An estimated one in 12 Americans have asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. If you or your child has been newly diagnosed, it’s natural to have questions about asthma’s impact on health long-term—especially since asthma can be deadly when not managed properly.
Does an asthma diagnosis mean living with it your entire life or can asthma be cured? Keep reading for the answer as well as for tips on minimizing symptoms.
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“Asthma is a long-term condition where the airways in the lungs become inflamed,” says Dr. Muhammad Adrish, MD, an associate professor of pulmonary, critical care and sleep medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. According to Dr. Adrish, people with asthma often experience symptoms including wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. “These symptoms can come and go, varying in severity, and are usually linked to difficulty breathing out fully,” he told us.
Dr. Adam Belanger, MD, a pulmonologist with FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital and Pinehurst Medical Clinic in Pinehurst, North Carolina, says that there is no one single cause of asthma and that it’s likely the result of several different causes. These may include allergies, airway inflammation, a family history of asthma, environmental exposures and infections.
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Asthma symptoms typically start in childhood, but asthma can also be developed later in life. “Factors like early exposure to cigarette smoke, viral infections or family history can increase the risk. Allergies, obesity, exposure to chemical or industrial dust and climate-related pollution also play a role,” Dr. Adrish explained.
While people with a family history of asthma are more likely to get asthma than people who don’t have a family history of it, Dr. Belanger says that having asthma doesn’t automatically mean your kids will also have it too.
If you do have asthma, both pulmonologists say it’s important to see your doctor regularly to ensure you’re managing it properly, especially if you have persistent symptoms or frequent flare-ups. Dr. Belanger noted, “You will likely work out a follow-up plan with your healthcare provider tailored to your individual needs.”
He explains that asthma flares can be severe, so if you notice your coughing, shortness of breath or other symptoms are getting worse, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as you can. “Additionally, many healthcare providers will provide guidelines about when to contact a healthcare provider," Dr. Belanger advised. "These are called asthma action plans."
Related: The #1 Lifestyle Change That Could Actually Improve Your Asthma, According to Pulmonologists
Can Asthma Be Cured?
As of this writing, asthma can’t be cured—which means if you have been diagnosed with it, you will have it your entire life. That said, there is still a lot you can do to help minimize your symptoms. “Asthma is a chronic condition, meaning it can be managed but not cured," Dr. Adrish said. "By taking the right measures, such as following a personalized treatment plan, you can control your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Individualized treatments help reduce asthma flare-ups and allow you to lead a more active, healthy life."
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Dr. Adrish says it’s important to see your doctor regularly for checkups and to consistently take any medicines you have been prescribed.
It’s also important to keep your vaccinations current. “Viral infections like the flu, RSV and coronavirus can cause serious illness and may trigger asthma attacks," Dr. Adrish says. "People with asthma, especially children and older adults, are also more likely to get pneumococcal disease. Keeping up with your vaccines is an important way to protect yourself."
Related: Here's What Happens When You Don't Get Some Vaccines Every Year, According to Infectious Disease Experts
Don’t let having asthma stop you from exercising!
“Regular physical activity is great for your overall health and can also help improve asthma control," Dr. Adrish told us. "If you have asthma, staying active is encouraged, but remember to manage your symptoms and choose activities that work for you.”
If you have any questions about how to exercise safely, talk to your doctor about the best types of physical activity for you and how you can do them safely.
Know and Avoid Your Asthma Attack Triggers
Last, both doctors say to know what your triggers are and avoid them. This can include being exposed to certain allergens (like dust), acid reflux (often caused by fatty, fried or spicy foods) or outdoor pollution, to name a few examples.
Even though asthma can’t be cured, living with it can absolutely be manageable. “We are getting a much deeper understanding of the processes leading to asthma and multiple new medications have been developed to treat it," Dr. Belanger told us. "It is an exciting time to be involved in asthma management and the future looks bright.” Don’t let your asthma stop you from living the life you want!
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