From the Guidelines
Deep breathing exercises should be approached with caution by individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, and it is recommended to start with gentle breathing techniques under medical supervision rather than attempting very deep breaths independently. For these patients, maintaining prescribed controller medications and having rescue inhalers readily available is crucial before attempting any breathing exercises. The main risks of deep breathing for these individuals include triggering bronchospasm, hyperventilation, increased air trapping, and potential exacerbation of symptoms.
When practicing breathing exercises, it is essential to start with short sessions of 2-3 minutes, breathe through the nose rather than mouth, and stop immediately if experiencing dizziness, chest tightness, or increased shortness of breath. These precautions are necessary because deep breathing can change airway pressure dynamics and potentially irritate already sensitive airways in people with obstructive lung diseases, where narrowed airways and inflammation are underlying issues. According to the most recent guideline evidence 1, pulmonary rehabilitation is beneficial for adults with chronic respiratory disease, including COPD, and can improve health status and dyspnea.
Some key points to consider when practicing deep breathing exercises include:
- Starting with gentle techniques under medical supervision
- Maintaining prescribed medications and having rescue inhalers available
- Monitoring for signs of distress, such as dizziness or chest tightness
- Breathing through the nose rather than mouth
- Stopping immediately if experiencing increased shortness of breath or other symptoms.
Healthy individuals without respiratory conditions generally benefit from deep breathing practices with minimal risk. However, for those with respiratory conditions, the risks associated with deep breathing exercises must be carefully managed to prevent exacerbation of symptoms and ensure the best possible outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. The American Thoracic Society clinical practice guideline 1 provides strong recommendations for the management of chronic respiratory disease, emphasizing the importance of pulmonary rehabilitation and careful management of symptoms.
From the Research
Risks of Taking Very Deep Breaths
- Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) should be cautious when taking very deep breaths, as it may lead to exacerbations or worsening of symptoms 2, 3.
- There is no direct evidence on the fastest rate at which someone should inhale when taking very deep breaths, but studies suggest that medications like salmeterol and formoterol can improve lung function and reduce symptoms in patients with asthma and COPD 2, 4.
Recommendations for Individuals with Respiratory Conditions
- Patients with asthma or COPD should use their inhalers as prescribed by their doctor and follow a treatment plan to manage their symptoms 2, 3.
- Combination therapies like budesonide/formoterol have been shown to be effective in preventing exacerbations and improving lung function in patients with COPD 4, 5.
- Long-acting beta2-agonists (LABAs) like arformoterol and salmeterol can be used to treat COPD, but patients should be monitored for potential side effects and tolerance 6.
Precautions and Considerations
- Individuals with respiratory conditions should avoid taking very deep breaths if they are experiencing symptoms like wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath, as it may worsen their condition 2, 3.
- Patients should consult their doctor before starting any new medication or treatment plan, especially if they have a history of respiratory conditions 2, 3.
- More research is needed to fully understand the effects of taking very deep breaths on individuals with respiratory conditions, and patients should follow the guidance of their healthcare provider to manage their symptoms and prevent exacerbations 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.