The Respiratory System The respiratory system is the body system that provides body cells with oxygen and removes carbon dioxide that cells produce as waste.

Air Flow As you inhale, blood near the surface of the nose and throat warms the air, and mucous linings add moisture. The air moves through the mouth or nose to the trachea, or windpipe, and then into the lungs. Cilia are hair-like structures in the respiratory system that trap dust and other particles and remove them.

Air Flow (cont.) The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that covers the entrance to the trachea. It closes over the trachea when you swallow. From the trachea, air enters the bronchi. The bronchi are two short tubes through which air enters the lungs. The bronchi branch our into smaller tubes called bronchioles. The bronchioles lead into the alveoli. The alveoli are small air sacs where oxygen enters the blood.

5 Ways To Care For Your Respiratory System 1.Exercise regularly- it strengthens the diaphragm and improves breathing. 2.Avoid polluted air- you do not get as much oxygen with each breath. 3.Avoid tobacco smoke. 4.Seek medical help for respiratory infections. 5.Sit, stand, and walk with correct posture.