TRACHEA
Description:
Commonly referred to as the windpipe, it divides into two bronchi in each lung. It is made of 20 cartilage rings and is covered with mucosa. The cartilage allows for the trachea to remain upright since it is a hard substance. Goblet cells in the trachea make mucus that is carried by cilia. As we breathe, the trachea will widen and lengthen.
Diseases and Conditions
Tracheoesophageal fistula
A channel forms between this organ and the esophagus, which will cause the passage of food into the respiratory system. This can damage the lungs.
Tracheal stenosis
The narrowing of the trachea caused by inflammation. It may require an endoscopy to resolve the problem.
Tracheomalacia
Poor development of the trachea causes this organ to be limp and soft instead of hard. This can be present since birth or can appear in one’s lifetime with injuries.