Asthma

Mind if I ask what you're taking as a controller medication? I'm currently on Singulair, which has reduced my rescue inhaler use DRASTICALLY, and as I understand it, is not an oral steroid. In the past year I re-started taking that, have started losing weight, have quit smoking, and have seen a dramatic decrease in symptoms! Last year at this time I was using my nebulizer two or more times a day, and an inhaler would last less than a month. This year, I've had the same inhaler since November!

I also was diagnosed as a child, well before daily meds and inhalers even and had to get a shot and take pills every time I had an asthma attack. I know the negative spin on daily meds but I have to say I am sooo much happier and healthier since I've been on Singulair. My asthma was so bad my doctor put me on Singulair once a day and Advair twice a day back in 2003. After two pregnancies my asthma actually improved, which can happen but is not necessarily typical and I was able to stop taking the Advair. I still take the Singulair once a day because of that I can work out, I've started training for 5K's, and I rarely take my albuterol inhaler. I still keep one around just in case, especially if I get a bad cold. Singulair is not a steoroid if that helps you feel better too. I've also had the benefit of the Singulair helping with my seasonal allergies, which some people take it for. Good Luck and keep talking to your doctor.

I have adult onset asthma that I attributed to moving to the city for university after living in the country/small town my whole life. I was never severe, but have a Ventolin rescue inhaler. That was 18 years ago.

I never thought it would get any better, but 6 years ago, I wanted to get in shape for my wedding, so I started an aerobic kick boxing class. It was 3 days a week, and for the first few weeks, I was barely able to do the class and using my inhaler a couple of times during that hour. However, I persevered, and after a few months, I was able to complete the class without an attack. My asthma is still there, but much less severe, and I attribute it finally getting my lungs conditioned to a degree.

I still have the occasional attack, but not like it used to be. I let off on my fitness training for 5 years, but started again last year with this site, and now I am out walking, running, snowshoeing, biking and not having attacks. I now use my rescue inhaler less than once a month. The asthma will never be gone, but it is much better controlled.

Maybe talk to your doctor about a safe way to slowly increase your lung strength via exercise and it may help control or reduce the amount of medicine you require.