Myth or Fact?
Chronic medical conditions are often misunderstood. With the abundance of resources available in the internet age, it can be difficult to know what’s a fact, and what’s a myth. Here are some misconceptions, and realities, about living with asthma.
Asthma is a chronic, or long-term, disease that inflames and narrows the airways of your lungs, and symptoms can be triggered by physical and emotional stress. Learn more about how stress can affect your asthma.
Daily long-term controller medications prescribed by a doctor help reduce the chronic swelling in asthma sufferers’ airways, which may help prevent the need for rescue inhaler use.
There’s little to no evidence that any dietary or herbal supplements have any effect on asthma symptoms. However, your doctor may recommend them for your overall health. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take including vitamins and herbal supplements.
There is no cure for asthma. Permanent lung damage may result in children with uncontrolled asthma. For most children, asthma can be controlled with the appropriate treatment and management.
Physical activity helps your body stay healthy. This can contribute to reducing asthma symptoms and minimizing airway inflammation. Staying active will also help prevent obesity—which can have a negative impact on breathing. Talk to your doctor before you begin any new exercise routine so you understand how it may affect your asthma.
