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Your Questions, Simple Answers
Can emotional stress affect my 13-year old's asthma?

Tina Rathod
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Yes, strong emotions such as excitement, anger and frustration can aggravate symptoms or trigger an attack in an asthmatic child.

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Are asthma and hyperventilation the same thing?

Amit Das
Kolkata , West Bengal
Asthma and Hyperventilation syndrome (HVS) are two different ailments and they need to be treated differently. Both have breathlessness as a common symptom. While asthma is caused by narrowing of the airways due to inflammation, HVS, characterized by panic attacks usually occurs owing to excessive stress or workload.
Are inhalers allowed in flights?

Chirag Gandhi
Vadodara, Gujarat
Yes. In fact, inhalers may be a part of the flight's emergency medicine kit.
Are inhalers really better than pills for kids?

Dipa Chopra
Banglore, Karnataka
Across the globe, inhalers have been accepted and preferred as the treatment of choice for asthma. Scientific bodies have endorsed their usage. Inhalers are better than pills for kids with asthma because inhalers deliver the medication directly to the airways in the lungs therefore the action is quick and lower dose of the medicine is required to control the symptoms of asthma.
Are inhalers safe?

Shruti Karekar
Pune, Maharashtra
Yes, research has shown that inhalers are safe.
Are inhalers the treatment of choice for asthma?

Dipa Chopra
Bangalore,Karnataka
Inhalers have been widely accepted as the most effective treatment for asthma and recommended by all national and global authorities. In comparison to tablets and syrups, the inhaled medication reaches the lungs directly, therefore, it acts quickly and a lower dose is required.
Are there different inhalers for different age groups?

Vinita Shah
Durgapur, West Bengal
No. All types of inhalers can be used by all age groups. The spacer and baby mask are attached to few inhaler devices, so that children and the elderly can use them effectively as well.
Are there different types of inhalers for athletes?

Binoy Makhijha
Cochin, Kerala
The same inhalers can be used by athletes
Can a sore throat trigger an asthma attack?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
Yes. A sore throat or cold and flu can trigger an asthma attack by irritating one's airways. However, one can reduce the chances of an asthma attack by taking the Controller inhaler as prescribed, regularly.
Can I die of asthma?

Chirag Gandhi
Vadodara, Gujarat
Unfortunately yes, one can die of asthma. According to a report by the World Health Organisation, the annual worldwide deaths from asthma is approximately 2,50,000. However,asthma related deaths are preventable if asthma is diagnosed timely and correctly, and one takes the medicines regularly, as well as keeps the emergency medication handy for use during an asthma attack.
Can I donate blood if I take asthma medications?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
Most asthma medications do not prevent people from donating blood. As long as one is not experiencing asthma symptoms, one can donate blood. Consult the doctor for more information.
Can I drink alcoholic beverages while using an inhaler?

Binoy Makhijha
Cochin, Kerala
While there is no direct information regarding alcohol use and inhaler medication, one must always consult the doctor about drinking alcohol while taking any medication.
Can I go for walks if I have asthma?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
Yes, one can go for walks even if one has asthma. In fact, physical activity is good for the general wellbeing of an individual and it also strengthens the lung muscles. With good management, people with asthma can lead normal and active life.
Can I have sex if I have asthma?

Devendra Shah
Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Yes, one can have sex even if one has asthma. If asthma is affecting one's sexual life, it means that the asthma is not well controlled and one needs to consult a doctor.
Can I take a pill or syrup instead of an inhaler?

Vinita Shah
Durgapur, West Bengal
Pills or syrups are not better than inhaler for treating asthma. Research has shown that the best way to take asthma medication is via inhaler
Can I use the peak flow meter at home to monitor my asthma?

Vinita Shah
Durgapur, West Bengal
Yes. One can monitor their asthma by recording the peak flow (PEF) reading regularly at home.
Can inhalers affect my foetus?

Bindu Shah
Dehradun , Uttaranchal
Not controlling asthma during pregnancy can cause more harm to the foetus than taking inhalers to keep asthma under control.
Can inhalers affect my stamina?

