Grunting occurs during which phase of the breathing cycle?

Grunting occurs during which phase of the breathing cycle?

• A. Inspiration
• B. Expiration
• C. Both
• D. Neither

Answer: (B)

Grunting is an expiratory maneuver used by infants to keep airways open. As air leaves the lungs, the infant partially closes the glottis, creating a small, controlled exhalation that generates an audible grunt and helps raise end-expiratory pressure. This sound helps prevent alveolar collapse and improve oxygenation when the lungs are stiff or under distress. It is not typically heard during inhalation, and it isn’t a sound produced during both phases or neither. In practice, grunting indicates respiratory distress and impaired lung mechanics, prompting careful assessment and management.

Grunting is an expiratory maneuver used by infants to keep airways open. As air leaves the lungs, the infant partially closes the glottis, creating a small, controlled exhalation that generates an audible grunt and helps raise end-expiratory pressure. This sound helps prevent alveolar collapse and improve oxygenation when the lungs are stiff or under distress. It is not typically heard during inhalation, and it isn’t a sound produced during both phases or neither. In practice, grunting indicates respiratory distress and impaired lung mechanics, prompting careful assessment and management.