Other Exercises and Techniques

Recently, the Buteyko breathing technique has become popular with some asthmatics hoping to control their breathing. The method involves a system of breathing exercises and behavioral changes.

Developed by a Ukrainian physician, the technique is based on the theory that the symptoms of many respiratory disorders (including asthma) are caused by poor breathing patterns. Buteyko deemed this to be "hyperventilation," and his technique tries to slow patients’ rate of breathing to help them gain greater ability to control symptoms.

However, many experts are skeptical of the Buteyko technique, particularly the claim that asthmatics need to increase carbon dioxide levels in the body to best metabolize oxygen. Researchers point out that medical evidence indicates that asthmatics already have high levels of carbon dioxide in the blood and there is no solid evidence to support the Buteyko technique claims.

Studies of the Buteyko method to date have proved inconclusive. Many tests have found no improvement in any physiological asthma measures. Yet, there is evidence that some patients using the technique may require fewer medications to control their symptoms.

Other relaxation techniques, such as yoga and hypnosis, also have been suggested to asthma patients as ways to lessen symptoms. These techniques are based on the concept that a relaxed person will be able to control their breathing and breathe better than someone who is nervous and stressed. Stress may be an asthma trigger in some people and relaxation techniques may offer methods to alleviate stress.

Hypnosis, also known as hypnotic suggestion or hypnotherapy, involves placing the patient in an altered state of consciousness. Hypnosis can train a patient’s mind to relax when necessary, and the technique may be used anywhere. Children are especially good candidates for this technique because they tend to be hypnotized more easily than adults. Not all people are susceptible to hypnosis.

An ancient Hindu discipline, yoga promotes increased mental and physical control over the body through a variety of postures and breathing techniques. A main focus of yoga is to control the breath and promote relaxation.

Several yoga-related studies involving breathing exercises known as pranayama, stretches (postures) and meditation have suggested that lung function may improve with the regular use of yoga. Although yoga may be beneficial when it is added to standard treatments for asthma, it is not clear if yoga is more effective than any other form of exercise.

Just as with the Buteyko method, the evidence in support of yoga and hypnosis for asthma control appears to be inconclusive. Though some patients report better quality of life and improved mood after employing these techniques, supporting physiological evidence is lacking. Asthma is a physiological disease of the airways, and is not psychosomatic. No breathing technique or exercise program should be undertaken without consultation with a physician.