Episode Details

A Hidden Breathing Problem May Help Explain Chronic Fatigue's Exhaustion

Published 1 week, 3 days ago

In a recent study, 71% of chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) patients tested had abnormal breathing patterns like hyperventilation or dysfunctional breathing, which were not seen in healthy controls
Dysfunctional breathing was found in 42% of ME/CFS participants, leading to erratic, inefficient breathing during exertion, often without the person realizing it
Low carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels from overbreathing reduce oxygen delivery to muscles and the brain, worsening symptoms like brain fog, pain sensitivity, and exhaustion
A simple breath-hold test helps identify poor CO₂ tolerance, a key sign that your nervous system is stuck in "survival mode" and needs retraining
Gentle breath retraining using nasal breathing, light breath holds, and CO₂ awareness can improve energy, reduce dizziness, and calm the nervous system