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Syndrome
DR. SHAHBAZ AHMAD PT
DPT [UIPT][UOL]
MS-MSK-PT [UIPT][UOL]
LECTURER [LIHS][LCPS]
Hyperventilation syndrome (HVS) is a name
given to a collection of physical and emotional
symptoms, largely brought about by
hyperventilation. This happens when we over-
breathe.
It is also known as rapid (or fast) deep
breathing
Pathophysiology
In hyperventilation, the exhalation is more than inhalation. Physical
changes can take place in our body over time.
This causes a rapid reduction in carbon dioxide in alveoli and
arteries, an increase in arterial pH (respiratory alkalosis), constriction
of cerebral arteries and increased production of lactic acid.
Low carbon dioxide levels lead to narrowing of the blood vessels that
supply blood to the brain. This reduction in blood supply to the brain
leads to symptoms like lightheadedness and tingling in the fingers.
Types of HVS
Acute hyperventilation syndrome
Patients with acute HVS present with
dyspnea so severe that they liken it to suffocation.
agitation a state of anxiety and nervousness.
Chest pain,
paresthesias (peripheral and perioral),
peripheral tetany (eg, stiffness of fingers or arms),
pre-syncope or syncope or sometimes by a combination of all of
these findings. Tetany occurs because respiratory alkalosis causes
both hypophosphatemia and hypocalcemia. On examination, patients
may appear anxious, tachypneic, or both; lung examination is
unremarkable.
Chronic hyperventilation syndrome
Patients with chronic hyperventilation
syndrome exhale deeply and frequently and
often have nonspecific somatic symptoms and
anxiety disorders and emotional stress.
SIGNS ANS SYMPTOMS
STRESS
ACUPUNC
TURE TREATMENT REDUCTIO
N
MEDICATI
ON
HOME CARE
Immediate techniques to help treat acute
hyperventilation:
Breathe through pursed lips
Breathe slowly into a paper bag or cupped hands
Attempt to breathe into your belly (diaphragm) rather
than your chest.
Hold your breath for 10 to 15 seconds at a time.
Alternate nostril breathing
Stress Reduction
If you suffer from anxiety or stress, you may want to see a
psychologist to help you understand and treat your condition.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative treatment based on ancient
Chinese medicine. It involves placing thin needles into areas of
the body to promote healing.
One preliminary study found that acupuncture helped reduce
anxiety and the severity of hyperventilation.
Medication
Examples of medications for hyperventilation include:
alprazolam (Xanax)
doxepin (Silenor)
paroxetine (Paxil)
Prevent Hyperventilation
FOR LISTENING
”
“Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to
reply.”
Stephen R. Covey