Hyperventilation

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Check Your Symptoms

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, click on the "Yes" in front of the question for information about how soon to see a health professional.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Step One

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Step Three

If you have any of the following symptoms, evaluate those symptoms first.

Chest pain: Go to the topic Chest Pain.
Irregular or rapid heartbeat: Go to the topic Change in Heartbeat.
Wheezing or difficulty breathing: Go to the topic Respiratory Problems, Age 12 and Older.
A recent head injury: Go to the topic Head Injury, Age 4 and Older.


	Yes

Are you unable to control your symptoms of hyperventilation?


	Yes

Have you been diagnosed with hyperventilation and your symptoms frequently interfere with your daily activities?


	Yes

Have you recently had one or more episodes of hyperventilation symptoms?


	Yes

Do you feel like you might pass out?


	Yes

Do you still have symptoms of hyperventilation after 30 minutes of home treatment?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.


	Yes

Do hyperventilation symptoms frequently interfere with your daily activities?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.


	Yes

Have you had mild hyperventilation symptoms for 1 week or longer that have not gotten better with home treatment?


	Yes

Have you had more frequent or more severe episodes of hyperventilation since symptoms were checked by a doctor?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Other Symptoms to Watch For

Do you have any of the following symptoms?

Dizziness: Go to the topic Dizziness: Lightheadedness and Vertigo.
Feelings of anxiety: Go to the topic Anxiety.

If a visit to a health professional is not needed immediately, see the Home Treatment section for self-care information.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 12, 2008

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.