Breathing Exercise Training for Rapid Heartbeat
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test whether breathing exercises can help people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition that causes the heart to beat faster when standing. Researchers aim to understand how these exercises might enhance communication between different parts of the brain. The trial suits those diagnosed with POTS or similar conditions who have an upcoming visit to the VCU Comprehensive Autonomics Center. Participants should not have major ongoing health issues, such as severe heart or liver problems. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could improve future treatment options for POTS.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it excludes those using certain unapproved drugs or medical devices, and those using hormones other than insulin, thyroid replacement, or oral contraceptives. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
What prior data suggests that this breathing exercise training is safe for people with POTS?
Research shows that breathing exercises are generally safe. Studies have found that these exercises can lower blood pressure and heart rate without causing harm. People with chronic heart failure and high blood pressure have used them safely, with no reported side effects. This indicates that breathing exercises are well-tolerated and unlikely to cause problems. Therefore, for those considering joining a trial for breathing exercise training, evidence supports its safety.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for rapid heartbeat, which often involve medications like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, breathing exercise training offers a non-pharmacological approach. This technique is unique because it harnesses the power of controlled breathing to potentially regulate heart rate naturally, without the side effects associated with drugs. Researchers are excited about this method as it might provide a sustainable, easy-to-implement solution that could improve quality of life for patients without the need for medication.
What evidence suggests that breathing exercise training is effective for POTS?
Research has shown that breathing exercises, which participants in this trial will undergo, can help manage heart rate and stress. One review found that these exercises lower heart rate by about 1.72 beats per minute. Another study found that deep belly breathing reduces heart rate by an average of 7.35 beats per minute. Breathing exercises can also boost mood and quality of life, especially for people with heart failure. These findings suggest that breathing exercises might help people with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) by controlling rapid heartbeat and improving well-being.13567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Thomas Chelimsky, M.D.
Principal Investigator
Virginia Commonwealth University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking adults aged 18-50 with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). It's not suitable for those with chronic neurological conditions other than POTS, inflammatory arthritis, autoimmune disorders, or unstable medical issues like severe kidney or liver problems and poorly controlled heart disease.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo breathing exercise training to improve vagal function and practice this training
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in various psychological and physiological measures
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Breathing Exercise Training
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Virginia Commonwealth University
Lead Sponsor