Diving reflex
Diving Reflex
The Diving Reflex, also known as the diving response or diver's reflex, is a physiological response that occurs in mammals when they are submerged in cold water. It is primarily exhibited by aquatic mammals such as seals, otters, dolphins, and muskrats, but is also present in humans, particularly in infants.
Pronunciation
- IPA: /ˈdaɪvɪŋ ˈriːfleks/
Etymology
The term "diving reflex" is derived from the physiological response observed in divers when they are submerged in water. The word "diving" comes from the action of plunging into water, and "reflex" is derived from the Latin word "reflexus", meaning "bending back", referring to an involuntary or automatic action.
Physiology
The diving reflex is triggered when the face comes into contact with cold water. The body's physiological response includes three main changes: bradycardia, peripheral vasoconstriction, and blood shift.
- Bradycardia: This is a slowing of the heart rate. It is the first response and the most pronounced in humans.
- Peripheral Vasoconstriction: This is the narrowing of blood vessels to limit blood flow to the extremities, conserving oxygen for the brain and heart.
- Blood Shift: This is a redistribution of blood to the vital organs. It occurs only during very deep dives.
Related Terms
- Mammalian Diving Response: This is another term for the diving reflex, emphasizing its presence in all mammals, not just humans.
- Apnea: This is a term for the suspension of external breathing, which occurs during the diving reflex.
- Hypoxia: This is a condition in which the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Diving reflex
- Wikipedia's article - Diving reflex
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