In the third trimester of pregnancy, which of the following changes in lung volumes is most commonly observed?
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Correct answer: Decrease in Functional Residual Capacity (FRC)
The growing fetus elevates the diaphragm, which reduces the resting volume of the lungs. This leads to a decrease in the ERV and RV, resulting in a significantly lower FRC, though the Vital Capacity (VC) is usually preserved.
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More Lung Volumes and Capacities questions
- How is the Inspiratory Capacity (IC) calculated from standard lung volumes?
- Which of the following is true regarding the 'Minimal Volume' of the lungs?
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- What happens to the physiological dead space in a patient with a pulmonary embolism?
- Which lung capacity represents the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inspiration?
- In an elderly individual, which of the following lung volume changes is typically seen due to the normal aging process?