Asthma FAQ

Can asthma be cured and is it fatal?

Asthma is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. However, with daily care it can be controlled. Deaths from asthma are rare and usually preventable.They are usually caused by a lack of medical care and education and improper use of medicines.

Asthma ordinarily causes no permanent lung damage. When asthma is controlled, the condition of your lungs return to normal. So, it is important that you take care of yourself and see your doctor on a regular basis so an asthma control plan can be developed for you and followed by you. Once you have a plan, you will only need to spend a few minutes each day to monitor and control your disease.

Can asthma progress into emphysema?

No. Emphysema is a different disease that is common among individuals who smoke. With emphysema, there is permanent lung damage in the alveoli. Some people who smoke have both asthma and emphysema.

Could I have avoided getting asthma if I had taken better care of myself in the past?

No. Nothing you did caused you to have asthma. No one knows what causes asthma, but more people are developing it. However while you have no power over the fact you have asthma, you have the ability to control the disease.

Will I ever be able to play sports or even walk long distances again?

Exercise, proper diet and adequate sleep are important in living a healthy life for all of us. If you keep your asthma under control, you will be able to perform most of your usual activities and exercises.

Are asthma medicines dangerous?

Asthma medicines that are prescribed by your doctor are safe when taken as directed. Report any side effects to your doctor. Your doctor can change or adjust your medicines. Be sure your doctor knows about all the medications you are taking. Some medications used to treat other diseases can make your asthma worse.

Some of the asthma drugs that can be bought without a prescription are powerful and can cause dangerous side effects or even death. Regular medical care will give you the assurance that you are doing the best you can to manage and control your asthma, both now and in the future.

I heard that asthma is ‘all in your head’. Is this true?

No, Asthma is a disease. It is not a sign of emotional disturbance. Asthma episodes can sometimes be brought on by a strong emotion, but it is not caused by emotional factors.