Melbourne, Aug 24 A good laugh is considered to be the best medicine, but a new research suggests that it may trigger serious asthma attacks.

This makes laughter a serious matter for 40 percent per cent of Australia's 2 million asthma sufferers, according to a new study.

The online poll of 200 sufferers, conducted by drug company AstraZeneca's, has backed university research that revealed laughter can spark the chronic respiratory illness in up to half of asthmatics.

A more serious concern from this research is that three quarters of asthmatics believe their asthma is well managed but the majority put up with lifestyle restrictions because of their illness.

The survey reflected both a University of NSW 2004 study published in the Journal Of Asthma and a New York University 2005 study Laughter May Trigger Asthma Attacks.

Almost two thirds found themselves breathless when doing housework or shopping, while half struggled to do their favourite activities.

More than one third felt tired because of disturbed sleep.

A further one in five cancelled social engagements because of their asthma.

Concord Hospital thoracic physician Professor Christine Jenkins said well-managed asthma should not hamper the enjoyment of any of life's pleasures.

"Worryingly, these findings show that while many believe they have their asthma under control, the asthma is actually controlling them and their lifestyles," the Daily Telegraph quoted her as saying. (ANI)