NREMT Paramedic Practice

Cheyne-Stokes breathing is characterized by a specific pattern that involves alternating periods of increasing depth (crescendo) followed by a decrease in depth (decrescendo), often culminating in a brief period of apnea before the cycle repeats. This rhythm is commonly seen in conditions such as heart failure, stroke, or traumatic brain injury, where the central nervous system's regulation of breathing is affected.

The crescendo part signifies that the breaths gradually become deeper and more frequent, leading to the decrescendo phase where the breaths then become shallower and slower, ultimately leading to a pause in breathing (apnea). This cyclical pattern distinguishes Cheyne-Stokes from other types of breathing patterns observed in various medical conditions. Recognizing this pattern helps healthcare providers to assess the patient's condition and make informed decisions regarding treatment and intervention.