A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has difficulty exhaling. Which mechanism best explains this?

A patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary

Multiple choice — select the best answer

AExcess mucus blocking the alveoli from opening
BSpasm of the diaphragm limiting chest expansion
CLoss of elastic recoil causing small airways to collapse during expiration
DPulmonary hypertension compressing the bronchi

✓ Correct answer: C. Loss of elastic recoil causing small airways to collapse during expiration Emphysema (a component of COPD) destroys alveolar walls, reducing lung elasticity. Without elastic recoil, small airways collapse on exhalation, trapping air and causing hyperinflation and dyspnea.

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Topic: Body Systems

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