Tachypnoea

Tachypnoea is defined as an abnormally rapid breathing rate, typically exceeding 20 breaths per minute in adults. It is clinically significant as it often indicates underlying respiratory or metabolic distress, requiring prompt assessment to identify the cause, such as pneumonia or heart failure. One key association is with hypoxia, where inadequate oxygenation can lead to increased respiratory effort, potentially resulting in respiratory fatigue or failure if not addressed.