Hyperventilation syndrome: an elegant but scientifically untenable concept

Hyperventilation syndrome: an elegant but scientifically untenable concept.

The concept of hyperventilation and the principle of a vicious circle provide an elegant explanation for the development of a wide range of somatic and psychological symptoms, the so-called hyperventilation syndrome (HVS). The model has a high degree of credibility and has led to the development of therapeutic interventions that appeared beneficial. However, recent investigations dismiss hyperv...

Hyperventilation Syndrome

MOST PHYSICIANS are quite familiar with the isolated attack of acute hyperventilation that is characterized by dramatic overbreathingand classically culminates in tetany. Although terrifying to the patient, and almost equally alarming to any onlooker, these attacks are usually brief and without serious medical sequelae. Recently we have come to recognize a chronic hyperventilation pattern that ...

Sentinel node concept in esophageal surgery: an elegant strategy.

Japanese style radical operation for esophageal cancer with extended lymph node dissection has improved the prognosis of the disease. However, because of its considerable morbidity and long-standing postoperative problems, a less invasive strategy has been sought for years, particularly for earlier stage patients. The application of the Sentinel Node (SN) concept to esophageal surgery is one of...

Hyperventilation and exhaustion syndrome

Chronic stress is among the most common diagnoses in Sweden, most commonly in the form of exhaustion syndrome (ICD-10 classification - F43.8). The majority of patients with this syndrome also have disturbed breathing (hyperventilation). The aim of this study was to investigate the association between hyperventilation and exhaustion syndrome. Thirty patients with exhaustion syndrome and 14 healt...

Hyperventilation syndrome--hiding behind pseudonyms?