What are common symptoms of hyperventilation?

Hyperventilation is characterized by rapid or deep breathing, which can lead to a decreased level of carbon dioxide in the blood. This physiological change triggers a variety of symptoms. Rapid heart rate is a common response due to the body's fight-or-flight mechanism being activated during stress or anxiety, which often accompanies hyperventilation. Additionally, dizziness may occur because the lack of carbon dioxide can cause changes in blood flow to the brain, leading to feelings of lightheadedness or faintness.

In contrast, the other options present symptoms that are less directly associated with hyperventilation. Hypotension and rash do not typically arise from hyperventilating and are more suggestive of other medical conditions. Numbness in the limbs can be a symptom associated with hyperventilation due to altered gas exchange and subsequent nerve function, but it is not as commonly highlighted as rapid heart rate and dizziness. Headache and confusion can sometimes occur from prolonged hyperventilation, but they are generally a result of prolonged hyperventilation or insufficient oxygen due to underlying conditions rather than immediate symptoms. Therefore, rapid heart rate and dizziness stand out as the most common and direct symptoms associated with hyperventilation.