Common Misconceptions About Asthma

Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the airways in the lungs, making breathing difficult. It manifests as a temporary narrowing of the airways due to hypersensitivity of the airways to various factors. It is known to affect over 300 million people worldwide, and over 400,000 deaths are reported annually due to this disease. Research shows that many people diagnosed with asthma lack sufficient information about the course of the disease, correct medication use, and triggering factors. This lack of information makes it difficult to control the disease, leading to increased attacks and serious health problems. In this context, preventing the spread of misinformation and increasing awareness about asthma is of great importance.

One of the main misconceptions about asthma in society is the idea that it is exclusive to childhood and does not occur in adults. However, asthma is a chronic disease that can begin at any age, from childhood to old age. While approximately half of asthma cases in children tend to improve during adolescence, this is not true for all patients, and there is a possibility of recurrence in adulthood. Furthermore, the belief that asthma sufferers constantly experience symptoms and cannot lead a normal life is also incorrect. Asthma usually occurs in attacks. Between attacks, patients are often normal, and physical examination findings may also be normal.

The statement that asthma is a contagious disease is also among the false beliefs. While asthma is not contagious, genetic predisposition and environmental factors play a role in its development. The occurrence of asthma in more than one individual in the same family is not due to the disease being transmitted from person to person, but rather to the shared genetic predispositions. Furthermore, the view that asthma is a psychological illness is also incorrect. Asthma is a physical disease that develops due to the hypersensitivity of the airways. However, stress, anxiety, and intense emotional states can be considered triggers for asthma attacks. But this does not mean that asthma has a psychological origin. Also, the statement that all asthma cases are allergic in origin is not true. Approximately half of asthma cases are of allergic origin. Allergic factors are less frequently observed, especially in cases of asthma that begins in adulthood. This reveals that asthma is not a disease caused by a single factor.

Using medications correctly, regularly, and according to your doctor's recommendations is crucial for controlling the disease. The idea that medication can be stopped simply because symptoms decrease and the patient feels better is incorrect. Since asthma is a chronic disease, the absence of symptoms does not mean the disease has disappeared. Preventive treatments should be used long-term to control inflammation in the airways, and medications should only be reduced under the supervision of a doctor. Suddenly stopping medication can lead to a more severe recurrence of the disease.

Nazile Begum Guvenc