Hyperventilation and dizziness: case reports and management.
Dizziness is a common symptom in patients presenting to an otorhinolaryngologist. Hyperventilation accounts for up to 5% of cases with dizziness and is a contributory factor in a further 20% of cases. Six cases of dizziness due to hyperventilation are presented to illustrate the author's simple management policy. A high index of suspicion in the absence of an organic cause of dizziness and a simple provocation test will identify these cases. Management is aimed at demonstrating resting hypocapnia, investigations to exclude organic causes of hyperventilation and rehabilitation in collaboration with a clinical psychologist ensures the appropriate treatment for the dizziness and can avoid the development of chronic somatisation behaviours.
Sama
A
A
Department of Otolaryngology, University Hospital, Nottingham, UK.
Meikle
J C
JC
Jones
N S
NS
D000328:Adult; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D004244:Dizziness / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006985:Hyperventilation / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012064:Relaxation Therapy