Asthma in Children and Adults - Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which doctor should I consult if I have asthma?

A child with suspected asthma or with shortness of breath should be taken to a pediatrician or, if it is severe, to the emergency unit. An adult with asthma should consult a pulmonologist.

2. Is there a cure for asthma?

Currently there is no cure for asthma, but there are medications to manage the condition.

3. Should the child be allowed to exercise if he/she is diagnosed with asthma?

Asthma needs to be managed effectively with medication, but the child should be allowed to exercise and maintain a normal exercise routine, even if the asthma is exercise induced. Many athletes with asthma have proved that they can excel at intense physical endurance training.

4. How do I identify allergy triggers?

If you are unable to identify triggers on your own, then an allergy specialist can perform a skin test which will aid in identification.

5. What are the side effects of the bronchodilator medications prescribed for asthma?

You may notice an increase in heartbeat, nervousness, tremor or even headache on using bronchodilators. These effects are more pronounced with the medication taken in the form of a pill or syrup, but even inhalers have been known to cause mild side effects. These effects are temporary and do not last long and occur only during the initial stages of use.

6. Can a pregnant woman take asthma medication?

Ensuring that the airways are clear is especially important during pregnancy as it affects the unborn child too. A dangerous flare up could be life threatening for the baby and overrules any risk associated with drug use during pregnancy.

7. Common risk factors for developing asthma?

Advancing age, smoking, household environmental tobacco smoke exposure, asthma in a first-degree relative, and use of unclean cooking fuels are some of the common risk factors.