What is the name of the protective reflex stimulated by foreign material in the trachea or bronchi?

The protective reflex that is stimulated by foreign material in the trachea or bronchi is known as coughing. This reflex serves to expel irritants and pathogens from the respiratory tract, helping to maintain clear airways and protect the lungs from potential harm. When foreign material such as dust, mucus, or pathogens are detected, irritant receptors in the airways trigger a strong, coordinated contraction of the respiratory muscles. This can create a forceful expulsion of air from the lungs, helping to clear the airway of unwanted substances.

Coughing is a vital component of the human body's defense mechanisms, ensuring that the respiratory tract remains free from obstructions and irritants. Other reflex actions, like sneezing and yawning, serve different purposes, such as clearing irritants from the nasal passages or promoting increased oxygen intake, and are not directly involved with the trachea and bronchi in response to foreign material. Gag reflex, while protective, primarily functions to prevent choking and is activated by stimuli in the throat rather than the lower airways. Thus, coughing specifically addresses the need to protect and clear the trachea and bronchi.