Final answer:
To relieve hyperventilation below 8,000 feet, one should inhale deeply and exhale slowly to regulate breathing and reduce symptoms. Ignoring symptoms or increasing breathing rate can worsen the condition. Controlled breathing practices, like those in yoga, can be helpful.
Step-by-step explanation:
To relieve hyperventilation below 8,000 feet, one should not increase their breathing rate or consume caffeinated beverages, as these can exacerbate the problem. Instead, the recommended action is to inhale deeply and exhale slowly. This helps to regulate the breathing pattern and reduce the symptoms of hyperventilation. Ignoring the symptoms is not advisable and can lead to more serious health issues.
Hyperventilation at high altitudes can occur due to the body's response to lower oxygen levels, which may lead to a reduction in blood carbon dioxide levels and an increase in blood pH, making the blood more alkaline. It is important to understand that hyperventilation is the increased ventilation rate that results in abnormally low blood carbon dioxide levels and high blood pH, which is the definition of the term. Conscious control of breathing, such as deliberately slowing one's breathing, can help manage the symptoms of hyperventilation. Activities like yoga, which focus on controlled breathing, may also be beneficial.