[04] Regulation of Respiration Flashcards
What is the primary function of the respiratory system?
To exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment
What are the two main forms of respiration regulation?
- Voluntary control
- Automatic control
Where is the respiratory center located?
In the medulla oblongata and pons of the brainstem
What is the primary role of the respiratory center?
To control the rate and depth of breathing
Which parts of the brain control voluntary respiration?
The cerebral cortex
What are chemoreceptors?
Specialized cells that detect changes in the concentration of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood and the pH of the blood
Where are chemoreceptors located?
- In the medulla oblongata (central chemoreceptors)
- In the aortic and carotid bodies (peripheral chemoreceptors)
What is the role of chemoreceptors in respiration?
They send signals to the respiratory center to adjust the rate and depth of breathing based on the body’s needs
What is hyperventilation?
Rapid or deep breathing that can decrease the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood
How does hyperventilation affect blood pH?
It increases blood pH, leading to a state called respiratory alkalosis
What is hypoventilation?
Slow or shallow breathing that can increase the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood
How does hypoventilation affect blood pH?
It decreases blood pH, leading to a state called respiratory acidosis
What are the primary factors influencing respiratory rate?
- Carbon dioxide levels
- Oxygen levels
- Blood pH
What is the Hering-Breuer reflex?
A reflex that prevents overinflation of the lungs by inhibiting inspiration
How does physical activity influence respiration?
It increases the need for oxygen and the production of carbon dioxide, thereby increasing the respiratory rate
