Hyperpnea

Definition

Hyperpnea is an increase in the depth and rate of breathing to meet the body's demand for oxygen. It occurs during activities that require enhanced oxygen delivery, such as exercise.

Related terms

Hyperventilation: An excessive rate and depth of respiration leading to abnormal loss of carbon dioxide from the blood.

Respiratory System: The biological system consisting of specific organs and structures used for gas exchange in animals and plants.

Oxygen Saturation: A measure of the amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin in the blood relative to the amount of hemoglobin not carrying oxygen