Debunking common asthma myths

Chronic respiratory conditions are on rise with drastic decrease in the quality of air we breathe, followed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which continues to dictate the health discourse and among the chronic respiratory conditions, asthma is the most common condition, affecting both adults and children. Debunking common asthma myths While the world is getting over from the aftermath of Covid crisis, it is time to shift the focus on this controllable respiratory condition as asthma is often under-diagnosed and un-treated, especially in most countries, due to continued existence of several myths and misconceptions amongst the patients that pose difficulty in diagnosis and right treatment. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vigyan Mishra, Chief of Lab at Neuberg Diagnostics, insisted that we must work towards closing the asthma gap by constantly spreading awareness and exploding myths and highlighted some of the common myths and facts about the disease: Myth: Inhalers, nebulisers are strong, habit forming therapy Fact: Inhaler medication need much smaller doses, has fewer side effects, and is safer for long-term use. It is definitely a good idea for the asthma patients to make sure optimal intake of nutrients and vitamins, to keep up the good health but correct medication as given by the doctor is the mainstay of the management Myth: Asthma lessens with age Fact: Asthma can be proscribed and treated if it is diagnosed at an early age however, it is not necessarily curable. Myth: Asthma patients should not exercise and must avoid physical activities Fact: Exercise helps in relieving inflammation and reducing the symptoms of asthma however, asthma patients need to check with their doctor before going for any form of exercise.