Abstract

A review of normal function stresses that in health the respiratory system has a relatively minor influence upon oxygen transport. In cardiac disease, anxiety or lack of physical condition may lead to a disproportionate hyperventilation, as may associated respiratory problems associated with heavy cigarette smoking. Weakness of skeletal muscles, a slow adaptation to effort and a limited rise of systemic pressure may combine to lower the threshold of anaerobic work. Abnormal pulmonary arterial pressures, tissue oedema, alveolar exudate, and secondary changes in the pulmonary vasculature all have adverse effects upon respiratory function. The treatment of dyspnea differs between these several categories of disorder, and it is thus important to the clinician that they be distinguished. Verf.-Referat