| Therapeutic Effects of Slow Deep Breathing on Cardiopulmonary Function, Physical Performance, Biochemical Parameters, and Stress in Older Adult Patients with Long COVID in Phayao, Thailand |
Tichanon Promsrisuk1, Arunrat Srithawong2, Ratchaniporn Kongsui1, Napatr Sriraksa1, Sitthisak Thongrong3, Chiraphat Kloypan4, Nattha Muangritdech5, Kit Khunkitti6, Thanakorn Thanawat6, Petcharaporn Chachvarat7 
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1Division of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
2Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
3Division of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
4Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
5Khon Kaen University Phenome Centre, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
6Faculty of Science and Technology, Uttaradit Rajabhat University, Uttaradit, Thailand
7Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand |
Correspondence:
Petcharaporn Chachvarat,
Email: petcharaporn.ch@up.ac.th
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Received: 13 November 2024 • Revised: 7 February 2025 • Accepted: 25 February 2025 |
| Abstract |
Background
Long COVID poses significant challenges for older adult patients, affecting their cardiopulmonary function and overall well-being. This study aimed to investigate the effects of slow deep breathing exercises on cardiopulmonary function, physical performance, biochemical markers, oxidative stress, and stress levels in older adult patients with long COVID.
Methods
Sixty older adult patients with long COVID were randomly assigned to an exercise group of 30 patients and a control group of 30 patients. The exercise group engaged in slow deep breathing exercises for 30 minutes, five times a week over a period of 8 weeks, while the control group maintained their usual activities. Cardiovascular parameters, heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory muscle strength (RMS), pulmonary function tests (PFT), physical performance, biochemical and oxidative stress markers, and stress levels were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Data were analyzed using one-way repeated measures ANOVA.
Results
The exercise group showed significant reductions in cardiovascular parameters (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate). Additionally, RMS, PFT, and physical performance showed significant increases. Improvements were also observed in HRV, biochemical markers (fasting blood sugar and lipid profile), oxidative stress markers (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde), and stress levels. In contrast, no significant changes were found in the control group.
Conclusion
Slow deep breathing exercises, as a non-pharmacological intervention, significantly improve cardiopulmonary function, physical performance, and various health markers in older adult patients with long COVID. This approach provides a valuable and accessible therapeutic option for this population. |
| Key Words:
Long COVID, Slow deep breathing, Cardiovascular, Pulmonary, Older adults |
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