Posted on Jan 19, 2018
SPC Infantryman
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I could potentially have asthma that was undiagnosed when i was younger. I recently had a pretty bad asthma attack and am in the process of finding out what triggered it. Could it affect my chances of trying out for special operations and would it weigh over me negatively seeing that I'm in a combat MOS(11B)?
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SGM Bill Frazer
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It's very possible to affect it negatively- SOCOM has different standards, remember the only trained medical personnel you might see while deployed would be the team medic with much limited resources to what they can carry. I hope you recover and can move forward.
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SSG(P) Rgt Airborne Ranger
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I would like to think that since the military has relaxed their standards on asthma that had previously barred people from service, then again, it depended on whether you were either non-combat or combat MOS. If asthma was diagnosed prior to the age of 13, people could still enlist.

However, if it is documented on any military or civilian medical paperwork, I would try and get a medical waiver showing no pulmonary effects occur, especially during an APFT. If paperwork hasn’t been submitted, then that really would be up to you to follow up and make sure you are medically cleared to try for a SOF unit. Regardless of the outcome, keep your head up and drive on. SOF units require a lot physically, and I wouldn’t like to see any of my soldiers have an attack on target, in training, or in garrison.
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A1C Ian Williams
A1C Ian Williams
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PFC Jim Wheeler - according to the new data, the patient exhibited the symptoms after a change in environment. Once we rule out anything endemic and critical to him and his general health is not in danger, we can revisit whether or not he should be on Active Duty.
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SSG(P) Rgt Airborne Ranger
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PFC Jim Wheeler I haven’t truly seen any updated Army Reg from AMEDD concerning asthma-related diagnoses. I haven’t heard of anyone getting booted for asthma in a long time. Hopefully it is something temporary that doesn’t truly effect PV2 Mujahid’s career or choices to excel.

SPC (Join to see) I hope it isn’t something that will put your motivation on hold, stuff like that can be pretty discouraging, until then, asthma or not, continue to excel and try your best.
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SPC Infantryman
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Roger that SSG! Will do. Thank you for the encouraging words I will drive on and continue to become better everyday.
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PFC Jim Wheeler
PFC Jim Wheeler
6 y
I know things like this are usually a case-by-case issue too SPC (Join to see). The SSG says it has been a while since he has seen it happen, which is good news. I suspect you will have yo wait and see what your doctor and company leadership have to say.

If they declare you to be fit for duty, then it probably will not have too much bearing on your career in the long-term.

However, I assume that will rely on it being a one-off occurence.
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COL Deputy G2
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Oh yea! But it may not be asthma. I had a case of something that made me feel like I had asthma. Couldn’t go up to the second floor without getting winded. So with great wisdom the Army sent me to the Sinai desert the next month. All good. good luck.
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SPC Infantryman
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Roger that. Thank you sir.
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