Expert: Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator - 7/5/2008

Question
Hi! before entering in military traning I have do many ways on how to prevent my asthma in the way doing a healthy lifestyle but the question is. Is there any alternative treatment of asthma without a medical treatment? And Isn't people with an asthma can survive the military traning?

Answer
Hi Francis,

First, have you gone for your physical yet? I don't know military policy, but asthma may disqualify you from combat service in the Army, Marines and Air Force. This would be due to the fact that you would be put at physical risk just from the environment you could be sent into. With the Navy, as long as there are not any mold issues, humidity is generally not a problem. Needless to say, jungles, swamps and dusty areas do not mix with asthma. They may have options in non-combat theater roles.(Probably would also give you job skills of a higher value in the civilian world after you leave the service).

Controlling asthma is a balancing act. Proper medication will only be effective if you yourself learn about what triggers your attacks, and you do you best to avoid those triggers (such as pollen, mold, smoke, etc.). Obviously, in a military training environment, avoiding many of the triggers will be nearly impossible, which can prevent your medication from achieving the greatest success. Of course, a lot depends upon the level of asthma you are already living with. If they accept you with asthma, I'd strongly suggest you check into seeing if you'd be a good candidate for allergy shots. These, over time, decrease the reaction your body has to allergens.

Bottom line, it will be difficult to overcome the obstacles you will face, but not impossible.

Good luck!

Marc