Hyperventilation
Syndrome
(Panic Attack)
Definition- Breathing
so fast that carbon dioxide levels in the blood are decreased, temporarily
upsetting normal blood chemistry. This may occur in athletes during
or following vigorous physical activity.
Signs and Symptoms-
-
Feeling of severe air hunger
-
Rapid breathing
-
Numbness and tingling around the mouth, hands
and feet
-
Weakness or faintness
-
Dry mouth
-
Palpitations
-
Fatigue
-
Frequent sighing
-
Fainting
Causes and Risk Factors- Hyperventilation
can accompany fever,disease of the heart and lungs, or severe injury.
If disease or injury is not present, hyperventilation may be caused by
anxiety. The following factors make it more likely to occur:
-
Stress associated with competition or vigorous
exercise
-
Feelings of guilt
-
Fatigue or overwork
-
Illness such as those listed above
-
Smoking
-
Excess alcohol consumption
Normal Course of Illness-
If hyperventilation is caused by disease, it will stop when the disease
is cured. Recurrent attacks caused by underlying stress can be eliminated.
Possible Complications-
Treatments- During
an attack, the following instructions will increase carbon dioxide in the
blood and relieve symptoms:
-
Cover your mouth and nose completely with a
paper bag
-
Breathe slowly into the bag and rebreathe the
air
-
Breathe in and out of the bag slowly 10 times
-
Repeat the process until the symptoms diminish
or disappear
Call your doctor immediately if fainting,
seziure or sudden fever occurs with an attck.
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Last updated: May 9, 1998 By: Tara
Derby e-mail address: [email protected]
Copyright 1998 By: Tara Derby. All rights reserved
R.I.C.E
Care of Casts Nutrition
for Athletes Emergency First Aid