What is the medical term for shortness of breath?

The medical term for shortness of breath is dyspnea. This term describes a condition where a person feels an uncomfortable awareness of breathing or a sensation of breathlessness. Dyspnea can be a result of various underlying health conditions, including respiratory disorders, cardiac issues, or even anxiety.

Understanding this term is vital in the fields of medicine and telemetry as it helps healthcare providers recognize and respond to patients experiencing difficulties in breathing. The other terms listed refer to different respiratory conditions: tachypnea indicates an abnormally rapid breathing rate, apnea refers to a temporary cessation of breathing, and bradypnea denotes an abnormally slow breathing rate. Each term highlights a unique aspect of respiratory function, but dyspnea specifically encompasses the experience of feeling short of breath.