How serious is asthma? (i just got diagnosed)

Very, but: Most asthmatics are likely to live very normal lives if they take their medications and take an active part in their disease. Work with your physician to develop a plan whereby you are able to monitor your symptoms and stay active.

Depends: Asthma is quite variable.Some have it so mild they will never know it, but their occasional cough will subside with asthma meds. The worst are usually hospitalized with attacks in childhood & rarely get off meds for even a day. The average patient will have a normal life as long as s/he pays proper attention to treatment and followup care.