Which term describes an increased rate and depth of breathing?

Hyperventilation refers to an increased rate and depth of breathing, which leads to an excessive expulsion of carbon dioxide from the body. This condition can occur in response to various stimuli, such as anxiety, panic attacks, or certain medical conditions.

When someone hyperventilates, their respiratory system becomes more active, resulting in faster and deeper breaths than normal. This can cause changes in blood chemistry, particularly a decrease in carbon dioxide levels (hypocapnia), which may lead to symptoms such as lightheadedness, tingling in the fingers and toes, or even fainting in extreme cases.

The other terms do not accurately describe this condition: apnea refers to a temporary cessation of breathing, hypoxia indicates a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues, and dyspnea describes a sensation of difficulty or discomfort in breathing, rather than the rate and depth of breaths. Each of these terms conveys different aspects of respiratory function or disturbance, making hyperventilation the only choice that specifically addresses an increase in both the rate and depth of breathing.