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- $Unique_ID{BRK01343}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Can Stress Actually Bring on an Asthma Attack?}
- $Subject{asthma child stress respiratory system mental emotional frustrating
- frightening upsetting wheezing asthmatic pulmonary lungs lung bronchi
- bronchioles behavior behaviors asthmatic children kid kids stresses
- psychiatric fright frightened upset frustrated}
- $Volume{H-5, H-23, E-5, E-23}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Can Stress Actually Bring on an Asthma Attack?
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- QUESTION: My young daughter is under constant care for asthma. In general we
- are doing well, but when she gets off base, and I try to correct her, I'm in
- real trouble. She begins wheezing, and I'm afraid she'll have a full blown
- attack, so I let her get away with what she's done. Can the stress of our
- disagreement actually bring on an attack? Please help this distressed mother.
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- ANSWER: It's true that any extremely frustrating, frightening or upsetting
- situation may trigger some wheezing in the asthmatic child. But discipline is
- essential for any child. Start by having a good heart to heart chat with your
- daughter. And pick a time when there is nothing else brewing. Explain that
- you love her, but that everyone, including adults as well as children, must
- live by certain rules. When we don't, we must accept the consequences.
- Many asthmatic children suffer from added emotional problems. They may
- be afraid of dying. They often suffer from feelings of inferiority because
- they can't compete in some activities or because of repeated absences from
- school. These emotional problems may lead to depression.
- If you can't regain control of the discipline problem, I strongly suggest
- seeing a psychologist or social worker to help you and your daughter.
- Frequently, a calm voice of reason from outside the family can bring about the
- desired effect.
- Also, be sure to check that your daughter is taking her medication when
- she is being corrected. Some children purposely skip medication while
- "grounded", knowing full well it'll spur symptoms. It's their way of getting
- back at concerned parents.
-
- ----------------
-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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