Hyper ventilation is a medical condition that refers to an increased rate or depth of breathing, which results in an excessive exchange of carbon dioxide for oxygen. There are several synonyms that can be used to describe this condition, including hyperventilation, overbreathing, and rapid deep breathing. Other terms that may be used interchangeably with hyper ventilation include respiratory alkalosis and acute hypocapnia. Although hyper ventilation can occur naturally during intense physical activity or stressful situations, it can also be a symptom of underlying health conditions such as anxiety, panic attacks, or asthma. Regardless of the cause, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience hyper ventilation symptoms that persist or worsen over time.