What does hyperventilation refer to in terms of breathing patterns?

Hyperventilation refers specifically to an abnormal increase in both the rate and depth of breathing. This condition can occur due to various factors, including anxiety, stress, or medical conditions, leading to an excessive exhalation of carbon dioxide. As a result, the body may experience a physiological change, leading to symptoms such as light-headedness, tingling in the extremities, and changes in blood pH.

The other options do not capture the essence of hyperventilation. Decreased breathing rate is contrary to what hyperventilation represents, as it involves an increase rather than a decrease. Normal breathing rate would indicate a stable, healthy respiratory pattern without any fluctuation in depth or frequency, which is also not representative of hyperventilation. Irregular breathing patterns imply inconsistency in breathing rhythm or timing, which does not necessarily equate to the defined increase in rate and depth characterizing hyperventilation.