In the Western world we are suffering from what has been called the paradox of health. Despite the fact that collective health has improved dramatically, perhaps because of technological advances and concentration upon preventative measures, there is a declining satisfaction with personal health. Many people report disturbing somatic symptoms and feelings of general illness.
One of the major reasons is widespread commercialisation of health and the media's increasing focus on health issues, creating apprehension, insecurity and alarm about disease, real or imagined.
A major result of such tension is the condition of chronic hyperventilation, or hyperventilation syndrome. Although known about for many years, it has been largely ignored as a diagnostic alternative, resulting in extensive investigations that heighten the patient's anxiety. A bewildering collection of seemingly unrelated symptoms can be provoked by this condition, and recognition of its presence by health professionals is important, not only because reassurance can be given, but treatment is simple and usually effective.
Dinah Bradley in this monograph has beautifully presented the symptoms of hyperventilation syndrome and the therapy options available. Her book is very timely, as it seems more important now than ever to prevent extensive and expensive medical investigations and to get patients back to good health. Above all, it highlights the need for health professionals to have better communications with patients, to understand their fears and anxieties, and to help them conquer these.
This book will not only be appreciated by thousands of patients who will recognise themselves in its pages, it will also be very helpful to those looking after the chronically ill. I wish it the success it deserves.
John Henley, MB, ChB, FRACP
