2025
NOVEMBER
NEW RENAISSANCE
INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC AND PRACTICAL CONFERENCE
VOLUME 2
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ISSUE 11
125
MODERN THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES FOR AFFECTIVE RESPIRATORY
PAROXYSM IN CHILDREN
Abidova Munojat
Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics-2,
Fergana Public Health Medical Institute.
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17589380
Abstract.
Affective respiratory paroxysm is a psychosomatic disorder in children, marked
by sudden breathing difficulties and emotional instability. Episodes are often triggered by stress,
fear, or anxiety and can affect physical health, psychological development, and daily functioning.
Early diagnosis and modern management strategies, including therapy and family
education, are essential to reduce recurrence and improve quality of life.
Keywords:
Affective respiratory paroxysm; children; psychosomatic disorder; emotional
instability; breathing difficulties; therapy.
Introduction
Affective respiratory paroxysm is a psychosomatic disorder commonly observed in
children, characterized by sudden episodes of breathing difficulties accompanied by emotional
instability and stress-related reactions. These episodes often occur in response to emotional stimuli
such as fear, anxiety, or excitement, reflecting the close interaction between the nervous system
and the respiratory system. Affective respiratory paroxysm not only affects the child’s physical
health but can also impact psychological development, social interactions, and academic
performance. Early identification and understanding of its clinical features, underlying
pathophysiological mechanisms, and precipitating factors are crucial for effective management.
Research into affective respiratory paroxysm is essential to develop individualized
treatment strategies and improve the overall quality of life for affected children.
Relevance
The incidence of affective respiratory paroxysm in children has been increasing in recent
years, making it a significant clinical concern. Affective respiratory paroxysm can impair the
function of the respiratory system and the nervous system, as well as social and academic
performance. Modern treatment approaches, including pharmacological methods and non-
pharmacological methods, aim not only to relieve symptoms but also to prevent recurrence.
Studying affective respiratory paroxysm and implementing effective therapeutic strategies is
therefore of high scientific and practical importance.
Main part
Affective respiratory paroxysm in children is a psychosomatic disorder that involves a
complex interaction between the nervous system and the respiratory system. Emotional stimuli,
including stress, fear, or anxiety, trigger autonomic nervous system responses that disrupt normal
breathing patterns. The parasympathetic and sympathetic branches of the autonomic system are
often imbalanced during episodes, leading to hyperventilation, dyspnea, or apnea-like events.
Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and catecholamines play a
significant role in modulating both emotional and respiratory responses. Dysregulation in the
limbic system, particularly in the amygdala and hippocampus, has been associated with
2025
NOVEMBER
NEW RENAISSANCE
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heightened emotional reactivity and abnormal respiratory patterns. Additionally, cortical structures
responsible for voluntary and involuntary control of breathing, including the prefrontal cortex,
may contribute to the manifestation of affective respiratory paroxysms. Hormonal influences,
particularly the stress-related release of cortisol, further exacerbate these episodes by sensitizing
the nervous system to emotional triggers. Genetic predisposition and individual temperament can
also modulate the frequency and severity of attacks. Environmental factors, such as family stress,
school pressures, and traumatic experiences, interact with these biological mechanisms. The result
is a recurrent pattern of sudden respiratory dysfunction closely linked to emotional states.
Children with affective respiratory paroxysm typically present with sudden episodes of
irregular breathing, shortness of breath, or rapid shallow breaths. These attacks are often
accompanied by heightened emotional responses, such as crying, agitation, or fear. Some children
may experience pallor, dizziness, or transient loss of consciousness during severe episodes. The
onset is usually abrupt, and episodes may last from a few seconds to several minutes, with
spontaneous resolution in most cases. Diagnosis relies on careful clinical observation, detailed
patient history, and exclusion of other respiratory or cardiac disorders. Laboratory tests are
generally normal but may be used to rule out metabolic or neurological causes. Risk factors
include a family history of anxiety or psychosomatic disorders, high levels of stress, traumatic
experiences, and certain personality traits such as heightened emotional sensitivity. Environmental
influences, including school pressures, social stressors, and parental anxiety, can also increase the
likelihood of episodes. Psychological assessments may reveal comorbid conditions, such as
generalized anxiety, depression, or attention-deficit disorders. Understanding these risk factors is
critical for preventive strategies and early interventions. Clinicians often use structured interviews
and standardized questionnaires to identify children at risk. Comprehensive evaluation should also
consider the child’s social environment and coping mechanisms.
Modern management of affective respiratory paroxysm in children involves a combination
of pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies tailored to individual needs.
Pharmacological treatment is considered when episodes are severe or significantly disrupt daily
functioning. Medications may include anxiolytics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or beta-
adrenergic agents, depending on the primary symptoms and comorbid conditions. Non-
pharmacological approaches are central to therapy and often include cognitive-behavioral therapy,
relaxation techniques, biofeedback, and controlled breathing exercises. Education for both
children and parents regarding stress management, emotional regulation, and recognition of early
symptoms is essential. School-based interventions and counseling may support children in
managing social and academic pressures. Multidisciplinary teams, including pediatricians,
psychologists, respiratory therapists, and educators, are critical for comprehensive care.
Individualized treatment plans consider the frequency, severity, and triggers of episodes,
aiming to reduce both physiological and emotional responses. Emerging therapies also explore
mindfulness, yoga, and structured physical activity as adjunctive strategies to improve resilience
and reduce anxiety. Continuous monitoring and follow-up are important to assess therapeutic
effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Early intervention improves long-term outcomes
and helps prevent chronic psychosomatic complications. Family involvement in therapy enhances
adherence and ensures a supportive home environment.
2025
NOVEMBER
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Conclusion
Affective respiratory paroxysm in children is a psychosomatic disorder caused by
interactions between the nervous system, respiratory system, and emotional factors. It leads to
sudden breathing difficulties, emotional instability, and may affect social and academic
performance. Early identification of risk factors and triggers is essential for effective management.
Modern treatment combines pharmacological methods, cognitive-behavioral therapy,
relaxation techniques, and family education. Multidisciplinary and individualized approaches help
reduce recurrence, improve quality of life, and support healthy physical and emotional
development.
References
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American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Pediatric psychosomatic disorders: Diagnosis
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Feldman, R. S., & Nash, P. M. (2021). Child development and emotional regulation. New
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Greenspan, S. I., & Shanker, S. G. (2004). The child with special needs: Understanding
developmental and emotional disorders. Boston: Perseus Publishing. pp. 210–245.
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Koplewicz, H. S. (2010). Handbook of pediatric psychosomatic medicine. New York:
Springer. pp. 55–92.
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McGrath, E., & Reiss, A. L. (2018). Neurobiology of pediatric stress and emotional
disorders. Oxford: Oxford University Press. pp. 134–160.
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Roberts, M. C., & Steele, R. G. (2017). Handbook of pediatric psychology (5th ed.). New
York: Guilford Press. pp. 220–260.
