Can You Outgrow Asthma?

Asthma is a condition that affects millions of people across the globe, the majority of whom are children. However, the condition can develop at any age. 

Living with asthma brings on persistent wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath that can be debilitating and significantly disrupt your life. It’s no wonder that people who have the condition find themselves wondering if they’ll eventually outgrow it. About half of people do.

Dr. Patricia Gomez-Dinger and her team at Advanced Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Center PA excel in providing top-notch treatment for anyone who is living with asthma in San Antonio and Schertz, Texas.

Let’s explore how asthma develops and progresses, and the possibility of outgrowing this condition. We also cover the importance of proper management and care.

What is asthma?

Although wheezing is one of the most identifiable symptoms of asthma, the condition is much more. It’s a chronic disorder where the airways in your lungs become inflamed and narrowed. 

Your airways, or bronchial tubes, allow air to come in and out of your lungs. If you have asthma, these tubes become sensitive to various triggers, triggering symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. 

While asthma can develop at any age, it often begins in childhood and is typically triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Childhood asthma

Childhood asthma can be particularly challenging. It not only affects a child’s physical well-being, it also hampers their ability to be socially active and even their education. 

This form of asthma is frequently connected to genetics, especially if there’s a family history of allergies or asthma. Environmental factors, such as exposure to allergens, pollution, and respiratory infections, also play a critical role. 

Can you outgrow childhood asthma?

In some cases, children who have asthma experience a significant reduction in symptoms after they reach puberty. This improvement is often attributed to the growth and development of their lungs and a maturing immune system. 

However, it’s important to recognize that asthma is a lifelong condition. Even if symptoms subside, certain triggers can bring back asthma symptoms later in life.

Adult-onset asthma

While childhood asthma is more common, adult-onset asthma is equally worrisome. Different triggers, like workplace irritants, smoke, and adult-onset allergies, typically bring on this form of asthma. 

Adult-onset asthma describes cases that develop after the age of 20. It’s a chronic, lifelong condition, and adults are less likely to “outgrow” it than children do. The condition is often persistent and requires constant management. 

Managing asthma effectively involves understanding your triggers, sticking to your treatment plan, and regularly monitoring your symptoms. 

Living well with asthma

Living with asthma doesn’t mean you have to compromise your quality of life. People with asthma can lead fulfilling, active lives with the proper management. Understanding what triggers your asthma is crucial. 

Use your prescribed medication consistently even when you aren’t experiencing acute symptoms. Keep up with routine appointments with Dr. Gomez-Dinger so she can effectively manage your asthma, adjusting your treatment as needed.

Asthma is a complex condition. While some people may experience decreased symptoms over time, asthma generally requires lifelong attention and care. Get the quality care you need by requesting an appointment with us online or calling the office nearest you today.