Panted

Panted refers to the act of breathing rapidly and shallowly, often with the mouth open. This type of respiration is typically associated with exertion, such as during or after physical activity, when the body's demand for oxygen increases and the need to expel carbon dioxide becomes more urgent. Panting can also be a response to heat, as it helps to cool the body through evaporation from the moist surfaces of the tongue and respiratory tract. In animals, panting is a primary mechanism for thermoregulation.

Beyond physical exertion and heat, panting can also be a symptom of stress, anxiety, or pain in both animals and humans. In some medical contexts, rapid shallow breathing, or tachypnea, may be observed. This can be indicative of various underlying conditions, including respiratory distress, panic attacks, or certain physiological responses to illness. The physiological purpose of panting is to increase ventilation, thereby facilitating a faster exchange of gases in the lungs. While often a normal and temporary response, persistent or unexplained panting warrants medical attention.