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Respiratory neurosis

 
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
 
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Respiratory neurosis (or respiratory neurosis) is a condition in which a person experiences breathing difficulties or changes in breathing rhythm that have no physical basis and may be caused by psychological factors, stress or anxiety. It is a psychosomatic condition in which emotional or psychological factors affect respiratory function.

Symptoms of respiratory neurosis may include:

  1. Breathlessness: A patient may feel that they have difficulty breathing even if their lungs and bronchial passages are physically healthy.
  2. Sensation of breath-holding: The patient may experience the feeling of not being able to fully exhale or inhale.
  3. Changes in breathing rhythm: There may be changes in breathing rate and depth, such as excessive rapid breathing (hyperventilation) or, conversely, slow and shallow breathing.
  4. Associated symptoms: Patients with respiratory neurosis may also experience other somatic symptoms such as headache, dizziness, palpitations, sweating and others.

Respiratory neurosis can be caused by a variety of psychological factors including stress, anxiety, panic attacks or psychosocial problems. Emotional distress can affect the mechanism of breathing regulation and cause symptoms.

Diagnosis and treatment of respiratory neurosis usually requires consultation with a physician, psychotherapist or psychiatrist. Treatment may include psychotherapy, relaxation techniques, biofeedback (biofeedback) and, in some cases, the use of medications to manage symptoms. It is important to seek help to find out the causes and develop strategies to manage respiratory neurosis and related symptoms.

Causes of the respiratory neurosis

Respiratory neurosis, also known as dysfunctional breathing or hyperventilation syndrome, is a condition in which a person over-hydrates the lungs, breathing too frequently or deeply for no apparent physical reason. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, both physiological and psychological. Here are some of the main causes of respiratory neurosis:

  1. Stress and anxiety: One of the most common factors causing respiratory neurosis is psychological stress and anxiety. Strong emotional distress can affect breathing regulation and lead to hyperventilation.
  2. Panicattacks: People suffering from panic attacks may experience intense fear and anxiety, which can cause rapid and deep breathing.
  3. Sociocultural factors: Lifestyle and cultural characteristics can also influence breathing patterns. For example, some people may breathe too often because of habit or cultural norms.
  4. Physical Factors: Some physical causes such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), allergies, and other respiratory conditions may also contribute to respiratory neurosis.
  5. Psychosomatic: Respiratory neurosis can be associated with psychosomatic symptoms when emotional states such as stress or anxiety are expressed through physical symptoms, including changes in breathing.
  6. Breathing retraining: Some people can get into a cycle of constant breath control, trying to control their breathing, which can lead to hyperventilation.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of respiratory neurosis involves a complex interaction between psychiatric and physiologic aspects. Here are some key aspects of pathogenesis:

  1. Psychological Stress: Respiratory neurosis usually begins with psychological stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems. Stress and emotional tension can cause changes in the body's psychological response to breathing.
  2. Respiratory dysregulation: Patients with respiratory neurosis may develop respiratory dysregulation. This includes changes in breathing rate and depth, including hyperventilation (over-breathing).
  3. Changes in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels: Hyperventilation causes a decrease in the level of carbon dioxide (hypocapnia) in the blood. This can have an effect on CO2 and pH receptors in the brain, which can cause a variety of physiological and psychological symptoms.
  4. Symptoms and Sensations: Decreased CO2 levels can cause symptoms such as dizziness, numbness, tingling, tachycardia, choking, weakness, and others. These symptoms can worsen when the patient pays attention to them, creating a vicious cycle.
  5. Psychological aspect: Because respiratory neurosis is often associated with anxiety and stress, psychological factors such as anticipation and fear of a panic attack or worsening of the condition can exacerbate symptoms.
  6. Symptom amplification: Patients experiencing respiratory neurosis may perceive their symptoms as a serious physical illness, which can cause more anxiety and tension, which in turn intensifies symptoms.

