What happens to lung elasticity when compliance decreases?

When lung compliance decreases, it indicates a reduction in the ability of the lung tissue to stretch and expand. Compliance is a measure of how easily the lungs can fill with air; thus, a decrease in compliance means that the lungs are stiffer and less able to expand during inhalation.

As lung compliance decreases, the elasticity of the lung parenchyma becomes more pronounced. In this context, elasticity refers to the ability of lung tissue to return to its original shape after being stretched. Increased lung stiffness (lower compliance) means that the elastic properties of the lungs are enhanced. Therefore, the lungs are not only less compliant but also exhibit a greater tendency to recoil, enhancing their elastic behavior.

In summary, when compliance decreases, the lung's ability to expand diminishes while its intrinsic elastic recoil properties become more evident, resulting in an increase in lung elasticity.