Stress: how it affects your asthma
Most of us experience stress at some point in our lives, but for people with asthma, stress and anxiety can be a significant trigger for attacks.
Having a chronic illness such as asthma can create stress through a combination of constant medical, emotional and physical pressures.
Dealing with your stress levels, or those of your child with asthma, is an important step towards controlling and preventing asthma symptoms, as well as enjoying life a lot more!
Can stress trigger my asthma attacks?
Stress and emotion can cause the worsening of asthma symptoms in some people, for example, crying or laughter can increase the rate and depth of breathing in a similar manner to exercise. Chemicals that are released by the body during times of stress can lead to the muscles around the air passages in the lungs tightening, hence narrowing, the air tubes, making it difficult to breathe.
Stress and my child’s asthma
It is important to teach your child with asthma how to deal quickly and effectively with stressful situations to ensure they do not experience a worsening of their asthma symptoms, or the development of an asthma attack.
Encourage your child with asthma to recognise when they are experiencing stress and when they need to relax, and to learn how to concentrate on slowing down their breathing.
How can I deal with my stress effectively?
Stress and asthma can be a vicious cycle: you stress about your condition, which makes your symptoms worse. Here are some tips for keeping your stress levels down, and living life to the full.
- Try to lead a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet are important in managing stress.
- Make yourself a priority: take time out to relax and enjoy life.
- Avoid consumption of recreational drugs or alcohol when you are feeling down. They may provide temporary relief, but will make the problem worse in the long run.
- Set yourself small goals in your home, work and social environment. Reward yourself when you achieve them.
- Learn relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to help reduce your stress levels.
- Don’t be afraid to seek help from your doctor or a counsellor if your stress is becoming unbearable: you don’t have to deal with it alone.
If you are experiencing stress as a result of your asthma, or are concerned that your stress may make your condition worse, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional about coping mechanisms and resources available to you.
Last Reviewed: 12 March 2003
