Breathing

Breathing is the alternation of active inhalation (inhalation or inspiration) of air into the lungs through the mouth or nose with its passive exhalation (exhalation or expiration). During inhalation, the diaphragm and external intercostal muscles contract, causing the volume of the chest to increase and air to enter the lungs. Relaxation of the diaphragm and contraction of the internal intercostal muscles help reduce the volume of the thoracic cavity and expiration. Breathing is part of respiration and is sometimes called external respiration, which involves transport of air into the alveoli (ventilation) and diffusion from the alveoli into the blood of the pulmonary capillaries. There are many different types of breathing in which there are disturbances in its rhythm, frequency or character. See also Apnea, Bronchospasm, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, Dyspnea, Stridor.

Breathing is a process that we perform every day, but we do not always realize the importance of its correct implementation. Breathing plays a key role in our body, ensuring that oxygen enters the lungs and carbon dioxide is eliminated. It also helps regulate body temperature and maintain homeostasis.

Breathing begins with active inhalation of air through the mouth or nose, which leads to an increase in the volume of the chest. The diaphragm and external intercostal muscles contract to increase lung capacity and admit air. Then passive exhalation occurs - the diaphragm relaxes, and the internal intercostal muscles contract, reducing the volume of the chest cavity and allowing air to escape.

Proper breathing is important to maintain health and prevent various diseases. For example, hyperventilation can lead to dizziness, headaches and even loss of consciousness, so it is important to monitor your breathing and not overdo it.

There are many different types of breathing that can be impaired due to various factors such as stress, exercise, lung disease and others. Disturbances in the rhythm, frequency and nature of breathing can lead to various problems, such as shortness of breath, stridor, apnea and others.

Therefore, proper breathing is essential for our health and well-being. It is important to monitor your rhythm, frequency and pattern of breathing and seek medical help if necessary.

Breathing and its functions

Respiration is a physiological process that is necessary to provide the body's cells with oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the blood. During breathing, the lungs fill with air, which is then exhaled back through the nose or mouth. This alternation of inhalations and exhalations is called the respiratory cycle. Breathing is responsible for maintaining life and normal functioning of all organs and systems of the body.

**Respiratory Mechanisms**

The respiratory cycle begins with inhalation, when we take air into our lungs through our nose.