Which type of breathing pattern is characterized by deep, labored breaths, often seen in metabolic acidosis?

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Kussmaul's respiration is characterized by deep, labored breaths and is often seen in cases of metabolic acidosis, such as diabetic ketoacidosis. This breathing pattern arises as the body attempts to expel carbon dioxide in order to correct the acidotic state by increasing the exhalation of CO2, which helps to raise the pH of the blood. The deep and rapid nature of these breaths contrasts with the more irregular and varying patterns seen in other types of respiration, making Kussmaul's distinct in its presentation.

In contrast, Cheyne-Stokes respiration involves a cyclical pattern of breathing that includes periods of apnea followed by progressively deeper and faster breaths, leading back to apnea again. This is often seen in neurological conditions or heart failure. Biot's respiration presents as irregular bursts of fast, deep breaths followed by periods of apnea, often associated with trauma or increased intracranial pressure. Orthopnea is not a breathing pattern per se but refers to the difficulty in breathing while lying flat, commonly seen in patients with respiratory or cardiac issues. The unique characteristics of Kussmaul's respiration make it the correct answer for identifying a breathing pattern associated with metabolic acidosis.

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