Raj Rathod
Itanagar , Arunachal Pradesh
No, inhalers do not affect one's stamina
Can inhalers give you breast cancer?

Tania Mukherjee
Faridabad, " Haryana"
Inhalers do not cause cancer.
Can one catch asthma from another person?

Chirag Gandhi
Vadodara, Gujarat
No. Asthma is not contagious. One cannot catch asthma by coming in contact with a person having asthma.
Can the peak flow meter tell me if I need to see the doctor?

Dipa Chopra
Banglore, Karnataka
While writing the asthma action plan, the doctor notes down the personal best peak flow (PEF) reading when the asthma is well controlled. In this plan the doctor also notes down the peak flow reading below which the person needs to see the doctor.
Can you have asthma attack if you have mild asthma?

Binoy Makhijha
Cochin, Kerala
Yes. Although one is more likely to have an asthma attack if one has moderate or severe asthma, one can still have a potentially life-threatening asthma attack even if one has mild asthma. That's why it’s important to take asthma medicines exactly as prescribed even if the asthma is mild.
Do asthma attacks damage lungs?

Aniket Mishra
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Frequent asthma attacks can cause narrowing and scarring of airways. The best way to prevent this kind of damage to the lungs is to avoid lung irritants and take controller (preventer) inhaler and any other medications as prescribed by one's doctor.
Do I have to be worried about getting addicted because of using inhalers on a daily basis?

Pooja Joshi
Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
One does not get addicted because of the regular use of inhalers. One can consider it like brushing their teeth or taking a shower on a daily basis.
Do I have to be worried about my child using inhalers on a daily basis? Will he get addicted?

Andy Dsouza
Mumbai , Maharashtra
Taking inhalers everyday does not cause addiction. It is the same as brushing one's teeth or taking a shower on a daily basis.
Do I really need inhalers if I don't have any asthma symptoms anymore?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
Regular usage of inhaler could be the most likely reason for disappearance of symptoms. One should follow doctor's advice regarding the duration for which the inhaler should be used
Do I stop inhalers when my symptoms disappear?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
For some, asthma and its symptoms get worse during certain seasons, but don’t show up during the others. This gives rise to the misconception that asthma comes and goes. However, the truth is that only the symptoms may get worse during one season and better during another, not asthma. Therefore, it is important that one takes the inhaler medication as prescribed, even when the symptoms are not there
Do inhalers have steroids?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
Yes, some inhalers have a certain type of steroids. However, these are a copy of the protective steroids one can naturally find in one’s body. Thus, the steroids in inhalers are safe for both adults and children.
Do inhalers stop contraceptives from working?

Pooja Joshi
Hyderabad , Andhra Pradesh
Inhalers do not stop contraceptives from working. However, some medications may interact with each other. So one should always inform the doctor about all the medicines that one is taking.
Do milk products make asthma worse?

Shruti Karekar
Pune, Maharashtra
Milk and other food items do not generally cause asthma symptoms unless a person is allergic to them.
Does asthma come and go?

Vinita Shah
Durgapur, West Bengal
For some, asthma symptoms may get worse during certain seasons because of exposure to triggers, but may improve during the other seasons. This gives rise to the misconception that asthma comes and goes.
However, the truth is that only the symptoms become less or severe, but asthma remains. Therefore, it is important that one takes the medications as prescribed, even in the absence of symptoms.
Does asthma get worse at night?

Rohan Naik
Belgaum, Karnataka
Sometimes, asthma symptoms tend to get worse at night as the levels of the protective and natural steroids in one’s body is low at night. There could also be other causes, such as dust mites on the bed linens. With regular treatment as prescribed by doctor, night-time symptoms can also be controlled.
Few years ago I started a job in the home insulation industry and in the last few months I have started to wheeze and cough when I’m on the job. I seem OK on my days off work. Could I now have asthma?

Shruti Karekar
Pune, Maharashtra
One can develop occupational asthma if exposed to lung irritants for a long duration. One must take precautions while working in such places. Consult a doctor to diagnose the problem.
For how long do I need to take my asthma medications?

Devendra Shah
Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Asthma is a long-term problem, which requires regular medication to keep it under control Since everyone’s asthma is different, one must consult their doctor to understand for how long they need to take their medication.
For past few weeks, I've found it difficult to stabilise my breath after working out. Is that normal?

