During breathing, the diaphragm and other muscles of respiration (such as those between the ribs) contract to bring air into the lungs. In the lungs, your body receives oxygen. When these muscles relax, air is exhaled.
On its way to and from the lungs, air passes through the nose or the mouth, the larynx (also known as the “voice box,” including your vocal folds), and the trachea.
Difficulty breathing can be related to an issue at any of these locations. At the UPMC Voice, Swallow, & Airway Center, we specialize in airway conditions caused by dysfunction of the larynx.