The emotional impact of severe asthma upon intimacy and relationships

Introduction: Living with severe asthma (SA) is related to reduced life quality and heightened emotional burden for the patient1. SA is likely to also impact on personal relationships, yet there is a dearth of research exploring this. The aim of this study was to explore patients experiences and perspectives of the impact of SA on intimacy and relationships. Methods: Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of SA participated in a semi-structured interview. Interviews were verbatim transcribed and analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological analysis. Results: Nine patients participated; most were female (n=6); mean age was 45years (range 34-59), and all were in an existing relationship. All patients reported an emotional burden which impacted on personal relationships including: -Negative perception of self-image and desirability as a consequence of corticosteroids. -Difficulty adopting to transformation of partners role – “I love him as my lover but struggle with him as carer” -Isolation through carrying the emotional burden of disease alone for fear of being perceived burdensome. -Adjustment to difficult personality change as consequence of steroids. -Guilt at inability to sexually perform and perceived inadequacy of their spousal role. -Inability to feel desirable as consequence of physical effort required. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the first empirical study that offers insight into an important yet rarely discussed topic in SA. It identifies that living with SA imposes significant emotional burden alongside physical limitations. Greater awareness of and psychological support is required to address poor self-image, guilt and negativity associated with living with SA. 1-Asthma UK (2010) Fighting for breath.