Respiratory Pressure

Respiratory Pressure

“What is respiratory pressure? A detailed question and answers guide”

Question 1. Surfactant. 
Answer:

Surfactant Definition:

1. Type II alveolar epithelial cells.
2. Clara cells.

Surfactant Functions:

• Reduction of surface tension
• Stabilization of the alveoli
• Inflation of lungs.
• Defensive function.

“Understanding respiratory pressure through FAQs: Composition, functions, and uses explained”

Question 2. Respiratory pressure. (or) Respiratory dead space.
Answer:

Respiratory Pressure Types:

1. Intrapleural/intrathoracic pressure.

• It is the pressure existing in pleural cavity which is between the visceral and parietal layers of pleura.
• Normal value is 760 mm Hg.
• It is always negative.

2. Intra alveolar/intrapulmonary pressure.

• It is the pressure existing in the alveoli of the lungs.
• Normal value of 760 mm Hg.
• It is negative during inspiration and positive during expiration.

“Importance of studying respiratory pressure for medical students: Questions explained”

Question 3. Compliance.
Answer:

Compliance Definition:

• The ability of the lungs and thorax to expand is called compliance.
• It is the change in lung volume per unit change in airway pressure.

Compliance Normal value:

1. Compliance of the lungs and the thorax together = 0.3 litre per cm H₂O pressure.

2. Compliance of the lungs only= 0.22 litre per cm H₂O pressure.

“Factors influencing success with respiratory pressure studies: Q&A”

Compliance Measurement:

• The subject is asked to inspired a known volume of air.
• At the end, the intrapleural pressure is measured.
• Then, the air is expired until the volume returns to the original levels.
• The values of volume and pressure are plotted and a curve is obtain.

Compliance Factors effecting

1. Lung volume.
2. Phase of respiratory cycle
3. Effect of gravity.
4. Surface tension.