Hyperventilation on exertion

[Springtimeholly]

Hi! I’m new to this group but not new to asthma. I was diagnosed officially at 5 years old, and I’m 40 now. It was out of control as a child, very well managed from adolescence into my mid 30’s, and then everything changed. My doctors have no answers, I’ve switched inhalers, added meds, etc but have been stuck at this new level of functioning way below where I had been. My biggest question right now is... has anyone experienced episodes of hyperventilation on mild exertion (like walking slowly)? This has been plaguing me for the last 5 years on and off but has recently become severe and debilitating and daily. I’m seeing doctors to try to figure it out, but if anyone here has any first hand experience, I would love to hear about it. Right now I feel like I need to tell my doctors what it is, since they can’t tell me.

[Poobah]

I think it's part of the dysfunctional breathing category. You would need to be referred to a respiratory specialist who covers DB as well as asthma. No doubt you would then be able to avail of the services of a specialist physiotherapist. Most NHS Trusts have published information about dysfunctional breathing, so it is a recognised health issue.

[Springtimeholly in reply to Poobah]

Thank you. These are sudden attacks when I move around and then stop. Suddenly my breathing gets very deep and fast and my pulse gets really high.

[Poobah in reply to Springtimeholly]

Have a read of this and see if you think it may apply. physio-pedia.com/Breathing_... least you should be able to discount DB.

[Hidden]

Around the time I turned 40 I started getting weird breathing difficulties alongside a racing heart. It was quite scary sometimes. Over time I noticed it was worse after food, but could never figure out what. Eventually I had blood tests, one of which revealed a milk allergy. I now avoid the allergen and the symptoms are gone.

[Springtimeholly]

Thanks for the responses! I got test results today that suggest a carcinoid tumor, possibly lung or liver. The doctor thinks this is causing the weird hyperventilation episodes (they are episodes of super deep labored breaths) coupled with tachycardia and anxiety. I have more tests in my future but needless to say, very bummed out about this news.

[twinkly29 in reply to Springtimeholly]

Oh no, I'm really sorry to hear that. That must have been a bit of a shock to say the least 😔