Neural Regulation: Setting the Basic Rhythm
- The activity of the respiratory muscles is regulated by nerve pulses. These nerve pulses are transmitted to them from the brain by the phrenic and intercostal nerves.
- The neural centers control respiratory rhythm and depth. They are located in the medulla and pons.
- The medulla sets the basic rhythm of breathing and contains a self-exciting inspiratory center and other respiratory centers.
- The pons centers smooth out the basic rhythm of inspiration and expiration set by medulla.
- Impulses, at 12-15 respiration/minute, go back and forth between the medulla and pons.
- Eupnea: Normal respiratory rate.
- Bronchioles/Alveoli have stretch receptors. They respond to extreme over inflation. This could cause damage to lungs.
- If over inflation occurs, impulses are sent from stretch receptors to medulla through vagus nerves.
- During exercise the brain centers send more impulses to respiratory muscles causing us to breathe deeper and more vigorously.
- Hyperpnea: the respiratory pattern caused by exercise.