The lungs, however, have a filtering system that allows only certain microscopic particles of defined size to actually reach the alveoli. Because of the lungs' capacity to absorb substances, we can administer medications by this route. General health measures that maintain overall well-being benefit your respiratory system as well. Follow a balanced, healthy diet, exercise approximately three times a week, devote time to relaxation and leisure activities, and get adequate sleep. Always take any medications as prescribed and, of course, never take any medications that have been prescribed for others.
Early treatment is usually effective and, in many cases, can prevent more serious problems.
A common substance absorbed by the respiratory system is nicotine from cigarette smoking. Inhaling the products of tobacco smoke is harmful to the lungs. Cigarette smoking causes certain types of lung cancer and other respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Smokers have upper respiratory tract infections more often and smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Pregnant women who smoke have an increased risk of complications during pregnancy, and their babies are often small at birth and have problems.