Anxiety Induced Asthma
Table of Contents
Overview of Anxiety Induced Asthma
Anxiety, or stress, induced asthma has the same symptoms of asthma. These symptoms are brought on by periods of stress. Symptoms include wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing, or rapid breathing. Stress-induced asthma may also feel like a panic attack in many cases.
Causes of Anxiety Induced Asthma
Anxiety-induced asthma can be caused by any stressful situation. Situations that may trigger these symptoms include any big changes, moves, financial problems, relationships, school, or work. In some cases, there may not be just one cause, but can be a mixture of any of these. People with asthma may often feel anxious that their asthma is preventing them from living a “normal life” or their asthma attacks may lead to a time of panic. Since avoiding stressful situations is nearly impossible, it is imperative to learn the best ways to manage stress.
During these periods of intense stress, people are more prone to forget to take their medication as well. When medication is forgotten, then there is a greater chance for an attack.
Your body is not able to fight off colds or other diseases during times of stress either, which may lead to more attacks. It is important to be conscious of how much sleep you are getting and to eat and drink for proper nutrients.
Treatment of Anxiety Induced Asthma
There is no cure for asthma, but you can treat the cause and symptoms. The first step is to decide what the symptoms are caused by. Once the causes are decided, find a way to make this situation as stress-free as possible. If possible, take small steps in reducing stress, such as spending time meditating. Your physician may also recommend medication to aid in controlling anxiety, stress management, or therapy.
The second step is to treat asthma. Medication may also be prescribed to control your asthma. There are two types of medications for asthma, including long-term and rescue inhalers. You will need to treat your asthma and anxiety in order to feel better.