heat stress triggers hyperventilation and lowers CO₂ levels, temporarily reducing cerebral blood flow
Heat stress induced hyperventilation and subsequent hypocapnia (PETCO2 decreased from 40.4 to 33.7 mmHg), which partially contributes to reduced cerebral blood flow via CO2 reactivity mechanisms.
What this means for you
During intense heat exposure, your breathing naturally speeds up, which lowers carbon dioxide in the blood — a gas your brain uses to regulate its own circulation. This is a normal physiological response worth knowing about, especially if you're sensitive to lightheadedness or dizziness during heat sessions. Understanding it helps you pace yourself and stay comfortable.
The published research
Blood flow distribution during heat stress: cerebral and systemic blood flow.
Journal of cerebral blood flow and metabolism : official journal of the International Society of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism · 2013
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