RESPIRATORY ACTIVITY
Briefly explain the main cause or mechanism of the increase in respiratory rate or depth and/or respiratory difficulties in the following cases: (one to two sentences only)
1. Initiation of exercise
There are various exercises that may then require the mobilization and movement of muscles that need more oxygen to contract through cellular respiration. This increases breathing depth and rate, which encourages the intake of more oxygen and eliminates carbon dioxide from the lungs.
2. Moderate exercise
While the heart pumps oxygen to the muscles used in physical activity, the lungs provide oxygen for energy and remove carbon dioxide. Because of this, metabolic demands increase along with alveolar ventilation, arterial blood-gas tensions, and acid-base balance being maintained relatively close to resting levels at moderate intensities of exercise and the effort placed on the respiratory muscles is kept to a minimum because the mechanics of breathing are so meticulously controlled.
3. Abrupt ascent into high altitudes
High-altitude exposure triggers hyperventilation, increasing heart rate and oxygen supply to tissues. Breathing becomes unstable, alternating deep and rapid breathing and central apnea due to lower oxygen content so high-altitude periodic breathing is needed.
4. Paralysis of phrenic nerve
The initial or primary motor supply to the diaphragm is provided by the nerve called a phrenic nerve, so paralysis of this nerve may result in dysfunction or paralysis of the diaphragm making it hard for the respiratory system to function.
5. Severe anemia
When there are fewer red blood cells in the body which is what one experiences when they have anemia, the blood cannot carry enough oxygen. Due to the body's ongoing efforts to return oxygen levels to normal, people with severe anemia experience hyperventilation and rapid heart rate.
10. Advanced Pregnancy
In advanced pregnancy, increased respiratory rate and depth are caused by the growing uterus and increased production of progesterone. There are also age-related changes in respiratory function, such as decreased lung elasticity and chest wall compliance, leading to increased respiratory infections.