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Prolonged inspiration is indicative of upper airway obstruction because it suggests that there is a resistance encountered during the breathing process. When the airway is obstructed, the effort to pull air in becomes more challenging, resulting in a longer duration of inhalation as the respiratory muscles work harder to overcome this resistance.

In contrast, normal airflow would typically result in a balanced inspiration and expiration without notable delays. Severe lung compliance issues could actually lead to a reduced ability to inspire effectively, but it wouldn't specifically cause prolonged inspiration alone. Effective diaphragm operation generally produces a smooth and rhythmic breathing pattern, which would not contribute to prolonged inspiration related to an obstruction. Therefore, prolonged inspiration primarily points to a potential obstruction in the upper airway that warrants further assessment.