According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, about one in 12 people had asthma in 2009, which accounted for 8% of the United States population. While asthma is a common health condition, many myths regarding the condition still exist. At Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia, our team believes that by debunking these myths, individuals can become more knowledgeable about asthma, which can benefit those who deal with this condition on a daily basis.
Myth #1: Asthmatic Persons Only Use Medication to Stop Attacks
Contrary to popular belief, there are four different types of asthma, which include:
- Intermittent
- Mild persistent
- Moderate persistent
- Severe persistent
Depending on the type of asthma a person suffers, they may need a long-term, daily, controlled medication. In most cases, patients use these types of medication by inhaling a substance called corticosteroid, which controls inflammation and minimizes the amount of asthma attacks.
Myth #2: People Can Grow Out of Asthma
Although asthma is a treatable health condition, it is not a disease that a person can outgrow. However, some studies prove that people can improve during the time between adolescence and adulthood. Regardless of the type of asthma a person suffers, an asthmatic person should continue to visit an asthma specialist to ensure their condition does not worsen.
Myth #3: Asthma is Easily Controlled
In many cases, when asthmatic persons do not visit an asthma specialist on a regular basis, their conditions can be difficult to manage. However, a specialist can help an asthmatic individual prevent chronic symptoms, asthma flares, and maintain healthy lung function.
Myth #4: Allergies are Not Related to Asthma
Oftentimes, people think that allergies do not contribute to a person’s asthma symptoms. However, this cannot be further from the truth. In fact, recent studies prove that 50% of asthma cases in the nation are directly linked to allergies.
Myth #5: Asthmatic People Should Not Exercise
Although many people believe that asthmatic individuals should not exercise, people who perform cardiovascular exercises can actually improve lung function and the ability to breathe. To be safe, asthmatic persons should consult a doctor before starting an exercise regimen.
Suffering from Asthma? Contact Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia.
If you or someone you love is suffering from asthma and you would like to discuss your symptoms with an experienced Atlanta allergist, we invite you to contact our team at Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia as soon as possible. When you choose to work with our team, we will examine every symptom you may be experiencing and determine which forms of treatment can help you breathe easier in the shortest amount of time possible.
To speak with an Atlanta allergist, call Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia, or book an appointment online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!