DoDMERB Asthma Questions

USCGAmichiguy

5-Year Member
Joined
Apr 1, 2013
Messages
15
Hello, first I would just like to say I have been sort of watching this site from afar in the past and have learned many things from this site, so I wanted to say thank you to everyone here.

Here is my situation: I have received a conditional appointment to the USCGA and can't be more excited about it. After visiting in October I was sure it was the right place for me. I will do anything possible to make it to the Academy as a cadet.

The Problem: First DoDMERB gave me some simple remedials about orthodontics and a urology concern. Those turned out fine, but when we sent back the urology report some information regarding asthma medication I was prescribed in the past turned up and we failed to see it before we sent it to DoDMERB. Now DoDMERB has asked for my medical history since age 13, the "asthma age" I have learned. I am quite certain I will be disqualified for asthma and begin the waiver process.

The Bad: I have had asthma diagnosed before the age 13 and we never really strived to have it removed although I'm certain we could've. We just kept it going, just in case something happened, but nothing ever did. We didn't realize it would play such a large part in applying and attending a service academy.

The Good: I have had asthma medication perscribed for me for a while, but I have not used the medication in over 2 years. I play varsity Tennis, Basketball, Lacrosse, and exercise regularly with no need at all for the medication. My Doctor knows I do not have asthma and has removed the diagnosis, he is also prepared to write a letter to DoDMERB on my behalf arguing my case.

My question is do you have any advice for what my plan of action should be regarding the waiver process? What would be the best appeal I could make to the Academy? Anything in general or from personal experience with an asthma waiver? Thank you for anything you can do.
 
Take a Methacholine Challenge Test ASAP and send your results to your academies Medical Department. I was disqualified for the same reason. I took a simple Spirometry test and failed, but took a Methacholine Challenge test and passed, and received my medical waiver shortly there after. Once you send in your results, get an update as often as you can (within reason). Best of luck.
 
I have a Spirometry PFT and Methacholine Challenge scheduled for this Tuesday, do you have any tips on how to prepare or test better if possible? I was told it would be quicker to send any appeal material to DoDMERB first and they would send it to the Academy. Where exactly did you send your results?
 
I have a Spirometry PFT and Methacholine Challenge scheduled for this Tuesday, do you have any tips on how to prepare or test better if possible? I was told it would be quicker to send any appeal material to DoDMERB first and they would send it to the Academy. Where exactly did you send your results?
I'm pretty much like you. I had a previous 'history', hadn't used my medication, played four years of varsity football. Still I was DQ'ed so I myself took the Spirometry test and passed relatively easily. Only advice I can give personally is just run everyday, stretch and hydrate beforehand. Just don't be nervous, concentrate, and you'll do fine. Congratulations on your appointment!
 
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