Table of contents:
- Asthma myths are completely untrue
- 1. Asthma is definitely a genetic disease (hereditary)
- 2. Asthma can be cured
- 3. Asthma sufferers should not exercise
- 4. Inhaler can be addictive
- 5. Steroid drugs are dangerous because they have side effects
- 6. Everyone has the same asthma symptoms
Asthma is a disease of the respiratory tract due to inflammation and narrowing of the airways. This disease requires appropriate treatment so that the sufferer can continue with normal activities. However, it turns out that there are still several myths related to asthma that are circulating and are believed by many people. As a result, there are many misconceptions about this disease.
Asthma myths are completely untrue
Generally, asthma is characterized by difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, or wheezing. Asthma attacks can appear suddenly and occur more than once. Usually, asthma attacks last quickly or even more than a day. The second attack can be more severe and dangerous than the first.
Although not a fatal disease, asthma is a serious disease. If not handled properly, this disease will make sufferers feel less comfortable in their activities, even at risk of causing complications of asthma.
Knowing precisely about this disease, can help you deal with this condition correctly as well. For that, know some asthma myths that you should no longer need to believe.
1. Asthma is definitely a genetic disease (hereditary)
The opinion that asthma is a hereditary disease is just a myth. Until now, there has been no research that can prove with certainty what causes asthma.
A person can also have asthma, even if there is no family history of having it. There are several factors that put you at risk for asthma, and genetics is only one of them, not the only factor that causes asthma.
2. Asthma can be cured
One of the myths that many believe is that asthma can be cured. Unfortunately, this is wrong.
Many people feel that they have recovered from when the symptoms of asthma were less frequent. In fact, this indicates that you are able to control your asthma well.
Yes, asthma can only be controlled, not cured. Asthma is a chronic disease that is triggered by pathological disorders, usually allergies. It will always stay.
This was stated by Dr. Cindy Gellner from the University of Utah. According to him, controlling asthma symptoms depends on the severity. Do not feel symptoms, does not mean that you have completely recovered from asthma.
One way to control asthma is to use inhaler. You can also avoid things that trigger asthma, such as stress, anxiety, dust, smoke, cold air, and animal dander.
3. Asthma sufferers should not exercise
Another myth that many people share is that people with asthma should not exercise. Naturally, considering exercise gets you fully tired.
In fact, doctors recommend exercise for people with asthma, especially if the asthmatic sufferer has taken the right medication.
Asthma sufferers are more advised to exercise in an environment that has high humidity. The reason is, dry air can irritate and narrow the airways. One of the recommended sports is swimming.
Although there is no research that clearly states the benefits of swimming for asthma, doing it regularly can improve fitness and lung function. If you are suitable for this type of exercise, it is not impossible that the asthma symptoms you experience will come less frequently.
4. Inhaler can be addictive
Myths about usage inhaler can make asthma sufferers addicted is certainly wrong. Use inhaler the same is the case with toothbrush activity that will not be addictive.
Usually, asthma medications are given through an inhaler. Tool inhaler works by delivering asthma drugs into the respiratory tract directly by inhaling from the mouth. This is one good way to control asthma.
5. Steroid drugs are dangerous because they have side effects
Steroids are also used to treat asthma. Steroids are known to have many side effects such as osteoporosis, weight gain, easy bruising, diabetes, cataracts, heartburn, depression or indigestion. That is why, many believe this drug is a danger, including for asthma. Again, this is a misnomer and a myth that asthmatics should no longer follow.
One of the best methods for controlling asthma is to use medications containing corticosteroids. Corticosteroids themselves are "copies" of steroids that are actually produced naturally in our bodies.
Therefore, steroids are a very safe and effective asthma treatment. What's more, if you use steroids at the right dose and according to doctor's instructions.
6. Everyone has the same asthma symptoms
This myth about asthma is simply not true. In fact, everyone has different asthma symptoms. Some of the symptoms of asthma that each person may have will vary, including: chest tightness, wheezing, fatigue, or coughing.
Consulting a doctor is the right step if you have asthma, especially if symptoms occur frequently. Even if you and your friends both have asthma, don't follow someone else's treatment plan. This is because each person's condition is different. Make sure you consult your doctor for the appropriate treatment.
