Every day the physiology and perfectness of the human body tends to astound us afresh. Here are 5 common marvels that we sometimes struggle to comprehend.
Sneezing is the body's reflex response to the irritation of the nerve endings in the nose by foreign particles or gases. Just as coughing, a nervous reflex causes a deep breath to be taken.
The glottis, near the top of the windpipe closes off the larynx, so that the pressure in the lungs builds up as breathing out starts. The glottis then opens, allowing a rush of air to pass through the nose, blowing out particles and mucus at a speed which can be more than 160 kmph.
The ability to blush is not present from birth. It is a reflex reaction which develops between the ages of two and four. It can also be controlled consciously.
Hiccups occur when the diaphragm and the muscles between the ribs suddenly contract. This causes a sharp, uncontrollable inhalation of air which is unable to reach the lungs because the muscle spasm has closed the windpipe.
When we cough we release an explosive charge of air at a speed of up to about 96km/h. The explosion which works more or less the same way as a sneeze is triggered by the presence of a foreign object or accumulated mucus, in the main airways to the lungs and is designed to dislodge whatever caused the initial irritation.
Snoring is caused by the vibration of the soft, mobile back part of the palate, the roof of the mouth, and the arch which sweeps down from this behind the tonsils. In most cases the nose is partly blocked so sufferers tend to breathe through their mouths.
Next time someone sneezes, blushes or your partner keeps you awake with his or hers snoring; spare a thought or two on the wonders of our bodies.
Thank you for this wonderful list. H5!
Our human bodies are truely an amazing creation from God.
These are amazing things we do. Just the ability to stand upright fascinates me sometimes.
select one here...