Hyperventilation is a condition characterized by rapid or deep breathing, often caused by anxiety or panic. This excessive breathing leads to low levels of carbon dioxide in the blood, which can cause various symptoms. Some common causes of hyperventilation include:
- Anxiety disorder
- Panic attack
- Asthma
- Stress
- Worry or anxiety
- Hard exercise
- Lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma
- Side effects from certain drugs
- High altitude
- Head injury
- Shock
- Pregnancy
- Infection in the lungs
- Heart conditions, such as a heart attack
In some cases, the exact cause of hyperventilation syndrome is unknown, while in others, it can be triggered by stress, fear, or anxiety. Women are more likely to experience hyperventilation, and it may occur more frequently during pregnancy, although it usually resolves after childbirth.
