The effects of diaphragmatic breathing training on the quality of life and clinical symptoms of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease: A randomized controlled trial

Background and purpose: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has an adverse impact on the quality of life of affected individuals. Diaphragmatic breathing training (DBT) my be effective in GERD, but research on the benefits of this complementary therapy for affected patients is scarce. This study was therefore intended to examine the effects of DBT on the quality of life and clinical symptoms of patients with GERD. 

Materials and methods: This is a randomized controlled trial with two-parallel groups. The experimental group (n = 47) received four weeks of DBT sessions plus treatment-as-usual, while the control group (n = 49) maintained treatment-as-usual only. The outcome variables were measured using the Reflux Disease Questionnaire and GERD-Quality of Life questionnaire. The questionnaires were completed before and after the intervention. 

Results: The mean scores of symptom frequency (p < 0.001), symptom severity (p < 0.001) and quality of life (p = 0.001) decreased significantly after the intervention in the two groups. The results also showed that the difference between before and after intervention for mean scores of symptom frequency (p = 0.006), symptom severity (p = 0.001) and quality of life (p = 0.004) was significant in the experimental group compared to the control group. Furthermore, no statistically significant difference in patients' satisfaction with their condition was found between the two groups before (p = 0.698) and after (p = 0.124) the intervention. 

Conclusion: Diaphragmatic breathing training can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life in patients with GERD.