Factors affecting the Rate of Breathing in Humans
To increase or reduce the rate of breathing is a matter of altering the concentration of Carbon (IV) oxide in blood.
These factors include;
- Exercise/Level of activity
Vigorous activities require increased energy which comes from respiration. Respiration releases Carbon (IV) oxide gas in the blood which need increased rate of breathing to get rid of it.
- Age
Young people need energy to grow. They also have high energy needs as they are very active. Their breathing rates are therefore higher compared to elderly people.
- Mental conditions
Anxiety, fear and emotions provoke the release of adrenaline which increases the rate of metabolism increasing the rate of breathing.
- Temperatures
Increase in temperature increases the rate of breathing as a rise in temperature activates enzymes increasing metabolic activities in the body hence require more Oxygen supply.
- Health status
Some diseases cause a reduction or increase in body temperature controlled through either increased or reduced metabolism. This determines the amount of Carbon (IV) oxide gas released in the blood which influences the rate of breathing.