CLEAR MISCONCEPTIONS, BREATHE FREE

On Tuesday, we observed World Asthma Day; here are some myths that need to be dispelled about the lung ailment

- DR JJ MATHEW

ORLD Asthma Day is observed every year in May. Here, we look at some common misconceptions about asthma that need to be dispelled:

Asthma is a childhood disease, and it doesn't develop when one becomes an adult.

Although asthma usually develops in childhood, a considerable percentage of children 'grow out' of their asthma. However, it can recur once they become adults. The disease can present for the first time in adulthood. In fact, asthma can come on at any age, even after the age of 90.

I don't get wheezing and, hence, I don't think I have asthma.

Although wheezing is a common symptom of asthma, it may not be experienced by all patients. Sometimes, it is heard only with the aid of a stethoscope. When an asthmatic patient gets a flare up, it is usually manifested by wheezing, but in extreme cases, the patient may have a 'silent chest'. A significant percentage of asthmatics have cough as their predominant symptom; they can be treated in the same manner as other asthmatics.

I need to avoid a long list of food items if I am diagnosed with asthma.

Only 2-4 per cent of adult asthmatics have their symptoms triggered by food. Hence, it is not a good practice to advise all asthmatics to avoid certain food items as a general rule.