The lungs are a pair of spongy organs located in the chest and are an essential part of the respiratory system. Their main function is to help us breathe by taking in oxygen from the air and removing carbon dioxide from the body.
The lungs are divided into sections called lobes – the right lung has three lobes, while the left lung has two. They are enclosed in a membrane called the pleura, which helps protect and cushion the lungs.
When we inhale, the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contract, causing the chest cavity to expand. This expansion creates a negative pressure, pulling air into the lungs. Oxygen from the inhaled air passes into the bloodstream through tiny air sacs called alveoli, while carbon dioxide moves from the blood into the alveoli to be exhaled.
There are several common lung conditions, including asthma, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. These conditions can affect the function of the lungs and may require medical treatment.