Despite the fact that around 10 million people per year have Asthma in India, there are many myths still floating in the air about it. It’s high time to quash these misconceptions and know the accurate facts. If you are preferential in understanding the facts and myths about Asthma, keep scrolling!
Asthma is a life-long lung problem in children and adults under which a person has difficulty breathing because of inflation, swelling, narrowing, and production of extra mucus in the airways. It can further trigger coughing, whistling sound, shortening of breath, etc. It may vary from mellow to severe, which can lead to a life-threatening attack.
Let’s shed light on some myths surrounding Asthma till today, and clear the air around them.
- Myth: Asthma is just in your head
Fact: Asthma is a severe lung disease
Although Asthma attacks do trigger due to anxiety or stress; however, it is a physiological condition and not psychological. Some common reasons for inflammation in the lungs are pollen, dust, pollution, smoke, cold air, etc., which may vary from person to person.
- Myth: Asthmatics can’t exercise
Fact: Exercise improves Asthma control
It is a common belief that exercising can aggravate Asthma. But the proven fact is exercising intend to strengthen the lungs, which can help fight Asthma better. Aside from strenuous workouts, exercising improves the overall health of the patient, and avoid Asthma flare-ups.
- Myth: Asthma is only treated when symptoms show up
Fact: Constant medication is the key to control Asthma
The medication under it differs from situation to situation. Few medicines are prescribed to relieve pain during attacks, while some are taken regularly due to the severe and long-term nature of the disease. Hence, never forget to take your medicines on time, even if you are feeling well.
- Myth: Children can outgrow Asthma
Fact: It is a life-long disease
The severity and frequency of attacks can reduce with the passing time, but the disease never truly disappears. However, growing up, attacks might not flare up at triggers, i.e., decreasing sensitivity, and you might go a long period without any symptoms, but they can trigger and reappear anytime.
- Myth: Asthma medicines are habit-forming
Fact: Asthma medicines are safe and not addictive
The medicines are meant to relax your muscles around the airways and widen them. Inhalers and oral drugs are not addictive but help to control and improve Asthma. However, the essential thing to remember is always asking the doctor before using an inhaler or taking any other medicine to relieve the pain.
Asthma is manageable with proper medication, a doctor’s prescription, and a healthy lifestyle. Knowing the correct facts about Asthma and dispelling these misconceptions can mark a difference in the life of an Asthma patient.
