How do these Histological Changes Affect Lung Function?

The histological changes seen in obstructive lung diseases significantly impair lung function:

- Airflow Limitation: The structural alterations, such as alveolar destruction in emphysema and fibrosis in bronchiectasis, decrease the elastic recoil of the lungs, making it difficult to expel air.
- Increased Airway Resistance: In conditions like chronic bronchitis and asthma, mucus hypersecretion and bronchial wall thickening narrow the airways, increasing resistance to airflow.
- Gas Exchange Impairment: The destruction of alveolar walls in emphysema reduces the surface area available for gas exchange, leading to hypoxia and hypercapnia.