What happens to our Lungs when we Smoke?
Whenever we smoke cigarettes, we inhale a mix of about 4000 harmful chemicals. These chemicals cause swelling of bronchial tubes present in our lungs. Thus resulting in excess production of mucus. Also, they damage hair-like projections called cilia. Whose function is to push out the excess mucus. As a result, the bronchial tubes get clogged. This leads to persistent coughing as our body attempts to clear the mucus. Thus eventually causing chronic bronchitis. Secondly, these chemicals also damage. Tiny air sacs called alveoli present in our lungs. This reduces the amount of oxygen entering our blood. Thus causing a condition called emphysema. Note that chronic bronchitis and emphysema are collectively called. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. COPD is irreversible and incurable. Lastly, some of these chemicals can also damage. The DNA present in the cells of bronchial tubes and alveoli. Thus leading to lung cancer.