Hyperventilation in Cardiac Rehabilitation

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Abstract
Seventy-six out of the first 100 consecutive patients enrolled in a cardiac rehabilitation programme were considered to hyperventilate. The diagnosis was made on the basis of four or more clinical findings documented from the history, examination and electrocardiogram. Thirteen percent had an organic cause, the remaining 66 were found to hyperventilate with activity (39%), emotion (44%) or as a habit (17%). The cardiovascular effects of hyperventilation are outlined and a method of rebreathing training is explained. The opinion is expressed that hyperventilation is one of the maladaptive coping strategies commonly adopted by patients with coronary illness. Activity programmes are unlikely to be successful if it is not recognized clinically and treated.

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