Symptoms of the respiratory neurosis

Respiratory neurosis can manifest with a variety of symptoms that may include:

  1. Breathlessness: The patient may feel that they have difficulty breathing or cannot get enough air, even with normal physical activity or at rest.
  2. Changes in breathing rhythm: This may include fast, rapid breathing (hyperventilation) or, conversely, slow, flat breathing.
  3. Sensation of breath-holding: The patient may feel that he or she cannot fully exhale or inhale, which can cause discomfort.
  4. Deep breaths: A person may take deep breaths in an attempt to get more air, but this can increase the sensation of shortness of breath.
  5. Accompanying physical symptoms: Respiratory neurosis is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as headache, dizziness, sweating, tingling in extremities, numbness, decreased sensation, etc.
  6. Anxietyand Anxiety: The patient may experience severe anxiety or panic due to the sensation of breathlessness, which can exacerbate symptoms.
  7. Symptoms in different situations: Symptoms of respiratory neurosis can occur in different situations, including stressful situations, psychological stress, or even at rest.

It is important to note that the symptoms of respiratory neurosis can have similar manifestations to other medical conditions, so consultation with a specialist such as a physician, psychotherapist or psychiatrist is recommended for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

An attack of respiratory neurosis

A respiratory neurosis attack, also known as a hyperventilation attack or panic attack with respiratory symptoms, can be intimidating and lead to physical and emotional discomfort. Here are some of the characteristic symptoms that may accompany a respiratory neurosis attack:

  1. Rapid breathing: During an episode of respiratory neurosis, the patient begins to breathe faster and deeper than usual. This is called hyperventilation.
  2. Feeling short of breath: Patients may experience feelings of shortness of breath or suffocation, although in fact their blood oxygen levels may be normal.
  3. Dizziness and weakness: Hyperventilation can cause dizziness, weakness, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs.
  4. Heartbeat: Heartbeats may become more rapid and patients may experience them as strong, irregular, or irregular.
  5. Anxiety and fear: Patients often experience intense worry, fear and anxiety during an attack of respiratory neurosis. They may fear that this is a serious medical condition.
  6. Feelings of loss of control: During a seizure, patients may feel that they are losing control of their body or mind.
  7. Panic attack: The symptoms that occur can be similar to those of a panic attack, and an attack of respiratory neurosis is sometimes described as a "panic attack with respiratory symptoms".

You can try the following steps to manage an attack of respiratory neurosis:

  1. Try lowering your breathing rate by taking slow and deep breaths in and out.
  2. Try to concentrate on your breathing and make it more even.
  3. Try to relax and apply relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
  4. If possible, try to get away from the source of the stress or anxiety.
  5. Seek medical help, especially if the respiratory neurosis attack is recurrent or if you have long-term breathing problems.

It is important to remember that respiratory neurosis is often associated with emotional stress and requires a treatment and stress management approach through psychotherapy and other modalities. If you are experiencing regular episodes of respiratory neurosis, seek the help of a physician or psychotherapist for more in-depth evaluation and treatment.

Psychosomatics of respiratory neurosis

Respiratory neurosis is a psychosomatic disorder, meaning that it has physical symptoms and manifestations that are related to mental factors such as stress, anxiety, and psychological dysfunction. Psychosomatics explores the relationship between mental states and physical illnesses, including respiratory disorders such as respiratory neurosis. Here's how psychosomatics relates to respiratory neurosis:

  1. Psychological factors: Psychosomatic disorders, including respiratory neurosis, are often caused by psychiatric factors such as stress, anxiety, depression and psychological dysfunction. These factors can affect breathing regulation and cause changes in breathing patterns.
  2. Physiological changes: Mental factors can cause physiological changes in the body, including activation of the sympathetic nervous system and release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These changes can affect respiratory regulation and cause symptoms of respiratory neurosis such as hyperventilation.
  3. Interplay between mental and physical states: Patients with respiratory neurosis often report that their symptoms increase in response to emotional stress or distressing situations. Inversely, respiratory neurosis symptoms can cause anxiety and restlessness, which increases mental discomfort.
  4. Treatment and Therapy: The therapeutic methods used in the treatment of respiratory neurosis often include psychotherapy, relaxation, and stress management techniques. These techniques aim to address the mental factors that can cause and maintain symptoms.

