Cough Reflex

Question 1

Outline the physiology of the SENSORY part of the cough reflex

Answer 1

• Rapidly adapting irritant receptors located mainly in post wall of trachea, pharynx, main bronchi (absent beyong bronchioles)
• Triggered by irritant
• Impulse sent via internal laryngeal nerve ⇒ Vagus nerve ⇒ Medulla of brain

Question 2

Outline the physiology of the MOTOR part of the cough reflex

Answer 2

• Inhalation (via diaphragm & ext intercostals)
• Glottis closes & vocal cords contract
• Abdo & int intercostal muscles contract
• INC pressure
• Vocal cords relax & glottis opens
• Air released at 100mph