Rapid shallow breathing

Alternative Names

Tachypnea; Breathing - rapid and shallow; Fast shallow breathing; Respiratory rate - rapid and shallow

Home Care

Rapid, shallow breathing should not be treated at home and is generally considered a medical emergency.

If you have asthma or COPD, then use your inhaler medications as prescribed by your doctor. You may still need to be seen right away. Your doctor will explain when it is important to go to the emergency room.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your doctor right away or go to the emergency room if you are breathing rapidly, especially if you have:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Never had rapid breathing before

Whether you are being examined at a hospital emergency room or at your doctor's office, the physician will do a thorough exam of your heart, lungs, abdomen, and head and neck. Tests that may be ordered include:

• CBC and blood chemistries
• Arterial blood gas to check your oxygen level
• Chest x-ray
• ECG
• Ventilation/perfusion scan of your lungs

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the rapid breathing. Treatment may include oxygen if your oxygen level is too low and nebulized respiratory treatments if you are having an asthma attack.