Suspension of external breathing.
A condition whereby breathing is stopped.
Cessation of breathing.
The stopping of breathing.
A general term meaning the cessation of breathing. Apnoea is a medical emergency: death soon follows if breathing is not quickly restored. Apnoea may be caused by an obstruction to the airway, for example by the tongue during general anaesthesia, or by a disturbance of the mechanisms that control breathing. Rapid heavy breathing reduces the blood levels of carbon dioxide and can lead to a brief period of apnoea.
Apnea refers to the temporary or prolonged cessation of breathing. It can occur for brief durations, ranging from a few seconds to a minute or two, or it can persist for an extended period. During apnea episodes, the normal rhythm of breathing is interrupted, leading to a temporary absence of airflow. The duration and frequency of apnea episodes can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors.
Breathing is an involuntary process regulated by the respiratory center located in the brainstem, which serves as a connection between the brain and the spinal cord. This specialized nerve tissue is responsible for generating and transmitting nerve impulses that control the contraction of the diaphragm and muscles in the chest wall, thus governing the rate and depth of breathing. When the respiratory center fails to maintain normal breathing, it is referred to as central apnea. This condition can occur in infants, particularly premature babies, and can be identified through the use of apnea alarms. Central apnea can also arise from brainstem damage, which may result from events such as strokes or head injuries.
Obstructive apnea occurs when breathing is obstructed by a blockage in the airway. The most prevalent form is sleep apnea, wherein the upper airway experiences repeated blockages during sleep. Deliberate temporary apnea can occur in breath-holding attacks. Another type of apnea is observed in Cheyne-Stokes respiration, characterized by alternating cycles of deep, rapid breathing and episodes of breathing cessation. These distinct forms of apnea highlight the diverse ways in which breathing can be interrupted or impeded.
The treatment for apnea varies depending on the underlying cause. In newborn babies, apnea typically resolves on its own as they mature and develop. In cases of stroke or head injury, temporary artificial ventilation may be required until recovery takes place. Artificial ventilation provides necessary respiratory support during the healing process, ensuring adequate oxygen supply and facilitating the patient’s recuperation. The appropriate treatment approach is determined by considering the specific circumstances and causes of apnea in each individual case.