Definition of Kussmaul Breathing

Kussmaul Breathing

Kussmaul breathing is a pattern of deep, labored, and rapid breathing that the body uses to compensate for severe metabolic acidosis — a dangerous buildup of acid in the blood. By breathing deeply and quickly, the body blows off carbon dioxide to help counteract the acidic state.

It is most classically associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) but can also appear in kidney failure and other causes of profound acidosis. Recognizing Kussmaul breathing is important because it signals a serious underlying metabolic emergency that requires prompt evaluation and treatment of the root cause, not just the breathing pattern itself.

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Medical Definition & Meaning

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