How Can I Manage Hyperventilation?

Are you trying to calm down when an episode of hyperventilation occurs?

Are you trying to breathe through pursed lips (as if you are whistling)?

Have you tried to pinch one nostril and breathe through your nose?

Have you tried belly-breathing or diaphragmatic breathing (place one hand on your belly just below the ribs and the other on your chest; inhale deeply through the nose; exhale through pursed lips, and use your hand on your belly to push out all the air)?

Do you use a paper bag to control breathing?

Have you tried to hold your breath for 10 to 15 seconds?

Have you learned any stress management techniques?

Have you tried acupuncture?

Do you use any medications that can help with hyperventilation (alprazolam (Xanax), doxepin, paroxetine (Paxil))?

Based on your answers, there are several other ways that can help you manage hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is the result of a reduced amount of carbon dioxide in the blood. When you are hyperventilating, it is important to try to calm down so that you can start breathing normally again. Several breathing techniques can help you with this. Try to breathe through pursed lips or breathe through your nose by alternately closing your left and right nostrils. This way, you cannot inhale or exhale as much air, which will reduce hyperventilation. You can also try to slow down your breathing by inhaling once every 5 seconds.

Based on your answers, you know a lot about how to manage hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is a condition characterized by breathing that is deeper and faster than usual. To reduce the symptoms of hyperventilation, you can use different breathing techniques, a paper bag or you can combine them. Put the paper bag over your nose and mouth and breathe naturally 6 to 12 times, then remove the bag from your face and breathe naturally. Hyperventilation is not considered a disease, but it would be good to consult a doctor if you have frequent episodes of hyperventilation. Acupuncture can also be an effective option for treating hyperventilation syndrome.