Question

Inhalation of dry gases can do which of the following?

           1. increase the viscosity of secretions

           2. impair mucociliary motility

           3. increase airway irritability

Question options:

1)	1, 2, and 3

2)

1 and 3

3)

1 and 2

4)

3

Answer 1

Sol:-

The correct solution for the above mentioned question is:-

Option-1 -1, 2 and 3

Explanation-Generally when the atmospheric air is inhaled, the air inturn gets moistened and warmed as it passes through the upper respiratory tract. Thus, this facilitates the gaseous exchange at the level of alveoli and capillary. The air here has a relative humidity of 100 %. But, when mechanical ventilation is in use, generally dry gas is administered. As the gas skips the mechanism of humidification of upper respiratory tract, it has serious effects.

Viscosity is the phenomenon of resistance of flow in gases or liquid due to loss of energy. As the dry gas is not sufficiently humidified it results in increased viscosity of secretions. This in turn impairs the mucocilliary motility which is mostly dependent on cilliary action. Further it can cause airway inflammation and irritability.