I can’t join because asthma?

Question

I contacted a recruiter to sign up for asvab and she told me because I have asthma I can’t join the army. Is there anyone you know that has asthma and in the military? What can I do? I know I’m completely capable of doing physical activity. Should I contact another recruiter or join another branch?

Answer

It actually depends on how severe is your asthma and if you still rely on your rescue inhaler. If you do then they won’t give you a waiver at all because pure considered a risk to the mission if you are put in a compromising position. If you haven’t had to use your rescue inhaler in the last 5-7 years then they can probably give you a waiver. At MEPS they will have you do specific pulmonary function tests and you have to pass them all in order to get the waiver. I have severe asthma and wanted to join the navy but I will never be able to because I rely too much on my inhaler. They will also need your medical records to prove you don’t rely on asthma medications as well.

Answer

I had a friend recently get chaptered out of the army due to asthma so yeah I could imagine it would disqualify you from joining.

Answer

It's actually a big deal to have asthma. If you are currently taking meds daily or are using a rescue inhaler you won't qualify for a waiver. If you haven't been symptomatic for years and can get a doctor to certify through pulmonary function tests that you don't have issues you may be able to get a waiver. I know many who have been discharged for asthma and some who receive disability, even for only exercise-induced asthma.

Answer

Did she tell you you can’t join or did she say it was disqualifying? You can get waivers for asthma. I’m surprised she didn’t tell you that. Go back tomorrow and ask. Don’t quit until every door has shut. I literally tried joining every single branch but was told no by everyone for personal reasons. But seriously do not let that dream die if that’s what you want to do.

Answer

I had a friend with asthma who tried to join the Air Force and they told him the same thing. It’s just a requirement that you can’t have asthma I guess. Probably because they can’t give any special treatment at basic training if for some reason you weren’t able to make it through the PT portion. I’d definitely call around and get some definite answers though. You would think that they’d let you join as long as you choose a less physically demanding job.

I can’t join because asthma?

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