Understanding Dysfunctional Breathing: An Underdiagnosed Health Issue

Dysfunctional breathing, also known as breathing pattern disorder, is a significant health issue affecting both healthy adults and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. This disorder occurs when the physical rhythm of inhaling and exhaling becomes misaligned, leading to symptoms such as chronic breathlessness and disproportionate feelings of anxiety. According to Dr. Juanita Mora, a spokesperson for the American Lung Association, approximately 12% of adults experience some form of dysfunctional breathing, with prevalence rising to 30% among individuals with asthma.

Respiratory Experts Identify Dysfunctional Breathing as Hidden Health RiskThe Guardian

The mechanics of dysfunctional breathing often involve improper patterns, such as the chest rising instead of the belly during inhalation. Correct breathing should be slow, quiet, and nasal, primarily utilizing the diaphragm. Dysfunctional breathing can manifest as chronic breathlessness, persistent hyperventilation, and mouth breathing, which can significantly impact overall health by altering blood gases and causing physical strain. Symptoms may include sleep disturbances, tension in the shoulders and neck, chronic fatigue, and dizziness, with the potential to exacerbate existing conditions like cardiovascular issues and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Respiratory Experts Identify Dysfunctional Breathing as Hidden Health RiskThe Guardian

Dr. Stephen Fowler, a professor of respiratory medicine at the University of Manchester, highlights a vicious cycle that often occurs with dysfunctional breathing. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which in turn causes more breathlessness. This cycle can be self-perpetuating, as individuals may breathe more forcefully than necessary, even while at rest. Dr. Robert Cuyler, a psychologist, notes that when carbon dioxide levels fluctuate due to poor breathing patterns, the brain may signal for an increased breathing rate, further complicating the issue.

The GuardianRespiratory Experts Identify Dysfunctional Breathing as Hidden Health Risk

Treatment for dysfunctional breathing typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the expertise of doctors, physiotherapists, and psychologists. While there is no gold standard for assessing dysfunctional breathing in otherwise healthy adults, breathing assessments can be conducted by various healthcare professionals. Treatment may include breathing exercises, lifestyle changes, and devices designed to retrain breathing patterns. Dr. Dena Garner, who studies breathing mechanics, emphasizes the importance of mindfully slowing down breath to help control the nervous system's stress response.

The GuardianRespiratory Experts Identify Dysfunctional Breathing as Hidden Health Risk

Despite the recognition of dysfunctional breathing as a significant health issue, it remains underdiagnosed, particularly in individuals with less severe symptoms. Experts argue that more research is needed to develop effective assessment tools and treatment protocols for those affected by this disorder. The lack of specialized multidisciplinary teams further complicates access to care for many individuals experiencing dysfunctional breathing.

Respiratory Experts Identify Dysfunctional Breathing as Hidden Health Risk

• “Up to 12% of adults experience dysfunctional breathing, which is defined by different forms of abnormal breathing problems like chronic breathlessness, persistent hyperventilation, mouth breathing, over-breathing or shallow breathing to a degree that impacts one’s health,” — Dr. Juanita Mora, Spokesperson for the American Lung Association

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• “There is certainly a vicious cycle that occurs in many people with dysfunctional breathing,” — Dr. Stephen Fowler, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Manchester

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• “The body doesn’t like to under-breathe,” — Dr. Robert Cuyler, Psychologist

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Understanding dysfunctional breathing is crucial for improving the quality of life for many individuals. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment, those affected can break the cycle and regain control over their breathing patterns.

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