"Always being prepared with an inhaler allows me to continue to participate in sports” | Ilia Jauharis, 24

I was 5 years old when after a few episodes of noisy breathing due to cold weather and dust exposure, I was diagnosed with childhood asthma. When I encounter my triggers or feel the symptoms of an asthma attack coming, I know that I have to continue monitoring and take quick action by taking my reliever medication.

My main trigger is cat fluff, which has been challenging to avoid as all my family members have cats living in the house. Even if I’m not in direct contact with the cats, being near any surface that they have been on or even being around them, in general, can trigger an attack for me. I’ve had to go out of my way to ensure that I keep myself away from cats which is unfortunate, as I really love cats.

When I was initially diagnosed with childhood asthma my parents and I were worried that I wouldn’t be able to be as physically active as I was previously. I was involved in many different sports and activities and was worried that my asthma would limit my ability to enjoy this passion of mine. Thankfully, I have never had issues with exercise-induced asthma. I continued playing my sports, but I was always prepared with my salbutamol inhaler and ensured it was always easily accessible in case of any attacks.

I believe knowing your triggers and limits, having a plan, and being prepared helps to manage your symptoms and avoid attacks. It is totally possible to continue to enjoy physical activities despite having asthma.

Real Life Asthma Stories Booklet

This asthma life story is part of a booklet of stories created for community engagement in Malaysia. Read all the stories in the booklet produced by the University of Malaya and Universiti Putra Malaysia, RESPIRE partner organisations in Malaysia.