Respiratory neurosis in children

Respiratory neurosis, or dysfunctional breathing, can also occur in children. This condition is characterized by changes in the frequency and/or depth of breathing that are often associated with psychological factors, stress, or anxiety. Respiratory neurosis in children can manifest with a variety of symptoms including:

  1. Rapid or frequent breathing: Children with respiratory neurosis may breathe faster or more frequently than usual, even when physical signs are normal.
  2. Superficial breathing: Children can breathe superficially using their upper breathing muscles instead of deeper diaphragmatic breathing.
  3. Shortness of breath: A child may complain of feeling short of breath even if his or her lungs and oxygen exchange are normal.
  4. Shortnessof breath: Shortness of breath may occur even with little physical activity or at rest.
  5. Hyperventilation: This is a condition in which breathing becomes deep and rapid, which can lead to carbon peroxide in the body.
  6. Other symptoms: In children, respiratory neurosis may be accompanied by dizziness, headache, numbness in the extremities, palpitations, loss of consciousness and other physical and psychological manifestations.

Respiratory neurosis in children can be caused by stress, anxiety, worry, conflict, or other psychological factors. It can also occur as a reaction to physical illness or pain. It is recommended to see a pediatrician or child psychologist for diagnosis and treatment of respiratory neurosis in children. Treatment may include counseling, psychotherapy, breathing instruction, and other interventions to manage symptoms and address the underlying causes of the condition.

Forms

Respiratory neurosis can manifest itself in a variety of forms and symptoms. Here are some of the forms and manifestations:

  1. High-frequency breathing: Patients may breathe too fast and too often for no apparent physical reason. This may be accompanied by an increased resting respiratory rate.
  2. Deep breathing: Some people may hyperventilate by taking deep and overly full breaths in and out. This can lead to irregular breathing and inefficient gas exchange.
  3. Panic attacks: In the form of respiratory neurosis associated with panic attacks, patients may experience intense fear and anxiety, which can lead to rapid, shallow breathing and feelings of shortness of breath.
  4. Vestibular dysfunction: Some people may experience dysfunction of the vestibular system, which can cause feelings of dizziness and unsteadiness when walking.
  5. Relation to psychological factors: Respiratory neurosis can be associated with psychological conditions such as anxiety, stress, depression or psychosomatic disorders.
  6. Nocturnal respiratory neurosis: In some people with respiratory neurosis, symptoms increase at night, which can lead to insomnia and sleep disturbances.
  7. Symptoms of respiratory neurosis: Common symptoms of respiratory neurosis include feeling short of breath, dizziness, numbness in the extremities, palpitations, loss of consciousness and other physical and psychological manifestations.

It is important to emphasize that respiratory neurosis can manifest differently in different people and may have different causes. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment, you should consult a physician or psychologist who will evaluate the condition and develop an individualized treatment plan.

Complications and consequences

Respiratory neurosis, also known as respiratory distress or hyperventilation syndrome, although not directly life-threatening, can cause various complications and affect patients' quality of life. Here are some of the possible complications associated with respiratory neurosis:

  1. Mental deterioration: Respiratory neurosis is often accompanied by anxiety and depression. With the prolonged presence of symptoms and health concerns, patients may experience a worsening mental state and decreased quality of life.
  2. Physical symptoms: Hyperventilation can cause physical symptoms such as dizziness, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs, weakness, heart palpitations and even chest pain. These symptoms can be bothersome to patients and make them feel worse physically.
  3. Panic attacks: Respiratory neurosis can lead to the development of panic attacks, which can be frightening and accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, and feelings of suffocation.
  4. Aggravation of other medical conditions: If other medical problems such as bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are present, respiratory neurosis can worsen symptoms and make managing these conditions more difficult.
  5. Decreased quality of life: Persistent anxiety and fear of another attack can significantly reduce patients' quality of life, limiting their usual activities and social interactions.
  6. Difficulties with work and learning: Symptoms of respiratory neurosis can interfere with concentration and performance, which can affect professional and learning activities.

