Physiology of Breathing Quiz

Physiology of Breathing

• Breathing involves the mechanics of inspiration and expiration.
• Inspiration is an active process, involving the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.
• The diaphragm flattens and the chest cage widens, increasing pulmonary volume.
• Expiration is a passive process, where the diaphragm and muscles relax, returning the lungs to their resting position.

Mechanics of Breathing

• The flattening of the diaphragm and widening of the chest cage by muscles between the ribs increases pulmonary volume during inspiration.
• A passive process squeezes the air out during expiration.
• Active inspiration is contrasted with passive exhalation.

Fundamental Respiratory Mechanics

• Key functions include inhaling oxygen, exhaling carbon dioxide, and regulating blood pH.
• Key components include the pump, gas exchanger, and controller.
• Boyle's Law (P₁V₁ = P₂V₂) describes the relationship between pressure and volume in gasses.

Pneumothorax

• Pneumothorax is air in the pleural space.
• Decreased venous return can contribute to the condition.
• Compression of the opposite lung and mediastinal shift are possible consequences.
• Different types of pneumothorax exist including closed and open.
• Closed pneumothorax is air entering from inside the lung.
• Open pneumothorax is air entering from outside the lung cavity.
• Examples of the source of "air from outside" include traumatic chest-wall rupture and blunt chest trauma.
• Examples of the source of "air from inside" are emphysema and COPD.

Treatment of Pneumothorax

• Treatment for a closed (tension) pneumothorax involves immediate air evacuation from the pleural cavity before mechanical ventilation.
• A needle inserted into the skin, over the third rib, facilitates immediate evacuation.
• Treatment for open pneumothorax may require additional mechanical ventilation.
• A prefabricated Heimlich valve is often used.

Test your knowledge on the physiology and mechanics of breathing, including inspiration and expiration processes. Learn about how the diaphragm and intercostal muscles contribute to lung function and the importance of gas exchange. Explore fundamental concepts such as Boyle's Law and the implications of conditions like pneumothorax.