WALKING AROUND IN CIRCLES - THE LIFE SITUATION OF PATIENTS WITH ASTHMA-LIKE SYMPTOMS BUT NEGATIVE ASTHMA TESTS

In-depth interviews were conducted with fourteen women with asthma-lik e symptoms but negative asthma tests. In collecting and analysing data the method of grounded theory was used. A core category emerged, Walk ing around in circles, and three main categories, Subjective Hyperreac tivity, Social Limitations and Non Confirmation which elucidated the l ife situation and psychosocial processes involved in having the breath ing disorder. Tile findings were characterised by numerous self-reinfo rcing vicious circles. The symptoms were especially associated with su bjective hyperreactivity with strong sensitivity to odours, impaired a bility to perform physical activities and mental stress, which in turn impose social limitations. These restrictions arouse feelings of soci al isolation and distress, which implies mental stress and thereby inc reased attention and sensitivity to adverse stimuli. The fact that the medical experts cannot offer diagnosis and treatment engenders feelin gs of confusion, non-confirmation and thereby anxiety which further ag gravate the vicious circles described. Most informants considered that they had few coping strategies. Some stated that they had changed the ir strategies from being passive, taking no responsibility, to become more active, not caring about the reactions of others and taking the r isk of being ill, Favouring social contacts and thus minimising the im pact of the disorder.