Signs & Symptoms of Hyperventilating

Hyperventilation is easily confused with a panic attack because initially both conditions produce a shortness of breath. However, hyperventilation occurs when the body exhales carbon dioxide at a rate faster than which it is being produced. A panic attack is categorized by a sudden feeling of anxiety, marked by feelings of intense fear and apprehension. Being able to observe when you or someone else is experiencing hyperventilation will help you seek the appropriate treatment.

Gas

• Hyperventilation can be a rare occurrence or repetitious, causing you to be diagnosed with hyperventilation syndrome. Hyperventilating may produce signs of gas, such as belching, bloating, chest pain and even flatulence. For a person who is hyperventilating for the first time, it is considered an emergency situation and medical attention should be sought immediately.

Confusion and Lightheadedness

• Practice relaxation techniques regularly.

  A person experiencing a panic attack will perspire and have visible physical trembling. When hyperventilating, most of the symptoms are internal, which include confusion, dizziness and lightheadedness. The best way to help a person who is hyperventilating is to remain calm. In the case of hyperventilation syndrome, the affected person should have a prescription medication that will restore proper breathing and alleviate the symptoms.

  For hyperventilation brought on by unknown stimuli, direct the person to cover his mouth and one nostril to allow more carbon dioxide to enter his blood stream than oxygen. This technique is important in helping to reduce the feeling of suffocation and to help restore mental stability. The main point is to remain calm and breathe slowly and shallowly.

Muscle Spasms

• Hyperventilating and panic generally go hand-in-hand. For example, you may start hyperventilating and become panicked by the experience. Knowing doctor-approved relaxation techniques can stop the cycle. When hyperventilation is not addressed efficiently, the lack of carbon dioxide can lead to your arms and legs experiencing muscle spasms. These spasms can feel like charley horses, making the affected limbs painful to move. You also might experience a tingling sensation around your mouth, fingers, arms and feet. Once breathing is stabilized, your limbs may feel weak, but the muscle tension and tingling will cease.

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