Dec

Pulmonary disorders

Optimal nutrition throughout life promotes anatomic and physiologic function of the pulmonary system. The respiratory structures include nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, alveolar ducts and alveoli. Gas exchange is the major function of the pulmonary system. The lungs enable the body to obtain the oxygen needed to meet its cellular metabolic demands and to remove carbon-di-oxide produced by these processes. The lungs also filter, warm, and humidify the inspired air; synthesise surfactant; regulate body acid-base balance; synthesis arachidonic acid and convert angiotensin I to angiotensin II.

Impact of malnutrition on the pulmonary system

Malnutrition adversely affects the lung structures, elasticity and function; respiratory muscle mass, strength and endurance; lung immune defense mechanisms and control of breathing. For e.g. protein and Fe deficiency result in low Hb levels, resulting in diminished oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Low levels of other minerals such as Ca, Mg, Phosphorous, Potassium compromise respiratory muscle function at the cellular level. Thus the association of malnutrition with impaired immunity places any malnourished patient at high risk for developing respiratory infections. Malnourished respiratory patients requiring hospitalisation are likely to have long hospital stays and are prone to increased morbidity and mortality.

Impact of Pulmonary system disease on nutritional status

Pulmonary disease substantially increases the energy requirements. The complications of pulmonary diseases or their treatment can make adequate intake, digestion, absorption, circulation, cellular utilisation, storage and excretion of many foods and most nutrients difficult. Some adverse effects of lung disease on nutritional status are