Tachypnea or polypnea is a medical condition characterized by rapid and shallow breathing. Generally in healthy adult humans, the number of breaths taken per minute is equal to 16; tachypnea is indicated if the rate increases to 40 or 60 breaths per minute. It is usually accompanied by an increased heart rate and a feeling of fatigue and lack of oxygen.
Tachypnea is caused due to a buildup of carbon dioxide in the lungs. When this occurs, the blood becomes more acidic and alerts the brain that something is not right. The brain in turn signals the respiratory system to increase its pace and try to repair the imbalance and stabilize the blood within its normal range.
The condition may have both physiological and pathological causes. Physiological causes associated with tachypnea may be physical effort or stress. Amongst pathological causes, various conditions such as metabolic acidosis, embolism, sepsis, pulmonary infarction, and carbon monoxide poisoning may be triggers.
Tachypnea must be distinguished from hyperpnea in that in addition to an increased breathing rate, hyperpnea entails deep breaths, giving rise to increased pulmonary ventilation. In newborn infants, a form of tachypnea called transient tachypnea may occur. This condition is generally caused by residual fluid in the lungs, leading to fast and shallow breathing. It tends to go away on its own 24-48 hours after delivery and in most cases, no further problems arise.
What diseases may be associated with tachypnea?
Tachypnea can be caused by a number of conditions. Chronic conditions such as asthma, anxiety or being overweight can lead to tachypnea. Other conditions associated with tachypnea include the following:
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Cystic fibrosis
- Duodenal ulcer
- Embolism
- Metabolic acidosis
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary embolism
- Pulmonary infarction
- Sepsis
- Septic shock
Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive and it is always a good idea to consult with a doctor regarding any questions, concerns, or the need for further diagnosis. Symptoms including chest pain, fever, discoloration of the skin and nails, lightheadedness, worsening breathing activity and a chest that gives in with every breath, should always be reported and treated quickly in order to prevent further complications.
What are possible treatment options for tachypnea?
In order to undergo possible treatment for tachypnea, it is important to indentify the exact cause of the condition and how to act upon it. Due to these reasons, it is always advisable to consult with a doctor on how to proceed with the breathing irregularities and determine the most appropriate treatment option for that particular individual.
When is it advised to consult with a doctor regarding tachypnea?
Tachypnea is caused by many different conditions. In the event that an individual has already been diagnosed with tachypnea or is at risk of one of the pathologies associated with the condition (Carbon monoxide poisoning, Cystic fibrosis, Duodenal ulcer, Embolism, Metabolic acidosis, Pneumonia, Pulmonary embolism, Pulmonary infarction, Sepsis, Septic shock and others), it is important to consult with a doctor for further diagnosis.
This condition should always be treated as a medical emergency, especially in individuals experiencing it for the first time.
