effects of smoking on the
gas exchange system
Tar, nicotine, CO & CO 2
are the major toxic components in a cigarette.
How do they affect our gas exchange system?
What: a carcinogenic compound which condensates in the
lungs to form a brown sticky substance. It’s an
irritant, made of N, O, H, CO2, CO, etc.
Effects: Breakdown of alveoli walls (emphysema)
Airsacs become damaged and enlarged (emphysema)
Coats the surface of breathing tubes & alveoli (cancer)
Chronic inflammation of lungs -> scar tissue
What:Highly addictive substance
found in cigarettes (tobacco
leaves)
Effects: Blood supply picks up the nicotine and it reaches the brain
Triggers the release of adrenaline
Causes faster heart beats & breath rate, and narrowing vessels
Promotes heart attacks
What: Odorless, colourness, poisinous gas.
Effects: Increases heart rate, shortens breath
Attaches to haemoglobin & blocks ability to carry O2