Question

what is interesting to know about the treacha wall in the respiratory system and what are its fuctions.

Answer 1

Trachea generally known as windpipe is a cartilaginous tube.

Trachea connects laryx and pharynx to the lungs.

Trachea consists of 4 layers of tissues that makeup the wall of trachea.

layer 1; MUCOSA - it consists of ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium with many of the goblet cells which produce sticky mucus that coats the inner surface of trachea and catch any debris present in the inhaled air while breathing without letting the debris into the lungs.

Layer 2 : SUBMUCOSA - support and elasticity to the tracheal wall is provided through this layer as it contains collagen, elastin and reticular protien fibers. It is made of areolar connective tissue. It also contains blood vessels and nervous tissue. This tissue allows the trachea to adjust its diameter as required.

Layer 3: Hyaline cartilage: forms the supporting rings of trachea, It provides a strong but also a flexible structure which maintains an open airway & is resistent to external stress.

Layer 4 : Adventitia ; made of areolar connective tissue. It loosly connects the trachea to the surrounding tissues.

Functions:

1. passive air passage way

2. Trachealis muscle is present in the posterior wall that allows the trachea to contract and reduce its diameter. This diameter adjustment makes cough more forceful and productive.

3. while swallowing the food, the esophagus expands into trachea space which is normally occupied by trachea, this process is facilitated by incomplete cartilage rings of trachea.

4. Adventitia aids the lungs in thier expansion and contraction while breathing.

5. when there is no air inside, cartilages make sure that larynx and trachea donot collapse.