Q42.6-3CC. If an injury tore a small hole i... [FREE SOLUTION]

Chapter 42: Q42.6-3CC. (page 944)

If an injury tore a small hole in the membranes surrounding your lungs, what effect on the lung function would you expect?

Short Answer

Expert verified

A small hole in the membrane of the lungs causes pneumothorax. A collapsed condition of lungs in which air would pass between the inner and outer layers of the lungs.

When air is pushed from the outside of the lungs, it results in collapsing of the lungs. In some cases of pneumothorax, lungs could partially collapse.

Step by step solution

Lungs

Either side of the chest comprises a spongy air-filled organ that participates in the respiration process called the lung. The trachea opens into the lungs and further divides into branches called bronchi. They act as windpipes. The bronchi again divide into bronchioles.

The end of the bronchioles contains clusters called alveoli.

Membranes of the lungs

The pleural membrane protects the lungs from the outside; it encloses and protects the lungs. The thoracic cavity wall comprises the parietal pleura, and it is also known as the superficial layer.

The innermost layer of the lungs has visceral pleura, and the space between these layers is called the pleural cavity. It shows the presence of fluid which reduces friction.

Respiratory syndromes

Respiratory distress syndrome occurs in an individual who has holes in the lungs or membranes of the lungs due to injuries or critical respiratory illness. These traumas can cause leakage of air into the lungs. The condition is called pneumothorax. The lungs could not supply the required oxygen to the body.

Chest pain, cough, increased heart rate, and shortness of breath are signs of pneumothorax. The lungs collapse from the pressure due to the leakage of air.