Bronchial glands are glands located in the walls of the bronchi, responsible for producing mucus that helps protect and lubricate the respiratory system. The spelling of the word "bronchial glands" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as "ˈbrɑːŋkiəl ɡlændz". The word is composed of two syllables, with the first one being "bron-" pronounced as "ˈbrɑːŋ" and the second syllable "-chial" pronounced "kiəl". The "glands" part is pronounced as "ɡlændz".
Bronchial glands refer to a series of small, mucus-secreting glands situated within the respiratory system, specifically in the bronchi. The bronchi are the two branches of the trachea that lead to the lungs, and these glands are distributed along the walls of these airways. The primary function of bronchial glands is to produce mucus, a slimy substance that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the respiratory system.
The mucus secreted by bronchial glands serves various purposes. Firstly, it helps in trapping and moistening inhaled air to prevent the delicate lung tissue from drying out. Additionally, it acts as a protective barrier that traps foreign particles like dust, bacteria, and viruses that may be present in the inhaled air. The mucus also plays a pivotal role in facilitating efficient respiration by keeping the airways lubricated, enabling smooth airflow to and from the lungs.
In certain situations, the bronchial glands may become overactive, leading to an excessive production of mucus. This can result in conditions such as bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by a persistent cough, increased mucus production, and difficulty breathing. Conversely, when the bronchial glands do not produce enough mucus, it can lead to conditions like dry cough or a sore throat.
In summary, bronchial glands are small glands located in the bronchi that secrete mucus to facilitate proper respiratory function and protect the lungs from various harmful particles and substances.
Lymphatic glands around the bronchi at the root of a lung.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "bronchial" derives from the Greek word "bronkhos", which means windpipe or throat. The term "bronchial glands" refers to the glands located in the bronchi, the main passageways in the respiratory system that lead from the trachea to the lungs. The term's etymology is a combination of the Greek word "bronkhos" and the English word "glands", indicating the specific location of these glands in the bronchial airways.