Hyperventillation

Definitions

Hyperventilation is breathing that is too rapid and deep, resulting in a lack of CO₂

Objective(s)

Recognize the symptoms, causes, effects, and corrective actions for hyperventillation

Description

• Rapid breathing reduces the amount of CO2 in the blood, causing change in blood pH and constriction of blood vessels in the brain
• Causes drowsiness, impaired judgment, euphoria, disorientation, and impaired vision

Instructional aids

None required

Recognition

• LiVEDDDHead: Lightheadedness, Visual disturbance, Euphoria, Disorientation, Drowsiness, Dizziness, Headache → symptoms common to lack of O­­₂
• _{Rapid breathing and pale, cool, clammy appearance are unique to hyperventillation}

Avoidance and recovery

Breathe normally, talk out loud, breathe into paper bag

Real-life advice and experience

Enter Text

Additional resources

Enter Text