What is the term for rapid breathing?

The term "Tachypnea" specifically refers to rapid breathing, characterized by an increased respiratory rate. This condition is often observed in various scenarios, such as during physical exertion, when experiencing anxiety, or as a response to certain medical conditions. Understanding tachypnea is crucial in fields like athletic training and medicine because it can indicate how the body is handling oxygen demand, particularly during intense exercise or stress.

The other terms provided refer to different conditions: Bradycardia describes a slower than normal heart rate, indicating a reduced frequency of heartbeats. Dyspnea refers to a subjective feeling of breathlessness or difficulty in breathing rather than the rate of breaths taken. Hyperventilation involves a significantly increased respiratory rate that exceeds the body’s metabolic needs, often leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. While related to rapid breathing, hyperventilation has specific medical implications that distinguish it from mere tachypnea.