Hyperventilation syndrome

Hyperventilation is a common, though often unrecognized, disorder of adolescents. While relatively benign, the lack of recognition may lead to extensive, expensive, and unnecessary medical work-ups. The single most important factor in making the diagnosis of HVS lies in the awareness of the disorder's existence. HVS may be diagnosed through a positive response to the provocation test. Patients are asked to hyperventilate and questioned as to whether they experience the symptoms of which they have complained. Successful treatment involves reassurance, education, and giving the patient a strategy for controlling the hyperventilation. If treatment is not successful in a short period, patients should be referred to a qualified mental health professional. While the relationship between hyperventilation and anxiety disorders is unclear, some correlation between them does appear to exist.