Buteyko breathing for asthma
What is the Buteyko breathing method?
According to the Russian medical doctor, Konstantin Buteyko, people with asthma and other related diseases hyperventilate (overbreathe) and release too much carbon dioxide from the body. (Doctors call this hypocapnia — literally too little carbon dioxide in the blood, which can be caused by hyperventilation.) To compensate, he postulated, their bodies have developed corrective mechanisms to limit the release of carbon dioxide, like the tightening of the bronchial (airway) muscles and the production of lots of mucus in the airways, which are well known as asthma symptoms.
The breathing technique that Buteyko developed is said to correct the hyperventilation and subsequent decreased concentration of carbon dioxide. If used correctly, Buteyko practitioners claim, the breathing method can lead to a drastic reduction in reliance on the use of asthma medications for relief.
Buteyko in Australia
The Buteyko method was introduced into Australia in 1990. Since then thousands of people have taken the course run by the Buteyko Institute of Breathing and Health. This is the professional body that regulates Buteyko Institute practitioner members in Australia and overseas.
Evidence for its effectiveness
According to the National Asthma Council’s Asthma Management Handbook, controlled studies have found that Buteyko breathing can help improve symptoms and reduce the use of reliever medicines in some people. However, these studies did not show that Buteyko breathing altered carbon dioxide levels or measures of airway inflammation or lung function.
How does it work?
There are a number of Buteyko breathing clinics around the world and each has its own approach to the method. Basically, it involves breathing out fully, and then trying to breathe out a little more — until it feels like your abdomen is being drawn back against your spine. Stay in this exhaled state for as long as you comfortably can, then allow the air back in again reasonably slowly. It must be approached gently — that is, no gulping or gasping. Finally, you breathe normally for a while. When ready, you start again at the first step — breathing out fully — and go through the process again.
People practising Buteyko aim to increase the length of time they can hold the exhaled position. They breathe through the nose and avoid taking deep breaths.
Warning
If you have, or suspect you have, asthma or related obstructive respiratory symptoms, discuss with your doctor the options of any breathing methods you may want to consider. Do not attempt to practise the Buteyko breathing technique without first consulting your doctor and under no circumstances change the dosage of your asthma medication without consulting your doctor.
Last Reviewed: 21 October 2009
- 1. National Asthma Council Australia [website]. Asthma management handbook 2006. Breathing techniques (updated 2007, May 31). http://www.nationalasthma.org.au/cms/content/view/90/112/ (accessed 2009, Oct 30)
