Define tachypnea.

• A. Abnormally rapid breathing, typically >20 breaths per minute in adults.
• B. Slow breathing rate
• C. Normal breathing rate
• D. Irregular breathing pattern

Answer: (A)

Tachypnea is an abnormally rapid breathing rate. In adults, a normal rate is about 12 to 20 breaths per minute, so tachypnea describes a rate higher than that, typically more than 20 breaths per minute. It emphasizes speed of breathing rather than depth, and the breaths may be rapid with variable depth. This helps distinguish it from bradypnea (slow breathing), normal breathing, or an irregular breathing pattern. Clinically, tachypnea can signal increased metabolic demand or problems such as fever, hypoxemia, or respiratory distress.