How should a pilot overcome the symptoms of hyperventilation?

To effectively manage the symptoms of hyperventilation, the recommended approach is to slow the breathing rate. Hyperventilation often leads to a state where the individual is breathing too rapidly, resulting in a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, tingling in the extremities, and even panic.

Slowing the breathing rate helps restore the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. When a pilot focuses on taking slower, more controlled breaths, it can alleviate the physiological symptoms associated with hyperventilation and promote a sense of calm. Techniques such as breathing through the nose and counting can be helpful in achieving this controlled breathing.

The other options, such as increasing the breathing rate, swallowing or yawning, or taking deep breaths quickly, do not address the underlying issue of rapid breathing and may exacerbate the symptoms rather than alleviate them. Therefore, slowing the breathing rate is the best strategy to counteract the effects of hyperventilation effectively.