Diagnostics of the respiratory neurosis

Diagnosing respiratory neurosis usually involves a medical evaluation of symptoms and ruling out other possible causes, such as physical illnesses or medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms. Here are the basic steps that are included in the diagnostic process:

  1. Physicalexamination: The doctor will perform a physical examination and talk to the patient about their symptoms, medical and psychological history, and factors that may be related to the symptoms.
  2. Physical Exam: The doctor may perform a physical exam to rule out physical causes of respiratory symptoms and to determine if there are any signs of physical illness that could be related to the respiratory symptoms.
  3. Lab tests: Sometimes lab tests such as blood tests or mild functional tests may be needed to rule out other medical conditions.
  4. PsychologicalAssessment: A psychological or psychiatric professional may conduct an assessment of the patient, including talking about the patient's emotional state, stressors, and psychological history.
  5. Differential Diagnosis: It is important to rule out other medical and psychological conditions that may have similar symptoms, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, panic disorder, and others.
  6. Symptom diary: The patient may be asked to keep a symptom diary to record when and in what situations respiratory symptoms occur. This may help to identify the relationship between symptoms and psychological factors.

After all necessary tests have been performed, a doctor may make a preliminary diagnosis of respiratory neurosis if no physical cause of symptoms is found and there are characteristic signs of a psychosomatic condition. A consultation with a psychotherapist or psychiatrist may be necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine a treatment strategy, who will conduct a more detailed assessment of the psychological factors that may contribute to respiratory neurosis and develop a treatment plan based on psychotherapy and/or medication.

Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnosis of respiratory neurosis involves identifying the exceptional features of the condition and separating it from other medical and psychological disorders that may mimic the symptoms of respiratory neurosis. Here are some of the conditions and diseases to consider in the differential diagnosis:

  1. Asthma: Asthma is a chronic airway disease that can manifest with shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. The differential diagnosis should consider the presence of asthma and perform specialized pulmonary function tests.
  2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): COPD is a chronic lung disease that can cause shortness of breath and coughing. Lung function tests and clinical tests can help rule out or confirm COPD.
  3. Mental disorders: Respiratory dysfunction syndrome can sometimes accompany psychiatric disorders such as panic attacks, anxiety or depression. These conditions may require differential diagnosis using psychological and psychiatric methods.
  4. Physical Causes: Respiratory symptoms can be caused by physical causes such as anemia, heart failure, or other medical conditions. A thorough examination and analysis of laboratory values can help identify such causes.
  5. Other breathing disorders: Some breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep syndromes, may mimic the symptoms of respiratory neurosis. Special studies and polysomnography may be helpful.

For an accurate diagnosis, the exclusion of all other possible causes of respiratory symptoms requires a physician's consultation and additional examinations. Often the differential diagnosis of respiratory neurosis is a multistep process and includes clinical examination, anamnesis, laboratory and instrumental studies.

Treatment of the respiratory neurosis

Treatment for respiratory neurosis usually involves several steps and should be supervised by qualified professionals. Here are common treatment steps and clinical guidelines:

