overbreathing
[/ˌoʊvərˈbrɛðɪŋ/]
noun
hiperventilação
1. The act of breathing more deeply or rapidly than normal, often resulting in excessive intake of oxygen and loss of carbon dioxide
Overbreathing during panic attacks can cause dizziness and lightheadedness.
A hiperventilação durante ataques de pânico pode causar tontura e sensação de desmaio.
2. In medical contexts, hyperventilation that leads to a decrease in blood carbon dioxide levels
The patient's overbreathing was causing respiratory alkalosis.
A hiperventilação do paciente estava causando alcalose respiratória.
3. Breathing excessively or more than physiologically necessary
Athletes must avoid overbreathing before competition as it can affect performance.
Os atletas devem evitar a hiperventilação antes da competição, pois pode afetar o desempenho.
The term 'hiperventilação' is widely recognized in Brazilian healthcare and fitness contexts. It's commonly discussed in psychology and wellness communities when addressing anxiety disorders and panic attacks. In the USA, overbreathing is frequently mentioned in stress management and mental health education.
Related Idioms & Phrases
caught in a breath - to be overbreathing due to anxiety
breathing down someone's neck - related but distinct idiom
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