Asthma: Life And Lifestyle Changes
What lifestyle changes should I expect after an asthma diagnosis?
The quality of life issue is for people who are not treated for their asthma. The vast majority of patients who get diagnosed and properly treated for their asthma can lead a fulfilled life, and can do anything they want. There are many great athletes who have asthma. In fact, there are many gold medalists such as Jackie Joyner-Kersee who have been diagnosed and treated for their asthma and were able to still win several gold medals in the Olympics. The problem is not the asthma, it's not getting treated for the asthma that could effect your quality of life.
Can I stay active and exercise if I have asthma?
This very common question, especially by parents of children who have asthma, is, "Can my child participate in sports? Should I keep him away from other kids? What happens if he is in sports? If he plays soccer does he have to be the goalie, or could he be the forward or the midfielder?" The bottom line is: Yes. The fast majority of patients can participate in sports. There are many professional athletes with asthma. There are a lot of people out there with asthma who can do whatever they want as long as they get properly diagnosed and treated.
How will asthma impact my sex life?
I get many questions from people who have asthma, in terms of their ability to do physical activities, to exercise, and even questions as to whether sexual activity is allowable with people with asthma. I have had some patients who said that their partner was very turned on by the fact that they had trouble breathing during sexual activity and were very short of breath, but in fact, that's a danger sign. If people are having shortness of breath and tightness in their chest in sex or any other activity, it's important that you get it properly treated, so that you can even fulfill your potential to a greater degree than just being short of breath.
