using a paper bag to control hyperventilation
try these steps to control hyperventilation
- take 6 to 12 easy, natural breaths, with a small paper bag held over your mouth and nose. then remove the bag from your nose and mouth and take easy, natural breaths.
- next, try belly-breathing (diaphragmatic breathing).
- alternate these techniques until your hyperventilation stops.
if hyperventilation continues for longer than 30 minutes, call your doctor immediately.
do not use a paper bag if:
- you have any heart or lung problems, such as coronary artery disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (copd, emphysema), or a history of deep vein thrombosis, stroke, or pulmonary embolism.
- rapid breathing occurs at a high altitude [above 2000 m (6000 ft)]. breathing faster than normal is a natural response to an increased altitude.
follow these precautions when using the bag method:
- do not use a plastic bag.
- do not breathe continuously into a paper bag. take 6 to 12 natural breaths, with a paper bag held over your mouth and nose, then remove the bag from your nose and mouth.
- do not hold the bag for the person who is hyperventilating. allow the person to hold the bag over his or her own mouth and nose.
current as of: august 6, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
