Hyperventilation in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Hyperventilation is breathing that is deeper and faster than normal. It can make your child feel lightheaded, with a fast heartbeat and shortness of breath. Your child may also have numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, anxiety, fainting, and sore chest muscles.

Your child may hyperventilate when under physical or emotional stress. Some causes of sudden hyperventilation include anxiety, asthma, a head injury, fever, and some medicines. You can help by teaching your child a different way to breathe.

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

How can you care for your child at home?

Breathing methods to teach your child

You can try teaching your child to always try to control their breathing or to belly-breathe first. Teach yourself first and then teach your child.

• Breathe through pursed lips, as if you are whistling. It is harder to hyperventilate through pursed lips because you cannot move as much air.
• Slow your breathing to 1 breath every 5 seconds, or slow enough that symptoms gradually go away.
• Try belly-breathing, which 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 are lying 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.

If your child has episodes of hyperventilation that last a long time or occur often, talk to the doctor about your child's symptoms.

When should you call for help?

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

• Your child passes out (loses consciousness).

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• Your child hyperventilates for longer than 30 minutes.
• Your child hyperventilates often.
• Your child's symptoms do not improve with home treatment.
• Your child's symptoms become more severe or more frequent.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if your child has any problems.