Illustration of the exhalation phase of coughing

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Illustration of the exhalation phase of coughing

Cough. Illustration showing exhalation during coughing. Irritation of the respiratory passages initiates the cough reflex. Nerve impulses pass from the irritated area through the vagus nerves (yellow) to the medulla (brainstem). Here the respiratory centres (coloured red, green & mauve) send nerve signals to the respiratory muscles causing about 2.5 litres of air to be inhaled. The epiglottis & vocal cords close trapping the air in the lungs. The abdominal & internal intercostal muscles then contract forcefully, & the epiglottis & vocal cords suddenly open so that the air is forced out of the lungs under pressure (blue arrows), often carrying foreign matter with it

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6450955

© JOHN BAVOSI/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Cough Exhalation Reflex Respiration Respiratory System

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate process of coughing, shedding light on the exhalation phase. The illustration vividly depicts how irritation in the respiratory passages triggers a reflex action, setting off a chain reaction within our bodies. Nerve impulses travel through the vibrant yellow vagus nerves to reach the brainstem's medulla, where respiratory centers colored in red, green, and mauve come into play. As these respiratory centers receive signals from the irritated area, they command our respiratory muscles to inhale approximately 2.5 liters of air. Simultaneously, both the epiglottis and vocal cords close tightly, effectively trapping this air within our lungs. The true spectacle unfolds when abdominal and internal intercostal muscles contract forcefully. In an instant, like a burst of energy unleashed upon us by nature itself; blue arrows symbolize pressurized expulsion of air from our lungs during coughing episodes. This forceful release often carries foreign matter along with it as well. Through this remarkable artwork captured by Science Photo Library, we gain insight into one of our body's vital defense mechanisms – coughing reflexes that protect us against potential harm or irritants lurking in our respiratory system.

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