
Respiratory cilia
Respiratory cilia are tiny hair-like structures lining the windpipe and other respiratory passages. They beat in coordinated waves to move mucus, along with trapped dust, germs, and other particles, upward and out of the airways. This helps keep the lungs clean and prevents infections. The cilia work continuously, synchronized like a team, to protect the respiratory system. Proper function relies on healthy cilia, which can be affected by illness, smoking, or environmental toxins, leading to problems like coughing, mucus buildup, or respiratory infections.