Which term describes difficulty breathing that occurs when a child is lying supine?

The term that describes difficulty breathing when a child is lying flat or in a supine position is orthopnea. This condition typically manifests as increased difficulty in breathing while reclining, which may lead to a preference for sitting or standing to alleviate the sensation of breathlessness. Orthopnea is often associated with conditions such as heart failure or respiratory issues, where gravity impacts fluid distribution in the lungs, exacerbating symptoms when lying down.

In contrast, dyspnea refers to general difficulty in breathing, which does not specify the position of the individual. Apnea describes the absence of breathing, which is not relevant to the situation where a child is experiencing difficulty. Hyperpnea indicates an increased rate and depth of breathing but does not specifically relate to positional changes affecting the respiratory process. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing and addressing breathing challenges in pediatric patients.