inspiratory and expiratory pressures

Inspiratory and expiratory pressures refer to the forces involved in breathing. Inspiratory pressure is the amount of effort needed to inhale air into the lungs, overcoming resistance and lung elasticity. Expiratory pressure is the effort required to exhale air out of the lungs, working against similar resistance. These pressures are important in understanding lung function and can be affected by respiratory conditions. Measuring them helps healthcare providers assess breathing efficiency and respiratory muscle strength, guiding treatment decisions. Think of inspiratory pressure as the force to breathe in, and expiratory pressure as the force to breathe out.