Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a common health problem among children and many parents struggle to manage their child’s asthma symptoms. 

While asthma can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as allergens, respiratory infections and physical exercise, recent research has suggested that emotional stress can also play a role in triggering asthma symptoms in children. In this context, parents might wonder whether emotional stress can affect their child’s asthma, particularly in the case of a 13-year-old child. This essay aims to explore the link between emotional stress and asthma, specifically in children and adolescents, with a focus on the potential impact of stress on a 13-year-old’s asthma.

Asthma can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional well-being and stress levels. The physical symptoms of asthma, such as difficulty breathing, wheezing and coughing, can be very distressing and anxiety-provoking for people with asthma. This can cause them to feel stressed, worried and fearful about their health and future.

In addition, the chronic nature of asthma and the need to constantly manage and monitor the condition can lead to increased stress levels. People with asthma may worry about experiencing asthma attacks or exacerbations and this can cause them to avoid certain situations or activities that they perceive as being risky. This can lead to social isolation and reduced quality of life, which can further exacerbate stress and negative emotions.

Stick to your asthma routine. Stress is most likely to trigger asthma symptoms if your asthma is not well managed in the first place, if we think and feel a stressful event is too much for us to handle or we feel threatened by it, we’re more likely to react with worse asthma symptoms.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Furthermore, the medications used to manage asthma, such as corticosteroids, can have side effects that can also affect emotional well-being. For example, these medications can cause mood changes, insomnia and anxiety.

Strong emotions and stress are well known triggers of asthma. There is evidence of a link between asthma, anxiety, and depression, though the outcomes are sometimes not consistent. Anxiety and depression may be associated with poor asthma control.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Q1. Can I use the peak flow meter at home to monitor my asthma?

Yes. One can monitor their asthma by recording the peak flow (PEF) reading regularly at home.

Q2. My 4-year-old kid has been advised to take inhalers. Are inhalers safe for children?

Inhalers are devices used to deliver the drug directly to the airways in the lungs. When an inhaler is used correctly, very little drug is absorbed by the body and is unlikely to cause any side effects. Side effects are further prevented by prescribing the lowest possible dose of the drug required to manage the condition. Self-medication can be harmful, always follow your doctor’s advice.

Q3. How do I know my child has something else and not asthma?

Take note of your child’s symptoms, variations during the day/night, triggers etc. and consult a doctor. With detailed information provided by you and clinical examination, your doctor may be able to diagnose the condition. Some tests may be required to rule out other similar conditions.

Q4. Does asthma come and go?

For some, asthma symptoms may get worse during certain seasons because of exposure to triggers.

Q5. I have asthma and I am pregnant. Will my child also get asthma?

Asthma has a genetic predisposition. A child who has a parent with asthma is more likely to have the condition than a child who does not have a close family member with asthma.

Q6. I’ve noticed that some of the medicines I take for my PCOS make my breathing difficult. Should I go see my doctor about this?

Some medicines can act as a trigger for asthma. It is important that one consults a doctor in such situations.

Q7. What diet should I follow if I have asthma? I already have a set diet for wrestling.

One doesn’t need to follow any dietary restrictions if one has asthma. However, if

certain food items such as nuts or aerated drinks tend to trigger one’s asthma, then those food items must be avoided.

Also Read: Trench Mouth: Causes, Symptoms, and Research-Based Treatment Options

In conclusion, asthma can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional well-being and stress levels. It is important for people with asthma to manage their condition effectively and seek support from healthcare professionals and loved ones to help manage the emotional impact of the condition.

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.