5 Common Asthma Myths and Facts

Asthma is a common breathing condition that is estimated to affect 300 million worldwide across all age groups. While it is not curable, asthma symptoms can be controlled if it is diagnosed and treated properly but many people still do not know about asthma or its risks if left untreated. The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) was established by WHO to increase awareness about asthma and to improve prevention and management. World Asthma Day is held each year in May to raise awareness of asthma worldwide. This year's theme, ‘Uncovering Asthma Misconceptions’, was chosen to talk about some of the widely held asthma myths and misconceptions.

Here are some asthma myths that are commonly believed which aren't true: 

Asthma Myth #1: Asthma is a childhood condition that can be outgrown 

The truth is that asthma is not a childhood disease and can occur at any age - in children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly. So, if you start experiencing any of the asthma symptoms like coughing, difficulty in breathing, wheezing, etc. it is important to contact a doctor who can run tests and diagnose whether you have asthma.

Asthma Myth #2: Asthma is infectious 

Asthma is not infectious, it is a non-communicable disease, which means that it cannot be transferred from one person to another. But you should also know that viral respiratory infections like the common cold and flu can trigger asthma and even cause asthma attacks.  

Asthma Myth #3: If you have asthma, you should not exercise 

When asthma symptoms are properly controlled, you can exercise and even participate in sports. You can consult your doctor about exercising and if your condition is under control, you should be able to exercise. Your doctor will also inform you of what to do in case exercise does trigger any symptoms. Exercise is an essential part of staying healthy so don’t let this asthma myth keep you from your fitness journey! In fact, regular physical exercise can help you control asthma in the long run.

Asthma Myth #4: Asthma is only controllable with high dose steroids

This asthma myth might sound scary if you think high dose steroids are required to keep asthma in control but it is not accurate. Asthma treatment commonly includes the use of low doses inhaled corticosteroids through inhaler devices. A higher dose is often not required for asthma management since the medication is very effective as it is inhaled and delivered directly to the lungs. The doses are much lower than compared to what would be in pills and thus, they are also less likely to have side effects.

Asthma Myth #5: Asthma medication is only used for asthma attacks

Asthma is a long-term condition whose management includes bringing the asthma symptoms into control. This is made possible by asthma treatment which includes using controller medication as prescribed by your doctor on a regular basis. The controller medication contains a low dose of inhaled corticosteroids which reduce the swelling in your airways which leads to reducing asthma symptoms and the chance of asthma attacks. If you do have an asthma attack, a quick-relief inhaler is used which can provide immediate relief when it is needed. If you do use this reliever medication more than twice a week, it can mean that your asthma is worsening and you should consult your doctor.

These are just some of the myths and misconceptions that people believe. Being aware of facts about asthma, you can take full benefit of the major advances in asthma management and know what options are available to you.

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