  1. Diagnosis and evaluation: The first step in treatment is diagnosis, including symptom assessment, physical examination, and psychological evaluation. It is important to make sure that the symptoms are not due to other medical causes.
  2. Establishing a diagnosis: After diagnosis, the specialist establishes a diagnosis of respiratory neurosis and determines its characteristics, such as severity and frequency of symptoms.
  3. Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is the primary treatment for respiratory neurosis. Patients learn to recognize and modify negative thoughts and behavioral patterns that can exacerbate symptoms. Relaxation sessions are also provided and stress management techniques are taught.
  4. Pharmacotherapy: In some cases, medications such as anxiolytics (anti-anxiety medications) or antidepressants may be needed to manage severe anxiety or panic attacks. The prescription of medication is decided by a doctor and a psychiatrist.
  5. Lifestyle changes: Patients may be encouraged to make lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, healthy eating and stress management. These changes can help improve overall health and reduce symptoms.
  6. Social network support: Support from family and loved ones plays an important role in treatment. Relatives can help the patient cope with emotional stress and provide psychological support.
  7. Monitoring and Correction: Treatment should include ongoing monitoring of symptoms and regular communication with a therapist or psychotherapist to adjust treatment strategies as needed.
  8. Long-term management: Respiratory neurosis may require long-term management, and it is important that the patient is kept in touch with medical and psychological professionals to maintain progress and address difficulties as they arise.
  9. Education and Self-Help: Patients can also learn stress management and relaxation techniques on their own so that they have the tools to manage symptoms in their daily lives.

Treatment for respiratory neurosis is individualized and depends on the severity of symptoms and the needs of the patient. It is important to follow the recommendations of specialists and stay in touch with them to manage this condition effectively.

Treatment of respiratory neurosis with drugs

Psychotherapeutic methods and approaches are used to treat respiratory neurosis, especially in children, rather than medication. Medication is not usually used as the primary treatment for this condition. However, sometimes doctors may prescribe medication to alleviate symptoms or stress that can trigger respiratory neurosis. It is important that the use of medication be prescribed and monitored by a qualified physician, and it should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Medications that can sometimes be used as part of the treatment of respiratory neurosis include:

  1. Anxiolytics: These are drugs that can help relieve anxiety and tension. Examples of anxiolytics include diazepam, lorazepam, and other benzodiazepines. However, their use in children requires special caution and supervision by a doctor.
  2. Antidepressants: Sometimes antidepressants may be prescribed in children with respiratory neurosis, especially if symptoms are associated with depression or panic attacks. Medications such as sertraline or fluoxetine may be used in these cases.
  3. Anxiogenic drugs: Some anxiolytic drugs may be used to relieve physical symptoms associated with respiratory neurosis, such as hyperventilation or dizziness.

Treatment for respiratory neurosis in children usually involves psychotherapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or breathing exercises. Psychotherapy treatment focuses on managing stress, teaching the child how to breathe properly, and developing relaxation skills. Counseling with a professional who works with children and adolescents can be very helpful in treating respiratory neurosis. It is important that parents and caregivers provide support and help the child manage the stress and anxiety that can accompany the condition.

Breathing exercises for panic attacks and neurosis

Breathing exercises can be helpful for panic attacks and respiratory neurosis, as they can help improve breathing control and reduce physiologic activation associated with anxiety and stress. Here are some breathing exercises techniques that can help manage these conditions:

  1. Method 4-7-8:

    • Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
    • Close your eyes and relax.
    • Inhale through your nose for a count of 4.
    • Hold your breath for a count of 7.
    • Exhale through your mouth for a count of 8.
    • Repeat this cycle several times, focusing on your breathing.
  2. Diaphragmatic breathing:

    • Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen, near your diaphragm.
    • Slowly inhale through your nose, making sure your abdomen rises and moves forward.
    • Slowly exhale through your mouth, making sure your belly sinks and contracts.
    • Repeat this process several times, paying attention to the movement of the diaphragm.
  3. Breathing in the bag:

    • Take a plastic or paper bag.
    • Sit or stand in a comfortable posture.
    • Put the bag over your nose and mouth.
    • Slowly inhale and exhale into the bag, focusing on the movement of the bag.
  4. Relaxing breathing:

    • Imagine that you are breathing in calmness and relaxation.
    • During each inhale, visualize calmness filling you, and during the exhale, visualize tension leaving you.
  5. Counting breaths:

    • Just focus on counting while breathing, for example, inhale for a count to 4, hold for a count to 2, exhale for a count to 6.

To maximize the benefits of breathing exercises, it is important to practice them regularly, even in moments when you are not experiencing anxiety. Practicing breathing exercises can help you better control your own reactions to stress and panic attacks. However, if you have serious problems with anxiety or panic attacks, it is important to see a professional, such as a psychotherapist or psychiatrist, for a more in-depth evaluation and treatment.

