Respiratory Mucosa: The Membrane Lining Airways Affected by Colds and Coughs

The respiratory mucosa (mucous membrane) lines the conducting airways from the nasal cavities through the pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles.

Structure

• Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium with goblet cells (mucus secretion).
• Basement membrane, lamina propria (connective tissue, immune cells, glands).
• Cilia beat rhythmically → mucociliary escalator (moves mucus + trapped particles toward pharynx).

Role in Colds/Coughs

• Viral infection → inflammation, edema, ↑ mucus production, ciliary dysfunction.
• Excess mucus + impaired clearance → congestion, post-nasal drip, cough reflex.
• Neutrophils, lymphocytes infiltrate → cytokine release → symptoms.

Healthy mucosa = first line of respiratory defense. Hydration, humidification, avoiding irritants support its function.