Periodic breathing describes a common respiratory pattern marked by temporary pauses in breathing, followed by a series of rapid breaths. This cyclical pattern differs from the continuous, steady rhythm typically associated with normal respiration. While often a benign variation, understanding its characteristics helps differentiate it from more concerning breathing irregularities.
What Is Periodic Breathing
Periodic breathing is characterized by a distinct pattern where a person takes several breaths, then experiences a brief cessation of airflow, known as apnea. This pause typically lasts for a few seconds before breathing resumes. The resumption of breathing often begins with quicker, shallower breaths, which then gradually settle back into a regular pattern before the cycle repeats. This pattern involves a visible waxing and waning of respiratory effort. Apnea, in this context, refers to the temporary cessation of airflow. The pattern is a physiological response, often reflecting subtle changes in the body’s respiratory control mechanisms.
When Periodic Breathing Occurs
Periodic breathing frequently appears in healthy newborns, particularly during their sleep cycles. Their immature respiratory control systems are still developing, leading to these brief pauses and subsequent quicker breaths. This pattern is considered a normal developmental phase for infants and typically resolves as they mature.
The pattern can also be observed in healthy adults, especially during light stages of sleep. During these periods, the body’s respiratory drive may momentarily decrease, leading to a brief pause before the system re-engages. This differs from conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, which involves repetitive airway collapse.
Individuals ascending to high altitudes often experience periodic breathing due to reduced oxygen levels. The body’s chemoreceptors respond to lower oxygen by increasing ventilation, which can lead to temporary over-breathing, causing a brief drop in carbon dioxide, and then triggering a pause in breathing. This is a physiological adjustment as the body acclimates to thinner air. Additionally, certain medications, such as opioid pain relievers, can depress the central nervous system’s respiratory drive, sometimes inducing a periodic breathing pattern as a side effect.
Signs of Concern
While often benign, certain characteristics of periodic breathing can signal a need for medical evaluation. Pauses in breathing that extend beyond 10 to 20 seconds, particularly in infants, warrant closer attention.
Any observed change in skin color, such as a bluish tint around the lips, face, or fingernails (cyanosis), indicates insufficient oxygen reaching the tissues. Other signs of respiratory distress include gasping for air, noticeable flaring of the nostrils, or visible retraction of the skin between or below the ribs during inhalation. Noisy breathing, like grunting or wheezing, also points to potential difficulty.
A change in the individual’s overall responsiveness, such as becoming unusually lethargic, appearing limp, or being difficult to rouse, is a significant indicator. If periodic breathing occurs very frequently or consistently throughout the day and night, even without other alarming signs, it merits professional assessment. Furthermore, if this breathing pattern develops with other symptoms of illness, such as a high fever, persistent cough, or signs of infection, it may indicate an underlying medical issue requiring attention.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Immediate medical attention is necessary if periodic breathing is accompanied by severe indicators of distress. For periodic breathing that is persistent or causes general concern but does not present immediate alarming signs, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. This includes situations where the pattern occurs frequently without an obvious cause, or if there is any uncertainty about its normalcy. When seeking advice, be prepared to describe how often the periodic breathing occurs, the approximate duration of any pauses, and any other symptoms that might be present. Providing information about the individual’s age and any existing medical conditions helps the doctor make an informed assessment.