Explain the causes of hyperventilation

What will be an ideal response?


The most common cause of hyperventilation is anxiety. Although not as common, hyperventilation may also be caused by certain physical conditions, emotional upset, or stress. A person who begins to hyperventilate increases the depth and rate of respirations. By increasing respirations, she exhales a large amount of carbon dioxide. Because the dental patient is motionless, they have no way of replenishing the carbon dioxide being exhaled. As a result, the patient suffers from a lack of carbon dioxide and has difficulty breathing. When there is a lack of carbon dioxide, the patient must consciously work to inhale and exhale. This process takes place in a cycle; as the patient realizes they are having difficulty breathing, this creates further anxiety and worsens the hyperventilation.

Health Professions

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Health Professions