Most of us know someone who has asthma. It is one of the most common chronic conditions in the United States. But how much do you know about it? The facts about asthma may just surprise you!

• Fiction: Older adults don't get asthma.


• Fact: Even though more young people get asthma, it also affects older adults.
  
  According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), asthma in seniors can be harder to diagnose and treat. Some asthma symptoms are similar to other conditions such as heart disease and emphysema. In addition, older adults often take medications that can trigger asthma attacks in people with asthma. For example, beta-blockers, angiotensinconverting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.




• Fiction: Children outgrow asthma.


• Fact: Children often don't outgrow asthma.
  
  Some very young children have asthma symptoms that go away when they get older. Other children may have asthma symptoms that come and go over time.




• Fiction: You can't be athletic if you have asthma.


• Fact: Not true. Dennis Rodman and Jackie Joyner-Kersee are just two famous athletes who have asthma.
  
  If you have asthma, you probably don't have to give up sports. However, you will need to plan ahead for exercise. This includes warming up slowly and taking medication as directed. And avoid exercising outdoors when the pollen count or ozone level is high.




• Fiction: Corticosteroids are the same illegal drugs used by some athletes to perform better.


• Fact: Corticosteroids are not the same drugs used by some athletes. Those are called anabolic steroids. You may have heard of them because of the serious side effects they cause.
  
  Corticosteroids are legal medications used to help prevent asthma attacks and are safe to use. Corticosteroids come in pill, liquid and spray forms. The spray form in particular has a low risk for side effects. These medications are an important part of an asthma plan.

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