What is characterized by alternating periods of slow, irregular respirations and rapid, shallow respirations?

• A. Apnea
• B. Cheyne-Stokes
• C. Hypopnea
• D. Bradypnea

Answer: (B)

The correct characterization of alternating periods of slow, irregular respirations followed by rapid, shallow respirations is known as Cheyne-Stokes respiration. This pattern is often associated with various medical conditions, including heart failure, stroke, and increased intracranial pressure. During this breathing pattern, an individual experiences a gradual increase in the depth and rate of breathing, reaching a peak before there is a gradual decrease, ultimately leading to a period of apnea where breathing temporarily stops.

The cyclical nature of this breathing pattern—characterized by its variability—distinguishes it from other respiratory terms. While apnea refers specifically to a complete cessation of breathing, hypopnea refers to a shallow or decreased rate of breathing without the alternating pattern, and bradypnea indicates a slower than normal respiratory rate without the associated irregularities observed in Cheyne-Stokes. Thus, the unique alternating pattern of respiration seen in Cheyne-Stokes is what makes it the accurate choice for this question.