Why Does Laughing Make Me Wheeze?
Laughter is an emotion that can aggravate asthma symptoms. This is because your airways are more sensitive when you have asthma. They are more likely to react to certain asthma triggers, such as:
- Exercise
- Viruses
- Irritants
- Strong emotions (e.g., laughing, anger, fear, excitement, yelling, and crying)
It is not the laughter itself that causes the symptoms. But your breathing can change during this strong emotion. This causes the airway muscles to tighten, narrowing the airways. Also, this can cause your breathing rate to increase.
Work with your doctor to develop an asthma action plan. Make sure you are taking all your asthma medicines and that your asthma is under control.
John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
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