Briefly explain the main cause or mechanism of increase in respiratory rate or depth and/or respiratory difficulties in the following cases:
1. Initiation of exercise
-
Our breathing rate increases when we begin to exercise because there becomes a demand to obtain more oxygen to generate energy.
2. Moderate exercise
-
The body uses more oxygen and produces more carbon dioxide when we exercise. Our breathing has to increase to cope with this extra demand.
3. Asthma attack
-
It is harder and takes longer to exhale than inhale because the muscles around the airways tighten. Less air can move in and out of the lungs during an asthma attack.
4. Abrupt ascent into high altitudes
-
There is reduced oxygen content of the blood at high altitudes which causes instability in breathing.
5. Pneumonia
-
Inflammation and mucus may cause reduction of oxygen levels in the blood or increase of carbon dioxide levels, leading to tachypnea– abnormally rapid breathing.
6. Paralysis of phrenic nerve
-
A person with paralysis of the phrenic nerve has diminished respiratory capacity and may struggle to maintain appropriate gas exchange.
7. Severe tuberculosis with resulting lung scar tissue
-
Breathlessness is a common symptom of tuberculosis and may be brought on by a pneumothorax or pleural effusion.
8. Severe anemia
-
The possibility of experiencing complications with the heart or lungs, like tachycardia, is increased because of severe anemia. The body works continuously to replenish oxygen levels, which causes the heart to beat quickly.
9. Advanced COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
-
Breathing is difficult for patients with COPD, especially when their condition is severe and nearly everything can make them feel out of breath. The airways are blocked, making it challenging to expel air from the lungs.
10. Advanced pregnancy
-
Pregnant women may have shortness of breath because of changes in the respiratory system caused by pregnancy hormones. The diaphragm may rise toward the chest, oxygen consumption may rise, and the capacity of the lungs to hold air may diminish.