Dysfunctional Breathing in Children: A Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Respiratory Medicine
• Behavioral Pediatrics

Background:

• Dysfunctional breathing (DB) is characterized by abnormal respiratory patterns, affecting children and adults with diverse physiological, psychological, and social impacts.
• Symptoms include breathlessness, dizziness, palpitations, and anxiety, often linked to breathing pattern disorders and upper airway issues.
• DB frequently co-occurs with conditions like asthma and anxiety, leading to misdiagnosis and complicating treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current knowledge on dysfunctional breathing in children.
• To review classifications, epidemiology, comorbidities, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic strategies for pediatric DB.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on pediatric dysfunctional breathing.
• Analysis of diagnostic tools including history, physical examination, structured light plethysmography, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and laryngoscopy.
• Examination of multidimensional management strategies.

Main Results:

• Prevalence data in pediatrics shows female overrepresentation.
• Common comorbidities include asthma, GERD, nasal diseases, and anxiety/depression.
• Effective management requires a combination of breathing retraining, speech therapy, psychotherapy, and potentially surgery.

Conclusions:

• Dysfunctional breathing in children requires a comprehensive understanding due to its complex nature and comorbidities.
• Accurate diagnosis through appropriate tools is crucial for effective, individualized treatment plans.
• A multidimensional therapeutic approach is essential for managing pediatric DB and improving patient outcomes.