RESISTANCE TO AIRFLOW

What are the two main factors that affect resistance to airflow?

The diameter of the bronchioles and pulmonary compliance.

What causes bronchodilation?

is stimulated by epinephrine and sympathetic nerves (norepinephrine).

What causes bronchoconstriction?

is caused by parasympathetic nerves, cold air, and chemical irritants.

What is pulmonary compliance?

is the ease with which the lungs expand.

High compliance means lungs expand easily.

What conditions can reduce pulmonary compliance?

Diseases like tuberculosis can reduce compliance.

What is the role of pulmonary surfactant?

reduces alveolar surface tension by disrupting hydrogen bonds, allowing greater lung compliance.

What is infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS)?

occurs in premature infants who lack pulmonary surfactant, leading to difficulty breathing.