Several factors can contribute to respiratory depression, including:
1. Medications: Opioids, benzodiazepines, and certain anesthetics can depress the respiratory center in the brain. 2. Neurological Conditions: Diseases affecting the central nervous system, such as stroke or head injury, can impair respiratory function. 3. Severe Infections: Conditions like pneumonia or sepsis can compromise respiratory efficiency. 4. Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma can lead to respiratory depression, especially during exacerbations.
