Hypoventilating

Hypoventilating refers to a state where the rate or depth of breathing is abnormally reduced, leading to a buildup of carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) in the blood. This can result from various factors, including respiratory diseases, central nervous system depression, and neuromuscular disorders. It can compromise the body's ability to adequately oxygenate tissues and remove waste products, potentially causing serious health issues, such as decreased blood oxygen levels and ultimately, respiratory failure. The severity of the condition varies depending on the underlying cause and the degree of respiratory compromise.

Hypoventilating meaning with examples

• After his overdose, the patient was hypoventilating; the paramedics had to administer oxygen and manually assist his breathing to prevent further oxygen deprivation. His breathing became shallow and infrequent, a clear sign that his respiratory system was failing to function properly.
• The doctor noted that the elderly patient with advanced COPD was hypoventilating during the night, likely due to increased mucus production and weakened respiratory muscles. This meant that carbon dioxide wasn't being efficiently expelled, causing her to feel more breathless.
• Following the surgery, the patient started hypoventilating due to the effects of anesthesia and pain medication, necessitating close monitoring and the adjustment of his pain management strategy to improve ventilation.
• The athlete collapsed on the field, appearing to be hypoventilating because of a possible asthma attack. He was struggling to draw breaths quickly enough, resulting in the rapid build-up of carbon dioxide in his lungs and blood.
• The baby with infant respiratory distress syndrome (IRDS) was severely hypoventilating, requiring immediate intervention with a ventilator to ensure that sufficient oxygen reached its blood, and prevent any brain damage.