Emphysema, Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (C.O.A.D.), Chronic Airways Limitation (C.A.L.) and Bronchiectasis are all conditions involving lung damage, and are often considered to be irreversible and untreatable. However, many people with these conditions have achieved significant improvement in their condition by learning and practising the Buteyko breathing technique.

By improving the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, they are able to make better use of their remaining lung capability. Many are able to significantly reduce the amount of medication required, to increase their ability to walk and exercise, and to greatly improve their quality of life.

The Buteyko technique is best known for its use in asthma, and asthmatics who learn the technique reduce their need for reliever medication dramatically and very quickly, often within the first one or two days. In emphysema and other conditions involving lung damage, the improvement is usually more gradual, though most will notice a difference within the first week. Many are able to significantly reduce their need for medication, with less use of nebulisers. There is usually a reduction in shortness of breath, and people are able to walk comfortably without puffing, and walk up stairs and up hills. The Buteyko technique has also improved the breathing of people who have had a lung removed or parts of lungs removed.

Improved sleep is often a pleasant “side effect” of Buteyko breathing, with less frequent waking during the night, falling asleep more easily and waking feeling refreshed in the morning.