bronchodilatáció

Bronchodilatation refers to the widening of the airways in the lungs. This process is crucial for regulating airflow and ensuring adequate oxygen supply to the body. The airways, primarily the bronchi and bronchioles, are surrounded by smooth muscles. When these muscles relax, the airways expand, allowing for a greater volume of air to pass through. Conversely, when the muscles contract, the airways narrow, a process known as bronchoconstriction.

Bronchodilatation can occur naturally through physiological mechanisms. For instance, during physical exertion, the body's need for oxygen increases, triggering bronchodilation to facilitate greater airflow. Certain hormones and neurotransmitters also play a role in regulating airway diameter.

Medically, bronchodilation is often induced to treat respiratory conditions characterized by narrowed airways, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Medications called bronchodilators are used for this purpose. These drugs typically work by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways. They can be administered through inhalers, nebulizers, or orally. Common classes of bronchodilators include beta-agonists, which stimulate receptors that cause muscle relaxation, and anticholinergics, which block nerve signals that cause muscle contraction. Effective bronchodilation improves breathing capacity and reduces symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.