A Study to Evaluate the Immediate Effects of Deep Breathing Exercise Coupled with Breath Holding up to Breaking Point, on Respiratory Rate, Heart Rate and Peak Expiratory Flow Rate on Young Adults-An Interventional Study

There are many studies on the immediate effects of deep breathing and breath holding separately, but only few studies reported on the immediate effects of deep breathing coupled with breath holding on the Respiratory rate [RR], Heart rate [HR] & Peak Expiratory flow rate [PEFR].

To evaluate the immediate effects of deep breathing exercise coupled with breath holding up to breaking point on RR, HR and PEFR on young adults

The interventional study was carried out in K K sheth physiotherapy college, Rajkot

RR, HR, & PEFR of volunteers were recorded in young adults of both genders [n=30; Female: Male, 26: 4]. The subject was directed to inhale slowly up to the maximum of 5 seconds and then to exhale slowly up to the maximum of 5 sec [i.e. at the rate of 6 breaths/min] for 5 minutes. Immediately after this exercise, the subject was instructed to take deep inspiration & then hold the breath up to breaking point. RR, HR, & PEFR were recorded again.

Statistical analysis was done with the help of SPSS 14 by both Paired ’‘t’ test; and correlation. P<0.05 is considered as significant.

PEFR is found to be significantly increased, with significant decrease in RR, HR in young adults of both sexes.

There is a decrease in RR, HR as an immediate effect of deep breathing exercise. There is an increase in PEFR as an immediate effect of deep breathing exercise.