5-7% of adults and 10% of children suffer from asthma. This is a rather unpleasant disease, let’s take a closer look at several common myths about bronchial asthma and find out what really stands behind these statements.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory system. It is characterized by increased bronchial reactivity and attacks of shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, whistling or hoarse sounds when breathing and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Asthma can have various triggers such as allergens, infections, physical activity, stress and other factors that cause inflammation and contraction of the bronchial muscles, making it difficult for air to pass through.
Myth: Bronchial asthma always manifests itself as severe asthma attacks
On cinema and television screens, asthma attacks are often shown as the main symptoms of bronchial asthma. However, modern treatment methods, including basic therapy, make it possible to control and prevent asthma attacks. Today’s medications, such as inhaled glucocorticoids, not only help relieve symptoms but also prevent asthma attacks. Without treatment, the risk of severe attacks increases. If treatment is followed, these attacks are unlikely.
Myth: Patients with asthma are addicted to their inhaler
Inhalers do not cause physical addiction, but patients with bronchial asthma may require constant use to maintain a stable condition. This is due to the fact that asthma is a chronic disease, and properly selected basic therapy may require regular use of an inhaler. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding the medication regimen.
Asthma cannot be completely cured, meaning you will still have to use the inhaler regularly if prescribed by a doctor. Treatment of asthma includes the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, bronchodilators to dilate the bronchi, and management of triggers and risk factors.
Myth: Asthma is always associated with allergies
Among the several types of asthma, allergic asthma is the most common, but other forms of the disease exist. Nonallergic asthma, late-onset asthma, and occupational asthma can all be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to harmful substances, viral infections, and even certain medications. It is often inherited. Asthma can have different causes and triggers for different people.
Asthma can develop both in childhood and in adulthood – more often in childhood, but still in adults it is also possible.
Myth: Asthmatics should not exercise
Physical activity is very important for the health of people with asthma. The right sport and regular exercise can improve lung function and overall well-being. However, it is important to avoid intense exercise in cold and polluted air to prevent asthma attacks.
Myth: Asthma is contagious
Asthma is not an infectious disease and is not transmitted from person to person as an infection. It is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways caused by various factors such as genetic predisposition, environment and others.
Is asthma dangerous?
Asthma can be a dangerous disease, especially if not controlled and treated properly. Unchecked asthma can lead to episodes of shortness of breath, which can be severe and even life-threatening. Insufficient or irregular treatment can also lead to poor quality of life, limit activity, and increase the risk of complications. Therefore, it is important for people with asthma to follow a treatment plan, take medications regularly, and avoid triggers to control their condition and prevent possible complications.
In rare cases, asthma can be a fatal disease. Severe episodes of shortness of breath can lead to critical deterioration of respiratory function, which in some cases can lead to death. However, modern methods of diagnosing, treating and controlling asthma have significantly reduced the risk of death and, if medical recommendations are followed, patients maintain the standard of living of healthy people with minor adjustments.
