Few diagnoses cause as much family anxiety as childhood asthma — and few are surrounded by as many myths. Here is what we, as pulmonologists, want every parent to know.
Myth 1: Inhalers are addictive
Inhalers do not create dependence. Children seem to 'need them more' simply because untreated airways stay inflamed. Treating early and consistently usually means fewer inhalers over a lifetime, not more.
Myth 2: Inhaled steroids stunt growth
Modern inhaled steroids at recommended doses are among the safest long-term medications in paediatrics. The small effect on growth velocity in the first year evens out, and final adult height is unaffected. Uncontrolled asthma harms growth far more.
Myth 3: My child will grow out of it
Some children do. Many do not — they just stop reporting symptoms because they have adapted. A periodic PFT (or FOT in younger children) tells us objectively whether the airways are truly settled.
What good asthma care actually looks like
- A correct diagnosis with objective testing, not just symptoms
- A written action plan the parent can follow at home
- Inhaler technique checked at every visit — most 'failures' are technique problems
- An honest conversation about triggers and school environment
If your child is on an inhaler but still missing school for wheezing, the plan needs a review — not more medication.
Concerned about your symptoms?
Book a consultation with Dr. Arun Gangadhar at Lung Care, RS Puram, Coimbatore.