Raj Rathod
Itanagar , Arunachal Pradesh
Generally, one's breathing returns to normal few minutes after workout. However, if this is not happening, then one should consult a doctor.
How can I make sure that my child doesn't have an asthma attack in school?

Rohan Naik
Belgaum, Karnataka
It is important that the child is explained about the triggers, the correct way of using the inhalers, and what should be done in case of an attack. The child should keep away from the triggers as far as possible and carry the Reliever inhaler with him/her to the school. One must inform the child’s teacher about all the aspects – symptoms, triggers, treatment and asthma action plan in case of an emergency– of the child’s asthma. It is also important to share emergency contact numbers with the teachers.
How did my 7-year old get asthma? Is it possible for my 4-year old son to get it too?

Aniket Mishra
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
According to the World Health Organisation, asthma is the most common breathing problem among children. Asthma is often hereditary, therefore, some children have a tendency to develop asthma from an early age. However, it is also possible that some children may develop it without anyone in the family being asthmatic. Asthma is not contagious. Therefore, it is not possible that one can ‘catch’ asthma from someone who has the problem.
How do I know my child has something else and not asthma?

Dipa Chopra
Bangalore, Karnataka
If the symptoms occur mostly at night or during the early mornings, or when one comes in contact or is in proximity of some trigger and if someone in the family is asthmatic, it is possible that the problem may be asthma. However, it is necessary to discuss the symptoms with the doctor, so that accurate diagnosis can be made and correct treatment is received at the right time.
How do inhalers help my child’s symptoms?

Shruti Karekar
Pune, Maharashtra
Inhalers deliver medication directly to the airways in the lungs. The Controller inhaler reduces the inflammation of the lining of the airways and decreases mucus production. The Reliever inhaler causes the muscles around the airways to relax and the opening to widen. This helps in normalising the breathing.
How is asthma diagnosed?

Pooja Joshi
Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
Asthma is diagnosed on the basis of medical history, symptoms, and physical examination. The doctor may also recommend breathing tests such as Peak Flow Meter test or the Spirometry test, to know the lung power and capacity.. Children below 6 years of age may not be able perform these tests. One cannot diagnose asthma with a chest X-ray, though sometimes it is done to rule out any other cause for breathing problems such as foreign bodies in the lungs or chest infections.
How many times should I do nebulization in case of an attack?

Rohan Naik
Belgaum, Karnataka
The number of nebulizations will be decided by one's doctor, depending on the severity of one's attack.
How to choose the right inhaler?

Preeti Joshi
Trivandrum, Kerala
There are many types of inhalers. Together with the doctor, one can decide what type of inhaler would be best suited for them, after considering the severity of asthma, age, other health issues etc.
I am 22-years old and I have asthma. Can I smoke?

Amit Das
Kolkata, West Bengal
Smoking is harmful for health. If one has asthma, it is even more important that they stop smoking as soon as possible, as smoke can act as a trigger and worsen the symptoms or even cause an asthma attack.
I am 60 years old. Can asthma affect my blood pressure?

Chirag Gandhi
Vadodara, Gujarat
No, asthma has no direct effect on blood pressure. However, one must consult their doctor for more information.
I am 72 years old. Sometimes, I hear a whistling sound while breathing. Could it be asthma?

Rohan Naik
Belgaum, Karnataka
Older adults can develop asthma too. Some people develop asthma for the first time in later adulthood. Older people should not ignore problems with breathing, or assume that symptoms are just due to old age. One should tell the doctor about breathing problems, and get a thorough health checkup to rule out asthma and other medical conditions.
I am a 32-year old woman. Recently flowers and perfumes are making it difficult for me to breathe. That's not normal, is it?

Bindu Shah
Dehradun , Uttaranchal
Allergy and asthma can develop at any age. If one develops a breathing problem at any age, one should consult a doctor.
I am an asthmatic and have just found out that I am pregnant. Will my asthma get worse with pregnancy?

