Let's start at the very beginning... a very good place to start! Understanding the anatomy of the breathing system, how it works and the role individual parts play in our breathing can help us appreciate how our bodies function and most importantly, recognise when something might not be working as well as it should be.
The breathing journey
The journey of breathing begins with the entry points to the respiratory system, with air passing through the nose or mouth.
Nose breathing is what we should be aiming for, because the nose filters, warms and humidifies the air before it travels along the airways. Tiny hairs and mucus in the nasal passages trap dust, bacteria, and other particles, protecting the lungs from potential harm.
The air then passes through the pharynx (throat) and larynx (voice box). The pharynx is a muscular tube that connects the nose and mouth to the esophagus and larynx. It plays a role in both the respiratory and digestive systems, ensuring that food and air are directed down the correct pathways. The larynx, located just below the pharynx, houses the vocal cords and acts as a gateway to the lower respiratory tract.
Next the air enters the trachea (windpipe), a rigid tube reinforced with cartilage rings that keep it open. The trachea splits into two main bronchi, each leading to one lung. Within the lungs, these bronchi branch off into smaller and smaller tubes called bronchioles. The bronchioles eventually end in tiny air sacs called alveoli.
Alveoli - where the magic happens!
The alveoli are where the magic of gas exchange happens. These tiny, balloon-like structures are surrounded by a network of capillaries. Oxygen from the inhaled air passes through the thin walls of the alveoli and enters the blood in these capillaries. At the same time carbon dioxide from the blood is transferred to the alveoli to be exhaled. The efficiency of this gas exchange ensures the body's oxygen levels remain regular and removes carbon dioxide.
How the diaphragm drives breathing
The diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle, sits below the lungs and attaches to the underside of the lower rib cage. It is the powerhouse behind breathing. When you inhale, the diaphragm contracts and flattens, increasing the space in the chest cavity and allowing the lungs to expand. The decrease in the pressure within the chest cavity is what draws air into the lungs. During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, pushing air out of the lungs.
Other muscles, such as the intercostal muscles between the ribs, also help with breathing. These muscles contract to help expand the chest during inhalation and relax to facilitate exhalation. These muscles are particularly useful when we need to increase ventilation to match oxygen demand, such as during intense exercise.
Why a well-functioning breathing system is important
Every part of your breathing system, from the nasal passages to the alveoli, plays a critical role in ensuring that your body gets the oxygen it needs and effectively removes carbon dioxide.
If any single part of this system is not working properly it can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, or chronic respiratory conditions.
This is why it's essential to have your breathing assessed if you experience any difficulties or just feel like something is 'off'.
If you're wondering if your breathing system is functioning correctly then why not book in for a Breathing MOT?
Our respiratory physiotherapists can help identify any potential issues before they develop into more serious conditions, ensuring that every breath you take is as effective and efficient as possible.
If you’d like to know more about the Breathing MOT or you’d like to book, please visit
If you need any assistance with making a booking, please contact us on enquiries@airphysiotherapy.co.uk or 020 7971 1464.
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