What is hyperventilation characterized by?

Hyperventilation is characterized by a rapid or deep breathing pattern that leads to an excessive expulsion of carbon dioxide from the body. This reduction in carbon dioxide levels can cause various symptoms due to the body’s imbalance in gases. Tingling in the fingers, often referred to as peripheral paresthesia, can occur as a direct result of lower carbon dioxide levels, which causes changes in blood pH and nerve function. Drowsiness may also occur, but it is less commonly associated with hyperventilation compared to the tingling sensation.

The other options describe symptoms or conditions that are not typical of hyperventilation. For example, excess carbon dioxide is associated with hypoventilation rather than hyperventilation. Shortness of breath and confusion can occur due to various respiratory issues, but they alone do not specifically characterize hyperventilation. Loss of consciousness is a more severe and less common outcome, typically occurring in critical situations rather than being a direct characteristic of hyperventilation itself.