Private Pilot Flight Training and Instruction

Hyperventilation

Stress, anxiety and fear cause hyperventilation. The person begins abnormal rapid breathing. Reduction of carbon dioxide causes lightheadedness, suffocation, drowsiness, tingling, and coolness. Leads to incapacitation, spasms, and unconsciousness. Symptoms resemble hypoxia. Can be corrected by controlled breathing in a paper bag.

Written by Gene Whitt