Question

Phil is stung on his cheek by a wasp. Because Phil is allergic to wasp venom, his throat begins to swell and his respiratory passages constrict. Would acetylcholine or epinephrine be more helpful in relieving his condition? Why?

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Identify the physiological problem caused by the wasp sting. Phil's throat swelling and constricted respiratory passages indicate an allergic reaction leading to airway obstruction, which can cause difficulty breathing. Step 2: Understand the roles of acetylcholine and epinephrine in the autonomic nervous system. Acetylcholine primarily acts in the parasympathetic nervous system, often causing bronchoconstriction and increased secretions, which would worsen airway constriction. Step 3: Recognize that epinephrine is a hormone and neurotransmitter that activates the sympathetic nervous system, leading to bronchodilation (relaxation of airway smooth muscle), vasoconstriction (reducing swelling), and increased heart rate to improve oxygen delivery. Step 4: Analyze which substance would counteract the symptoms. Since epinephrine causes bronchodilation and reduces swelling, it would relieve the airway constriction and improve breathing, whereas acetylcholine would likely exacerbate the problem. Step 5: Conclude that epinephrine is more helpful in this allergic reaction because it reverses airway constriction and swelling, making it the preferred treatment in cases of anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions.

Phil is stung on his cheek by a wasp. Because Phil is allergic to wasp venom, his throat begins to swell and his respiratory passages constrict. Would acetylcholine or epinephrine be more helpful in relieving his condition? Why?

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

Key Concepts

Allergic Reaction and Anaphylaxis

Role of Acetylcholine in the Nervous System

Role of Epinephrine in Treating Anaphylaxis