Breathing In Special Circumstances

Question 1

How does the respiratory system typically adapt to high altitude conditions to optimise oxygen delivery?

Answer 1

Enhanced red blood cell production

Question 2

How do central chemoreceptors typically adapt to prolonged exposure to high altitude conditions?

Answer 2

Enhanced response to changes in blood pH

Question 3

How do the kidneys typically adapt to prolonged exposure to high altitude conditions?

Answer 3

Elevated secretion of erythropoietin

Question 4

In conditions of reduced oxygen availability, such as high altitude living, what specific physiological adaptation facilitates enhanced oxygen release from haemoglobin to tissues?

Answer 4

Enhances production of 2,3-DPG

Question 5

How does the respiratory system respond to increased partial pressures of gases during deep sea diving?

Answer 5

Activation of the haldane effect

Question 6

A 30 year old experienced diver surfaces rapidly after a deep sea dive. Shortly after ascent, the diver complains of chest pain and difficulty breathing. What respiratory physiology change is likely contributing to these symptoms?

Answer 6

Nitrogen bubble formation in the blood stream

Question 7

How does an increase in metabolic rate typically impact respiratory physiology?

Answer 7

Elevated respiratory rate

Question 8

What is distinctive respiratory feature observed in neonates shortly after birth?

Answer 8

Activation of the surfactant system

Question 9

An 80 year old man presents with complaints of exertional dyspnea and fatigue. His medical history is notable for hypertension adn mild osteoarthritis. Physical examination reveals decreased chest wall compliance. What respiratory physiology change is likely the cause?

Answer 9

Reduced vital capacity related to decreased chest wall compliance

Question 10

A 45v year old woman with a BMI of 35 presents with complaints of persistent daytime sleepiness and loud snoring. She denies a history of respiratory conditions. What respiratory physiology change is likely contributing to her symptoms?

Answer 10

Decreased vital capacity related to reduced lung compliance

Question 11

How does respiratory physiology typically change in individuals experiencing anxiety?

Answer 11

Activation of sympathetic nervous system

Question 12

How does respiratory physiology typically adapt during moderate to intense excercise?

Answer 12

Increased tidal volume

Question 13

A 28 year old pregnant woman presents with complaints of shortness of breath during her third trimester. She has no history of respiratory conditions and is otherwise heathland. What physiological change is likely the cause?

Answer 13

Increased tidal volume due to increased oxygen demand