What is the recommended action if hyperventilation is suspected in flight?

When hyperventilation is suspected in flight, the recommended action is to regulate breathing by controlling the rate. Hyperventilation typically occurs when an individual breathes rapidly and deeply, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can cause symptoms like lightheadedness, tingling, and anxiety. By consciously controlling the breathing rate, the affected individual can help restore normal levels of carbon dioxide, alleviating symptoms and preventing further complications.

Focusing on breathing at a more controlled pace can also help the individual relax and focus their attention away from the distressing symptoms of hyperventilation. This action encourages a return to normal respiratory patterns, allowing the body to regain its stable physiological state more effectively.

The other options, while they may seem beneficial in some contexts, do not directly address the issue at hand. For example, increasing physical activity can exacerbate the condition by demanding more oxygen intake and leading to further hyperventilation. Using oxygen masks might not be effective for hyperventilation specifically, as the primary concern is not oxygen deficiency but rather the imbalance of carbon dioxide levels. Staying calm and breathing normally is good advice, but actively regulating breathing is a more proactive and effective approach in managing hyperventilation during flight.