Hyperpnea is prolonged deep breathing that can be caused by physical exertion, respiratory disease, or other factors. It can lead to hyperventilation and metabolic acidosis. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, oxygen therapy, or respiratory assistance.
Hyperpnea is a medical term used to describe a prolonged period of increased respiratory effort. This condition is often worse after exercise or other physical exertion, although it can develop in patients with anemia or in those who have been exposed to high altitudes. There are a variety of potential causes for this type of deep breathing and they include both voluntary and involuntary factors. Some of the more commonly reported symptoms of hyperpnea include deep, labored breathing and marked expansion of the chest upon inhalation. Any specific questions or concerns about hyperpnea in an individual situation should be discussed with a physician or other medical professional.
There are several potential causes of hyperpnea, including physical exertion, respiratory disease, or gastrointestinal upset. Neurological, metabolic, or psychological disorders can also cause this type of respiratory disorder. Voluntary hyperpnea can occur when deep breathing is encouraged, such as when a pregnant woman is in labor. Stressful or painful situations can also lead to this type of breathing.
Most patients experience hyperpnea breathing at a normal or slightly increased rate, although breathing may be somewhat deeper than normal, causing the chest to expand markedly during inhalation. Hyperventilation is a common complication of this type of breathing pattern. Symptoms of hyperventilation include rapid breathing, dizziness, and confusion. A doctor should be consulted in case of uncontrolled hyperventilation in order to prevent the development of serious complications.
Metabolic acidosis is a medical condition that often coexists with involuntary hyperpnea. This disease occurs due to an overproduction of acid or when the kidneys are not working well enough to effectively rid the body of acid. There are a variety of potential causes of metabolic acidosis, including the use of certain medications, physical illnesses, or alcohol abuse. Symptoms can include lethargy, rapid breathing, and confusion. Intravenous medications known as bicarbonates or kidney dialysis can be used to treat this disorder.
Treatment for hyperpnea depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, breathing problems are made worse by inadequate sleep or medical conditions such as sleep apnea. Sleep studies are often done to see if there are any sleep disturbances. Prescription drugs, oxygen therapy, or other forms of respiratory assistance can be helpful for many people. A series of diagnostic tests is often performed to rule out any serious medical conditions before the doctor and patient come up with an individualized treatment plan.
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