Hyperventilation is a condition where an individual starts to breath rapidly in an abrupt manner. It is important to note that healthy breathing occurs with a normal balance between inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide. This balance is disrupted during hyperventilation by releasing more than what is inhaled. This results to a rapid drop in the level of carbon dioxide in the body.
The low level of carbon dioxide results to the constriction of the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. This drop in the blood supply to the brain triggers symptoms such as tingling sensation in the fingers and lightheadedness. A severe case can lead to loss of consciousness.
In some individuals, hyperventilation is uncommon and only manifests as an occasional, panicked response to stress, fear or phobia. Among others, the condition occurs on a regular basis as a usual response to emotional states such as anxiety, depression or anger. Once hyperventilation is a frequent occurrence, it is called as hyperventilation syndrome.
Usual causes of hyperventilation
There are various factors that can lead to hyperventilation. The condition typically occurs from panic, anxiety, stress or nervousness. It usually takes on a form of a panic attack.
The other possible causes include the following:
- Using stimulants
- Bleeding
- Severe pain
- Overdose on drugs
- Pregnancy
- Lung infection
- Heart conditions such as a heart attack
- Lung disorders such as COPD or asthma
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
Hyperventilation can also develop due to issues triggered by asthma or emphysema or after sustaining a head injury. In some women, they experience issues with hyperventilation during pregnancy. This can occur in some individuals who travel to heights higher than 6,000 feet as well.
When to seek treatment
It is important to note that hyperventilation can be a serious condition with symptoms that can last for 20-30 minutes. It is vital to seek treatment for cases if the following symptoms manifest:
- Fever
- Pain
- Fast, deep breathing for the first time
- Hyperventilation that worsens even after using home remedies
- Bleeding
- Frequent yawning or sighing
- Feeling nervous, anxious or tense
- Chest tightness, pressure, fullness, pain or tenderness
- Pounding and racing heart rate
- Tingling or numbness in the feet, hands or around the mouth
- Issues with balance, vertigo or lightheadedness
The other indications occur less frequently and one might not even realize that they are linked to hyperventilation. Some of these symptoms include bloating, headache, sweating, twitching, visual changes, issues with memory or concentration and loss of consciousness.