How to get rid of respiratory neurosis at home?

Respiratory neurosis, especially in children and adolescents, is best treated under the care of a professional such as a psychotherapist or pediatrician. However, there are a number of home strategies that can help manage symptoms and cope with respiratory neurosis:

  1. Relaxation and meditation: Simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation and yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety. There are special apps and videos designed for relaxation and meditation that can be helpful.
  2. Deep breathing: Teach your child proper deep breathing. It helps to reduce the frequency and depth of breathing, which can alleviate symptoms.
  3. Physical activity: Regular physical activity can help manage anxiety and stress. Try incorporating sports or physical activity into your child's daily routine.
  4. Support and communication: It is important to provide children with support and opportunities to communicate about their feelings and concerns. Listen to them and pay attention to their emotional needs.
  5. Regular sleep: Make sure your child gets enough sleep. Lack of sleep can worsen symptoms of anxiety and respiratory neurosis.
  6. Healthy Eating: Good nutrition can have a positive impact on physical and emotional health. Eating a balanced diet can help reduce stress.
  7. Avoiding stimulants: Try to avoid caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants that can exacerbate anxiety and symptoms of respiratory neurosis.
  8. Psychotherapy techniques: You can try some cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques at home if they have been recommended by a professional.

Prevention

Prevention of respiratory neurosis includes a number of activities that can help reduce the risk of developing or managing the condition. Here are some ways to prevent it:

  1. Stressand anxiety management: Because stress and anxiety can be strong provocateurs of respiratory neurosis, it is important to develop stress management strategies. Relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga, and deep breathing techniques can help reduce anxiety.
  2. Regular physical activity: Moderate physical activity can help improve your overall physical and emotional well-being. It promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
  3. Proper breathing: Learning proper breathing techniques can help prevent or manage respiratory neurosis. This can be done by seeing a respiratory therapist or by doing breathing exercises on your own.
  4. Avoiding stimulants: Avoid alcohol, nicotine, and other substances that can affect the respiratory center and cause breathing problems.
  5. Sleep and daily routine: Regular sleep and a proper daily routine contribute to overall physical and psychological health. Try to get enough sleep and lead a healthy lifestyle.
  6. Psychotherapy: If you are prone to frequent stress or anxiety, consider counseling with a therapist. Therapy can help you develop strategies to manage your emotions and relieve tension.
  7. Medical Examination: Regular medical examinations can identify and monitor any physical or medical problems that may affect respiratory function.
  8. Avoiding excessive effort: It is important to avoid excessive effort when breathing and to avoid overstretching the chest.
  9. Treatment adherence: If you have already been diagnosed with respiratory neurosis or another breathing disorder, it is important to follow your doctor's recommendations and take prescribed medications.

Forecast

The prognosis of respiratory neurosis depends on many factors, including the timing of seeking medical attention, the presence of other medical and psychological conditions, and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, respiratory neurosis responds well to treatment, and most patients have a favorable prognosis.

It is important to pay attention to the following aspects:

  1. Seeking help early: The sooner you seek medical attention and begin treatment, the sooner you can expect your condition to improve. No matter how severe the symptoms are, it is important to get professional help.
  2. Treatment adherence: Following your doctor's recommendations and engaging in psychotherapy or other forms of treatment can significantly increase the chances of recovery.
  3. Stress identification and management: If stress and anxiety were one of the causes of respiratory neurosis, developing strategies to manage emotions and stress will help prevent recurrences.
  4. Adherence to a healthy lifestyle: Regular physical activity, a healthy diet and normalization of sleep can contribute to an overall improvement in psychophysical well-being.
  5. Individual characteristics: The prognosis may vary depending on the individual characteristics of each patient. Some may recover quickly, while for others it may take more time and effort.

The prognosis of respiratory neurosis may also be related to its form and associated disorders.

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