What is Hyperpnea or Hyperventilation

The hyperpnea or hyperventilation is a state in which there is an increase in the amount of air inspired, what he does thanks to an increase in respiratory rate as in the volume inhaled.

Hyperpnea must be differentiated from tachypnea, the latter being the term used to indicate an increase in respiratory rate.

This condition can occur physiologically during exercise. Its appearance in other conditions can be a sign of health conditions.

Effects of hyperpnea or hyperventilation on the body

Hyperventilation produces an increase in the amount of oxygen in the tissues, but also a decrease in the concentration of the dioxide carbon. Alterations in the concentrations of these gases lead to changes in the pH or degree of acidity of the blood, affecting its Balance.

The brain has receptors that allow the levels of these gases to be measured. When carbon dioxide levels decrease, a signal is produced that causes the person to breathe less frequently, this is perceived as difficulty breathing or even as a

sensation suffocation, but in reality it is an adaptive mechanism.

When hyperventilating, chemical changes trigger a series of mechanisms to adjust the values ​​and resume normal limits, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, nausea, and even vomiting

How to recognize hyperpnea or hyperventilation

This condition commonly occurs accompanying disorders characterized by anxiety, as is the case with seizures or panic attacks. A person experiencing distress or anxiety may experience hyperventilation without being aware of it.
Other situations that can lead to the development of hyperpnea are infections, fever, and bleeding.

One condition in which asymptomatic hyperpnea can occur is during exercise. Training increases demand oxygen, thus increasing the respiratory rate and also the volume of air inhaled, however, quantities are also produced high levels of carbon dioxide, so that the adaptive mechanisms that cause the discomfort that characterize the hyperventilation

What to do in case of hyperventilation?

A practical measure that can help alleviate the symptoms of hyperventilation is to breathe air from a bag, or put your hands over your mouth in the shape of a cup.

This measure helps to inhale oxygen and carbon dioxide, which causes the proportions of these gases to be maintained. Within a few minutes after its onset, the discomfort will disappear and the breathing.

In addition, measures should be taken to control anxiety and achieve calm and relaxation.

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