Author:
Niu Shanshan,Zhang Tongyangzi,Li Wanzhen,Wen Siwan,Dong Lei,Wang Shengyuan,Shi Wenbo,Shi Cuiqin,Shen Yuqin,Huang Qianchun,Tan Yaling,Xu Xianghuai,Yu Li
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objective
To explore the efficacy of deep diaphragmatic breathing training (DEP) in patients with gastroesophageal reflux-induced chronic cough (GERC).
Methods
A randomized controlled study was conducted involving 60 GERC patients who were divided into the intervention group and the control group (each with 30 patients). Both groups received routine medication treatment for GERC, while the intervention group received DEP training additionally. Both groups were evaluated by cough symptom scores, Hull airway reflux questionnaire (HARQ), gastroesophageal reflux diagnostic questionnaire (GerdQ), generalized anxiety disorder scale-7 (GAD-7), patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), the Leicester cough questionnaire (LCQ), as well as capsaicin cough sensitivity testing, B-ultrasound and surface electromyography (sEMG) of the diaphragmatic muscles before and after treatment. The cough resolution rate and changes of the above indictors was compared between the two groups after eight weeks of treatment.
Results
After eight weeks of treatment, cough symptoms improved in both groups, but the cough resolution rate in the intervention group of 94% was significantly higher than that in the control group of 77% (χ2 = 6.402, P = 0.041). The intervention group showed significant improvements to the control group in GerdQ (6.13(0.35) VS 6.57(0.77)), GAD-7 (0(0;1) VS 1(0;3)), PSQI (2(1;3) VS 4(3;6)), LCQ (17.19(1.56) VS 15.88(1.92)) and PHQ-9 (0(0;0) VS 0(0;3)) after treatment. Compared to control group, sEMG activity of the diaphragmatic muscle was significantly increased in the intervention group after treatment, measured during DEP (79.00(2.49) VS 74.65 (1.93)) and quiet breathing (72.73 (1.96) VS 67.15 (2.48)).
Conclusion
DEP training can improve cough symptoms as an adjunctive treatment in GERC patients.
Trial registration
The protocol was registered in February 2, 2022 via the Chinese Clinical Trials Register (http://www.chictr.org.cn/) [ChiCTR2200056246].
Funder
the National Natural Science Foundation of China
the Project of Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality
the Program of Shanghai Academic Research Leader
the Fund of Shanghai Youth Talent Support Program
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
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