alleryStart learning →Which brain regions adjust breathing in response to emotion, pain and temperature?
AThe medulla and the pontine centres
BThe cortical motor areas of the brain
CThe hypothalamus and the limbic system
DThe carotid and aortic body receptors
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. The hypothalamus and the limbic system
1. The medulla and pons set rate and depth, but they respond to inputs from elsewhere.
2. The hypothalamus and other limbic regions regulate respiration in response to emotions, pain and temperature.
3. A rise in body temperature or a fight-or-flight response therefore raises respiratory rate.
4. The carotid and aortic bodies sense blood chemistry rather than emotion, so the fourth option is wrong.
_Source: OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology (CC BY 4.0), Ch 22 "The Respiratory System", section 22.3 The Process of Breathing_
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