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Alveoli- Definition of Alveoli

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Updated March 23, 2010

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Alveoli- Definition of Alveoli

Alveoli

Photo © A.D.A.M
Definition:

Alveoli are small air sacs that make up the final branch of your lung. This is where oxygen is taken into your body and the end product of breathing, carbon dioxide, begins to be released.

Your lung has about 300 million alveoli. During an asthma attack, oxygen is prevented from reaching the alveoli due to inflammation. The alveoli themselves may become stiff and filled with mucus.

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