What type of breathing pattern is characterized by deep, rapid breaths followed by periods of apnea?

The breathing pattern described in the question, characterized by deep, rapid breaths followed by periods of apnea, is known as Cheyne-Stokes respiration. This type of respiration is often seen in patients with various medical conditions, particularly those involving neurological impairment or severe heart failure.

Cheyne-Stokes respiration typically features a cyclical pattern in which the depth and rate of breathing oscillate, starting with shallow breaths that gradually become deeper and more rapid until a peak is reached, then followed by a decrease back to shallow breaths and eventually a pause (apnea) before the cycle repeats. This fluctuation can be attributed to changes in carbon dioxide levels and the body’s response to them, which is a common issue in individuals with compromised respiratory control.

Understanding this pattern is crucial for medical professionals, as it can indicate a serious underlying condition requiring prompt attention. In contrast, other breathing patterns mentioned do not align with these characteristics: for example, Kussmaul respirations feature deep and labored breathing typically associated with metabolic acidosis, while hypoventilation involves shallow or slow breathing, and obstructive breathing is characterized by difficulty in expiration rather than the cyclical pattern of Cheyne-Stokes.