An 11-year-old boy in Changsha, Hunan province, China, was rushed to hospital after experiencing severe symptoms from overexerting himself on summer homework. Liangliang spent nearly 14 hours—from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.—working nonstop under pressure from his parents, leading to rapid breathing, dizziness, numb limbs, and “claw-like” hands.
Doctors at Changsha Central Hospital diagnosed him with a respiratory condition caused by hyperventilation, which occurs when someone breathes too quickly and deeply due to emotional agitation. Severe symptoms can include chest tightness, shortness of breath, numbness in hands, feet, lips, or the entire body, and in extreme cases, can even be fatal. Liangliang’s condition improved after using a breathing mask and guidance to regulate his breathing.
Hospital staff noted a spike in similar cases among teenagers in August, with over 30 admissions in the pediatric emergency department—a tenfold increase compared to other months. Experts cited intense academic pressure and emotional stress as key triggers, including arguments, exam anxiety, sudden fright, or prolonged mobile phone use.
Zhang Xiaofo, director of the hospital’s pediatric department, stressed that calming patients and using a paper or plastic bag over the mouth for controlled breathing can provide immediate first aid.
The incident has gone viral on social media, sparking conversations about the importance of time management, limiting academic pressure, and ensuring children’s physical and mental health during summer homework periods.
