"Doctor, I think I'm going to die." "How long have you been feeling that?" "At least 20 minutes." "What symptoms are you experiencing?" "Pressure on my chest and gasping for breath." "What did you do then?" "I ran up and down the stairs to get the newspaper so I knew who the on-duty doctor was." Run. Do you get it?
"Ma'am, I can assure you, if you can run up and down the stairs, you won't die yet." Sounds reassuring.
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After experiencing a hyperventilation episode, I woke up relieved to have gotten some sleep. With my husband away on a business trip, I managed not to disturb the kids while using a paper bag—a tricky task, as it kept slipping off my nose. Reflecting on my doctor's visit, he asked about recent stress. Initially, I said no, but truthfully, life had been hectic with daily routines and exciting projects alike. Even positive changes can trigger stress.
My GP reassured me, but I wanted a deeper understanding. Hyperventilation, meaning 'over-breathing' (hyper + ventilation), is a common response to anxiety, panic, stress, or fatigue. Normally, we inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide (CO2). During an attack, rapid breathing lowers blood CO2 levels, creating alarming symptoms.
These episodes are terrifying—you feel oxygen-starved or suffocating. But medically, you can't suffocate; you're actually inhaling more oxygen than usual. Hyperventilation is fundamentally a fear-driven physiological response. Knowledge is power.
Maybe it's time for a pause, though 'pause' isn't in my vocabulary. My body signals to slow down amid my enthusiasm for everything. A hyperventilation attack may be a wake-up call to release pressure occasionally. The question is, how?
As a perpetual busy bee, I push forward relentlessly, often overlooking the joy in the process. Striving for perfection fuels a critical inner voice, which is exhausting. I crave more peace, self-time without guilt, and genuine satisfaction. Yet, fear of inadequacy drowns out achievements. Stepping back to appreciate progress is key.
A friend recommended mindfulness, praising its calming effects. Curious, I researched it. Mindfulness trains attention to the present moment, reducing stress amplification from worries. It's defined as:
Consistent practice promises less stress. It requires dedication—practice, repeat, persist.
I'm hesitant about courses or self-help books; even considering them spikes my stress. Another attack looms. Simpler relaxation? Skip intense TV like Sun, Wine, Hospital or overly soothing documentaries—perhaps a gripping Netflix series? Share your tips!
-x-
Ievy
