Critical urgency
-Very severe
It refers to very slow breathing, with less than 6 inhalations-exhalations per minute (may vary slightly depending on age).
There are a number of causes, including poisonings, increased intra-cerebral pressure, metabolic disorders, lung disease, acute respiratory problems (asthma, bronchitis, asphyxia), allergic reactions and a heart attack.
It is manifested by decreased consciousness or even unconsciousness, bluish color in nails and lips, and may lead to cardiac arrest if not corrected in time.
It is diagnosed by measuring vital signs and physical examination, checking the type of breathing and level of consciousness. It is recommended to complete the study with an x-ray and blood tests including gasometry.
- E. T. Naureckas, J. Solway. Trastornos de la función respiratoria. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Decimonovena edición. 1663:1669.
- J. Villegas, O. A. Villegas, V. Villegas. Semiología de los signos vitales: una mirada novedosa a un problema vigente. Arch Med. 2012;12(2): 221-240.
- UpToDate [Internet]. Waltham. 2017. Disorders of ventilatory control; [citado el 18 de julio de 2017]. Disponible en: http://www.uptodate.com/contents/disorders-of-ventilatory-control?source=search_result&search=hipoventilacion+severa&selectedTitle=6~150
- MedlinePlus. Rockville. 2017. Disminución o detención de la respiración; [citado el 18 de julio de 2017]. Disponible en: https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/003069.htm
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