respiration rate

physiology

Also known as: breathing rate, respiratory rate

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

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Respiration rate refers to the number of breaths a person takes per minute. This automatic process is controlled by neural networks in the brainstem, which direct the muscles involved in breathing to create pressure gradients that move air into and out of the lungs. The body can adjust breathing patterns to meet metabolic demands, such as during exercise, by increasing ventilation in response to changes in carbon dioxide and oxygen levels. Sensors throughout the body, including chemoreceptors and mechanoreceptors, send signals to the brain to help regulate breathing. While the diaphragm is the primary breathing muscle, other muscles in the chest and abdomen also play a role. Breathing can even be voluntarily controlled to some extent, such as when holding one's breath.1

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animal disease
General inspection
The respiratory movements of an animal are important diagnostic criteria; breathing is rapid in young animals, in small animals, and in animals whose body temperature is higher than normal. Specific respiratory movements are characteristic of certain diseases—e.g., certain movements in horses with heaves (emphysema) or the…
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The respiratory movements of an animal are important diagnostic criteria; breathing is rapid in young animals, in small animals, and in animals whose body temperature is higher than normal. Specific respiratory movements are characteristic of certain diseases—e.g., certain movements in horses with heaves (emphysema) or the…
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hibernation
…0° C (32° F); the respiration is only a few breaths per minute; and the heartbeat is so slow and gradual as to be barely perceptible. Exposed to moderate warmth, the animal slowly awakens, requiring an hour or more to reach an alert state.
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…0° C (32° F); the respiration is only a few breaths per minute; and the heartbeat is so slow and gradual as to be barely perceptible. Exposed to moderate warmth, the animal slowly awakens, requiring an hour or more to reach an alert state.
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human disease
Disease: signs and symptoms
The respiratory rate (rate of breathing) is modified by disease. Persons with fever have an increased respiratory rate (hyperventilation), which serves to lower body temperature (this rapid breathing is analogous to the panting of a dog). Hyperventilation is a common response to painful stress. Any condition…
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The respiratory rate (rate of breathing) is modified by disease. Persons with fever have an increased respiratory rate (hyperventilation), which serves to lower body temperature (this rapid breathing is analogous to the panting of a dog). Hyperventilation is a common response to painful stress. Any condition…
Read More