What condition is associated with respiratory distress and an increased respiratory rate?

Tachypnea is characterized by an increased respiratory rate, typically defined as a rate greater than 20 breaths per minute in adults. This condition often occurs in response to various physiological demands or pathologies, such as hypoxemia, acidosis, or respiratory distress. In clinical practice, tachypnea is a common vital sign that can indicate the body is attempting to compensate for a lack of adequate oxygenation or the need to remove carbon dioxide efficiently.

In contrast, hyperventilation is an increase in both the rate and depth of breathing, which can occur due to anxiety or metabolic disturbances but is not strictly defined by the respiratory rate alone. Eupnea refers to normal, unlabored breathing, which would not indicate distress or an increased rate. Apnea, on the other hand, is the absence of breathing altogether and would suggest a severe respiratory issue rather than an increased respiratory rate. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying the underlying conditions causing respiratory distress and effectively managing patient care.