Asthma is a common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties.
But new research demonstrates that many patients are experiencing these symptoms while having sex – and that it’s affecting their relationships in a massive way.
A survey carried out by Asthma UK revealed 68 per cent of people with asthma have had their sex lives directly affected by their condition.
Almost three quarters (73 per cent) said they’d felt embarrassed about using their inhaler on a romantic night out.
Nearly half surveyed (46 per cent) said they’d be more sexually confident if they didn’t have asthma, and just under 15 per cent said they felt their asthma had contributed to a relationship ending.
Some of the asthma sufferers revealed they’d reduced the amount of sex they have or stopped having it altogether when it made their condition worse.
And while two in three (64 per cent) said perfume or scented candles have triggered their symptoms, others said they’d reacted to latex in condoms or strong-smelling flowers.
The survey, titled ‘Asthma and Your Love Life’, forms part of the charity’s Valentine’s Day campaign to raise awareness for how asthma can get in the way of sex and relationships.
Although only 544 people took part, the research gives an indication of the impact asthma may be having on the 5.4 million sufferers currently receiving treatment in the UK.
One of the comments shared in the survey was: “I was dumped in an ambulance once, mid asthma attack, because my boyfriend said I was causing him stress and he couldn’t cope. I ended up going to the hospital alone.”
Another person said: “I stopped having sex with my ex as I was embarrassed about having an asthma attack. It knocked my confidence and self-esteem so much that our relationship eventually broke down.”
And someone else revealed: “I’ve had to use my reliever inhaler during sex, and sometimes I’ve had to stop having sex altogether because my asthma got so bad. I now avoid having sex completely.”
Dr Andy Whittamore, Asthma UK’s in-house GP, said: “People with asthma should be able to enjoy a healthy love life without their condition getting in the way.
“However, our survey shows that many people are struggling with asthma symptoms.
“If you find that sex triggers your asthma, this may indicate that your asthma is not under control and you should seek help from your GP or asthma nurse.
“You can reduce your risk of an asthma attack and ensure your asthma is well-managed by making sure you have a result asthma review with your GP or asthma nurse, a written action plan and an inhaler check.”
Daily Express :: Life and Style Feed
