Bradypnea or bradypnoea is abnormally slow breathing. The respiratory rate at which bradypnea is diagnosed depends on the age of the patient.
Age 0–1 year < 30 breaths per minuteAge 1–3 years < 25 breaths per minuteAge 3–12 years < 20 breaths per minuteAge 12–50 years < 12 breaths per minuteAge 50 and up < 13 breaths per minuteDizzinessNear-fainting or faintingFatigueWeaknessChest painsShortness of breathMemory impairment or confusionTiring easily during any physical activityDegeneration of heart tissue because of agingDamage to tissues in the heart from heart attack or heart diseaseHigh blood pressure or hypertensionCongenital heart defect which is disorder present at birthHeart tissue infection also known as myocarditis -Complication of heart surgeryHypothyroidism or underactive thyroid glandImbalance of electrolytes which are mineral related substances needed for conducting electrical impulsesObstructive sleep apnea which is the repeated disruption of breathing during sleep.Inflammatory disease, such as lupus or rheumatic feverBuildup of iron in the organs known as hemochromatosisMedications, such as drugs for other heart rhythm disorders as well as high blood pressure and narcotic pain medications may also reduce respiratory rateIf urgent treatment is needed, supplemental oxygen is given to the individual. Treatments can range from surgery to correct dangerous intracranial pressure, to stays in rehabilitation facilities for addiction problems.
Etymology and pronunciation
The word bradypnea uses combining forms of brady- + -pnea, from (Greek from bradys, slow + pnoia, breath. See pronunciation information at dyspnea.