Shruti Karekar
Pune, Maharashtra
Many women find that their asthma changes during pregnancy. Whether one's asthma improves or worsens during pregnancy, good asthma control during pregnancy is important for the health of the mother and baby. Asthma can be managed by continuing with medications, regular doctor visits and developing a personal asthma action plan for pregnancy and delivery. One should inform the obstetrician about one's asthma and share the written asthma action plan.
I find it difficult to draw breath when I'm around incense sticks (agarbattis). This hasn't happened before. Do I suddenly have a problem?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
Allergy or asthma can develop at any age. Smoke generated by incense sticks (agarbattis) can act as a trigger for asthma symptoms in some people. So, one should consult a doctor if there is any breathing problem.
I had a cold about 6 weeks ago and since then I have had a dry cough. Do you think it could be asthma?

Preeti Joshi
Trivandrum, Kerala
Whilst cough is a symptom of asthma, everyone who coughs does not necessarily have asthma. Sometimes cough persists for few weeks following a viral infection. However, if one develops other symptoms, such as wheezing, or the cough changes, one must consult a doctor. Sometimes, cough is the only symptom of asthma (e.g.: in cough variant asthma), so if the cough persists for a long duration, one should consult a doctor.
I have asthma and I am pregnant. Will my child also get asthma?

Dipa Chopra
Bangalore , Karnataka
Asthma has a genetic predisposition. A child who has a parent with asthma is more likely to have the condition than a child who does not have a close family member with asthma.
I have asthma but I smoke occasionally. Recently, I have started smoking every day. Will it affect my asthma?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
Yes, smoking can affect one’s asthma. If one has asthma, it is important that they stop smoking as soon as possible, as smoking can be a trigger for asthma and makes it difficult to effectively treat asthma.
I have asthma. I don’t use a controller ( preventer) inhaler, but I have been using my reliever inhaler more often than I used to. Is that ok?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
For good asthma control, one must use the controller ( preventer) inhaler regularly, as prescribed by the doctor, rather than frequent reliever use. If one is using one's reliever inhaler too often, one should visit the doctor as it may be an indication of poor asthma control and change in medication may be required.
I have been using a preventer inhaler for the past 3 months and my voice has changed. Could it be due the medication?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
Some people experience voice changes, a sore mouth or throat, or oral thrush when taking inhaled corticosteroids. These side-effects are more common at high doses, or with some types of inhalers. Rinsing the mouth out afterwards can prevent oral thrush but it does not prevent voice problems. If one is using an inhaler, one can reduce voice and mouth side-effects and improve the amount of medication which reaches the lungs by adding a spacer.
If one has voice problems, one should see the doctor for advice about whether the medication dose can be reduced, or whether a different medication or inhaler can be taken.
I have played U-19 football and have been diagnosed with asthma. Can I play football with asthma?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
Being active, working out, and playing sports not only helps one with asthma stay fit, but also maintain a healthy weight, and have fun. They can also strengthen their breathing muscles and help the lungs work better. One can play football even if they have asthma, provided it is well controlled and all neccessary precautions are taken to prevent an attack.
I have read somewhere that one should take reliever medication before taking controller ( preventer) medication so that it works better. Is this true?

Aniket Mishra
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
One should always use asthma medications as instructed by one's doctor. Reliever and controller ( preventer) medication work differently. Controller ( preventer) will not work any better if a reliever is used before it.
I just got diagnosed with asthma. Will I be okay?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
Absolutely. One can live a normal, active and healthy life, even if one is diagnosed with asthma. For that, one must follow the doctor’s advice and prescription, educate themselves about asthma, use the inhaler correctly, and avoid the triggers. There are many famous personalities who have asthma, but it has not stopped them from living an active life and achieving their dreams.
I just got diagnosed with COPD. Can I be cured?

Ankit Jha
Bikaner, Rajasthan
COPD is a progressive disease but with proper and regular treatment one can live a better quality of life.
I play sports. Recently, I've found it difficult to breathe after a tough day on the training grounds. What's wrong with me?

