Hyperventilation syndrome is a condition that can cause normal people to develop dramatic and even bizarre symptoms that can cause them to end up in an emergency department. The symptoms can include inability to breathe, chest pain, palpitations and panic attacks, but doctors often find nothing wrong.

This condition is due to over breathing, which can subtly occur as a result of chronic life stressors. It occurs in 10% of the population and is more common in asthmatics. The shortlist of common symptoms include tingling of the face, fingers and feet, fatigue, headache pain, ‘cotton wool’ in the head, abdominal pain, bloating and wind. It can even mimic neurological conditions and sinus problems. It can cause panic attacks and nightmares.

The important thing is to be aware of this, particularly if you are otherwise well and tend to get some of these symptoms: look out for sighing, yawning and feeling that you cannot get a satisfying breath. Are you feeling worse after you exercise? Do you breathe more than 12 breaths per minute, and is your breathing coming from the upper chest instead of the abdomen?

The emergency treatment is a paper bag―yes, a paper bag! This is because you are actually taking too much oxygen into your body which is causing all these symptoms. Then immediately you have recovered, check which part of your trunk is moving. Is it your abdomen or is it your chest?

You may need to read a book about hyperventilation syndrome which is readily available at the library, and if severe, you can see a specialist breathing physiotherapist for further help.

Copyright © Dr Frances Pitsilis 2008