Hyperventilation syndrome a name given to a collection of symptoms cause by over-breathing. It is very common, especially in females, asthmatics and those aged 15-55.
When we breathe more quickly and more shallowly than our bodies require, physical changes take place within our body. The level of carbon dioxide in your blood decreases, causing the blood to become more alkaline.
Symptoms of hyperventilation syndrome vary from individual to individual, but can include…
- Shortness of breath, tightness through the chest and frequent sighing.
- Tingling or numbness in your arms, fingers, toes or around your mouth.
- Dizziness, headaches and feeling faint.
- Palpitations and an increased heart rate.
- Cold hands and feet, and shivering
- Sickness and abdominal pain
- Feeling stressed, tense or anxious
Chronic hyperventilation is generally due to prolonged stress, such as work problems, a bereavement in the family or after a traumatic incident, such as a car crash.
When faced with prolonged stress, the muscles in the upper body tend to become tense. As the nerves supplying the diaphragm originate in this area of the body, this can lead to the diaphragm becoming tight and not functioning fully, leading to the upper thoracic muscles being used for breathing, and causing breathing to become quicker and shallower.
An osteopath will assess your breathing and how your ribs and diaphragm are working. If they believe that you are suffering from hyperventilation syndrome, they may work on your thoracic spine, your diaphragm and your ribs. They may also work on your neck, where the nerves to the diaphragm originate from. They may also give you breathing and relaxation exercises, to help your breathing become slower and deeper.