Devendra Shah
Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Feeling breathless for few minutes after rigourous physical activity is normal. However, if one finds it difficult to breathe even after few minutes, then one must make a note of all symptoms and consult a doctor.
I think my friend has asthma, and he is ignoring the symptoms. Can it be fatal?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
One often gets an asthma attack when one comes in contact with a trigger. If not managed properly, an asthma attack can be fatal.
I have asthma. Can I fast?

Vinita Shah
Durgapur, West Bengal
There is little to suggest that fasting itself causes problems if one has asthma. However, It's a good idea to discuss the plans for fasting with one's doctor. One should not stop taking one's asthma medications without speaking to one's doctor first. Doctor can tell whether or not it's possible to adjust one's medicine to suit one's plans during the fasting period.
I'm 26, and am sexually active. I've found that for the past few months, I've been extremely breathless after having sex. Do I have asthma?

Binoy Makhijha
Cochin, Kerala
There could be various reasons for breathlessness after sex. However, if there is a change in one's breathing pattern after doing a certain activity, one must consult a doctor.
If my son gets asthma like me, at what age will his symptoms start showing?

Aniket Mishra
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Asthma can develop at any age. However, it is not always necessary that one will get asthma if the parent has it.
Inhalers seem like a pain. Is there an easier treatment for asthma?

Vinita Shah
Durgapur, West Bengal
All over the world, inhalers have been accepted as the most effective and safe way to treat asthma. Research has shown that the best way to take asthma medication is by inhalation.
Is asthma curable?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
Asthma can be completely controlled but unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for it. However, with the right treatment and management, one can lead an active and healthy life, despite having asthma.
Is it possible to cure asthma?

Andy Dsouza
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Currently, there is no cure. However, with good asthma management and education, people with asthma can lead normal, active lives.
Is it possible to suddenly develop asthma after turning 60?

Chirag Gandhi
Vadodara, Gujarat
One can develop asthma at any age, even if they did not have asthma as a child. Asthma associated with allergy usually starts in children. But some people develop asthma as adults and this is often not associated with allergic triggers. Some people can develop asthma because of continued exposure to certain substances, especially at work ( e.g. paint, spray, fumes etc)
Is it safe to use inhaler while on a treadmill?

Andy Dsouza
Mumbai, Maharashtra
If one gets an asthma attack while on the treadmill, one must immediately stop and use the Reliever inahaler.
Is it true that asthma patients are more likely to develop complications if they get infected with influenza virus?

Binoy Makhijha
Cochin, Kerala
People with asthma who contract influenza are at higher risk than the general population of developing complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, ear infections etc.
Is yoga helpful for asthmatics?

Raj Rathod
Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
Yoga is helpful for one’s overall health, but has no direct correlation with asthma. The breathing exercises may help in strengthening one’s lungs, however, it is important to consult the doctor first. It is also important that one continues to use the medications as prescribed, even if one is practicing yoga.
I’ve noticed that some of the medicines I take for my PCOS make my breathing difficult. Should I go see my doctor about this?

Tania Mukherjee
Faridabad," Haryana"
Some medicines can act as a trigger for asthma. It is important that one consults a doctor in such situations.
My 4 year old kid has been advised to take inhalers. Are inhalers safe for children?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
Inhalers are devices used to deliver the drug directly to the airways in the lungs. When an inhaler is used correctly, very little drug is absorbed by the body and is unlikely to cause any side effects. Side effects are further prevented by prescribing the lowest possible dose of the drug required to manage the condition.
My 5-year old just got diagnosed with asthma. Will he be able to lead a normal life?

Andy Dsouza
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Absolutely yes. One can live a normal, active and healthy life, even if one is diagnosed with asthma. For that, one must follow the doctor’s advice and prescription, educate themselves about asthma, use the inhaler correctly, and avoid the triggers. There are many famous personalities and atheletes who have asthma but it has not stopped them from living a fulfilling life and achieving their dreams.
My 6-year old has been coughing a lot for the last few days. Could he have a breathing problem?

Binoy Makhijha
Cochin, Kerala
It is important to try and understand the reason behind the cough. If the cough is due to the proximity of things such as dust, smoke or pollen, then it may be a cause for a deeper problem such as asthma. However, one must get the cough checked by a doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
My 8 year old daughter has asthma, can she play with dogs?

