What is Cheyne-Stokes respiration?

Answer 1

It is when apnea alternates with periods of rapid, heavy breathing (hyperapnea).

This type of breathing is found in patients who have had heart failure, strokes, and brain injuries or tumors. It can also be a symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning, and can be found in some otherwise healthy patients who have been in high altitudes. Hospice care workers use Cheyne-Stokes respiration as an indication that death is approaching - terminally ill patients have reported that there is no discomfort to this condition (though it can be alarming to onlookers).

Answer 2

Cheyne-Stokes respiration is a type of abnormal breathing pattern characterized by cyclical episodes of deep breathing followed by shallow breathing or temporary stops in breathing. It is often seen in conditions affecting the brainstem or in heart failure. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and may include medications or interventions to improve breathing.