Which term refers to a decreased depth and rate of breathing?

The term that refers to a decreased depth and rate of breathing is hypoventilation. When a person is hypoventilating, their respiratory rate is insufficient to meet the body's metabolic demands, leading to inadequate ventilation. This can result in a buildup of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream (hypercapnia) and a decrease in oxygen levels (hypoxemia).

This condition can be caused by various factors, including respiratory illnesses, certain medications, or neuromuscular disorders that affect the muscles involved in breathing. In contrast, hyperventilation (which refers to an increase in both rate and depth of breathing) and apnea (a complete cessation of breathing) describe different breathing issues. Orthopnea specifically relates to difficulty breathing while lying flat, often associated with conditions like heart failure. Understanding these distinctions is important for assessing and managing patients with respiratory concerns.