Question

Mucus is an important part of the respiratory system. Many cold remedies reduce cold symptoms, including a runny nose, by reducing mucus production. Explain how this kind of medication can put people at risk for a more serious infection.

Answer 1

Question-

Mucus is an important part of the respiratory system. Many cold remedies reduce cold symptoms, including a runny nose, by reducing mucus production. Explain how this kind of medication can put people at risk for a more serious infection.

Answer-

The airway surface liquid (ASL), often referred to as mucus, is a thin layer of fluid covering the luminal surface of the airway. The major function of mucus is to protect the lung through mucociliary clearance against foreign particles and chemicals entering the lung.

If the mucus production is reduced, our lungs won't be protected against foreign particles like dust and dirt. Sometimes, the chemicals in the air from perfumes and smoke might enter our lungs and cause inflamation. This will hurt our lungs.