I thought I might have hyperventilation syndrome as well because I get the same symptoms. Focusing on my breathing has NOT helped! I find that the more I try to control my breathing, the more anxious I get. I don't think it works for everyone. If I notice I'm breathing particularly fast, I just try to make sure I've exhaled fully, then take another "natural" breath and repeat. I counted my breaths while doing this and it was about 10 per minute, so I don't think I have hyperventilation syndrome, which doesn't help explain all of my symptoms.