Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can make it difficult to breathe. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it is more common in children. Symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. Asthma attacks, or episodes of worsening symptoms, can range from mild to severe and can be triggered by various factors, including exposure to allergens, respiratory infections, and exercise.

Here are some frequently asked questions about asthma:

1. My child suffers from allergic rhinitis. Is he more likely to suffer from asthma in future?

Allergies tend to co-exist. Around one-fifth of individuals with rhinitis develop asthma in their later life.

2. How is asthma diagnosed?

Asthma is diagnosed on the basis of medical history, symptoms, and physical examination. The doctor may also recommend breathing tests, such as the Peak Flow Meter test or the Spirometry test, to know the lung power and capacity.. Children below 6 years of age may not be able to perform these tests. One cannot diagnose asthma with a chest X-ray, though sometimes it is done to rule out any other cause for breathing problems, such as foreign bodies in the lungs or chest infections.

Asthma is a lifelong, or chronic breathing problem caused by swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs. It cannot be cured, but it can be prevented and controlled. When you have asthma, your airways are super sensitive, or “twitchy.” They may react to many things. These things are called triggers.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

3. Can I donate blood if I take asthma medications?

Most asthma medications do not prevent people from donating blood. As long as one is not experiencing asthma symptoms, one can donate blood. Consult the doctor for more information.

4. My 8-year-old daughter has Asthma. Can she be cured?

While asthma symptoms can be very well  controlled with the correct treatment, one cannot promise of complete cure. …

5. Do I have to be worried about my child using inhalers on a daily basis? Will he get addicted?

Taking inhalers every day does not cause addiction. It is the same as brushing one’s teeth…

6. Can I have sex if I have asthma?

Yes, one can have sex even if one has asthma. If asthma affects one’s sexual life, it means that the asthma is not well controlled, and one needs to consult a doctor.

7. Does asthma come and go?

For some, asthma symptoms may worsen during certain seasons because of exposure to triggers…

8. I think my friend has asthma, and he is ignoring the symptoms. Can it be fatal?

One often gets an asthma attack when one comes in contact with a trigger. If not managed properly, an asthma attack can be fatal.

9. Do asthma attacks damage the lungs?

Frequent asthma attacks can cause narrowing and scarring of airways. The best way to prevent this kind of damage to the lungs is to avoid lung irritants and take a controller (preventer) inhaler and any other medications as prescribed by one’s doctor.

10. Is asthma curable?

Asthma can be completely controlled, but unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for it…

11. I am 60 years old. Can asthma affect my blood pressure?

No, asthma has no direct effect on blood pressure. However, one must consult their doctor for more information.

12. Can I drink alcoholic beverages while using an inhaler?

While there is no direct information regarding alcohol use and inhaler medication, one must always consult the doctor about drinking alcohol while taking any medication.

13. I am a 32-year-old woman. Recently flowers and perfumes have been making it difficult for me to breathe. That’s not normal, is it?

Allergy and asthma can develop at any age. If one develops a breathing problem at any age, one should consult a doctor.

There is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed with proper treatment. This may include using medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, as well as lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers and exercising regularly.

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