A simple breathing trick may calm colonoscopy nerves — a trial puts it to the test

NCT ID NCT07728890

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Tarsus University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 05, 2026 · Updated 4 times

Summary

This trial tests whether box breathing — a technique of inhaling, holding, exhaling, and holding for 4 seconds each — can reduce anxiety, pain, and improve lung function in people undergoing colonoscopy. Half of the 68 participants will practice the breathing exercise before the procedure, while the other half receives standard care. Researchers will measure anxiety, pain, and breathing tests before and after the procedure to see if this simple technique makes a difference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: box breathing exercises (4-4-4-4 breathing technique)
What this could lead to: If it works, this simple breathing exercise could offer a drug-free way to reduce anxiety and pain during colonoscopy.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial. The technique may not significantly reduce anxiety or pain, and results may not apply to other procedures.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for COLONOSCOPY are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COLONOSCOPY

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.