The Efficacy of Deep Breathing Compared to Thiazide Diuretics in the Treatment of Mild Essential Hypertension

Introduction: Essential hypertension is globally recognized as a leading contributor to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality. Pharmaceutical options such as thiazide diuretics have long represented the mainstay of hypertension medical management. However, thiazide diuretic use can be accompanied by a number of adverse effects. Deep breathing has been suggested as an effective non-pharmaceutical method of blood pressure reduction. This piece will attempt to answer the question: is deep breathing more effective than thiazide diuretics in reducing the blood pressure of adult patients over the age of 40 with mild essential hypertension? Methods: A literature search was completed in November 2018. Results: The seven randomized controlled trials included in this review analyzed the impact of deep breathing on blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Discussion: Five studies reported significant reductions in SBP. Three studies reported significant reductions in DBP. Three reported significant reductions in heart rate following deep breathing practice. One study observed a significant increase in heart rate. Two studies reported significant decreases in pulse pressure after deep breathing. Conclusion: Current evidence does not support the use of deep breathing practice as a primary treatment for essential hypertension. However, deep breathing may be used in clinical practice as an alternative or adjunct hypertensive treatment