Asthma: Myths & Facts That You Need To Know

MYTHS

steroid should be the last resort in treating asthma

FACTS

NO. inhaled corticosteroids are now the 1st choice for treatment of persistent asthma

: evidence from multiple studies showed that inhaled corticosteroids are more effective than any other agent in long-term asthmatic outcomes for patient with persistent asthma. therefore, inhaled corticosteroids are now the preferred therapy for patients with persistent asthma, including children below age 5.

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MYTHS

steroids used in asthma medication will stunt growth

FACTS

NO. children on inhaled corticosteroids will reach their normal adult height

: large studies have shown that children on inhaled corticosteroids reach their normal adult height. however, untreated asthma and the permanent damages to the lungs may have significant effect in reducing a child's growth.

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MYTHS

inhaler medications are dangerous and addictive

FACTS

NO. inhaled corticosteroids are not dangerous and are not addictive

: corticosteroids belong to the class of steroid hormones but are different from anabolic steroids used in body-building. you will not get addicted to inhaled corticosteroids even if you used it for many years. inhaled medication is preferred because they deliver drugs directly to the airways where they are needed. this enables a more localized and potent therapeutic action while minimizing systemic side effects.

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MYTHS

inhaled corticosteroids don't do anything

FACTS

NO. with daily use of inhaled cortic

osteroids, asthma control can be achieved.

: many patients prefer to use quick relief medication and neglect preventer/controller treatment because they feel that it doesn't work. be patient. it takes 2-3weeks of daily use before you would notice any difference.

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MYTHS

it's better to tough it out' without taking asthma medication

FACTS

NO. the inflammation may cause permanent damage to the lungs

: the lungs do not get stronger or better when it comes to asthma. if a person tries to work through an attack without medication, the inflammation may cause permanent damage to the lungs. always use medication according to your doctor's advice

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MYTHS

asthma will go away by itself when i grow older

FACTS

NO. asthma is a lifelong disease

: asthma is a lifelong disease that may improve, persist or worsen with age. patients may be asymptomatic (not having symptoms) for some time but symptoms can be return without warning

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MYTHS

sports and physical activities make asthma worse

FACTS

NO. Asthma should not interfere with physical activity

: physical activities should be part of everyone's life, including those with asthma. asthma should not interfere with physical activitiy; however, medication is recommended in order to participate fully. always check with your doctor first

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reference: GINA, Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention, updated 2009