What is the Normal Respiratory Rate for a Fully Grown Adult?

Update Date: 2024-05-27 Source: Network

Oxygen, essential for human bodies, exists in the air, thus we need to breathe through our noses and mouths every day. If respiratory infections occur, respiratory difficulties may arise, but they generally do not pose a serious threat to patients' lives. However, if a patient cannot breathe independently, medical equipment is required for assistance. As long as the body receives sufficient oxygen, there is no need for concern. The normal respiratory rate for adults is 12 to 20 breaths per minute. Slowed respiration is commonly seen in conditions such as reduced metabolic rate, excessive anesthesia, shock, and increased intracranial pressure. Increased respiration is primarily observed in cases of fever, pain, anemia, hyperthyroidism, heart failure, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, pleurisy, bronchial asthma, and neurological or psychiatric disorders.

Detection Methods:

When calculating the respiratory rate, it is essential to closely observe the chest of the individual being examined. Use a clock with a second hand to record the number of breaths taken by the subject for half a minute, and then multiply the measured number by 2 to obtain the respiratory rate per minute. The basic definition is the number of breaths taken per minute. The respiratory rate varies with age, gender, and physiological state. In adults at rest, the respiratory rate is approximately 12 to 20 breaths per minute; in children, it is approximately 20 breaths per minute; and in general, women breathe 1 to 2 times faster than men. It is also an important diagnostic tool for doctors in clinical settings.

Causes of Changes:

The normal respiratory rate for adults is approximately 12 to 20 breaths per minute. The ratio of respiration to pulse is 1:4, meaning that for every breath taken, the pulse beats four times. Children breathe faster than adults, reaching up to 20 to 30 breaths per minute, and newborns can have a respiratory rate of up to 44 breaths per minute. In adults at rest, the respiratory rate is typically 12 to 18 breaths per minute, with a respiration to pulse ratio of 1:4. The respiratory rate of newborns is about 44 breaths per minute and gradually slows down as they age.

Main Manifestations of Peripheral Respiratory Failure:

1. Tachypnea refers to a respiratory rate exceeding 24 breaths per minute. It is observed in conditions such as fever, pain, anemia, hyperthyroidism, and heart failure. Generally, for every 1°C increase in body temperature, the respiratory rate increases by approximately 4 breaths per minute.

2. Bradypnea refers to a respiratory rate lower than 12 breaths per minute. Slow and shallow breathing can be seen in cases of excessive anesthesia or sedative use and increased intracranial pressure.

3. Changes in respiratory depth along with respiratory rate: Shallow and rapid breathing can be observed in conditions such as respiratory muscle paralysis, severe distension of the abdomen, ascites, obesity, and lung diseases like pneumonia, pleurisy, pleural effusion, and pneumothorax. Deep and rapid breathing occurs during intense physical activity due to the increased need for oxygen supply and subsequent increase in gas exchange within the lungs.