I Have Controlled Asthma. What About You?

When I was a kid, asthma had a tight grip on my life. It felt uncontrollable. Imagining a day of carefree breathing seemed like a distant dream. Fast forward to now, and I find myself in one of the best periods of asthma management.

Managing asthma

I am hesitant to talk about it due to fear I might jinx myself. But I can't help but share my joy. The unpredictability of asthma makes me cautious. But right now, things are remarkably well-controlled. Sure, I still encounter moments of breathlessness – morning and bedtime being the usual suspects. Yet, a swift puff from my inhaler restores normalcy. It's a manageable rhythm.

Medication is a constant companion. It’s a reminder that normal might be a bit different for me. But in this day and age, that's not uncommon. The blend of medication and, I guess, a dash of life adjustments has brought me to a place where asthma doesn't dictate the terms anymore. It's a victory worth celebrating.

A lingering fear of uncontrolled asthma

Despite having a good handle on my asthma now, there's a lingering fear deep within – fear born from the memory of past severe breathlessness that refuses to fade. Once you've faced such moments, they etch themselves into your consciousness. The linchpin to maintaining any semblance of control lies in never forgetting those experiences.

This commitment to "non-forgettingness" fuels my daily routine, ensuring I faithfully take my medications. Before venturing out, there's a mental checklist, a preparation for the "what ifs." This vigilance, while a constant companion, is the anchor in the intricate dance with asthma.

Choosing to become a respiratory therapist was a conscious decision. It was driven by the allure of working in a clean-air environment indoors. However, the reality of a hospital setting, while offering controlled air quality, comes with its own challenges. It exposes me to people who are unwell, with some potentially carrying invisible airborne germs.

Drawing from the lessons of my asthma journey, I've incorporated precautions into my routine. When entering a patient's room where the exact cause of their symptoms is unknown, I make it a habit to wear either a surgical mask or an N95. It's a simple yet crucial measure to safeguard against potential triggers.

Preparing for my new "normal" life

While others might approach hunting camp with a casual grab-and-go mindset, my preparations involve a bit more thought and consideration for the "just in case." Take the campfire, for instance. While it's a typical part of the experience for others, for me, there's the concern of potential lung irritation from the smoke.

There are also the unseen threats of dust mites and mold in the cabin. What if it unexpectedly takes my breath away? Even though I have controlled asthma, it can still happen.

Ensuring I'm armed against these uncertainties means packing more than the usual gear. Tucked in the corner of my duffle bag are not just my essentials but also my nebulizer and the full arsenal of respiratory medicines.

The days leading up to camp become a meticulous routine of double-checking and ensuring I've taken all my medicines. This is needed for prepping my lungs for the inherent risks that come with embracing the outdoor adventure of hunting camp. It's a "normal" that's uniquely tailored to this asthmatic life – my normal.

In my asthma journey, there have been years at camp where my condition remained in check, providing a sense of normalcy and allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience. However, there have also been years marked by severe asthma attacks, indelible memories that serve as a constant reminder. As mentioned earlier, these are experiences that stay with you.

Embracing life with controlled asthma

Gratefully, with the current control over my asthma, I don't have to steer clear of camp gatherings. I can join the camaraderie with the guys without the looming fear that once hindered these adventures. Yet, it's a reminder that the unpredictability of asthma is always there, weaving itself into the fabric of my experiences.

In the intricate dance with asthma, my journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs. Controlled asthma has granted me the freedom to embrace life fully, whether in the hospital as a respiratory therapist or navigating the unpredictable terrain of a hunting camp.

The memories of past struggles linger but serve as reminders of resilience. As I celebrate the victory of good asthma control, I'm curious about your journey – how has asthma shaped your experiences? What about you?