Answer:
1) Plasma protein is essential to a healthy blood supply for several reasons:
- Transport of Substances: Plasma proteins, such as albumin, globulins, and fibrinogen, are crucial in transporting substances throughout the body. For example, albumin helps carry hormones, vitamins, and fatty acids, while globulins transport antibodies and other immune system components. Fibrinogen is essential for blood clotting.
- Maintenance of Osmotic Pressure: Plasma proteins help maintain the osmotic pressure of the blood. This pressure is necessary to exchange fluids and nutrients between the blood and the body's tissues.
- Defense Mechanism: Certain plasma proteins, including immunoglobulins and complement proteins, are vital for the immune system's defense against infections. They help identify and neutralize harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and toxins.
- Clotting Process: Fibrinogen, a plasma protein, plays a crucial role in blood clotting. It is converted into fibrin, which forms a mesh-like structure to help stop bleeding and promote wound healing.
Yes, plasma can be donated. Plasma donation involves extracting plasma from the blood and returning the other blood components to the donor. Donated plasma can produce life-saving therapies for various medical conditions, including immune disorders, bleeding disorders, and certain neurological conditions. Plasma donation is a safe and regulated process performed by trained healthcare professionals.
2) Asthma and pneumonia are both respiratory conditions, but they differ in terms of their characteristics and duration:
- Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by recurring wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing. It is caused by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs. Asthma symptoms can be triggered by various factors such as allergens, exercise, cold air, and stress. While it is a long-term condition, asthma can be managed with proper medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
- Pneumonia: Pneumonia, on the other hand, is an acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms can cause it. Pneumonia leads to inflammation and fluid buildup in the air sacs of the lungs, resulting in symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Unlike asthma, pneumonia is typically an acute condition that develops quickly and requires immediate medical attention. Treatment may involve antibiotics, antiviral medications, or supportive care, depending on the underlying cause.
Step-by-step explanation: