Make Breathing Easy
- Dr Blessing Amatemeso

- May 3
- 2 min read
Updated: May 29

Asthma, a word that is familiar to old, young reach and poor.
Perhaps one of the most dreaded non-infectious disease that attempts to steal the breath of young one.
"Don't stress him. He's asthmatic" some have said
"How will she cook for herself when she grows?" up others have wondered.
Asthma's history spans centuries, with early mentions of respiratory distress dating back to 2600 BC in China. Hippocrates, the "father of medicine," first described asthma and linked it to environmental triggers. Later, Galen made an aetiological link to bronchospasm. The understanding of asthma evolved through the Middle Ages, with figures like Maimonides emphasizing hygiene and dietary factors. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the concept of asthma as an allergic disease took shape, and the role of allergens and environmental triggers became increasingly recognized.

The 20th century saw significant advancements in asthma treatment, including the development of medications like bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids.
World Asthma Day was initiated to raise awareness and promote education about the disease.

However, several misconceptions still surround asthma. Let's burst a few:
Myth:
Asthma is a psychological condition.
Fact: Asthma is a physical condition involving inflammation and narrowing of the airways. While emotional stress can sometimes trigger an asthma episode, it's not the primary cause.
Myth:
Children with asthma "grow out of it".
Fact: Some children's symptoms may lessen or disappear with age, but they still have asthma, and symptoms can reappear later in life.
Myth:
People with asthma should avoid exercise and physical activity.
Fact: Exercise and physical activity are beneficial for overall health and can be managed with proper medication and guidance. A child with asthma can become an Olympic athlete
Myth:
Asthma medication becomes less effective over time.
Fact: Asthma medication is designed for long-term use and can be effective when used as prescribed.

Myth:
Asthma is contagious.
Fact: Asthma is not contagious; it's a non-microbial, inflammatory condition.
Myth:
Asthma only affects children.
Fact: Asthma can affect people of all ages, though it often begins in childhood.
Myth:
Asthma is a "big deal" that can't be controlled.
Fact: Asthma is a manageable condition with proper management and medication.
Myth:
Asthma medication is addictive.
Fact: Asthma medication is not addictive, but it's essential for managing the condition.
Myth:
Asthma medication needs to be stopped when feeling better.
Fact: Asthma medication should be taken as prescribed, even when feeling well, to prevent flare-ups.
Last year's theme "asthma education empowers" is still relevant today
This year's theme: "make inhaled treatment accessible for all" is a call to all make breathing easy.
Say no to Stigma. Say yes to Education and Empowerment.
Eustar and Gold remains committed to keeping you informed and supplying all your medical device needs including spacers and nebulizers.
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