It refers to very slow breathing, with fewer than 6 inhalations and exhalations per minute (may vary slightly with age).
There are a number of causes, the main ones being: poisoning, increased intracranial pressure, metabolic disorders, lung disease, acute respiratory problems (asthma, bronchitis, asphyxia), allergic reactions and heart attack.
It is manifested by reduced consciousness or even unconsciousness, bluish nails and lips, and can lead to cardiac arrest if not treated 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 examination with an X-ray and a blood test including gasometry.
Treatment should be given immediately, checking that the person has a pulse and is breathing. Ensure that the open airway is patent, provide oxygen and sometimes assist with external ventilation. Find and treat the cause to prevent the respiratory rate from remaining low or worsening. If the person is in cardiorespiratory arrest, perform emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); if you do not know how to perform CPR, call your local emergency medical services.
- 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
