What is the term for the frictional forces that need to be overcome during breathing?

The term for the frictional forces that need to be overcome during breathing is resistance. In the context of mechanical ventilation and respiratory physiology, resistance refers to the opposition to airflow in the airways, which can be caused by various factors such as airway diameter, the presence of secretions, or bronchoconstriction. High resistance can make it more difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs, leading to increased work of breathing.

This concept is crucial for understanding how ventilators function and how they can be adjusted to optimize airflow to patients. When managing mechanical ventilation, clinicians must consider resistance to ensure that the prescribed tidal volume is effectively delivered to the lungs. Understanding and measuring resistance can inform treatment plans for patients with obstructive lung diseases or other conditions that increase airway resistance.