A good guffaw is said to be good for health, but a new study has claimed that laughter may aggravate asthma by triggering attacks.
Researchers at National Asthma Council Australia have carried out the study and found 40 per cent of the nation’s two million asthma sufferers experience attacks after chuckling, the Australian media reported.
They have based their findings on an analysis of a survey and that 74 per cent of asthma sufferers believe their condition is well managed but nearly 85 per cent miss out on socialising, exercising or getting a good night’s sleep.
The Council has launched an assessment tool on its website to help people manage the condition better.
“Taking time to complete this lifestyle assessment and discussing the results with a doctor should be a priority for all people with asthma — particularly those who have lived with the condition for a number of years,” National Asthma Council Chairman Dr. Noela Whitby was quoted as saying.
Added Professor Christine Jenkins, a lung expert from Sydney’s Concord Hospital: “When asthma’s managed well, people should be able to enjoy life’s everyday pleasures, which most of us take for granted.
“Worryingly, these findings show while many believe they have their asthma under control, asthma is actually controlling them and their lifestyles.”
