Friday, June 22, 2012

Rebreathing Methods

Asthma inhaler


Rebreathing or re-breathing is a technique attributed primarily to Russian doctor Konstantin Buteyko. The Buteyko technique is thought to cure asthma and improve mental clarity and overall well being by breathing in a more shallow manner. According to the article "List of Curable Diseases" on ButeykoCenterUSA.com, the Buteyko method can improve or treat up to 150 conditions ranging from headaches to the beginning stages of Parkinson's Disease.


The Technique


The specific methods of the Buteyko technique are known only to those health care practitioners who have studied the method from the few centers throughout the world that offer training. However, one aspect of the technique involves clearing the nasal passages to clear congestion to begin proper breathing. The Buteyko method involves training the body to take more shallow breaths to balance the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. According to the article "Frequently Asked Questions" on Buteyko.com, you can clear your nostrils by exhaling and then holding your breath until you feel your nasal passages clear. The next breaths should be very shallow and light, and this will keep your nostrils from becoming congested. The overall benefit of the Buteyko technique is that it helps clear congestion and reduce over-breathing or hyperventilation by equalizing the amounts of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the body.


Asthma


According to the article "Buteyko Breathing Method' on Holistic-Care.com, the Buteyko method helps those suffering with asthma reduce their dependence on inhalers and other medications that clear the breathing passages during an asthma attack. The "Frequently Asked Questions" article on Buteyko.com states that asthma sufferers of all ages can benefit from the Buteyko technique within a few days. Although anecdotal evidence claims that the Buteyko method effectively reduces the symptoms of asthma, you should first consult with a medical professional before beginning the treatment, during the treatment and once your asthma symptoms have stopped.


Considerations








There is a fair amount of information about the Buteyko technique available online, primarily information that sings the technique's praises. The article "Buteyko Breathing Technique---Nothing to Hyperventilate About" by Joseph Albietz on ScienceBasedMedicine.com, questions the authenticity of what little professional research is available on the subject. Essentially, Albietz states that the Buteyko technique may help improve the breathing of some asthma sufferers, but claiming that the method can relieve the symptoms of over 150 conditions and illnesses is an unfounded and subjective claim. For this reason, consult a medical professional before beginning any treatment involving the Buteyko technique.

Tags: Buteyko technique, Buteyko method, According article, article Buteyko, article Buteyko Breathing