In what situation might a patient show Cheyne-Stokes respirations?

• A. During exercise
• B. While sleeping
• C. Due to anxiety
• D. In the presence of a respiratory infection

Answer: (B)

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a pattern of alternating periods of increased depth and rate of breathing followed by periods of decreased breathing or apnea. This pattern is often associated with various physiological conditions, particularly those affecting the central nervous system.

When a patient is sleeping, especially in certain phases of sleep or deeper sleep, Cheyne-Stokes respirations may naturally occur due to fluctuations in carbon dioxide levels and brain activity. It’s important to note that this can be seen in healthy individuals, although it is more commonly associated with heart failure, stroke, and other neurological impairments.

In contrast, the other scenarios presented do not typically lead to the Cheyne-Stokes pattern. During exercise, for instance, the breathing rate steadily increases to meet the body's demand for oxygen, resulting in a more consistent and elevated breathing pattern rather than the oscillations characteristic of Cheyne-Stokes. Anxiety often leads to rapid, shallow breathing, termed hyperventilation, which differs from the cyclic pattern of Cheyne-Stokes. Lastly, while a respiratory infection can affect breathing and may cause irregularities, it typically does not manifest as the distinct pattern observed in Cheyne-Stokes respirations; rather, it may lead to increased work of breathing or altered breathing patterns without