What is an aortic aneurysm?

First of all the aorta consists of 4 different parts the root, the arch, and the ascending and descending aorta. An aortic aneurysm is the weakening of aortic walls, which has three different layers. When one of the walls may become weak, and tend to balloon or bloat outwards until it may rupture. The rupture is the greatest danger is that the aneurysm will indeed rupture and then heavy uncontrollable bleeding will commence. This is also known as a hemorrhage. A side bit of information, is that it may be caused by high blood pressure or other compromised tissues. Here is a video describing the apparent symptoms and specifics of an aortic aneurysm, enjoy!

Then explain how inspiration and expiration work.  What causes the lung to inflate with air?  Why do they deflate?  What part of the process requires a "muscle contraction" of the diaphragm?

The external intercostals and diaphragm and the diagram contracts to bring about inspiration. The contraction of the external intercostal leads to the elevation of the ribs and sternum which increases the dimensions of the thoracic external cavity. This all lower s the pressure in the lungs and lets air move into the lungs.

Expiration is the relaxation of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. This returns the thoracic cavity to its resting position including the diaphragm, ribs and sternum. This increases the pressure in the lungs and then the air is exhaled.

Vital Capacity!

1. How does your vital capacity compare to others in the class? Describe some reasons why you think your vital capacity is what it is. Why are the highest and lowest vital capacities the way they are?


My vital capacity is in fact quite low compared to the rest of the classes. My vital capacity was only 2500 while most would have above that. I have played the tenor saxophone for five years so I thought I would have a higher capacity , but I also have asthma so it would make sense that I would have a lower capacity than most. The highest and lowest vital capacities are the way they are because showcases actual lung strength and the higher it is on the scale the more healthy your lungs are.

 2. How much air is in a usual breath? Why are our breaths the volume that they are?

The typical or average amount of air is 5oo ml. For girls it tends to be two liters while boys are four.
The breaths volume are the way that they are because it depends on the athletic endurance, body sizes and frames.

3. How is the mechanism of exhaling forcefully different than a usual exhalation? Why would practice at this via exercise/instrument playing/singing make you better at it?

When we exhale forcefully, we are voluntarily exhaling air while usual exhalation is involuntarily exhalation. This practices will make it easier to breathe and/or create healthier lungs because it conditions the lungs for a higher vital capacity.

Pneumonia: Some fluids you just don't want in your body!

 First and foremost pneumonia is an infection of the lungs. Many different germs can cause pneumonia, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When you breathe in these germs, they can settle in the air sacs (alveoli, which is connected to the bronchioles, bronchi and trechea etc.) of your lungs. Deep in your lungs, the germs may grow and overcome your body's normal defenses.
After they become infected, the air sacs then fill with pus and mucus. This swelling (inflammation) of the air sacs makes them less stretchy and keeps oxygen from properly reaching your blood stream.
As you work harder to breathe and give your body oxygen, you can feel short of breath. It usually effects people who are more susceptible like infants and seniors, or people who have previously had a flu or cold and their immune system is weaker.

here is a video that will leave you with a further understanding!