Fast or increased rate of breathing. Confusion, dizziness, and light-headedness may be present during hyperventilation. Weakness, numbness or tingling in the arms or mouth, and muscle spasms in the hands and feet can also occur with hyperventilation. Palpitations and chest pain may be noticeable during hyperventilation.

Hyperventilation can also be done at will, purposefully over-breathing. Some medical issues such as infection, blood loss, or heart and lung disorders can cause hyperventilation.

If your hyperventilation is caused by anxiety or panic attacks your doctor can help you with these issues directly. Hyperventilation may be indicative of another medical issue that your doctor can diagnose and work towards treating.

Do not use plastic bags as these can pose a choking hazard. Make sure the paper bag is clean and there are no small items inside that could be accidentally inhaled. Be sure that your doctor has cleared you for this technique as it can be dangerous to use when hyperventilation is caused by a physical injury or disease.

Hold the bag with one hand towards the opening of the bag. Pinching the bag slightly can help shape the opening of the bag, allowing it to fit over your mouth and nose more easily. Place the opening of the bag directly and completely over your mouth and nose.

Take no more than six to 12 breaths using the paper bag. Breathe as slowly and easily as you can. After taking six to 12 breaths remove the bag from your mouth and nose and breathe without it.

Take off any tight or restrictive clothing such as a belt or tie. You can try putting pillows under your knees or back for extra comfort.

You can place something like a telephone book on your stomach while you retrain your breathing. Avoid any items that are too heavy or are an unusual shape. These can either cause injury or be difficult to balance on your stomach.

Breathe through your nose when practicing. If you can’t breathe through your nose you can purse your lips and breathe through your mouth. Take comfortable and rhythmic breaths. Breathe smoothly and try to avoid pauses on the inhalation or exhalation. Only your abdomen should be moving. Keep the rest of your body relaxed.

Practice for at least five to 10 minutes a day. Gradually slow your rate of breathing during your practice sessions. Begin practicing this way of breathing while sitting up or walking. Eventually you will want to use this method right before you expect a panic attack or during one.

SSRIs or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are commonly prescribed antidepressants. SNRIs or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are FDA approved as a antidepressants. Be aware that medications can take weeks before effects are noticeable. Benzodiazepines are usually given only for short term use as they are habit forming over time.

Most psychotherapists will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you move beyond the physical sensations caused by panic or anxiety. Psychotherapy sessions can take time before the effects are noticeable. Sticking with the process for several months will help ensure that your symptoms decrease or disappear completely.

If this is your first time experiencing rapid breathing. If you are in pain and hyperventilating. If you have an injury or fever and are hyperventilating. If your hyperventilating gets worse. If your hyperventilating is accompanied by other symptoms.

Hyperventilation will usually be characterized by very fast, shallow, chest level breathing. The person will generally appear to be in a state of panic. Speech will be difficult for the person. Muscle spasms in the person’s hands may be visible.

Remind her that she is having a panic attack and that she is not experiencing something life-threatening, such as a heart attack. Keep your tone calm, relaxed, and gentle. Let her know that you are there with her and are not going to leave her.

Have him purse his lips, exhaling and inhaling through them. He may also try closing the mouth and one nostril. Have him breath in and out only through one open nostril. If the person appears in distress, turns blue, or complains of any pain, then emergency services should be contacted for evaluation in the ER.