What is the normal breathing rate for an adult?

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Multiple Choice

What is the normal breathing rate for an adult?

Normal resting breathing for an adult is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range reflects a comfortable, steady rate that meets the body's oxygen needs without extra effort. Individual factors can shift this a little: well-trained individuals may breathe a bit more slowly, while fever, anxiety, pain, or illness can raise the rate above 20. Breathing consistently slower than 12 or faster than about 20–25 can signal a problem and warrants attention. Among the options, the 12–20 breaths per minute range best matches the typical resting rate for adults, making it the correct choice.

Normal resting breathing for an adult is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute. This range reflects a comfortable, steady rate that meets the body's oxygen needs without extra effort. Individual factors can shift this a little: well-trained individuals may breathe a bit more slowly, while fever, anxiety, pain, or illness can raise the rate above 20. Breathing consistently slower than 12 or faster than about 20–25 can signal a problem and warrants attention. Among the options, the 12–20 breaths per minute range best matches the typical resting rate for adults, making it the correct choice.

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