ELASTIC RECOIL OF THE LUNG IN CIGARETTE SMOKERS - EFFECT OF NEBULIZED BRONCHODILATOR AND CESSATION OF SMOKING

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The mechanical properties of the lung, forced vital capacity [FVC], flow-volume relationships, lung volume and single-breath N2 curve were determined in 16 nonsmokers and 19 smokers. Pulmonary elastic recoil, Pst (1), and flow parameters were significantly lower at all lung volumes whereas lung volumes were higher in smokers of both sexes. The variables derived from FVC and single-breath N2 were significantly different from nonsmokers in male smokers but not in female smokers. The inhalation of nebulized bronchodilator significant decreased Pst (1) and upstream flow resistance in smokers. After cessation of smoking Pst (1) decreased to values similar to those seen after bronchodilator administration, whereas resumption of smoking led to reversal of the pressure-volume curve. The elastic properties of the lungs may be altered in cigarette smokers, but the extent of the disturbance is masked by constriction of the alveolar ducts or peripheral airways while smoking, and these are unmasked by the administration of nebulized bronchodilator or by cessation of smoking.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: