Concerns About Breathing Rate During Sleep
Hello everyone, I’m a 36-year-old woman, generally in good health aside from suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and experiencing health-related anxiety. Recently, I've increased my exercise routine and recently acquired an Apple Watch. While reviewing my stats, I saw that there was a brief phase where my breathing rate surged to 25 breaths per minute, although my typical range is closer to 14-15 breaths per minute. Should I be worried about this rise? My resting heart rate usually hovers around 60, peaking at 70. Thanks for your insights!
Answers (1)
4/3/2025, 4:40:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about changes in your breathing rate during sleep, especially given your background with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and health-related anxiety. A temporary increase in breathing rate, especially during sleep, can be influenced by various factors such as sleep quality, exercise, stress, or even sleep apnea, but it doesn't always indicate a significant problem.
Explanation
A normal respiratory rate for adults is typically between 12 to 20 breaths per minute. While your usual rate is 14-15, a brief and isolated spike to 25 breaths may be nothing to worry about if it doesn’t persist or occur frequently. Factors like physical exertion from your increased exercise routine or temporary anxiety can lead to changes in your breathing patterns. Additionally, since you have SLE, your body's response to stress or physical activity may be different than someone without underlying health concerns.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Breathing Rate: Over the next few nights, keep an eye on your breathing rates during sleep. Note the frequency of any spikes to 25 breaths per minute or higher.
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Evaluate Sleep Quality: Pay attention to your sleep quality. Are you waking up frequently or feeling unrested? These factors can also contribute to changes in your breathing pattern.
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Manage Anxiety: If your anxiety is contributing to your concerns, consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga before bed to help ease your mind.
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Stay Active Post-Exercise: After workouts, allow adequate cool-down time and avoid intense activities close to bedtime that can leave you feeling over-stimulated.
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Track Your Symptoms: Keeping a diary of your health metrics, including your breathing and any associated symptoms (like fatigue or anxiety levels), may help you in identifying patterns over time.
If you experience other symptoms, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, significant fatigue, or if the increased breathing persists, feel free to further explore this with a healthcare professional. Your health is important, and being proactive is key!
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