hengityskalvoon

Hengityskalvoon, also known as the diaphragm, is a large, dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the chest cavity that separates the abdomen from the chest. It is the primary muscle used in breathing. When the diaphragm contracts, it flattens and moves downward, increasing the volume of the chest cavity and drawing air into the lungs. This process is called inhalation.

When the diaphragm relaxes, it returns to its dome shape, decreasing the volume of the chest cavity and pushing air out of the lungs. This is called exhalation. While the diaphragm is the main muscle of respiration, other muscles, such as the intercostal muscles between the ribs, also assist in breathing, especially during forceful breathing or exercise.

The diaphragm plays a crucial role in maintaining proper lung function and gas exchange. Its rhythmic contractions and relaxations are largely involuntary, controlled by the respiratory center in the brainstem. However, it is also possible to consciously control breathing to some extent, allowing for actions like holding one's breath or sighing. Damage or dysfunction of the diaphragm can lead to significant respiratory difficulties.