Breathing Interventions Improve Autonomic Function, Respiratory Efficiency and Stress in Dysfunctional Breathing: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Background
Dysfunctional breathing patterns can impair autonomic regulation and increase perceived stress. Breathing interventions, particularly those incorporating guided exercises and supportive tools, may offer non-pharmacological benefits. Methods
In this parallel two-arm randomized controlled trial, 14 women aged 35–45 years with signs of dysfunctional breathing and without comorbidities were recruited from a fitness club. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) using a computer-generated sequence to an intervention group (n=7) or a control group (n=7). Blinding was not applied. Both groups followed a 6-week program of guided breathing exercises using the iBreathe app; the intervention group additionally used mouth tape during sleep.
The primary outcomes were heart rate variability indices (RMSSD, HF component). Secondary outcomes included respiratory rate, Hencho test performance, and perceived stress (PSS-10, VAS). All participants were included in the final analysis (no loss to follow-up). Results
The intervention group showed a significant increase in the HF component of HRV (p=0.018) and improved Hencho test performance (p=0.018). Both groups demonstrated significant reductions in respiratory rate (p< 0.05) and PSS scores (p< 0.05). Between-group differences were not significant for RMSSD or perceived stress. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions
A 6-week breathing intervention improved respiratory efficiency and reduced stress in women with dysfunctional breathing. Mouth taping at night provided additional benefits for HRV and respiratory control. Larger, longer trials are needed to confirm these findings.