Microlight » Human Factors » Hyperventilation

Hyperventilation 

Hyperventilation results from over-breathing, the person tends to take deeper breaths than usual and breathes more frequently.  Usually brought on by anxiety (possibly because the patient believes that insufficient oxygen is available), however any form of stress may induce the condition.

The carbon dioxide concentration of the blood reduces to below its normal level because more carbon dioxide is being exhaled than is being produced in the body.  The chemistry of the blood changes as a consequence of the deficiency of carbon dioxide and the acidity of the body falls below its normal level.  The reduced acidity causes dizziness, tunnel vision, tingling in the hands and feet and stiffening of fingers and hands.  The patient may ultimately collapse into unconsciousness, whereupon the rate and depth of breathing returns to normal and the patient recovers.