What is Hyperventilation

Hyperventilation is breathing more deeply and more rapidly than normal. An episode of hyperventilation usually lasts 20–30 minutes. During an episode:

• You may feel breathless.
• Your hands, feet, or mouth may tingle, spasm, or feel numb.

Hyperventilation is usually triggered by stress, anxiety, or emotions. However, it can also be a sign of another problem, such as:

• A lung problem, such as emphysema or asthma.
• An infection.
• Heart problems.
• Pregnancy.
• Bleeding.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Learn and use breathing exercises that help you breathe from your diaphragm and abdomen.
• Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress, such as visualization, meditation, and muscle release.
• During an attack, try breathing into a paper bag. This slows down breathing.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You continue to have episodes of hyperventilation.
• Your hyperventilation gets worse.