The Impacts of Body Position on Respiratory Function and Lung Measurements: A Comprehensive Review
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Abstract
Pulmonary function is a critical determinant of respiratory health, governing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the human body. This review explores the intricate relationship between body position and pulmonary function, drawing insights from various studies. Alterations in body position can have a profound impact on pulmonary parameters. Transitioning from sitting to supine positions leads to decreased forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and reduced vital capacity (VC). Similarly, the prone position shifts tidal ventilation towards specific lung regions, highlighting the influence of body position on ventilation distribution. In healthy individuals, sitting positions generally result in better pulmonary function, with higher FVC, FEV1, PEF, VC, PImax, and PEmax values. However, this effect varies in individuals with specific medical conditions. For example, patients with chronic heart failure experience worsened lung function in lateral decubitus positions. Understanding these position-related changes in pulmonary function is essential for optimizing patient care, particularly in clinical settings. These findings underscore the need for further research to elucidate the nuanced interactions between body position and lung mechanics, ultimately enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for respiratory disorders.
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