What term describes shortness of breath?

The correct term that describes shortness of breath is dyspnea. This condition refers specifically to feelings of breathlessness or difficulty in breathing, which can be caused by various underlying health issues, such as lung diseases, heart conditions, or even anxiety.

Understanding dyspnea is crucial, especially in medical contexts, as it provides important information about a patient’s respiratory status and guides necessary interventions. It differs from other terms; for instance, apnea refers to pauses in breathing, which is not synonymous with shortness of breath. Tachypnea, on the other hand, denotes an abnormally rapid breathing rate, while hyperpnea describes an increased depth of breathing that may occur with exertion or in response to other stimuli. Both of these terms do not specifically indicate the experience of shortness of breath, which is the defining characteristic of dyspnea.