Is asthma curable?

Discover whether asthma is curable and what you should know about the disease, including how to manage it and prevent attacks.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment which inflames and restricts the airways of the lung and causes difficulty breathing. There is no cure, but it can be monitored and controlled.

Asthmatic conditions are sometimes hereditary, or can be caused by reactions to air pollution or allergens such as dust mites. An attack is often preceded by an allergic reaction, intense physical exertion, stress or a viral infection (influenza, pneumonia, etc.).

To rule everything else out, you must be diagnosed by a doctor. If the issue is constant, the doctor will prescribe medication you’ll need to take daily. This is a long-term treatment plan, but if followed as directed, it will successfully reduce flare-ups.

What to do when suffering an asthma attack

Steps to take at the onset of symptoms:

1. If the trigger is an allergen, move away from it immediately.
2. Keep calm and sit down.
3. Use your rescue inhaler (pump) for ten minutes, or as directed by your doctor or the packaging.
4. If symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call 9-1-1 or go to the ER without delay.

With the help of your doctor, you should create a preparedness plan for what to do in case of an emergency. Stick to the plan if the situation occurs.

Basic care

• Practice daily control by taking your medicine as directed.
• Avoid potential triggers (pollen, cigarette smoke, dust, etc.).
• Sterilize your home: vacuum regularly, wash your sheets often and change your pillows every year to get rid of dust mites.
• Regularly engage in moderate-level indoor and outdoor exercise.
• Get a flu vaccination, and take precautions to protect yourself against other respiratory viruses.
• Take an antihistamine as needed.
• Stop smoking.

Alternative remedies: Some methods, though considered alternative medicine, can help reduce asthma symptoms, including:

• Yoga;
• Acupuncture;
• Chiropractics;
• Practicing autogenic training, self-soothing and relaxation techniques;
• Taking vitamins A, C, and E (antioxidants);
• Eating fish oils;
• Avoiding saturated fats and sugar;
• Increasing your intake of garlic and onions.

The most important thing is to learn how to control your asthma with the help of a medical professional. Even if your attacks are mild or sporadic, it's important not to wait until it sends you to the hospital to do something.