Cheyne-Stokes Respiration
What is Cheyne-Stokes Respiration?
Cheyne-Stokes respiration is a type of pattern in which a person's breathing changes such that it first increases in intensity and then decreases. This cycle typically repeats itself every 30 seconds or so, and it's often seen in people with congestive heart failure. It's also seen in people who are in certain deep sleep stages, or who are in a coma.Signs & Symptoms
A person with Cheyne-Stokes respiration may not experience any noticeable symptomes, as the aberrant breathing pattern often goes unnoticed until monitored carefully. Some possible signs of Cheyne-Stokes respiration include:
- Rapid breathing
- Gasping or sighing breaths
- Noisy breathing
- A sensation of breathlessness
Causes
Cheyne-Stokes respiration can be caused by a number of different conditions, such as:
- Brain trauma
- Congestive heart failure
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Sleep apnea
- Stroke
Diagnosis & Treatment
Cheyne-Stokes respiration can be diagnosed by a sleep specialist, who can monitor the patient's breathing during sleep. The doctor will look for the cyclic breathing pattern that characterizes Cheyne-Stokes respiration. Treatment of Cheyne-Stokes respiration involves treating the underlying cause. If the underlying cause is heart failure, treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, and other therapies. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe supplemental oxygen to reduce the strain of breathing.