Inhaled irritants typically lead to irritation of the airways, which stimulates sensory receptors known as afferent inputs. When these receptors detect the presence of harmful substances, they trigger a reflex response to protect the airways and lungs. This response often manifests as bronchoconstriction, where the smooth muscles of the bronchi contract, narrowing the airways. This process serves to limit the entry of further irritants into the respiratory system.
Additionally, the stimulation of these afferent pathways can initiate a coughing reflex. Coughing is a protective mechanism that aims to expel irritants and mucus from the airways, thereby clearing the respiratory passages. Through this dual action of bronchoconstriction and coughing, the body attempts to mitigate the exposure and effects of the inhaled irritants, maintaining respiratory health. Therefore, the stimulation of afferent inputs leading to such protective reflexes is a key physiological response to inhaled irritants.