Hyperventilation is rapid breathing that causes an abnormal loss of carbon dioxide from your blood, which leads to a further increase in your breathing rate to restore carbon dioxide levels. Hyperventilation syndrome is a chronic condition of increased breathing rate. If you suffer from hyperventilation syndrome, you may also experience feelings of anxiety, fear or panic. Daily breathing techniques may help to slow your breathing rate and help your body to use oxygen and carbon dioxide more efficiently. Speak with your doctor to confirm that this treatment is acceptable for your condition.
Step 1
Inhale and exhale through your nose. This decreases the amount of air you take in.
Step 2
Inhale, feel your breath in the back of your throat, expand your chest and then take that breath all the way into your stomach until you feel your stomach expand. Practice this belly breathing to take deep instead of shallow breaths.
Step 3
Use relaxation techniques such as focused breathing. Concentrate your thoughts only on your breathing as you sit in a quiet area, and practice nasal breathing for five to 10 minutes a day.
Tips and Warnings
- Participate in daily physical exercise such as swimming or jogging so that you are forced to take deep breaths. Wear loose clothing that will not inhibit your belly breathing by preventing your stomach or chest from expanding as you breathe during daily activities.
