How is the ventilatory response to hypercapnia affected in healthy men over age 65?
A) It is decreased 40%
B) It is decreased 30%
C) It is decreased 20%
D) It is decreased 10%

Question

How is the ventilatory response to hypercapnia affected in healthy men over age 65?
A) It is decreased >40%
B) It is decreased 30%
C) It is decreased 20%
D) It is decreased 10%

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As people age, their respiratory system undergoes changes that cause a decrease in respiratory muscle strength, lung elasticity, and gas exchange capability. These changes cause a decreased ventilatory response to hypercapnia, which is the increase of carbon dioxide in the blood. In healthy men over the age of 65, the ventilatory response to hypercapnia is decreased by more than 40%.

How Is the Ventilatory Response to Hypercapnia Affected in Healthy