What involuntary action, the clamping down of vocal cords, initially prevents water from flooding the lungs during submersion?
Answer
laryngospasm
Laryngospasm is a protective reflex where the vocal cords involuntarily clamp shut when liquid reaches them. This action serves the immediate purpose of preventing water from entering the delicate structures of the lungs, specifically the alveoli. However, this protective measure creates a dangerous trade-off because while water is kept out, air entry is also completely blocked. This complete lack of air intake leads directly to asphyxia, meaning the person suffocates from lack of oxygen, even if their lungs remain relatively dry because water never actually entered the lower airways.
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