hingamine

Hingamine is the Estonian term for breathing, the process of drawing air into the lungs and expelling air from the body. It encompasses both inhalation and exhalation and is essential for delivering oxygen to tissues and removing carbon dioxide. The noun hinges on the verb hingama, to breathe.

Physiology and mechanics: Inhalation is typically an active phase, driven by the diaphragm contracting and moving downward and the external intercostal muscles lifting the ribs, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity and lowers intrathoracic pressure, drawing air in. Exhalation is usually passive, as the muscles relax and elastic recoil pushes air out; forced exhalation recruits abdominal and internal intercostal muscles. Gas exchange occurs in the alveoli, where oxygen diffuses into the blood and carbon dioxide diffuses out. Oxygen is carried by hemoglobin in red blood cells, while carbon dioxide is transported largely as bicarbonate in the plasma. Breathing rate and depth are regulated by the brainstem and are influenced by chemical signals from chemoreceptors that monitor carbon dioxide, oxygen, and blood pH, though voluntary control is possible via the cerebral cortex.

Variations and health aspects: Breathing patterns change with activity and health. Common distinctions include eupnea (normal quiet breathing), tachypnea (rapid breathing), and dyspnea (breathlessness). Nasal breathing is typical and can affect airway resistance and filtration, whereas mouth breathing may occur during intense effort or nasal obstruction. Disorders affecting hingamine, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, can alter airflow and gas exchange and may require medical management.