Breathing can reduce inhaler dependence

In this very small study, asthmatics who were taught breathing exercises were able to cut their dependence on inhaled corticosteroids by using the exercises at the first sign of an attack. The number for whom it worked at the beginning of the study was 80%. By the time 28 weeks had gone by, that was up to 86%.

While there were no measurable improvements in physiological signs, that’s an astonishingly successful result that so dramatically reduces the need for a potentially long-term damaging medication. I’d guess these results have to do with feeling in control. Asthma is about being out of control of life’s perhaps most important processes–breathing. Anything that can give the person a sense of control is bound to be welcome. Read more here.