Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health Smoking and Lung Conditions Increase Risk of Dysfunctional Breathing
Dec 24, 2025
Dysfunctional breathing affects over 10% of adults, causing symptoms like air hunger and chest tightness. Current and former smokers face a significantly elevated risk of these issues. Stress intensifies poor breathing habits, leading to shallow chest breathing and muscle fatigue. Additionally, dysfunctional breathing can disrupt heart function and balance oxygen levels. Smoking exacerbates immune issues and long-term health risks, making quitting a crucial first step. The podcast also introduces breathing exercises to restore calm and improve overall health.
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Dysfunctional Breathing Is Common And Often Missed
- Over 11% of adults show signs of dysfunctional breathing on large screening using the Nijmegen questionnaire.
- Many cases go undiagnosed because standard lung tests often miss the pattern.
Lung And Nervous Conditions Raise Risk
- Asthma, COPD, bronchitis and pneumonia strongly increase the risk of dysfunctional breathing.
- The problem also links to neurological issues like epilepsy and prior stroke, showing wider nervous-system involvement.
Stress Drives A Vicious Breathing–Stress Loop
- Stress shifts breathing from diaphragmatic to shallow chest patterns that overuse accessory muscles.
- This creates tension and fatigue while disrupting heart rate variability and autonomic balance.