Breathing, a vital function par excellence, changes significantly with age. Physiological variations influence respiratory frequency and volumes in adults, children and infants. This text takes a close look at these specificities, highlighting the crucial importance of respiratory monitoring at every stage of life.
Adult breathing
Respiratory frequency and capacity
Normal adult respiratory rate is between 12 and 20 cycles per minute. Adults have a total lung capacity of around 6 liters, although only about 4.5 liters are usable, the rest being considered dead space. Tidal volume - the amount of air exchanged during normal breathing - is around 500 ml.
Specific volumes
Reserve expiratory volume: around 1.2 liters, which is the air expelled after a normal exhalation.
Reserve inspiratory volume: up to 2.8 liters, the additional air inhaled after normal inspiration.
Warning signs
Significant variations in respiratory rate or volume may indicate problems such as respiratory failure. It's vital to consult a healthcare professional in the event of any noticeable change.
Children's breathing
Respiratory frequency and capacity
Respiratory frequency in children is higher than in adults, ranging from 20 to 30 cycles per minute. Children have a lung capacity proportional to their size and growth, but relatively greater in relation to their body mass than adults.
Special features
Children's breathing may be more irregular, especially when they're active. Their ability to regulate their breathing according to activity is less developed than in adults, requiring careful monitoring, especially in infancy.
Warning signs
Breathing difficulties in children can manifest themselves in symptoms such as intercostal pulling, nasal flaring or gasping. These signs require immediate medical attention.
Breathing in infants
Frequency and characteristics
Infants have a naturally high respiratory rate, between 30 and 60 cycles per minute. Infants also have a smaller tidal volume due to their small size, and their breathing can be noticeably faster and more shallow than that of older children and adults.
Special features
Infants' breathing may be very rapid, but it must remain regular. Breathing pauses of a few seconds may be normal, but should not be frequent or prolonged.
Warning signs
Signs such as wheezing, squeaking, or visible effort to breathe are alarming. Such conditions should be assessed by healthcare professionals without delay to rule out conditions such as bronchiolitis or other serious respiratory ailments.
Conclusion
Respiratory monitoring is essential at all ages, but particularly in infants and children, where standards vary more widely and risks are higher. A thorough understanding of respiratory standards enables early detection of respiratory problems and prompt medical intervention, essential for maintaining lung and general health.