What does the term "paradoxical breathing" indicate?

Paradoxical breathing refers to an abnormal respiratory pattern where the chest and abdomen move in opposite directions during inhalation and exhalation. Normally, when a person inhales, the chest expands as the diaphragm contracts, causing the abdomen to protrude. In paradoxical breathing, the chest may contract (or remain stationary) while the abdomen rises during inhalation, and vice versa during exhalation. This pattern can indicate underlying respiratory distress or conditions affecting normal lung mechanics, such as flail chest or severe respiratory compromise. Understanding this concept is critical in assessing a patient's respiratory status and guiding appropriate interventions.