Final answer:
A condition impairing the flow of air into and out of the lungs indicates a restrictive disease, such as pulmonary fibrosis or respiratory distress syndrome. These diseases cause decreased lung compliance and stiffness of the airways, leading to air trapping in the lungs. The condition can be detected using spirometry or by measuring the rate of air flow in and out of the lungs.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient has a condition that is impairing the flow of air into and out of the lungs, it is indicative of a restrictive disease. Restrictive diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis and respiratory distress syndrome, can cause decreased lung compliance and stiffness of the airways. As a result, the intrapleural pressure becomes more positive and the airways collapse upon exhalation, trapping air in the lungs. Detecting this condition can be done using spirometry or by measuring the rate at which air can be taken into or expelled from the lung.