What are Cheyne-Stokes respirations characterized by?

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a pattern of breathing that alternates between periods of deep, rapid breaths and periods of apnea, where there is a complete cessation of breathing. This cyclical pattern typically involves a gradual increase in the depth and rate of respiration, culminating in a peak before the individual takes a pause in breathing for a period.

This phenomenon often occurs in conditions such as heart failure, stroke, or brain injuries, where there is an impact on the areas of the brain responsible for regulating breathing. Understanding Cheyne-Stokes respirations is crucial for healthcare providers, as it can indicate the severity of the patient’s condition and guide further diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. The choice that refers to rapid breathing followed by periods of apnea correctly captures this distinct pattern of respiration seen in Cheyne-Stokes respiration.