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Hyperventilation
TL;DRRapid breathing often from anxiety, needing techniques to restore normal breathing.
What is Hyperventilation?
Hyperventilation is a condition characterized by breathing at an excessive rate and depth, more than is necessary for the body's requirements. This leads to a significant decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which in turn causes the arteries to constrict and reduces blood flow throughout the body. The brain and other parts of the body may then experience a shortage of oxygen, leading to various symptoms.
Hyperventilation is often triggered by anxiety, fear, or other highly charged emotional responses, and can also occur due to physical triggers. During stressful situations, over-breathing is a normal response, but if it continues beyond the stressor or becomes a chronic pattern, it can result in hyperventilation syndrome.
Signs and symptoms of hyperventilation include rapid and deep breathing, rapid pulse, shortness of breath, pressure or pain across the chest, palpitations, dry mouth, and feelings of panic or impending doom. In more severe cases, symptoms may escalate to blurred vision, tingling in the fingers, toes, and lips, and spasms in the hands and fingers.
The first aid for hyperventilation involves reassurance and calming the casualty, encouraging them to slow their breathing. Removing the cause of anxiety, if possible, can also help. If there is no improvement, or if the condition worsens, it is important to call emergency services and follow standard first aid protocols, including DRSABCD (Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation).
Rapid breathing often caused by anxiety or panic, requiring calming techniques.
First Aid for Hyperventilation
- Calm the Casualty: Encourage slow, deep breathing.
- Reassurance: Provide reassurance and create a calm environment.
- Seek Medical Help: If hyperventilation persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek professional help.
Takeaway to remember
Hyperventilation occurs when breathing is rapid and shallow, leading to an imbalance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. It is often caused by anxiety or panic attacks.
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