Respiratory system diseases

This course is a part of NCLEX-RN, a 21-course Topic series from Khan Academy.

Our lungs are composed of a bronchial tree (think of an upside down tree with millions of leaves), blood vessels bringing blood in and out, and a protein-rich fluid that forms a matrix holding everything together! If any part of this well-balanced organ isn’t working properly, a person can be left feeling short of breath. The lungs are also exposed to the outside environment, making them prone to infections. To counter infections, the lungs are lined with cells that have tiny protein bristles which wave back and forth and can literally sweep away dangerous bacteria. Learn more about diseases of the lungs and how modern medicine helps to keep them healthy!

This course contains 15 segments:

Introduction to pulmonary diseases

Asthma

Emphysema (COPD)

Chronic bronchitis (COPD)

Cystic fibrosis

Bronchiolitis

Lung cancer

Pneumonia

Pleural effusion

Nose, sinus, and upper respiratory track infections

Laryngeal conditions

Occupational lung diseases

Pulmonary hypertension

Throat conditions

Pertussis