Understanding Brachypnea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Brachypnea is a condition where a person breathes at a slower than normal rate. This can be caused by various factors, such as sedation, anesthesia, or certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism or sleep apnea. Brachypnea can also be seen in newborns and young infants, as their respiratory rate is naturally slower than that of adults.

In brachypnea, the breathing rate is typically less than 12 breaths per minute for adults and less than 30 breaths per minute for infants. This can lead to a decrease in oxygenation of the body's tissues, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Brachypnea can be diagnosed through pulse oximetry, which measures the amount of oxygen in the blood, or through arterial blood gas (ABG) tests, which measure the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. Treatment for brachypnea depends on the underlying cause, but may include oxygen therapy, medication, or other interventions to address any underlying medical conditions.