What does tachypnea indicate?

Tachypnea refers to an abnormally elevated respiratory rate. In adults, a respiratory rate greater than 20 breaths per minute is generally considered tachypnea, and a rate exceeding 40 breaths per minute is often indicative of a more severe respiratory distress or underlying condition. This elevated breathing rate can occur due to various factors, including anxiety, fever, or respiratory disorders, signifying that the body may be attempting to compensate for a lack of oxygen or other issues requiring increased ventilation.

Understanding that a normal respiratory rate for adults typically ranges between 12 and 20 breaths per minute is crucial in recognizing tachypnea. A respiration rate of 30 breaths per minute would also indicate tachypnea; however, the defining characteristic of the term is best captured by a rate above 40 breaths per minute, which indicates significant respiratory distress and a need for medical evaluation and intervention.