A decrease in the number of respirations, especially during sleep, is called?

A decrease in the number of respirations, especially during sleep, is called?

• A. Tachypnea
• B. Bradypnea
• C. Apnea
• D. Hyperpnea

Answer: (B)

Bradypnea is the term for a slower-than-normal breathing rate. In adults, normal respirations are about 12 to 20 breaths per minute; when the rate drops below this range, it’s described as bradypnea. The phrase “especially during sleep” fits because breathing tends to slow down during rest as metabolic demands decrease. Tachypnea means rapid breathing, apnea means no breathing for a period, and hyperpnea means increased depth and rate of breathing.

Bradypnea is the term for a slower-than-normal breathing rate. In adults, normal respirations are about 12 to 20 breaths per minute; when the rate drops below this range, it’s described as bradypnea. The phrase “especially during sleep” fits because breathing tends to slow down during rest as metabolic demands decrease. Tachypnea means rapid breathing, apnea means no breathing for a period, and hyperpnea means increased depth and rate of breathing.