Inhaling smoke or other substances irritates the bronchi and bronchioles and it causes chronic infection of the lungs. An effect caused by nicotine, for example, limits the normal protective mechanisms of the airways with partial paralysis of the cilia of the respiratory epithelium. As a result, mucus cannot easily be transported out of the passageways and excess mucus secretion also occurs, which exacerbates the condition. Inhibition of the alveolar macrophages also occurs, so they become less effective when fighting against infection.
The majority of smaller airways are chronically obstructed by the infection, excess mucus and inflammatory edema of the bronchiolar epithelium.
Expiration is especially difficult when there is the obstruction
The majority of smaller airways are chronically obstructed by the infection, excess mucus and inflammatory edema of the bronchiolar epithelium.
Expiration is especially difficult when there is the obstruction