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Asthma and emotion: a review
P M Lehrer1, S Isenberg, S M Hochron
1Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, New Jersey.
Summary
This review explores the link between asthma and emotion, finding that individuals with asthma often experience heightened negative emotions, which can trigger asthma exacerbations. The relationship is complex and potentially bidirectional, influencing treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychoneuroimmunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Individuals with asthma frequently exhibit elevated negative emotions.
- Asthma exacerbations are often temporally associated with increased emotionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an explanatory model detailing the bidirectional relationship between asthma and emotion.
- To outline predictions for future research and psychological interventions for asthma.
Main Methods:
- Review of empirical literature on asthma and emotion.
- Development of a theoretical model incorporating potential mediating factors.
Main Results:
- Asthma and emotionality share a complex, potentially bidirectional causal link.
- Hypothesized mediators include autonomic hyperreactivity, airway obstruction patterns, and psychological factors.
Conclusions:
- The proposed model offers a framework for understanding asthma-emotion interactions.
- Findings suggest avenues for improved psychological treatments for asthma patients.