Hyperventilation: Symptoms, causes, and emergencies (original) (raw)

Hyperventilation refers to fast breathing. In some cases, people who hyperventilate may breathe deeper than usual. Hyperventilation may occur due to an underlying condition or emotional distress.

A regular breathing rate allows oxygen into the lungs and carbon dioxide to leave. If a person hyperventilates, it upsets the balance of these gases by removing too much carbon dioxide from the body.

Low carbon dioxide levels can change the pH of the blood and lead to a condition called alkalosis, which may make a person feel weak or faint.

The body usually breathes automatically without a person having to think about it. On average, adults take about 12 to 20 breaths a minute when resting.

The main symptom of hyperventilation is fast breathing. Rapid breathing can cause low carbon dioxide levels in the body, which may lead to additional symptoms.

Symptoms that may occur along with hyperventilation include:

• lightheadedness
• numbness or tingling in the fingers
• a pounding heart
• a feeling that air is not getting into the lungs
• a headache
• anxiety

Hyperventilation has many possible causes, so a doctor typically needs to review all of a person’s symptoms. They may carry out a physical exam and ask a person about their medical history.

A chest X-ray and blood tests can help diagnose some causes of hyperventilation, such as infections.

An arterial blood gas test measures the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. This test can determine if hyperventilation has lowered carbon dioxide levels in the blood.

Treatment for hyperventilation aims to slow down fast breathing.

A doctor will also aim to treat the underlying cause of hyperventilation to prevent it from happening in the future. This may involve treating physical conditions that can cause hyperventilation, such as diabetic ketoacidosis.

In instances where hyperventilation is due to physiological issues, such as fear, anxiety, or panic attacks, treatment may include:

• anxiety medications
• cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)
• talk therapy or counseling

Managing hyperventilation

If hyperventilation is mild and occurs due to anxiety or stress, at-home treatment may be enough to slow a person’s breathing rate.

Home remedies that may help treat hyperventilation include:

• Belly breathing: This technique, also called diaphragmatic breathing, can help a person who is hyperventilating. Practice belly breathing using the following steps:
  • Sit or lie down with the hands on the belly.
  • Close the mouth and inhale deeply through the nose, allowing air to fill and expand the belly.
  • Breathe out slowly and gently through the lips.
  • Repeat for five to ten minutes.
• Alternate nostril breathing: Alternate nostril breathing encourages slow breathing, which may help with relaxation and slow the heart rate. Although techniques vary, people can practice it using the following steps:
  • Sit upright in a comfortable position.
  • Block the right nostril by holding it closed with a finger.
  • Inhale deeply through the left nostril.
  • Switch fingers, blocking the left nostril instead, and exhale slowly through the right nostril.
  • Repeat several times, then switch sides and repeat the entire process, this time inhaling through the right nostril and exhaling through the left.
• Change position: Lying down and removing any constricting clothing, such as belts, ties, or tight bras, may help a hyperventilating person.
• Relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques, such as mindfulness or meditation, may help to slow breathing.

In some cases, it is difficult to determine if hyperventilation is due to a medical condition or emotional stress.

If hyperventilation is severe or if it is the first time a person experiences it, it is best to seek emergency medical attention.

If the following symptoms accompany hyperventilation, seek emergent care:

• chest pain
• confusion
• blue or grayish lips, skin, or fingers, which may be easier to see on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or gums
• fainting

Is hyperventilation a panic attack?

Hyperventilation can indicate a panic attack. However, it can also occur as a symptom of other health conditions, such as asthma or infection, or due to a strong emotional response, such as fear.

How can someone calm hyperventilation?

Deep breathing exercises, such as belly breathing, may help a person to slow their breathing when they start to hyperventilate. Changing positions and removing any tight clothing may also help.

Can someone die from hyperventilation?

Hyperventilation itself does not typically cause death, although it may lead to weakness or fainting in some cases.

Hyperventilation can also occur due to severe, potentially life threatening health conditions. For example, a heart attack can cause shortness of breath, which may lead to rapid breathing.

However, severe or life threatening causes of hyperventilation usually occur with additional symptoms.

A wide variety of emotional and physical issues can cause hyperventilation. Some conditions leading to hyperventilation, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, are a medical emergency.

If a person is hyperventilating, home-care methods, such as alternate nostril breathing or belly breathing, may help to slow the breathing rate.

However, people with severe additional symptoms, such as chest pain, fainting, or blue or gray lips or skin should not try to resolve their symptoms at home. They should seek emergent medical attention.

In cases where hyperventilation is due to a medical condition, treating the underlying problem usually stabilizes a person’s breathing. Whatever the cause of hyperventilation, it is vital to see a doctor to find an effective treatment option.