Respiratoire aandoeningen en medische psychologie

Abstract

Respiratory disorders and medical psychologyThis paper reviews psychological aspects of respiratory disorders, in particular asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It discusses definition, epidemiology, risk factors and medical management of both disorders, in the context of psychological and social factors. Psychosocial consequences of asthma are described, as is the psychological management of patients with this respiratory disorder. On the basis of Cochrane reviews, a cautious optimism seems warranted: incorporating self-management training into medical care leads to positives outcomes for patients with asthma.