Unemployment can have various negative effects on a person, and now research shows that it may even trigger asthma. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing in the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing.

According to a study by the European Respiratory Journal, people who are unemployed are more likely to develop asthma than those who are employed, even after considering various other factors.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that affects millions of people worldwide. The primary symptoms of the condition include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

The inflammation in the airways narrows them, which makes it harder for air to pass through them, leading to the symptoms associated with asthma. The triggers for asthma are many and varied, ranging from allergens like pollen, dust mites, and animal dander to irritants such as cigarette smoke, chemicals, and pollution.

Unemployment and asthma link

The link between unemployment and asthma has been explored in a study by Dr. Christos Vlachos and team, who looked at the data of over 8000 employed and unemployed participants aged 18-50 years from various European countries.

The data was collected as part of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey III. The study found that the unemployed participants had a 24% higher risk of developing asthma than those who were employed.

Possible reasons for the link

There are several reasons why unemployment may contribute to asthma development. Firstly, unemployed individuals may be exposed to more environmental triggers like dust, pollution, and chemicals due to their lack of occupation.

The stress and financial uncertainty associated with unemployment can lead to poor mental health, which has also been linked with asthma. Additionally, those who are unemployed may have less access to healthcare and medication, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Other health effects of unemployment

Unemployment can have various impacts on an individual’s physical and mental health. Some of these include:.

Increase in stress and anxiety levels
Higher risk of depression
Increased susceptibility to infectious diseases
Higher risk of heart disease and stroke
Increase in substance abuse and addiction

How to manage and prevent asthma

There is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed and controlled effectively with the right treatment. Some ways to manage and prevent asthma include:.

Using inhalers or nebulizers as prescribed by a doctor
Avoiding triggers like allergens, irritants, and pollution
Regular exercise to improve lung function
Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
Keeping stress levels in check
Regular check-ups with a doctor to monitor symptoms

Conclusion

Unemployment can have various negative effects on an individual, including the increased risk of developing asthma.

Research has indicated that those who are unemployed are more likely to develop asthma due to various factors such as environmental exposures and stress. Although there is no cure for asthma, it can be managed and controlled effectively with the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and avoidance of triggers.