4 ms·
Good point! I was thinking in terms of oxygen/CO2 balance. But strictly speaking, I realize your right in that hyperventilating won't actually increase absolute
by macawfish 7y ago
Good point! I was thinking in terms of oxygen/CO2 balance. But strictly speaking, I realize your right in that hyperventilating won't actually increase absolute oxygen levels.
- jules 7y agoIf this is the case, what causes the light-headedness when you hyperventilate?
- goldenkey 7y ago"Low carbon dioxide levels lead to narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. This reduction in blood supply to the brain leads to symptoms like lightheadedness and tingling in the fingers. Severe hyperventilation can lead to loss of consciousness. For some people, hyperventilation is rare."
- macawfish 7y agoI understand the tingling of the fingers to be caused by a reduction of calcium ionization: "Low levels of carbon dioxide cause tetany by altering the albumin binding of calcium such that the ionized (physiologically influencing) fraction of calcium is reduced; one common reason for low carbon dioxide levels is hyperventilation."