There are several questions which are asked by the patients, regularly. There I have described some common questions and their relevant answers.
Will asthma stop me from leading a normal life?
You can lead a normal and active life, even if you have asthma. All you have to do is follow your doctor’s instructions and take your medicines regularly.
When do I need Preventer medicine for asthma?
In general, you need Preventer medicine for asthma when :
□ There is cough, breathlessness or wheezing during routine activities, more than two or three times a week.
□ Your sleep is disturbed by cough or wheezing every week.
□ You need to use Reliever medicine daily, or even three to four times a week.
However, in this regard your doctor is the best judge.
Are preventive medicines for asthma safe to use regularly?
Yes. Preventive medicines, in the inhaled form, can be safely used for many years. In fact, it is important to use them without fail and as instructed by your doctor.
Does my asthma medicine have any side effects?
Inhaled asthma medicine used in the correct way, as recommended by your doctor, usually has no serious side effects.
Should I continue taking medicines even after my attacks stop?
Yes. You should continue to take your medicines as directed by your doctor. Just as some people need glasses to see clearly, asthma patients need continuous preventive treatment to breathe properly.
Can I exercise?
Yes, but if exercise makes you feel breathless, consult your doctor. He will prescribe appropriate medicines. Swimming and yoga seem to be helpful for people suffering with asthma.
Do I need a special diet?
If you notice that eating a certain type of food brings on an attack, avoid it completely. For details, see Diet for Asthmatics.
Is smoking harmful?
If you have asthma, it is extremely important that you don’t smoke. Cigarette smoke makes your asthma worse by irritating your airways and causing them to narrow. It is just as important to avoid passive smoking, i.e. smoke from other people’s cigarettes.
How do I keep a watch on my asthma?
Quite simply, the way you feel is the best indicator of your condition. Also, maintaining a daily health record and following up regularly with your doctor will help your monitor your condition better. Sometimes, a Peak flow Meter for you to monitor your asthma at home. You can ask your doctor about a Peak flow Meter.
Can asthma medicine be safely used during pregnancy and breast-feeding?
It is extremely important to control asthma during pregnancy, as uncontrolled asthma is a risk to the health of both the mother and the unborn child. Taking asthma medicine through inhalation during pregnancy and while breast-feeding does not pose a problem. However, you must consult your doctor.
Do I have to take special precautions while travelling?
Not really. You can travel by any mode of transport as long as your asthma is under control. However, always remember to carry your medicines with you, including any medicine you would need for severe attacks.
Is asthma hereditary?
Though the tendency to have asthma runs in families, this does not mean that if you have asthma, your children will necessarily get it.
Myths about Asthma
□ Asthma cannot be controlled—Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be easily controlled.
□ Asthma is contagious—Asthma is not an infectious or contagious disease.
□ Asthma medicines are addictive—No, they are not. Never cut down (or exceed) the dose prescribed by your doctor.
□ Inhalers for asthma are strong—As inhalers use small amounts of drug and used as a last resort medicines, they are the fast and safest line of defence against asthma.