Читать книгу Understanding Anatomy and Physiology in Nursing - John Knight - Страница 157

Located within the carina are densely arranged sensory receptors which continually monitor the airway for debris. These receptors respond to mechanical stimulation and are ideally positioned since inhaled particles will have to pass through the carina before travelling into the primary bronchi and the lungs. Once activated, these receptors initiate a vigorous coughing reflex where explosive expiration of air will usually clear irritating particulates. Unfortunately, as we grow older, the receptors of the airway become less sensitive to irritation, and this together with age-associated losses in muscle mass and strength means that the coughing reflex is less effective. This contributes to an increased risk of respiratory tract infections in older people.