Vital capacity

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Vital Capacity)

Vital Capacity

Diagram showing lung volumes, including vital capacity.

Vital capacity (VC) is a measure of the maximum amount of air a person can expel from the lungs after a maximum inhalation. It is an important parameter in pulmonary function tests and is used to assess the respiratory health of an individual.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Vital capacity is defined as the total volume of air that can be exhaled after a full inhalation. It is the sum of the tidal volume (TV), inspiratory reserve volume (IRV), and expiratory reserve volume (ERV). Mathematically, it can be expressed as:

VC = TV + IRV + ERV

Measurement[edit | edit source]

Vital capacity is typically measured using a device called a spirometer. During the test, the individual takes a deep breath in and then exhales as forcefully and completely as possible into the spirometer. The device records the volume of air exhaled, which is the vital capacity.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Vital capacity is an important indicator of lung health. It can be affected by various factors, including age, sex, body size, and physical conditioning. Reduced vital capacity can be indicative of restrictive lung diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis or obesity. It can also be affected by obstructive lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

Factors Affecting Vital Capacity[edit | edit source]

Several factors can influence an individual's vital capacity:

  • Age: Vital capacity tends to decrease with age due to changes in lung elasticity and muscle strength.
  • Sex: Males generally have a higher vital capacity than females due to larger lung size.
  • Height: Taller individuals typically have a greater vital capacity.
  • Physical Fitness: Athletes and individuals with good physical conditioning often have higher vital capacities.

Also see[edit | edit source]

Template:Lung physiology

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.