Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What commonly triggers hyperventilation in patients?

1. Physical exertion

2. Psychological distress

3. Environmental factors

4. Allergic reactions

The correct answer is: Psychological distress

Hyperventilation is often triggered by psychological distress, which can manifest as anxiety, panic attacks, or overwhelming stress. When a person experiences heightened emotional states, their body's fight or flight response can kick in, leading to rapid and shallow breathing. This change in breathing can alter the balance of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood, resulting in various symptoms, such as lightheadedness, tingling in extremities, and feelings of panic. While physical exertion can also lead to an increase in respiratory rate, it typically doesn't result in the specific pattern associated with hyperventilation unless accompanied by significant anxiety or panic. Environmental factors, such as high altitude or hot and humid conditions, might cause discomfort that could accelerate breathing but are less directly linked to the psychological component. Allergic reactions can cause respiratory changes but are primarily focused on physical symptoms related to the allergic response rather than the psychological triggers found in hyperventilation.