Related Experiment Videos
Psychological aspects of asthma
Paul Lehrer1, Jonathan Feldman, Nicholas Giardino
1Department of Psychiatry, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA. lehrer@umdnj.edu
Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology
|July 2, 2002
Summary
Psychological factors like stress and anxiety can worsen asthma, while asthma can increase the risk of mental health issues. Interventions focusing on education and psychological coping mechanisms can improve asthma management.
Area of Science:
- Psychoneuroimmunology
- Behavioral Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Asthma is influenced by psychological states (stress, anxiety) and environmental factors.
- Asthma is linked to higher rates of anxiety and depressive disorders.
- Psychological states and asthma symptoms can mutually influence each other.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the bidirectional relationship between asthma and psychological factors.
- To identify mechanisms through which psychological states affect asthma.
- To review psychological interventions for asthma management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of psychophysiological, behavioral, and clinical studies.
- Analysis of the interplay between psychological traits, asthma triggers, and symptom perception.
- Evaluation of the efficacy of psychological interventions.
Main Results:
- Psychological distress and asthma can create a feedback loop, worsening both conditions.
- Defensiveness correlates with poor perception of airway constriction.
- Asthma education and psychological interventions show promise in reducing morbidity.
Conclusions:
- Psychological interventions, alongside medical treatment, are valuable adjuncts for asthma care.
- Improving symptom perception and stress management can enhance asthma control.
- A holistic approach addressing both physical and psychological aspects is crucial for effective asthma management.