Aditya Kumar
Nahan, Himachal Pradesh
Pet fur, feather and dander are common triggers for asthma in children. Therefore, it is advisable to stay away from pets with furs and feathers. Should there be a pet in the house, it is recommended that they be kept out of the bedrooms, so as to ensure no breathing troubles at night.
My 8-year old daughter has Asthma. Can she be cured?

Preeti Joshi
Trivandrum, Kerala
While asthma can be completely controlled with the correct treatment and management, there is no permanent cure for it.
My child gets asthma symptoms only during the winter season. Does she really need to take asthma treatment throughout the year?

Chirag Gandhi
Vadodara, Gujarat
Asthma treatment is generally given throughout the year to keep the symptoms under control and prevent flare-ups. One should not stop asthma treatment without consulting a doctor.
My child suffers from allergic rhinitis. Is he more likely to suffer from asthma in future?

Akanshka Nair
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Allergies tend to co-exist. Around one fifth of individuals with rhinitis develop asthma in their later life.
My child was diagnosed with asthma a year ago. However, he has had no symptoms in last one year. Can I stop his medication?

Rohan Naik
Belgaum, Karnataka
One should never stop prescription medication without consulting one's doctor. Child's asthma may be well controlled because of the controller ( preventer) medication and stopping the medication may cause the symptoms to reappear.
My cousin has asthma. Will I get it too if I keep hanging out with her?

Shruti Karekar
Pune, Maharashtra
Asthma is not infectious. It is not possible for one to ‘catch’ it from someone else, like a virus or bacterial infection.
My daughter is 4-years old. We hear a whistling sound everytime she breathes out. Does she have asthma?

Pooja Joshi
Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh
A whistling sound that's heard during breathing is known as wheezing, which is one of the symptoms of asthma. Therefore, it is important that one sees a doctor, to find out if one has asthma.
My daughter's friend was cured of asthma when she was 12. Can my child be cured too?

Andy Dsouza
Mumbai, Maharashtra
Presently, asthma does not have a cure. However, with good asthma management and education, one can lead a normal and active life. In some children, asthma symptoms that start in childhood can disappear later in life. Sometimes, however, a child's asthma goes away temporarily, only to return a few years later.
My grandmother had asthma. Can my child get it too?

Bindu Shah
Dehradun , Uttaranchal
Asthma often runs in families, so if a family member has asthma, all other close members of the family need to be careful and keep an eye out for its symptoms.
My son is 8 years old. Can his asthma get better with age?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
As children grow, their airways expand thus, some children may be able to outgrow their asthma with age or if the immune trigger present earlier is not present anymore. However, in some cases, symptoms may disappear and resurface after a few years. Therefore, one should not stop the medicines unless told by the doctor.
My son is 8-years old. Can his asthma get better with age?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
As children grow, their airways expand. Thus, some children may be able to outgrow their asthma with age or for some reason, there was an immune trigger that’s not present anymore. However, in some cases, symptoms may disappear and resurface after a few years. Therefore, one should not stop the medicines unless told by the doctor.
My son is going for a school picnic for 4 days. Is there a way to be completely prepared against asthma attacks?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
It is possible for one to be prepared against asthma attacks. One must ensure that their child's asthma is under control by regularly taking the medications as prescribed by the doctor and he/she avoids triggers as far as possible. The child must always carry the prescribed inhaler and medications, including the Reliever/Rescuer inhaler, to be used in case of an asthma attack. One must also ensure that the accompanying teachers are aware of the child's asthma, triggers, treatment and asthma action plan. Also, ensure that the teacher's have the emergnecy contact numbers.
My son keeps playing in the rain and catching colds. Can a frequent cold worsen asthma?

Tina Rathod
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
If one is taking the Controller and Reliever inhaler regularly, one will be able to limit the worsening of asthma because of cold and flu.
No one in my family is asthmatic. So, why is my child asthmatic?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
No one knows exactly why some people develop asthma. Experts think it might be a combination of environmental factors and genes. People with asthma may have a parent or other close relative with asthma or allergy but it is not necessary that one gets asthma only if someone in the family is asthmatic. For instance, if one has sensitive lungs and has been exposed to asthma triggers, one may develop asthma
Should asthma patients be more concerned about swine flu?

