Have treated more than a hundred patients diagnosed with HVS.

How did I get to see so many in a periode of 5-6 yrs?

At the time (70-80's) a study into hyperventilation occurance was being conducted at the University of one of Holland's big cities and as a result, lots of people were diagnosed with a hyperventialtion syndrome. When compaired to other big cities however, the number of HVS patients was much higher in "our" city!

These people were all sent to us physiotherapists of course. When you have a syndrome, you need treatment! At the time patients ( being better informed) were also becoming more and more aware of the treatment possibilities and they expected to be "treated" for it.

We know that hyperventilation is a functional adaptation of our bodies to increased loading. We know it can be stress involved. We know that lots of people are in a permanent state of "inspiration" (I mean postural state of thorax- not mind).
What this taught us, is that it (HVS)can also become epidemic.

Sometimes hyperventilation can be a functional adaptation as a result of thorax immobility.
A good history and assessment is vital;
breathing patterns during rest and specifically when people are talking can be very helpfull
AND I always checked the thoraxic spine and thorax mobility,
in some cases, patients have a weak diaphragma.

Sometimes all a patient needs is reassurance and some relaxation exercises; sometimes mobilisation of the spine and thorax are necessary; sometimes muscle strength training and breathing exercises...

It all depend on:
what you find
how well your patient comprehends the situation
what his/her goals are

Esther