Water content level in inspired air on specific airway resistence in rats

ABSTRACT

The effect of increasing water content in inspired air on specific airway resistence in rats was assessed. The results show that specific airway resistances were significantly related to the water content of the inspired air, above 15.02 mg/m3, the duration of water content exposure and to the type of water nebulized. It is suggested that the increase is composed of a local and neural element caused by accumulation of mucus or mucosal swelling and changes in the composition and consistency of the mucus lining layer, respectively (AU)