Dipa Chopra
Banglore, Karnataka
It has been noted that there is an increased risk of swine flu complications in those with underlying respiratory conditions, including asthma.
Should my child be on a strict diet because of her asthma?

Amit Das
Kolkata, West Bengal
One doesn’t need to follow any dietary restrictions if one has asthma. However, if certain food items such as nuts or aerated drinks tends to trigger one’s asthma, then those food items must be avoided.
What are controllers?

Preeti Joshi
Trivandrum, Kerala
Controllers are also known as preventers. These medications prevent asthma symptoms by reducing the inflammation in the airways that occurs in asthma.
What are relievers?

Rohan Naik
Belgaum, Karnataka
Relievers are medicines that provide rapid relief from an asthma symptoms by quickly opening up the narrowed airways. They do this by relaxing the muscles surrounding the airways.
What are the most common asthma symptoms that older people show?

Tanmay Gada
Ponda, Goa
Older people with asthma show same symtoms as adults. However, older patients may under-report symptoms and assume that the symptoms are due to old age or other health problems which they have.
What diet should I follow if I have asthma? I already have a set diet for wrestling.

Aniket Mishra
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
One doesn’t need to follow any dietary restrictions if one has asthma. However, if
certain food items such as nuts or aerated drinks tends to trigger one’s asthma, then those food items must be avoided.
What do I do during an asthma attack?

Devendra Shah
Indore, Madhya Pradesh
The chances of having an asthma attack are low if one avoids the triggers and takes the
Controller medicine regularly. However, if one gets an asthma attack, the first thing to do is to be calm and relax, and then follow these steps:
- Sit upright and loosen the clothes
- Take the prescribed dosage of the Reliever inhaler without any delay
- If there is no relief in 5 minutes after using the Reliever inhaler, take the other doses of the Reliever inhaler as prescribed by the doctor
- If there is still no relief, one must call the doctor, visit the nearest hospital without delay or follow Asthma Astion plan as prescribed by the doctor.
- Do not exceed the Reliever inhaler dose without consulting a doctor
What is the difference between a corticosteroid and an anabolic steroid?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
Both corticosteroids and anabolic steroids are sometimes just called steroids. However, corticosteroids are very different from anabolic steroids. Corticosteroids reduce the swelling in the airways that make breathing difficult and also reduce the amount of mucus produced in the lungs. Anabolic steroids have an effect similar to that of the male hormone testosterone, and are used illegally by some athletes to increase muscle mass, strength and endurance. Corticosteroids do not have these effects.
What sports should I avoid if I have asthma?

Preeti Joshi
Trivandrum, Kerala
There are no particular sports that one needs to avoid on account of asthma. In fact, asthma hasn’t stopped people from gaining fame through sports such as basketball, football and even track races. However, it is important that one keeps the medications handy, in case any symptoms flare up.
What to avoid if I have asthma?

Anita Kulkarni
Puri, Odisha
People who have asthma have sensitive airways. They tend to react to factors, known as triggers, that may cause asthma symptoms to flare up. Each person has a different set of triggers. Therefore, it is important to identify one's triggers and avoid them as much as possible, to manage asthma better.
When my 10-year old son comes home after playing, he is out of breath. Is it normal?

Tania Mukherjee
Faridabad, Haryana
Feeling breathless after a strenuous physical activity, such as playing is normal. However, if the feeling continues for a long time or is accompanied by other symptoms such as cough, wheezing, tightness in the chest, then it is important to consult a doctor to find out if there is an underlying problem.
Which is the best inhaler for children?

Malvik Iyer
Nizamabad, Telangana
There are many types of inhalers. Together with the doctor, one can decide what type of inhaler would be best suited for them, after considering the severity of asthma, age, other health issues etc.
Will I ever be able to get rid of my COPD?

Yohand D'Souza
New Delhi
COPD cannot be cured but with proper management, the quality of life can be improved
Will inhaler medication show up as drugs on my drug tests?

Aniket Mishra
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
Asthma medications have been shown to produce false-positive drug tests