one more lobe. In addition, it has its reason for being: the left lung is smaller so as not to take up space for the heart.
2. The respiratory rate is one of the curiosities of the lungs
Our lungs contain approximately 300 million alveoli, which are small, fine sacs through which air enters the body. Therefore, there are many curious facts about the respiratory system.
In this sense, the normal respiratory rate at rest ranges from 12 to 20 breaths per minute. If it exceeds 20 RPM, it is called tachypnea, while if the values are below 12 RPM, it is known as bradypnea. On the other hand, the total absence of breathing is defined as apnea.
3. One of the curiosities of the lungs are its functions
As we well know, the main function of these organs is breathing. To do this, we inhale oxygen that travels through the bloodstream, and then we breathe out carbon dioxide. However, the lungs have more functions that are also important within the body.
One of them is his participation in the production of most of the body’s platelets. These elements are responsible for carrying out the process of cicatrization of wounds correctly.
In addition to that, they also perform protection and filtration tasks for prevent the passage of microorganisms and polluting particles from the environment. Likewise, they carry out metabolic functions, since they can metabolize different substrates and nutrients, and even distribute inflammatory mediators.
4. You can live with only one lung
Although it sounds incredible, one of the curious facts about the respiratory system is that can function with one lung. Either due to genetic factors, such as lung atrophy, or due to a problem derived from a disease that causes the removal of one of the lungs.
Despite this, the patient can survive without difficulties. What is certain is that his lung capacity will be significantly reduced. Logically, he will not be able to submit to a physical demand equal to that of other people either. However, with proper precautions, it can be lead a relatively normal lifestyle.
5. Lung cancer
He lung cancer It is one of the most common conditions among the adult population worldwide. Its main cause is tobacco, which is why many authors think that it would be a very strange disease if it did not exist. That is why there are more and more campaigns against tobacco shops to reduce or eliminate cigarette consumption.
6. Fun facts about the respiratory system
The lungs are not the only organs responsible for respiration. The diaphragm and intercostal muscles are also part of the breathing process. For its part, the lungs are two organs that are found inside the rib cage formed by the ribs, being the final part of the respiratory system where gas exchange occurs.
That means that the air must first pass through other structures. Among them, the nostrils or mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and finally reaches the lungs. At that point is the bronchioles and alveoli.
7. Composition of the lungs
One of the curiosities of the lungs is the composition of elements that it possesses. They are surrounded by 17 layers of walls and membranes to help maintain form and function. They also contain a variety of cells, including immune cells, mucus-producing cells, and surfactant-producing cells.
They even have a considerable amount of bacteria. These bacteria help protect the lungs from pathogens. It should be noted that the lungs are composed mainly of water. About 80 to 85 percent of the lungs is made up of water.
8. They have great expandability
In order to absorb as much air as possible, the lungs expand significantly. The area of these can reach the size of a tennis court if they are fully extended. In addition, they have a unique shape. This helps increase the surface area to absorb oxygen, being one of the main curiosities of the human body.
9. Lung capacity
Among the curiosities of the lungs is that lung capacity can be improved with training. Indeed, if these organs have optimal capacity, they have the possibility of transporting oxygen with greater effectiveness. The results are reflected in a better quality of life, which is why many experts recommend the exercise to expand this ability.
10. The capacity varies in men and women
Surely you wonder how much air the lungs can hold. From here is derived another of the curious facts of the respiratory system, and it is that it varies depending on the man and the woman. Indeed, the lung capacity (total amount of air that enters them) in for men it is 5.75 L, while for women it is 4.5 L.
These are just some of the many curiosities of the lungs that exist, if not the most important. This only helps us understand so much more the importance they have in the proper functioning of our body. Who knew that there are so many interesting things to discover! If you know of any other that we should add, do not hesitate to leave it in the comments.
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