KRISTINE H asked:
I seem to have a problem with breathing and have been told that I hypoventalate and am suffering from anxiety. I have not been given any advice or help from my doctor on how to deal with this.
SFM answers:
The first step towards dealing with this is to recognize what exactly is causing stress i.e. the stressors. Once you pin point the hidden stressors, you can begin the process of dealing with them. You should also observe the changes that take place in you when you suffer from stress. These may be physical stressors affecting your body or other stressors that attack your mental peace and strength. You can also find out the way you react to situations when you suffer from stress
some ppl say the best remedy for hyperventilation is to breathe into a paper bag but the chances of you carrying one of them around forever is really slim.
You can breathe take a few slow breaths in, don’t force the air in and don’t take huge big breaths. Try holding your breathe for 5 seconds when your lungs a comfortably full, then exhale. Being aware that your doing this is the tricky bit you need to stop what your doing and concentrate on breathing nice and relaxed.
You may notice pins and needles in your fingers and a general light headedness if you hyperventilate a lot so you’ll feel better by correcting it.
It sounds like your hyperventilation problem is form of panic attack caused by your anxiety. The best thing to do it to reduce your stress levels and relax. This will lower your anxiety levels and you will be less likely to have a hyperventilation attack.
When you feel yourself starting to breath heavy, take a minute to take some long, slow deep breaths. You can do this anywhere you are. Check out for the exact procedures.
Also exercising has shown to help reduce anxiety, so you may want to think about taking up yoga or taking an evening walk after dinner. There are a lot of things you can do to reduce your anxiety. You have to find something you enjoy doing, something that will take you away from your stresses. Take up a hobby or go to the local library and find a great book to read. Or you could write or volunteer or… The possibilities are endless! As long as you enjoy what you are doing.
Good luck!