What happens to the cilia in the airway when smoke is inhaled?

When smoke is inhaled, the cilia in the airway are adversely affected, leading to their destruction. Cilia are tiny hair-like structures that line the respiratory tract and play an essential role in clearing out mucus, pathogens, and particulate matter from the airways. Smoke contains numerous harmful substances and toxins, which can impair the function of cilia, leading to their damage and destruction over time. This loss of cilia contributes to impaired mucociliary clearance, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and exacerbating conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. Understanding this process is crucial for asthma educators, as it highlights the harmful effects of smoking on respiratory health and the importance of cessation programs for individuals with asthma.