Myth or Fact

In some cases, children with asthma, who get proper treatment, may experience improvement over time, and be less likely to have asthma attacks triggered by certain things, like pollen or dust. While asthma attacks may lessen with age, symptoms could resurface later in life.

Many people think exercising worsens asthma symptoms. But, physical activity strengthens the lungs and improves health for those with asthma. It, however, is important to consult a doctor before starting any intense exercise regimen as they may recommend some precautions.

Asthma is a chronic condition, requiring long-term medication to control symptoms. The medications consist of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles around airways. Inhaled corticosteroids also reduce inflammation or swelling in the airways. It's important to note that these medications are not addictive and play a crucial role in controlling asthma. However, stopping them without asking your doctor may make symptoms worse.

Asthma is a chronic disease but it can be managed easily with proper medications and breathing exercises. If left untreated, asthma symptoms can worsen and lead to life-threatening situations. However, it's important to recognize that asthma can be managed effectively with medications. While severe asthma attacks are rare, individuals must recognize triggers like pollen, dust, smoke, pet dander, etc. Managing their condition can prevent such occurrences.

Maintenance medications are long-term inhaled medications that are crucial for managing chronic asthma. They work by reducing airway inflammation and preventing attacks. Additionally, relievers offer immediate relief during asthma attacks. You should always follow the treatment plan diligently, and use maintenance medications to reduce inflammation, and utilize relievers for acute symptoms as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Remember to consult your doctor or take your medicines as prescribed. Notably, following the long-term medication plan as prescribed by your doctor is very important for managing asthma even if there are no symptoms.

Wheezing, a whistling sound from narrowed airways caused by inflammation and constriction, is just one of the symptoms of asthma, while it can present other symptoms too like coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. While usually audible, severe attacks of wheezing might only be heard with a stethoscope. In some cases, severe flare-ups can hinder air movement. This may lead to the absence of wheezing despite asthma. It is important to continue taking medications as prescribed even if there are no symptoms.

Some experience many symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. Others may have only one symptom. Symptoms can differ even within the same person, from mild to intense. Understanding these variations helps manage asthma for each individual.

Asthma triggers vary from person to person. Common factors include changes in weather, smoke, dust, pets, and certain medications. Other triggers are pollution, infections, specific foods, mold, cleaning products, and strong smells. Additionally, infections are the most common triggers of asthma attacks in children. By recognizing and avoiding these triggers, asthma symptoms can be better managed. Remember to talk to your doctor.

Research indicates that dietary or herbal supplements have minimal impact on asthma symptoms. In some cases, your doctor might recommend them for general health. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, like vitamins and herbal supplements.

Nebulization does not cause addiction. Nebulizers use the same medicines found in tablets or syrups, just in a liquid form. The nebulizer turns this liquid into a mist so it can be inhaled easily. This method helps the medicine reach the lungs directly. Using a nebulizer as prescribed by your doctor is safe and not habit-forming.

Nebulizers use a low dose of medicine, which turns into a mist or aerosol for direct inhalation into the lungs. This means fewer side effects. Unlike oral medicines (pills or syrups), which need higher doses and go through the stomach before getting distributed in the body, nebulizer medicine works right where it's needed.

No, longer nebulization doesn't mean better results. Nebulization should follow the time your doctor advises. Typically, jet nebulizers are used for 10-15 minutes. Nebulizing longer than this isn't helpful. Don't wait until the medicine cup is empty. Some liquid always stays behind, and your medication dose accounts for this.

Nebulizers act fast because the medicine goes straight to the lungs, working quicker than pills or syrups.

Using a mouthpiece correctly or wearing a tight-fitting mask ensures the full dose reaches your lungs, giving you quick relief.

Nebulizers are effective for babies and young kids. It's easier for them to inhale the mist, and they need smaller doses than oral medicines, which means fewer side effects.

When a child cries, they breathe quickly and shallowly. This means they won't inhale much medicine. It's better to calm them down before using the nebulizer.

Nebulizers aren't just for asthma. They help with congestion, wheezing, and breathing problems in conditions like bronchitis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), cystic fibrosis, and bronchiectasis. They are especially good for babies, small kids, and older people who find other devices hard to use. Always use a nebulizer if your doctor recommends it.

A mouthpiece is often better. It keeps the medicine from touching your skin or eyes, lowering side effects. It also makes sure the medicine goes straight to your lungs. If you use a face mask, breathe through your mouth, not your nose. Otherwise, the medicine will get trapped in your nose and won't reach your lungs.

To avoid infections, clean nebulizer parts like the mouthpiece, mask, medication cup, filter, and baffle after every use. Disinfect them daily. You don't need to clean the tubing, however, replace it in a timely fashion.

Common Myths about Nebulizers Busted. [Internet]. Breathefree. Available from:Click here