Mucus

Lubricating and protective properties of mucus and its importance in the gastrointestinal tract Mucus is a thick secretion made up of water, electrolytes, and a mixture of several glycoproteins. The Glycoproteins are made up of large polysaccharides which are bound with much smaller quantities of protein. Mucus is slightly different in different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. It has numerous important characteristics applicable everywhere that make it both a superb lubricant and a protectant

. It is genetically passed down and it causes mucus to become to thick. It is a fake gene, or mutated gene, that can’t keep the respiratory airways clear. The thick mucus can build up in airways, and that is what is causing her to have shortness of breath and wheezing. It targets the respiratory system which causes problems with getting air, and it also targets the digestive system. 2. How would you classify this girl's acid-base status? Her pH level is low, so she is acidic(acidosis). Her pCO2 is

Mucus is found in a wide variety of organisms, where it is used to coat cell surfaces both internally and externally (Bansil and Turner, 2006). Mucus is a viscous colloid made up of a combination of water, antiseptic enzymes, proteins, inorganic salts, immunoglobulins and glycoproteins (Bansil and Turner, 2006). Mucus is made up of approximately 90% water, up to 5% mucin glycoproteins and other proteins and compounds. This mixture of components enables mucus to provide a protective barrier against

the cell in other ways like harming the cell that produces mucus, sweat and also digestive juices. The are normally thin and glossy so that makes it very slippery. In people with CF, a defective gene causes a thick, buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs. In the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria leading to infections, extensive lung damage and eventually, respiratory failure. In the pancreas, the mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that allow the

Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary condition which “affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive juices.” In cases of cystic fibrosis a defective gene causes these fluids to become thick instead of thin. These fluids lose their lubricating properties and can interrupt normal functions, especially in the lungs. The thick mucus can also cause digestive problems by blocking the essential digestive enzymes entering the small intestine from the pancreas (Mayo Clinic). It is inherited through

respiratory system are; nose and nasal cavity, mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveoli, diaphragm and lungs. Nose and nasal cavity Main and first opening of the respiratory system. It is made up of three sections filled with hairs and mucus membranes Mouth Also known as the oral cavity. Another opening of the respiratory system and can also take air in and out Pharynx Also known as the throat. It is as opening surrounded by muscle that leads on to the larynx Larynx Also known as the

Cystic Fibrosis? 2. Cystic fibrosis affects many of the body’s systems this includes the lungs and digestion. If you have CF your mucus becomes thick and sticky. It builds up in your lungs and blocks your airways. The mucus blocks the air passages in the lungs and creates bacteria. Numerous infections and blockages can cause permanent lung damage and death. Sticky mucus can also block tubes or ducts in

chloride channel of the pulmonary epithelium and loss of its working renders the lung surface impermeable to chloride ions. This leads to a change in viscosity of the mucus produced from being thin and lubricating to being thick, sticky and frothy (Kumar et al p223). The complication is hence also called mucoviscidosis. The heavy mucus blocks the lung that makes the patient susceptible to a myriad of bacterial diseases. The pancreatic ducts when affected and clogged, the flow of pancreatic juice is

function of the lungs. A patient with COPD has less air flowing in and out of the airways. These individuals also use most of their energies in breathing since it is harder for them to get oxygen. The airways of individuals with COPD are clogged with mucus which decreases their ability to eliminate carbon dioxide and bring oxygen inside the body. Many studies have shown the importance of proper nutrition in the heath

Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the walls of your airways. These airways are made up of tubes that allow air to pass in and out of your lungs. Inflammation, as well as, increased production of mucus can cause narrowing and obstruction of these tubes, making it difficult to breathe. There are many factors that play a role in the development of asthma such as; exercise, occupation, stress, anxiety and allergens. Common symptoms patients may experience are; shortness of breath, wheezing, dyspnea