Kussmaul breathing

Kussmaul breathing is a type of hyperventilation that is observed in patients suffering from metabolic acidosis, particularly when associated with diabetes. It is characterized by deep and labored breathing patterns. This type of breathing is named after Adolph Kussmaul, the 19th century German physician who first described it.

Causes

Kussmaul breathing is most commonly caused by conditions that lead to metabolic acidosis, particularly diabetes. Other causes can include kidney failure, lactic acidosis, and aspirin overdose.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Kussmaul breathing is a labored, deep breathing pattern. This is often accompanied by other symptoms of the underlying cause, such as high blood sugar levels in the case of diabetes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Kussmaul breathing is typically made based on the patient's breathing pattern and the presence of other symptoms of metabolic acidosis. Additional tests may be performed to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment

Treatment for Kussmaul breathing focuses on managing the underlying cause. This can include insulin therapy for diabetes, dialysis for kidney failure, or medication to manage lactic acidosis.

See also

• Cheyne-Stokes respiration
• Biot's respiration
• Ataxic respiration

References

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