Dysfunctional Breathing, Exercise Capacity, and Balance in Hypertension

Istinye University50 enrolled

Overview

This prospective cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between dysfunctional breathing (DB), exercise capacity, and balance in patients with arterial hypertension (HT). DB is characterized by abnormal breathing patterns and is associated with symptoms such as dyspnea and inefficient ventilation, regardless of the presence of organic respiratory disease. Hypertension may further exacerbate these symptoms and contribute to impaired exercise performance and postural balance. The study will assess DB using the Nijmegen Questionnaire, along with anthropometric measurements, balance tests, and functional exercise capacity evaluations. Findings may contribute to better understanding of respiratory dysfunctions in hypertensive individuals and their impact on physical performance.

Study Type

OBSERVATIONAL

Enrollment

Conditions

Dysfunctional Breathing Arterial Hypertension Exercise Capacity Balance

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 18 YearsMax age: 70 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 18 and 70 years * Diagnosed with hypertension and under follow-up for at least 6 months * Willing to participate in the study voluntarily * Nijmegen Questionnaire score of 23 or above Exclusion Criteria: * Medication change within the last month prior to study enrollment * Presence of unstable metabolic disease

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Assessment of Dysfunctional Breathing Level

Nijmegen Questionnaire: The questionnaire is used for the assessment and identification of respiratory dysfunction, unexplained respiratory symptoms, and hyperventilation syndrome indicators. It consists of 16 items covering neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and psychological factors. Each item is rated on a 5-point Likert scale, with a total score ranging from 0 to 64. Higher scores indicate an increased likelihood of respiratory dysfunction and hyperventilation syndrome. A score above 23 supports the possible diagnosis of dysfunctional breathing. The questionnaire has a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 95%. The Turkish version of the questionnaire has been validated and found to be reliable.

Time frame: At baseline

Assessment of Balance-I

The Timed Up and Go Test is a method used to rapidly assess an individual's balance control. During the test, the participant is instructed to rise from a seated position in a chair, walk a distance of 3 meters, turn around a reference object, return to the chair, and sit down again. The time taken to complete the task is recorded in seconds. The test will be repeated three times, and the average of the three trials will be used for analysis.

Time frame: At baseline

Assessment of Balance-II

The Berg Balance Scale is used to assess balance through progressively challenging tasks by reducing the level of support provided by the surface. The scale consists of 14 items, each scored from 0 to 4 (4: best performance, 0: poorest performance). A total score between 41-56 indicates a low risk of falling, 21-40 reflects a medium fall risk, and scores below 20 indicate a high fall risk.

Time frame: At baseline

Neck Circumference Measurements

Neck circumference will be measured using a flexible plastic measuring tape at the level of the cricoid cartilage, with the participant in an upright and relaxed position

Time frame: At baseline

Waist Circumference Measurement

Waist circumference will be measured using a flexible plastic measuring tape at the level of the iliac crest, with the participant standing upright and breathing normally.

Time frame: At baseline

Dysfunctional Breathing, Exercise Capacity, and Balance in Hypertension

Overview

Conditions

Eligibility

Locations (1)

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes