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Buteyko Breathing Technique for asthma: an effective intervention
Patrick McHugh1, Fergus Aitcheson, Bruce Duncan
1Emergency Department, Gisborne Hospital, Gisborne, New Zealand. mchugh@tdh.org.nz
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|January 31, 2004
Summary
The Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) significantly reduced asthma medication needs, including inhaled steroids and beta2-agonists, in a six-month study. This breathing method shows promise for asthma management.
Area of Science:
- Respiratory Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Integrative Health
Background:
- Asthma management often relies on pharmacotherapy.
- Exploring complementary techniques for asthma control is crucial.
- The Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) is a method focused on breathing patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of the Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) on medication requirements in individuals with asthma.
- To assess changes in ventilatory function alongside medication use.
Main Methods:
- A blinded, randomized controlled trial was performed with 38 asthma patients (aged 18-70).
- Participants were randomized to either BBT or a control group.
- Medication use and ventilatory function (FEV1) were monitored over a six-month period.
Main Results:
- The BBT group demonstrated a 50% reduction in inhaled steroid use and an 85% reduction in beta2-agonist use at six months.
- The control group showed no change in inhaled steroid use and a 37% reduction in beta2-agonist use.
- No significant changes in FEV1 were observed in either group; no adverse events were reported.
Conclusions:
- The Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) appears to be a safe and effective complementary approach for asthma management.
- BBT may offer clinical and potential pharmaco-economic advantages, warranting further investigation.
- This study suggests BBT can lead to reduced reliance on asthma medications.