Effect of Buteyko Breathing Technique and Inspiratory Muscle Training on Acute Exacerbation of Bronchial Asthma in a 55-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized by reversible airway obstruction, hyperresponsiveness, and airflow limitation.Despite pharmacological advancements, some patients experience frequent exacerbations and poor asthma control, categorized as difficult-to-treat asthma.Non-pharmacological interventions, such as the Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) and Inspiratory Muscle Training (IMT), have emerged as adjunct therapies to optimize asthma management.This case report evaluates the effect of BBT and IMT on acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma (AEBA) in a 55-year-old female patient with difficult-to-treat asthma.A 55-year-old female with a history of chronic kidney disease, ischemic stroke, hypertensive heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and obesity presented with AEBA.She experienced worsening dyspnea, persistent cough, and nocturnal breathlessness.On examination, her respiratory rate was 25 breaths per minute, with generalized rhonchi and reduced air entry.The initial Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) was 210 L/min (45% of predicted), and the Buteyko Control Pause Test was 12.27 seconds.The patient underwent BBT and IMT alongside standard treatment.Significant improvements were observed, with PEFR increasing to 270 L/min (58% of predicted) and dyspnea scores improving from 4 (Somewhat Severe Dyspnea) to 0 (No Dyspnea).Quality of life also improved, with reduced nocturnal symptoms and enhanced functional capacity.This case report highlights the complementary role of BBT and IMT in asthma rehabilitation, underscoring the need for integrating breathing retraining techniques into clinical practice to optimize asthma management and improve patient outcomes.