Cheyne-Stokes respirations describe an abnormal breathing pattern characterized by alternating periods of deep, rapid breathing and slower, shallow breaths, as well as a full stoppage of breathing, which is known as apnoea. Cheyne-Stokes respirations can occur when a person is awake or asleep but is most common during sleep.
It is not clear which physiological effects cause these abnormal breathing patterns, but Cheyne-Stokes respirations are associated with serious medical conditions. This includes heart failure, strokes, brain trauma, central sleep apnoea, pulmonary oedema, increased pressure in the skull, and medication overdoses. Additionally, Cheyne-Stokes respirations often precede imminent death, typically occurring minutes or hours before.
Cheyne-Stokes respirations are often challenging to diagnose when symptoms occur at night, and you may need to undergo a sleep study to diagnose atypical breathing. Doctors will also need to evaluate and treat underlying medical conditions that contribute to Cheyne-Stokes respirations:
When it comes to medication, certain drugs can ease the burden on the heart and help it function more efficiently. For example, ACE inhibitors improve circulation and lower blood pressure, while beta blockers decrease one’s heart rate while simultaneously managing high blood pressure levels. Many people can boost their heart health with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, but surgery may also be needed.
Strokes are a medical emergency that requires immediate attention from a doctor. When it comes to medication, thrombolytic drugs help break up blood clots blocking the flow of blood in the brain. However, people who have had strokes before or those who are considered high risk may be prescribed medication to prevent new issues from occurring. In this case, your doctor might recommend medications like blood thinners, blood pressure drugs, and cholesterol treatments.
Heart failure and central sleep apnoea are sometimes linked, in which case improving your heart health can also improve the effects of apnoea. This sleep disorder can also be treated using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, which provide pressurized air to the lungs to keep the airways open.