Hering-Breuer Inflation Reflex — FRCA Primary MCQ
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Correct answer: E — It inhibits inspiratory drive when pulmonary stretch receptors are activated
The best answer is “It inhibits inspiratory drive when pulmonary stretch receptors are activated”. Pulmonary stretch receptors signal through vagal afferents to inhibit further inspiration during substantial lung inflation, limiting overdistension. The reflex is more prominent in infants and at large tidal volumes. It is distinct from airway-irritant reflexes, chemoreceptor-mediated carbon-dioxide responses and vagally mediated bronchoconstriction.
Reference: Royal College of Anaesthetists, Primary FRCA Syllabus 2021: https://www.rcoa.ac.uk/sites/default/files/documents/2026-01/Primary-FRCA-Syllabus.pdf