What term describes a condition of too low respiratory effort?

The term that describes a condition of too low respiratory effort is hypoventilation. Hypoventilation occurs when there is inadequate ventilation to meet the body's metabolic needs, leading to insufficient oxygen intake and retention of carbon dioxide. This can result in respiratory acidosis and other complications due to elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood.

This condition is characterized by a decreased rate and/or depth of breathing, which can be caused by various factors including respiratory muscle weakness, central nervous system depression, or obstructive pathology. Recognizing hypoventilation is essential for appropriate medical intervention, as it may require support in ventilation or addressing the underlying cause.

Comparatively, bradyapnea describes a slower than normal respiratory rate but does not specifically imply that the effort of breathing is insufficient in terms of gas exchange. Hyperventilation refers to an increased rate of breathing, leading to decreased carbon dioxide levels, while normal ventilation indicates adequate respiratory function without any insufficiency, thereby not meeting the criteria set by the question.