Extremely fast breathing / Extreme tachypnea

Increased respiratory rate above 40 breaths per minute in adults and above 60 breaths per minute in infants is called extreme tachypnea.

It is due to the fact that the cells of the organism do not receive enough oxygen supply and stimulate the respiratory center of the brain to increase the respiratory rate. There are multiple causes among which the following stand out: respiratory causes (asthma, pulmonary emphysema, pneumonia, embolism and pulmonary trauma), cardiac (arrhythmia, heart attack) and other causes (allergic reaction, toxins, intense exercise in extreme conditions).

It manifests with a sensation of choking and shortness of breath, shallow breathing, chest tightness, dizziness, weakness, and bluish color of lips and/or fingernails.

Once tachypnea is quantified during the taking of constants (respiratory rate and blood oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry), the cause should be determined by clinical history and physical examination. Depending on the diagnostic suspicion, tests such as arterial blood gases, blood analysis, chest X-ray and/or scanner will be performed.

Treatment is based on keeping the airways clear, applying oxygen therapy and ensuring correct ventilation (by non-invasive or invasive technique according to need). It is recommended to keep the person in an upright position and treat the cause to prevent symptoms from persisting or worsening. Bronchodilator drugs, antihistamines, corticosteroids, diuretics and antibiotics are usually used depending on the cause.

If you have difficulty breathing, you should go to the nearest emergency room or seek help from your local emergency medical system.