Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Asthma
Below are a number of commonly asked questions about asthma:
- Is asthma contagious?
- Is my coughing or wheezing asthma?
- What are the most common causes of asthma attacks?
- Are asthma medicines addictive?
- Do asthma medicines become less effective if they are taken for a long time?
- Will allergy shots help my asthma?
- My child has frequent chest colds with coughing. Could it be asthma?
- Do babies who have wheezing when they have a cold ever outgrow their asthma?
- What is a peak flow meter?
Is asthma contagious?
No, asthma is not a contagious disease. No one can catch it from you.
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Is my coughing or wheezing asthma?
Not all coughing and wheezing is related to asthma. While coughing and wheezing are two common symptoms of asthma, experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have asthma. Sometimes, a cough may be due to nose allergies or acid reflux. People also experience short-term coughing or wheezing with a cold, pneumonia, bronchitis or bronchiolitis.
Only a physician can diagnose asthma. If you have a persistent cough or are concerned you may have asthma, make an appointment with your physician. An evaluation for asthma may include your physician asking you several questions about your health as well as diagnostic testing.
If you have a frequent cough or are wheezing at all, see your physician for an evaluation.
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What are the most common causes of asthma attacks?
Allergies to things like dust mites or pet dander, infections such as colds or flu, and irritants like smoke or breathing cold air may cause asthma symptoms. Many people have asthma after exercise if they have been running or playing hard. Things that bother one person's airways may not bother another person.
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Are asthma medicines addictive?
No, the medicines used for asthma are not addictive. Be sure to take your medicines as directed and let your health care provider know if you are having trouble taking your medicines.
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Do asthma medicines become less effective if they are taken for a long time?
No, your asthma medicine will not become less effective over time. Your doctor may adjust or change your medicines if your asthma symptoms change over time.
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Will allergy shots help my asthma?
You will need to have allergy tests first. Allergy shots can help with certain allergies like pollen and grasses. You should also find out what you can do to avoid the things that cause your allergies.
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My child has frequent chest colds with coughing. Could it be asthma?
Talk to your child's doctor about the colds and coughing. Some children who have lots of colds with coughing, especially at night, do have asthma and should be treated for it.
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Do babies who have wheezing when they have a cold ever outgrow their asthma?
Many children who have wheezing as a baby do not go on to have asthma as they get older. But other children continue to have asthma throughout their childhood. Children with allergies or a family history of asthma are more likely to continue having asthma as they get older.
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What is a peak flow meter?
A peak flow meter is a device you can easily use at home to check how open your airways are. It can help you keep track of how well your asthma is controlled. You use it by taking a deep breath and blowing hard into a plastic piece that goes into your mouth. Then write down the resulting number that appears on the meter. Peak flow meters are most helpful for people with moderate or severe asthma. Your doctor may ask you too use a peak flow meter regularly and keep track of the numbers.
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