What is a common consequence of low cabin humidity on mucous membranes?

What is a common consequence of low cabin humidity on mucous membranes?

• A. Mucosal drying and eye irritation
• B. Increased nasal mucus production
• C. No effect
• D. Improved mucosal hydration

Answer: (A)

Low cabin humidity dries out mucous membranes, especially the eyes and the airways. When the air is dry, water evaporates from the tear film on the surface of the eye and from the moist lining of the nose and throat. This rapid loss of moisture leads to irritation, a gritty or burning sensation, eye redness, and dryness in the nasal passages. It can also cause crusting and throat itchiness, and may slow or stress mucociliary clearance. So the common consequence is mucosal drying and eye irritation. Increased mucus production or improved hydration aren’t typical outcomes in this dry environment, and no effect would be false.

Low cabin humidity dries out mucous membranes, especially the eyes and the airways. When the air is dry, water evaporates from the tear film on the surface of the eye and from the moist lining of the nose and throat. This rapid loss of moisture leads to irritation, a gritty or burning sensation, eye redness, and dryness in the nasal passages. It can also cause crusting and throat itchiness, and may slow or stress mucociliary clearance. So the common consequence is mucosal drying and eye irritation. Increased mucus production or improved hydration aren’t typical outcomes in this dry environment, and no effect would be false.