Where is the location of the lungs?

Jul 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My son is 12 years old this year. Recently, he always tells me over the phone that his lungs hurt. I'm not very sure about the location of the lungs. Could you please tell me where the lungs are situated?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingli
The lungs are located within the thoracic cavity of the human body, encircled by the ribs, with one on each side. They sit above the diaphragm and on either side of the mediastinum. The left and right lungs occupy most of the thoracic cavity, although the mediastinum, the heart, and other organs lie between them. The left lung is divided into two lobes—upper and lower—while the right lung is divided into three lobes—upper, middle, and lower. The lungs hold a vital position within the human body, serving as the main organs of the respiratory system. They are responsible for gas exchange, fulfilling the body's demand for oxygen and eliminating carbon dioxide. The upper end of each lung is rounded and referred to as the apex. It extends superiorly through the thoracic inlet into the root of the neck. The base of the lung lies atop the diaphragm. The surface facing the ribs and intercostal spaces is called the costal surface, while the surface oriented toward the mediastinum is known as the medial surface. At the hilum of the lung, the bronchi, blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves enter or exit. These structures are enveloped in connective tissue forming the root of the lung.