Asthma Is No Laughing Matter

Laughter may lower blood pressure and boost immunity, among other therapeutic benefits. But for those with asthma, a hearty giggle is no laughing matter. Like other strong emotions and expressions of stress, such as crying or yelling, laughing can induce asthma attacks.

Cracking up may trigger asthma by disrupting breathing patterns and restricting airflow. Of course that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good chuckle. But awareness can lead to faster use of inhalers and better management of symptoms.

The amount of intensity required to trigger an attack can vary. Effects of laughter can indicate whether your asthma is well controlled or your treatment needs an overhaul.

Establish a hands-off tickle policy. If you have laughter-induced asthma, you can still have your funny bone tickled with movies, jokes, or friends. But refrain from being physically tickled, just to be on the safe side.