What is a respiratory effect seen with increased anxiety?

Increased anxiety often leads to hyperventilation, which is characterized by an elevated respiratory rate and deeper breaths. This physiological response can occur as part of the body's natural fight-or-flight mechanism. When a person is anxious, their body's stress response can trigger a faster breathing pattern, causing an imbalance in oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. Hyperventilation can result in symptoms such as lightheadedness, tingling in the extremities, and an increased heart rate. Understanding this relationship between anxiety and respiratory function is crucial, especially in moderate sedation contexts, as it can significantly impact patient management and care.