Which of the following can lead to hypoventilation?

• A. Stimulant medications
• B. Neurological suppression
• C. Increased tidal volume
• D. High physical activity levels

Answer: (B)

Hypoventilation occurs when there is inadequate ventilation to meet the metabolic demands of the body, leading to an increase in carbon dioxide levels and a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. Neurological suppression is a key factor that can lead to hypoventilation because it affects the respiratory centers in the brain, which are responsible for regulating the rhythm and depth of breathing. Conditions such as drug overdose, brain injuries, or diseases that impact the central nervous system can reduce respiratory drive, resulting in shallow and infrequent breathing, thereby causing hypoventilation.

This is distinct from respiratory influences that do not decrease the drive to breathe. Stimulant medications typically enhance respiratory drive and increase ventilation, while increased tidal volume signifies deeper breathing, which is contrary to hypoventilation. Furthermore, high physical activity levels typically result in an increase in both respiratory rate and tidal volume to accommodate increased oxygen demands, thus preventing hypoventilation.