Hyperventilation (Rapid Breathing)
Description
Breathing is in excess of what is required for the metabolic demands of the body. Carbon dioxide levels drop and cause changes in the body's acid base status and calcium levels. Patients experience numbness around the mouth and in the hands and feet. Spasms of the hands and feet can occur.
Symptoms
Rapid breathing, numbness around the mouth, numbness in the hands and feet, spasms of the hands and feet.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests will be done to determine why the patient is breathing too fast.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Troponin
- D-Dimer
- X-Ray
- EKG
Treatment
Treatment includes: reversing the cause of the rapid breathing, and anti-anxiety medications (benzodiazepines).
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