Asthma medication may influence the psychological functioning of children
Section snippets
Background
Asthma, characterized as acute respiratory distress, is a serious global health problem that has steadily increased in prevalence during the past two decades [1]. The prevalence of asthma among children in South Africa is approximately 10–15% [2]; this is in keeping with figures in other parts of the world. Shaw and co-workers [3] in 2000 mentioned that the prevalence of asthma in a random sample of 14-year-old children in Birmingham (England) (from 12 secondary schools) was 15.8%; and in two
The role of serotonin in asthma
Although asthma medication can save lives, relatively little is known about the long-term effects of these stimulants or how they alter brain chemistry. Serotonin, in particular plays an important role in asthma. Research has indicated that asthma attacks are triggered by free serotonin in the blood plasma (f-5HT) [5], [6], [7], [8]. Lechin and co-workers in 1996 mentioned that symptomatic asthmatic patients have increased levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, free serotonin and
The link between serotonin and unacceptable behaviour
The link between serotonin, aggression, disruptive behaviour, mood and impulsive behaviour is a complex link and seems to be directly correlated to low serotonin levels. There is, however, a complex relationship between serotonin levels and neuroanatomical, neurochemical interconnectivity, executive brain function, and behavioural dysregulation. Furthermore, there is evidence that low serotonin levels seem to result in emotional dysregulation. Davidson and co-workers [17] suggested evidence of
Conclusion
After studying the literature it is clear that in the control of asthma, low serotonin levels are preferred. However, low serotonin levels have been associated with many disorders where medications that increase serotonin are given. Although asthma is a potentially deadly disease, it is crucial to be aware that different combinations of drugs should not be used together with asthma medications. Up to 15% of children suffer from asthma, therefore a percentage of these children might be taking
Acknowledgements
This research is dedicated to a very brave little boy, Carel, who suffers from asthma and struggles to overcome this disease every day of his life.
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