gasping

Gasping is a rapid, forceful inhalation through the mouth that can be voluntary or reflexive. It is typically brief and may be accompanied by visible effort or opening of the mouth. Gasping is distinct from a sigh, which is a longer, deeper breath followed by a slower exhalation.

Physiology and mechanism: Gasping involves the diaphragm and intercostal muscles and is regulated by brainstem respiratory centers in the medulla and pons. Chemoreceptors monitor blood levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide, and hypoxemia or hypercapnia can trigger a gasp as an automatic attempt to restore airflow and oxygen delivery. Gasping can occur in various contexts, including exposure to airway obstruction, sudden pain, surprise, or emotional distress, as well as during certain medical emergencies.

Contexts and causes: In healthy individuals, gasping may occur briefly during intense exertion or after abrupt changes in breathing. In medical settings, gasping is often seen during episodes of respiratory distress, severe airway obstruction, or hypoxic conditions. In seriously ill or dying patients, agonal or near-agonal gasps may occur and can be irregular or infrequent; such gasps are typically a sign of compromised respiration and limited prognosis.

Clinical significance: Recognition of gasping can aid in assessing respiratory status. Gasping in an unresponsive person is considered a prompt to initiate emergency response and basic life support, including CPR if indicated. Differentiating gasping from normal sighing or deliberate breathing helps guide appropriate management. In animals, gasping may accompany distress or active effort to obtain air, though it is chemically and neurologically related to, yet distinct from, panting.