What is the term for the cessation of breathing?

The term for the cessation of breathing is "apnea." Apnea refers specifically to a temporary pause in breathing and can occur in various situations, including during sleep (as in sleep apnea) or in response to certain medical conditions. Understanding apnea is crucial for combat medics as it indicates a potentially life-threatening situation requiring immediate intervention.

Anoxia, while related, specifically refers to a lack of oxygen in the tissues, which can happen as a result of apnea but is not synonymous with the cessation of breathing itself. Bradycardia is a term used for a slower-than-normal heart rate, which does not directly address breathing. Dyspnea involves difficulty breathing, indicating a problem with airflow or respiratory mechanics, rather than a complete halt in breathing. Each of these terms is relevant in different contexts within emergency care and understanding their distinctions is essential for effective assessment and management.