Is it possible to pass a lung capacity test but still have asthma?
This sounds like exercise-induced asthma. Two puffs of a rescue inhaler before exercising would probably take care of it. However, be careful getting a full diagnosis of asthma. At least here in the US, NFPA number something-or-other says you cannot use an SCBA if you have asthma. And since SCBA use is required in the fire service, most paid departments will not let you work as a firefighter if you have asthma. However, inhalers are sometimes prescribed for bronchitis, so if you get it prescribed for that it might not set off any red flags. Volunteer departments are often not as strict about this no asthma rule. However, since you called it a brigade, I'm guessing you're not in the US anyway. But I'm sure other countries have similar rules. Bottom line is, does this interfere with your ability to fight fire? Would a diagnosis of asthma be in your best interest? I'm a firefighter, and I've got asthma. But I'm on a volunteer department, and our physician advisor is aware of my asthma. He said he would only sign me off to fight fire if I would agree to only use the SCBA if I'd been completely symptom-free for the last 24 hrs, and hadn't needed to use my rescue inhalor during that time either. Even so, I've had to use my inhaler on scene a few times, and once I had to exit a burning building because I was having asthma symptoms. For this reason, I generally don't make entry anymore. Weirdly, the smoke from burning buildings doesn't trigger my asthma, but cigarette smoke does, big time. Overall, I'd recommend you avoid an asthma diagnosis, but see if you can get a hold of a rescue inhaler. Use it before you exercise, or as you're heading to a call. Then, I'd leave the inhaler either at home, or on the truck rather than keeping it on you. As great as it is to have it handy, it's probably worse to have anything aerosol in your pocket at a fire. disclaimer - I'm not a doctor, and I don't even play one on TV. Follow these suggestions at your own risk.
How would an asthmatic person's FEV compare to that of an athlete?
If the asthmatic person has his/her asthma under control, It could be the same percentage. FEV1 and other FEV readings are predicted on your height, age, race and sex. The results are reported in a percent of what would be normal for someone just like you. The asthmatic person will have a reduced FEV1 percentage if the asthma is not controlled. In other words, they are having airway inflammation and airway constriction when tested.
If i dont have asthma and use an inhaler what will happen?
Using asthma medications with out a doctor's supervision is dangerous. One of the common "rescue" inhalers contains albuterol, which may cause your heart rate to increase. Many of the maintenance inhalers contain steroids. If you are having breathing problems, see a doctor. You may be experiencing allergy symptoms. Asthma is a serious and possibly life-threatening disease, and you should not be self medicating for ANY condition that is. Medications such as Primatene that are available with out a prescription should still be used only with doctor's supervision.
Can an asthmatic patient sing?
Yes! I highly recommend it, as singing is an aerobic activity that can help to increase overall lung capacity over time. This can benefit the health of the asthmatic singer, in that the extra lung capacity developed through singing helps to mitigate the severity of asthmatic attacks. Singing regularly is not only good for increasing lung capacity, but studies have shown that people who sing on a regular basis tend to be healthier and happier than non-singers. So…Sing, sing a song, sing out loud, sing out strong!
Do I really have asthma if I’ve never had an asthma attack?
It started in 2016 when it was commented on that I breathe like an angry bull lol (that’s with mouth closed) I went to my doctor who then referred me to a lung specialist at the hospital. The specialist ordered an X-ray first (which came back clear) and then a lung function test, I failed the lung function test twice but finally the results of those tests were given to the specialist. Well…first things first my lungs work at a reduced rate compared to a normal person, secondly he told me (which I suppose was part of the test) that I am not producing histamine in order for my lungs to function properly, then lastly he gave me a diagnosis of “Asthma”… I find this so weird considering I’ve never had an asthma attack, I only originally went to the doctor because the symptoms first presented as: deep shallow breathing, getting out of breath just from talking or walking up the stairs, I noticed myself one thing moreso in particular which is that when I lie on my left side it becomes harder to get my breath or just breath in a way that’s considered to be normal. The specialist gave me pumps, like lots of them…I think one medication is “Fosters” and the other for definite “Spiriva”.In case you wondered I’m 5’10 and weigh 73kg which is still within the good weight to height ratio, in other words I’m not obese or even close to being obese.I find this one a real head scratcher…