Inhalation (also known as inspiration) is the movement of air from the external environment, through the air ways, and into the alveoli.
Inhalation begins with the onset of contraction of the diaphragm, which results in expansion of the intrapleural space and an increase in negative pressure according to Boyle's Law. These negative pressure generates airflow because of the pressure difference between the atmosphere and alveolus. Air enters, inflating the lung through either the nose or the mouth into the pharynx (throat) and trachea before entering the alveoli.
Other muscles that can be involved in inhalation include[1]:
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Lungs and breathing activity Commonly confused terminology |
| Shortness of breath or dyspnea - sensation of respiratory distress |
| Labored breathing - physical presentation of respiratory distress |
| Hyperventilation - increased breathing that causes CO2 loss |
| Hyperpnea - faster and/or deeper breathing |
| Tachypnea - increased breathing rate |
| Hyperaeration/Hyperinflation - increased lung volume |
Hyperaeration or hyperinflation is where the lung volume is abnormally increased, with increased filling of the alveoli. This results in an increased radiolucency on X-ray, a reduction in lung markings and depression of the diaphragm. It may occur in partial obstruction of a large airway, as in e.g. congenital lobar emphysema, bronchial atresia and mucous plugs in asthma.[2]
It causes one form of overexpansion of the lung. Overexpansion, however, can also be caused by increase in lung mass itself.
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Inhalation f. (genitive Inhalation, plural Inhalationen)
Inhalation is what occurs when people breathe. Air is moved from the outside through the respiratory system into the lungs. The lungs take out some oxygen and put it into the blood. The air is then moved out of the lungs again.
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