What type of receptors are responsible for the cough and sneeze reflexes?

• A. Olfactory receptors
• B. Irritant receptors
• C. Barrier receptors
• D. Stretch receptors

Answer: (B)

Irritant receptors are indeed responsible for the cough and sneeze reflexes. These receptors are located in the airway epithelium and are highly sensitive to a variety of stimuli, including smoke, dust, strong odors, and other airborne irritants. When activated, they send signals through the sensory nerves to the central nervous system, prompting the cough or sneeze reflex as a protective mechanism to clear the airways of harmful substances. This reflex is crucial for maintaining respiratory health by preventing the inhalation of irritants and pathogens.

Understanding the role of irritant receptors provides insight into how the body protects itself from environmental threats and underscores the importance of the cough and sneeze reflex in pulmonary function. The other types of receptors listed do not perform this role; olfactory receptors are primarily involved in the sense of smell, barrier receptors detect touch and pressure, and stretch receptors in the lungs respond to lung volume changes but do not initiate cough or sneeze reflexes.