Coping with Asthma During Exams: Tips for Students and Parents

Introduction: Stress + Asthma = A Tough Combo

Exams can be stressful for any student, but for those with asthma, the pressure can take a toll not just mentally but physically. The mix of anxiety, late-night study sessions, and exposure to dust or seasonal changes can all trigger asthma symptoms, especially during the summer exam season in India.

Having lived with asthma since childhood, I know firsthand how terrifying it can be to feel breathless right before walking into an exam hall. That’s why this blog is here to help both students and their families navigate this time with practical, asthma-friendly strategies.

Why Exams Can Trigger Asthma

• Stress and anxiety can lead to rapid breathing or hyperventilation, triggering symptoms.
• Lack of sleep affects immunity and increases sensitivity to triggers.
• Seasonal changes (like May-June heat or pollen) worsen breathing problems.
• Dusty environments, especially in schools or hostels, are common irritants.
• Skipping medications due to focus on studies or fear of side effects.

Tips for Students with Asthma

1. Stick to Your Medication Schedule

• Never skip your controller inhaler or preventive meds.
• Keep your rescue inhaler or nebulizer in your school bag.

2. Practice Breathing Exercises

• Use deep breathing or pursed-lip breathing to calm your nerves and lungs.
• Even 5 minutes before an exam can reduce tightness and stress.

3. Prep Your Study Environment

• Avoid studying in dusty corners or under ceiling fans that stir up allergens.
• Use a damp cloth to clean your desk area daily.

4. Don’t Compromise on Sleep

• Late-night cramming can weaken your immune system and worsen symptoms.
• Try the Pomodoro technique with breaks to avoid last-minute all-nighters.

5. Inform Your Teachers or Invigilators

• Let your teachers know in advance about your condition.
• If you have a severe episode, you should be allowed to step out or access your medication.

Tips for Parents

1. Keep the Home Air Clean

• Avoid incense sticks, perfumes, or cooking fumes near the child’s study room.
• Ensure proper ventilation and use a dust-free fan or AC.

2. Encourage Balanced Meals

• Include anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, green vegetables, and turmeric milk.
• Avoid cold drinks, fried snacks, or anything that can trigger mucus.

3. Support Without Pressure

• Avoid saying things like “don’t get stressed” — instead say, “we’ll handle this together.”
• Offer reassurance that their health comes first, no matter what.

Quick Checklist for Exam Season

• Controller inhaler as prescribed by your doctor
• Rescue inhaler in bag
• Steam or Jal Neti daily
• Study breaks every 25–30 mins
• Sleep 7–8 hours
• Share emergency contacts with school

Conclusion: Breathe First, Marks Second

Health always comes first. No exam is worth risking an asthma attack. With the right precautions, support, and planning, you can ace your exams and breathe easy. Please share your exam experience with everyone in the Asthma Friend community.