Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, May 06 : Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition affecting millions globally, is a lifelong disease requiring consistent and proper medical care, experts said on Tuesday.
While there is no permanent cure, asthma can be effectively managed through timely diagnosis, regular monitoring, and adherence to prescribed treatment. Inhalers are considered the cornerstone of therapy.
Speaking to the news agency, noted Pulmonologist Dr Naveed Nazir Shah said the incidence of asthma in the community is around 2.5 to 10 per cent. He said the region’s greenery, flowering plants, pollens, and cold waves, along with triggers like dust, smoke, cold air, and stress, can lead to more frequent and potentially life-threatening asthma attacks.
Dr Shah said asthma often begins in childhood and continues into adulthood. While symptoms may be mild initially, they can become severe if not properly treated. Environmental factors such as pollen, dust, and air pollution also contribute to asthma attacks. He said all necessary diagnostic facilities for allergy and asthma are available in Kashmir.
The noted pulmonologist called for educating the public about the disease, as many people only follow treatment during attacks and stop once their symptoms improve. This inconsistency can lead to increased severity and a higher risk of future attacks.
“Inhalers remain the safest and most effective method of delivering asthma medication directly into the lungs,” Dr Naveed said. “Unlike oral medications, inhalers act quickly, require lower doses, and minimize systemic side effects.”
He added that asthma symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness can worsen without appropriate treatment. Inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators help control inflammation and open airways. Dr Shah debunked the misconception that inhalers are addictive or harmful, calling it “entirely baseless”.
Dr Javid, another chest disease specialist, urged the public to overcome myths and fear surrounding the use of Rotacaps, inhalers, and nebulisers, particularly in cases of acute severe asthma or spasmodic bronchitis. He said these devices are not only safe but crucial for immediate symptom relief and preventing complications during respiratory emergencies.
Dr Javid said that during acute asthma attacks or spasmodic bronchitis episodes, airways narrow rapidly, causing shortness of breath, wheezing, and a drop in oxygen levels. “In such cases, fast-acting bronchodilators delivered through inhalers, nebulisers, or Rotacaps can open the airways within minutes,” he said
