According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, nearly 25 million people suffer from asthma. What’s even more startling is the fact that African Americans are three times more likely than any other racial group to die from the disease due to factors such as genetics, socioeconomic status, health maintenance behaviors, air quality and obesity. In an effort to help bridge the disparity gap, here are some of the biggest misconceptions about asthma.
1. Asthma can be cured.
Despite many great advances in treatments over the years, there are currently no cures for asthma. The good news, however, is that with the appropriate diagnosis and proper treatment, most people with asthma can lead normal, active lives.
2. It’s normal to use your blue reliever inhaler at least once a day.
If you find yourself having to use your inhaler on a regular basis, we hate to break it to you, but your asthma is not under control. If you’re on a preventer medication, be sure to take it every day, or perhaps it’s time to increase your dose. Needing to use your reliever frequently is a strong indicator that you could soon suffer an asthma attack, which can be life-threatening, so see your doctor right away!
3. People with asthma shouldn’t own pets.
Plenty of people with asthma have pets in their homes. Some can be more of a trigger than others; cats and dogs tend to cause the most issues. For many though, a reaction only occurs when getting in close contact with animals, but each individual’s response will differ, of course. Find out what works best for you!
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4. Avoiding milk improves asthma.
Despite what you might’ve heard, diet plays a minimal role in the management of asthma symptoms. Scientific studies have shown that milk doesn’t increase mucus production or worsen asthma, so unless you have a food allergy, avoidance of any food group isn’t necessary or recommended.
5. Asthma medicines are addictive.
While it’s true that people with asthma often take the same medications for a long period of time, it’s not because they’re addicted to any of them. Asthma is a chronic disease that requires the long-term use of medicine to manage the symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.
6. People can usually outgrow asthma.
This is highly unlikely. Once you’ve been diagnosed with asthma, it becomes a life-long issue. Sure, it may go into hibernation from time to time, but it’s always there. ...
