Definition :
[Also called 'Hyperpnea' or Hyperventilation Syndrome (HVS)]
Hyperventilation, a breathing disorder, is the result of very fast and deep breaths with raised chests. These quick, deep breaths leads to the imbalance of gases level in the blood. Specifically, this reduces the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. Reduced level of carbon dioxide results in the constriction of arteries, thereby lessening the blood flow all over the body. This leads to shortage of oxygen in the brain and body parts, thereby creating conditions of heart attack. In other words, calcium and potassium ion levels get disturbed; which deregulates the normal nerve and muscle functioning.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS of Hyperventilation:
- Numbness and tingling around the mouth, hands, and feet
- Muscle tightness of hands and feet
- Rapid deep respirations
- Rapid pulse (heart rate - feeling of racing heart)
- Feeling of shortness of breath, chokedness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Bloating
- Burping
- Passing excess gas
- Pressure sensation in the abdomen
- Weakness
- Fainting
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Illusions, at times
- Headache
- Lightheadedness
- Chest pain
- Slurred speech
CAUSES of hyperventilation
- Anxiety or stress
- Hysteria
- Lung diseases
- Head injury
- Stroke
- Oxygen insufficiency
- Anaemia
- Increased acid levels of blood
TREATMENT
- Reassurance
- If fainted, lay casualty supine with legs elevated
- Medication is advised usually at the initial stages
- Breathing exercises and diaphragmatic training
- Biofeedback and hypnosis
- Relieving of causal circumstances (anxiety, depression or panic)
- Use of paper bag few minutes for breathing enhances the carbon dioxide levels, maintaining normal blood pH level ( leads to rapid rise of CO2 levels, so not advised nowadays)
- Guidance under a specialist physiotherapist
