Question

Put the following terms on one set of cards and the definitions/descriptions on another set of cards:

Cheyne-Strokes breathing, dyspnea, intrathoracic pressure, vital capacity, expiratory reserve, atmospheric pressure:

Answer 1

1. Cheyne-stokes breathing : It is named after a person who first described this breathing pattern. It is an abnormal breathing pattern characterized by progressive deeper respiration which is faster followed by slower breathing leading to no breathing or apnea which is temporary. This is a cycle which repeats . The time interval of each cycle is between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. Damage to the respiratory centre is the main reason for Cheyne- stokes respiration.

2. Dyspnea : Difficulty in breathing is called dyspnea . The causes are : Asthma, COPD, anxiety attacks, choking , broken ribs etc.

3 . Intrathoracic pressure : Intrathoracic pressure is the pressure in the pleural cavity of the lungs. The pressure intrathoracically is lesser when compared to atmospheric pressure.

4 . Vital capacity : The maximum amount of air the person expires out after a deep inhalation is vital capacity which can be measured by spirometer.

5. Expiratory reserve : The amount of air that can be expelled after the normal exhalation is expiratory reserve. The normal expiratory reserve volume is 800 mL in women and 1100 mL in males.

6. Atmospheric pressure : It is the pressure exerted on the surface by the air in the atmosphere. It is measured by barometer. The normal atmospheric pressure at sea level is about 14.7 pounds per square inch.

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