Final answer:
The correct statement about insufficient breathing is A) Breathing that is extra fast, or extra slow might be an indication of insufficient breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Insufficient Breathing and Respiratory Rate Changes
Of the options given about insufficient breathing, the correct statement is A) Breathing that is extra fast, or extra slow might be an indication of insufficient breathing. Insufficient breathing can manifest in several ways, such as changes in breathing rate (either increased or decreased) and the depth of breaths. In cases where ventilation is low, an individual's respiratory rate might increase while the volume of air per breath is decreased in an effort to compensate for the reduced oxygen uptake. Conversely, if ventilation is high, such as during hyperventilation, the respiratory rate also tends to increase while the volume of air per breath may decrease due to the body offloading excess carbon dioxide.
Breathing with extra effort, such as in forced breathing or hyperpnea, is associated with situations that require more active engagement of the respiratory muscles, like during exercise or when someone is actively controlling their breath for activities such as singing or playing a musical instrument. This type of effortful respiration can also be indicative of insufficient breathing, as the body is working harder to meet its respiratory needs.
Thus, option C is incorrect as breathing with extra effort is not normal and can be associated with insufficient breathing. Option B is also incorrect since insufficient breathing can occur in individuals of any age, although certain conditions may be more prevalent in either young children or elderly adults. And, option D is incorrect because breathing extra deeply or extra shallowly is not merely a voluntary compensation for abnormal respiratory rate, but can be a sign of an underlying issue that is inducing the body to attempt to correct for either high or low ventilation.