What is hering breuer reflex?

The Hering-Breuer reflex is a protective mechanism that helps regulate breathing by preventing over-inflation of the lungs. It is named after the German physiologists Eduard Hering and Otto Lowenstein Breuer, who first described it in the late 19th century.

The reflex is triggered when the stretch receptors in the lungs (located in the bronchi and bronchioles) sense that the lungs are becoming too full of air during inhalation. This information is sent to the brainstem, specifically the medulla oblongata, which then signals the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to stop the inhalation process and begin exhalation.

The Hering-Breuer reflex helps prevent lung over-inflation, which can lead to lung damage or collapse. It also helps regulate breathing depth and rate during different levels of physical activity.

Overall, the Hering-Breuer reflex plays a crucial role in maintaining proper respiratory function and preventing lung injury.