Cheyne-Stokes Respiration

Cheyne-Stokes respiration is a pattern of breathing characterized by gradual increases and decreases in breath intensity, followed by periods of no breathing (apnea). This cycle reflects a disrupted regulation of breathing, often seen in conditions like heart failure, stroke, or brain injury. During the cycle, a person may breathe deeply and rapidly, then slow down and eventually stop breathing temporarily, before the pattern repeats. It results from impaired signals between the brain and respiratory system, leading to instability in breathing control. This pattern can cause sleep disturbances and is a sign of underlying health issues requiring medical attention.