Hyperventilation: Care Instructions

Overview

Hyperventilation is breathing that is deeper and faster than normal. It causes the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood to drop. This may make you feel lightheaded. You may also have a fast heartbeat and feel short of breath. It also can lead to numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, anxiety, fainting, and sore chest muscles.

Some causes of sudden hyperventilation include anxiety, asthma, emphysema, a head injury, fever, and some medicines.

Hyperventilation also may be caused by a pattern of incorrect breathing. It most often happens when a physical or emotional event makes this breathing pattern worse. Hyperventilation may happen during pregnancy. But it usually goes away on its own after delivery.

In many cases, hyperventilation can be controlled by learning proper breathing techniques.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Breathing methods

• Breathe through pursed lips, as if you are whistling. It is harder to hyperventilate through pursed lips because you can't move as much air.
• Slow your breathing to 1 breath every 5 seconds, or slow enough that symptoms gradually go away.
• Try belly-breathing. This fills your lungs fully, slows your breathing rate, and helps you relax.
  • Place one hand on your belly just below the ribs. Place the other hand on your chest. You can do this while standing, but it may be more comfortable while you lie on the floor with your knees bent.
  • Take a deep breath through your nose. As you breathe in, let your belly push your hand out. Keep your chest still.
  • As you breathe out through pursed lips, feel your hand go down. Use the hand on your belly to help you push all the air out. Take your time breathing out.
  • Repeat these steps 3 to 10 times. Take your time with each breath.

Always try to control your breathing or to belly-breathe first.

If you have episodes of hyperventilation that last a long time or occur often, talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

• You passed out (lost consciousness).

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You hyperventilate for longer than 30 minutes.
• You hyperventilate often.
• Your symptoms do not improve with home treatment.
• Your symptoms become more severe or more frequent.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any problems.