How is hyperventilation treated by pilots?

Breathe into a paper bag and control breathing rate is the appropriate treatment for hyperventilation, particularly in the context of pilots. When a person hyperventilates, they expel too much carbon dioxide from the body, leading to symptoms like lightheadedness, tingling in the extremities, and even unconsciousness. Breathing into a paper bag can help because it allows the person to re-breathe some of the exhaled carbon dioxide, thus helping to restore the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

This technique encourages a slower, more regulated breathing pattern, which is essential in addressing hyperventilation. For pilots, maintaining calm and controlled breathing is crucial for normal physiological function, and using a paper bag can effectively mitigate the symptoms experienced during episodes of hyperventilation.

Other methods such as increasing the breathing rate or consuming extra oxygen are not effective strategies for managing hyperventilation, as they can exacerbate the situation rather than alleviate it. Engaging in physical exercises might increase oxygen demand and further complicate the condition, thus is not a recommended response for hyperventilation.