Which of the following is true about Head&;s paradoxical reflex?
High-Yield Explanation
Head&;s Paradoxical reflex refers to "prolonged inspiration stimulating fuher inspiration". It is the opposite of Hering-Breuer inflation reflex It is caused due to hyperinflation of the lungs. Hyperinflation of the lungs causes strong and long-lasting inspiratory effo(an effect opposite to the Hering-Breuer inflation reflex) Physiological Role: Occasional depp breaths which are thought to counteract any tendency to atelectasis in quiet breathing and possibly in reinforcing the gasps or inspiratory effos. FIrst cry after bih The possible explanation for this could be the inhibition of vagus nerve at cold temperatures (due to the presence of pulmonary fluid in the unaerated newborn lungs) Lack of inhibitory impulses from the pulmonary stretch receptors and vagus has an effect opposite to Hering-Breuer&;s inflation reflex. Ref: Ganong&;s Review of Medical Physiology 26th edition Pgno: 645-657