Which reflex expels irritants from the airway?

Which reflex expels irritants from the airway?

• A. Larynx
• B. Pharynx
• C. Trachea
• D. Cough reflex

Answer: (C)

Protection of the airway relies on reflexes that detect irritants and clear the airway. The cough reflex is the response that expels irritants from the airway. When irritants touch receptors in the airway lining, signals travel to the brainstem and trigger a coordinated sequence: a deep breath in, closure of the glottis, strong contraction of the expiratory muscles, and a forceful expulsion as the glottis opens. This blasts air through the vocal cords and upper airway to eject mucus, dust, or other irritants. The trachea, larynx, and pharynx are structures that participate in the coughing process, but the mechanism itself is the cough reflex.

Protection of the airway relies on reflexes that detect irritants and clear the airway. The cough reflex is the response that expels irritants from the airway. When irritants touch receptors in the airway lining, signals travel to the brainstem and trigger a coordinated sequence: a deep breath in, closure of the glottis, strong contraction of the expiratory muscles, and a forceful expulsion as the glottis opens. This blasts air through the vocal cords and upper airway to eject mucus, dust, or other irritants.

The trachea, larynx, and pharynx are structures that participate in the coughing process, but the mechanism itself is the cough reflex.