Dysfunctional breathing pattern and oxygen supply to the muscles
A dysfunctional breathing pattern can also lead to excessive exhalation of carbon dioxide (CO2). A decrease in CO2 concentration in the blood causes red blood cells to retain oxygen longer, reducing oxygen availability to the muscles (Bohr effect). Besides the respiratory metabolic response, the Bohr effect has a significant negative impact on sports performance.
Dysfunctional breathing pattern and physical & mental strain
Mental effects:
A dysfunctional breathing pattern affects mental well-being, but mental state also influences breathing patterns. Shortness of breath can lead to feelings of anxiety, while anxiety can also cause faster breathing. This often creates a vicious circle between breathing discomfort and mental strain.
Mental strain that may arise:
- Increased stress
- Development of anxiety or panic
- Reduced motivation to train or take action
- Difficulty focusing and concentrating
- Fatigue
- Lowered mood
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Waking up feeling tired
Physical effects:
There are more than 30 possible symptoms that may be caused by a dysfunctional breathing pattern. Physicians do not have objective tests to assess these symptoms, making it difficult to identify the root cause, which is why such symptoms are often considered "medically unexplained complaints." Below, we briefly explain how these symptoms may develop.
A dysfunctional breathing pattern can lead to excessive CO2 exhalation, making the blood less acidic (alkalosis). The correct CO2 concentration in the body is crucial for the nervous system to function properly. When the blood becomes less acidic, the autonomic nervous system (ANS) reacts differently, leading to dominance of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), which causes both mental and physical discomfort.
Physical symptoms that may occur both at rest and during exertion:
- Shortness of breath
- Frequent sighing or yawning
- Fatigue in arms and legs
- Tingling sensations in arms, legs, around the mouth, or head
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Chest discomfort
- Muscle tension or pain in the neck, shoulders, or jaw
- Lowered blood pressure, which can cause fatigue, lightheadedness, or even fainting
- Poor sleep quality, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, waking up tired
- Abdominal discomfort: stomach issues, digestive problems, or bloating
(CliftonSmith T. 2011)