I work as a respiratory physiotherapist in NHS Lanarkshire, specialising in patients with dysfunctional breathing patterns, also known as breathing pattern disorder or hyperventilation.

The title of my Fellowship was Investigating How to Improve Awareness, Diagnosis and Treatment of Hyperventilation.

I have treated patients with dysfunctional breathing for many years, however, it continues to be poorly recognised, and patients are often misdiagnosed and receive sub-optimal treatment. Dysfunctional breathing is often a diagnosis of exclusion.

Since completing my Fellowship I have run education courses and worked with respiratory colleagues assessing the benefit of offering treatment to patients attending respiratory clinics. I have also designed referral pathways which we are hoping to introduce into GP practices, allowing improved recognition and treatment of patients.

With the evolving picture of Covid-19, the significance of poor breathing patterns has been highlighted. I have designed self-management material which is now being made available to patients and my service provides treatment to post Covid-19 patients.

The Fellowship gave me confidence to pursue my passion.