Stress can feel like a storm brewing inside, but for asthmatics, it’s more than just a mental whirlwind — it’s a potential trigger for serious breathing difficulties. If you’ve ever felt your chest tighten after a rough day or struggled to catch your breath during a stressful moment, you’re not alone.
Managing stress as an asthmatic requires extra care, but with the right tools, you can find your calm and breathe easily even when life feels overwhelming.
According to Healthline, stress can cause changes in the body’s natural response to threats, such as elevated heart rate, flushed skin, nausea, and rapid breathing, which can complicate asthma symptoms. It is further mentioned that being stressed can alter the inflammatory response to allergens and decrease sensitivity to bronchodilators, making asthma worse and affecting overall health.
The above source also states that stress can negatively impact asthma management, leading to less follow-through on treatment routines and increased hospital visits. “At the heart of it all, stress can make asthma more difficult to control and can lead to medication overuse.”
The Asthma + Lung, a health related publication, suggests that to manage asthma, you need to follow your asthma routine, including taking prescribed medicines, inhaling correctly, and having a written action plan. You are also advised to talk to your medical provider or asthma nurse for support during high-stress levels, suggesting medication adjustments or counselling. “Cut down stress in your life. Find out more about how eating well, doing exercise, and connecting with others can help with stress and well-being.”
To manage stress effectively, change thought patterns, reduce stressors, practice effective time-management skills, and practice relaxation exercises, claims the Cleveland Clinic. It is further mentioned that you exercise regularly, develop good sleep habits, and follow recommended nutritional guidelines to reduce stress.
“Delegate responsibility. Stress overload often results from having too many responsibilities. You can free up time and decrease stress by delegating responsibilities. Take a team approach and involve everyone in sharing the load.”
Medical News Today explains that common medications used to reduce stress-induced asthma symptoms include beta-2 agonists, anticholinergics, anti-inflammatory medications, and combinations of bronchodilators and corticosteroids. Beta-2 agonists open airways by relaxing muscles, while anticholinergics prevent muscle tightening around airways, adds the mentioned source. “Anti-inflammatory medications reduce mucus production and swelling in the airways, which makes it easier to breathe. They include corticosteroids, which doctors can prescribe in inhaler form. An example is fluticasone (Flovent HFA).”
Also see: Stress management tips for teachers
