alveolar pressure

alveolar pressure (PA)

the pressure in the alveoli of the lungs.

alveolar pressure

Air pressure in the alveoli and bronchial tree. When this pressure is positive, it is higher than atmospheric pressure; when negative, less. Gases flow from higher to lower pressures: when alveolar pressures are higher than atmospheric pressure, respiratory gases tend to be exhaled. When alveolar pressures are less than atmospheric pressures, gas flows into the lungs. Synonym: intrapulmonic pressure

See also: pressure