There's no such thing as "defeating" or "curing" asthma. That's a common fallacy, but it is most definitely a fallacy. Some people are fortunate in that as they grow older they become less sensitive to the triggers that cause asthmatic flares--consider it as if your disorder went into remission. If you want to consider that an adaptation, fine. Just realize that for most people, as Amy indicated above, ignoring symptoms, refusing meds or using them contra to medical instruction, even if you think you are doing well, may very likely result in some rather sever scarring of the lung tissue and decreased muscle capacity. Its not pretty. If you want to know what its like to live with scarred lungs and diminished lung capacity, visit with someone who at age 55 or 65 now is being treated for asthma-related COPD. Medication isn't a temporary solution. Its an active, ongoing treatment process. If you get to the point where your need is reduced or diminishes altogether for a time, hurray! Just remember, any major life change (pregnancy, menopause, severe respiratory illness/injury) can reactivate your sensitivity to your asthma triggers or even make your sensitivity worse. YOu may go 20, 30 or 40 years seemingly asymptomatic and then have a sudden flare. THat's the life of an asthmatic.
