Those with asthma must carry their medicines during travel to avoid attacks, say doctors.

By evaluating the patient’s symptoms, testing the response to medication, observing and assessing the condition and adjusting the treatment, the condition can be controlled to enable them lead a near-normal life, says P.K. Thomas, chest physician at Fortis Malar Hospital.

A child, who has recurrent nocturnal cough, makes a whistling sound and is breathless, is most certainly suffering from asthma. In children, it is necessary to diagnose the condition early to avoid structural changes to the airways, says paediatrician D. Vijayasekaran, who consults at Apollo Hospitals.

The specialists urge asthmatics to use inhalers and dispelled the myth that they are addictive. Doctors would constantly evaluate the patient and by adjusting the medication patients can carry on their daily activities.

Dr. Vijayasekaran said people with asthma had even taken up sport, participated in international competitions and won medals. Inhalers are not addictive, he insists. “Inhalation will send a small dose of medicine directly to the lungs. You need a set of medicine called controllers even when symptoms are not noticed. Note down your complaints and tell the doctor to help make the correct diagnosis,” he explained. The first Tuesday of May is observed as World Asthma Awareness Day. The Global Initiative for Asthma theme this year is STOP for Asthma - Symptom evaluation; test response; observe and assess and proceed to adjust treatment.