Mucociliary Drainage

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

• process by which the cilia remove the mucus + foreign material from the airways
• mucous acts as a trap for bacteria: decreased clearance means bacteria remain in airways = increased risk of infection

Question 2

to be effective:

Answer 2

it requires:

• normal cilia
• optimum thickness + viscosity of mucous. Cystic fibrosis.

Question 3

Things that contribute to decreased + increased clearance

Answer 3

Decreased clearance:
- the aged
- sleep
- disease
- dry, cold air
Increased clearance:
- intense exercise
- postural drainage
- percussion 
- nebulisation