The role of psychological factors in the development and exacerbation of bronchial asthma

  • Z. A. Yeremyan Saint Petersburg State University (7-9, Universitetskaya nab., Saint Petersburg, 199034, Russia) https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0360-8877 yeremyanz@gmail.com
  • S. Y. Olga 1) St. Petersburg State University (7-9, Universitetskaya nab., Saint Petersburg, 199034, Russia); 2) V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Center of Psychiatry and Neurology (3, Bekhtereva str., St. Petersburg, 192019, Russia) https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9444-4742 Olga.psy.pu@mail.ru
Keywords: psychological factors, bronchial asthma, stress, anxiety, depression, respiratory diseases

Abstract

Introduction. Bronchial asthma is a chronic respiratory disease affecting millions of people worldwide, with a significant impact on quality of life and healthcare costs. While the biological and environmental causes of asthma have been extensively studied, the role of psychological factors in the development and exacerbation of asthma remains relatively understudied. This article aims to fill this gap by reviewing the existing literature on psychological factors and their influence on the onset and exacerbation of asthma symptoms. Methods. In this review, we analyzed a broad range of studies that investigated the link between psychological factors and asthma. The materials and methods involved a thorough search of various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, and a critical evaluation of the selected studies based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Results. The analysis of the literature revealed that psychological factors can contribute to the development and exacerbation of bronchial asthma through various mechanisms, such as immune dysregulation, altered airway physiology, and poor treatment adherence. The most commonly reported psychological factors associated with asthma were stress, anxiety, and depression. Conclusion. This review highlights the importance of considering psychological factors in the management of bronchial asthma. A holistic approach to asthma management that considers both physical and psychological factors is essential for effective treatment and improved quality of life of patients. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential impact of psychological factors on asthma and consider incorporating psychological interventions as part of asthma management.

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Author Biographies

Z. A. Yeremyan , Saint Petersburg State University (7-9, Universitetskaya nab., Saint Petersburg, 199034, Russia)

postgraduate student

S. Y. Olga , 1) St. Petersburg State University (7-9, Universitetskaya nab., Saint Petersburg, 199034, Russia); 2) V.M. Bekhterev National Medical Research Center of Psychiatry and Neurology (3, Bekhtereva str., St. Petersburg, 192019, Russia)

1) Doctor of Psychological Sciences, Professor, Acting Head of the Department of Medical Psychology and Psychophysiology; 2) Senior Researcher

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References on translit

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Published
2023-10-02
How to Cite
Yeremyan, Z., & Olga, S. (2023). The role of psychological factors in the development and exacerbation of bronchial asthma. Psychology. Psychophysiology, 16(3), 75-87. https://doi.org/10.14529/jpps230307
Section
Medical (clinical) psychology