Respiration Rate Calculator
Calculate breaths per minute (BPM) based on a timed observation.
Count the number of chest rises within the time period.
15 Seconds
30 Seconds
60 Seconds (1 Minute)
10 Seconds (Quick check)
Select how long you observed the patient's breathing.
Adult (18+ years)
Child (6-12 years)
Toddler (1-3 years)
Infant (0-1 year)
Used to determine if the rate is within normal range.
Calculated Respiratory Rate
0 BPM
What is Respiration Rate?
The respiration rate, also known as the respiratory rate, is the number of breaths a person takes per minute. It is one of the four primary vital signs, along with body temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate. Measuring the respiratory rate is a critical diagnostic tool used to assess general health and detect potential medical issues such as respiratory distress, infection, or metabolic imbalances.
How to Calculate Respiratory Rate
The standard unit of measurement is Breaths Per Minute (BPM). To calculate this manually:
- Have the person sit or lie down comfortably. It is best if they are unaware you are counting, as awareness can alter breathing patterns.
- Observe the chest rising and falling. One complete cycle of rising and falling counts as one breath.
- Count the breaths for a specific duration (usually 15, 30, or 60 seconds).
- Use the calculator above or multiply accordingly:
- If counting for 15 seconds, multiply by 4.
- If counting for 30 seconds, multiply by 2.
- If counting for 60 seconds, the count is the rate.
Normal Respiratory Rate Ranges
Respiration rates change drastically as we age. Infants breathe much faster than adults. Below is a reference table for normal resting respiratory rates:
| Age Group | Normal Range (BPM) |
|---|---|
| Newborns / Infants (0-1 year) | 30 – 60 BPM |
| Toddlers (1-3 years) | 24 – 40 BPM |
| Preschoolers (3-6 years) | 22 – 34 BPM |
| School-age Children (6-12 years) | 18 – 30 BPM |
| Adolescents (12-18 years) | 12 – 16 BPM |
| Adults (18+ years) | 12 – 20 BPM |
| Elderly (65+ years) | 12 – 28 BPM |
Understanding the Results
Eupnea (Normal): The breathing rate is within the expected range for the person's age, typically regular and effortless.
Tachypnea (High): A respiratory rate higher than normal. This can be caused by fever, anxiety, exercise, respiratory infections (like pneumonia or COVID-19), or heart problems.
Bradypnea (Low): A respiratory rate lower than normal. This can be caused by excessive sedation, head injuries, hypothermia, or drug overdoses (particularly opioids).
When to Seek Medical Help
You should contact a healthcare provider immediately if the respiratory rate is significantly outside the normal range, or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain, bluish lips or nails (cyanosis), wheezing, or high fever.