Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Asthma:

Here are few frequently asked questions by the asthma sufferers with their answers:

Q1. Can I lead normal life?

Answer: Never expect anything less than that. Stick to the regime prescribed by your doctor. Trust him and please don't listen to them, around you, who know everything about anything! It is sure that you will lead a perfect normal healthy life in all respect.

Q2. When preventer medicines are needed?

Answer: Though it is your doctor can judge and tell you the best; here are few thumb rules:

• When cough, wheeze and difficulty in breathing is hampering your normal activities 2 – 3 times a week.
  
• Your sleep is getting disturbed for few nights a week.
  
• You are requiring the reliever drugs for 2 – 3 times a week.
  

Q3. The preventers, which I know are steroids, are safe to use for long term?

Answer: Yes they are safe as long as you are taking them in proper doses as prescribed by your doctor and taking them regularly. Don't forget to wash your mouth after taking the puff to wash away the remnant medicines from your oral cavity.

Q4. I have heard that the medicines have side effects.

Answer: Taking in proper doses regularly as advised by your physician has negligible, if any, side effects relative to your suffering in asthma.

Q5. Are the asthma drugs addictive?

Answer: No way they are addictive. Of course you have to take them regularly for prolonged periods to keep yourself symptom free, but that does not mean that they are addictive. In that way water should also be called addictive!

Q6. Can I exercise?

Answer: Exercising help asthmatics. Swimming, Yoga and breathing exercises are particularly helpful. Limit you exercise up to your tolerance level and raise the level gradually towards expected level. In case you found it is difficult consult your physician, he will regulate the doses for you.

Q7. I am asthmatic. Can I smoke a little?

Answer: Just don't. Even passive smoking must be avoided. Smoke will irritate your airway, thereby narrowing it will aggravate your asthma.

Q8. I am on asthma medication. Can I be pregnant or breast feed my baby?

Answer: It is very important to continue your asthma medication throughout your pregnancy. If not, it will hamper mother's health as well as growth and development of the baby. The only way to control asthma is regular inhaler therapy as prescribed. Breast feeding has no problem with asthma medication.

Q9. Is it safe to travel for the asthmatics?

Answer: If in control, asthmatics can travel by any mode of transport. Do carry your medicines, which are required and the medicines you may require in case of sever attack. Consult your doctor before starting your journey.