What describes breathing that is both fast and labored?

Tachypnea is the term used to describe rapid and often labored breathing. This condition is characterized by an increased respiratory rate, generally defined as more than 20 breaths per minute in adults. It can occur in various situations, such as during exercise, anxiety, or in response to a respiratory or systemic illness. Tachypnea often indicates that the body is trying to compensate for increased metabolic demands or decreased oxygen levels in the blood.

Other options present different conditions related to breathing. Ablepsia refers to a lack of vision, which is unrelated to breathing. Apnea is defined as a temporary cessation of breathing, while bradypnea describes slow breathing, which does not match the description of fast and labored. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why tachypnea is the correct answer when discussing breathing that is both fast and labored.