Friday, December 26, 2008
Tips to remember: Exercise-Induced Asthma
Symptoms of EIA such as difficulty breathing may occur within the first 15-20 minutes of exercise. Other symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and possibly chest pain. Because the symptoms usually occur during early exercise take some extra time to thoroughly warmup. This will allow the respiratory system to adapt to changes. Also, if you are on medication, be sure to take it well before your workout.
If you have EIA you may be oversensitive to sudden changes in temperature and humidity, especially when breathing colder, drier air. Choose an environment that has consistent, warmer and more humid air. You will sweat more in this atmosphere so be sure to bring a sports drink.
When choosing your place to workout make sure the air is clean. Inquire if they have a good air filtration system. Any air pollutants could trigger asthma.
Try nose breathing during exercise. As your exercise becomes more strenuous you should find yourself both nose and mouth breathing. If you solely mouth breathe, air is not allowed to pass through the nasal passages for warming and humidifying before it reaches the lungs.
Some research has indicated that EIA asthma may be reduced during early morning exercise. One study found lung spasms to be 30% higher in the evening exercisers than in the early morning exercisers.
Exercise is beneficial to the health and well being of us all. If you think you have EIA first see a health care professional and get the right diagnosis and any helpful medications. Then, follow some of the common sense guidelines above to benefit fully from your exercise program.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Do You Have Asthma?
With increased industrialization, more factories are burning more fuel and releasing greater amounts of waste products into the air. Since a significant percentage of the population now lives in urban areas, they are undoubtedly feeling the effects of chronic exposure to airborne toxins. Conversely, even in rural areas improved technology is impacting the way that farmers grow crops and control pests. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers may help to ensure better crops, but runoff from fields where these substances are used can get into the water system or food products and lead to the development as asthmatic-type symptoms.
Although many people do not know if they have asthma, there are some symptoms to look for that may indicate the presence or development of this chronic condition. The most obvious clue, and one that should be checked promptly by a doctor, is shortness of breath. This may come and go or show up only when a person is exposed to certain triggers, often allergens like dust, pet dander, or household chemicals. Some foods can bring on an asthma attack, especially nuts, eggs, and shellfish, although others are likewise culprits. See your doctor promptly if you develop a breathing disorder, and if you experience difficulty catching your breath, seek emergency assistance.
Other possible signs and symptoms of asthma include a dry cough, chronic allergy symptoms like sneezing or watery eyes, wheezing, and other related breathing changes. Asthma causes the airway to become congested, which tightens the throat and lungs, making it harder for air to pass through. This is what leads to breathing difficulties.
No matter how probable it may be that you or a loved one is showing signs of asthma, you will need to see the doctor for an accurate diagnosis and a prescription for treatment. You may need to use a bronchodilator, which blows a special medical vapor into your throat and lungs to ease constriction. Prescription medications can help, as can avoiding obvious or suspected triggers. Controlling allergic symptoms by removing household or job-related allergens also can help to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks. Some doctors supplement conventional treatment with herbal remedies, but check with your physician before taking over-the-counter medications or formulas.
Asthma can be a serious condition and may even become life threatening for some. Work with your doctor to get the best care and improve your condition, or that of a loved one, to avoid serious complications from this chronic condition.
Author of this article is Charles Kassotis
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Why Do You Have Asthma?
But what is the real cause asthma? Why do some people develop asthma and why is asthma more common in the western world?
Inheriting Asthma
However, you can inherit the asthma tendency from your parents, although people with asthma should not worry about their future children on this score.
Studies show that children whose parents smoke are twice as likely to develop asthma as children of non-smoking parents. Also, children whose mothers smoked during pregnancy tend to be born with smaller airways, which greatly increases their chances of developing the disease.
The "westernised" environment and lifestyle in developed countries has a lot to do with the chances of whether a person will develop asthma or not.
Many people believe air pollution has something to do with asthma, although the evidence, at this stage, is surprisingly very weak.
Allergies
Causes of asthma include allergies to house dust mites, cats, dogs, and moulds.
Childhood infections and exposure to substances from bacteria in a dirty environment seem to protect against allergies, and this seems to be the main reason why richer populations have more allergic disease.
So the causes of asthma are complicated. They include genetics, exposure to chemical irritants and pollution, a low immune system, emotional or mental problems, allergies to certain foods.
Almost all asthma in young people is cause by allergies. This means that if you have asthma you probably have inherited genes which make it possible for you to get asthma. Add to this, allergy-producing things in your environment, such as house dust mites, cats, or dog and your asthma get worse.. The allergies and the genes are the causes for developing asthma, because if either of them were not present you would not developed asthma.
But, what about colds, exercise, laughter, or tobacco smoke, which are asthma triggers?
You can't cure your asthma by not doing exercise, or by not laughing. Quite simply, these are not causes of asthma, though they can be causes of an attack.
The type of interior house paint can apparently make asthma worse. Glossy oil paints used for home decorating can bring on asthma attacks. The good news is that emulsion paints don't seem to do this.
Polyurethane paints, usually recognisable because they come in two packs which need to be mixed together before use, can cause occupational asthma in people who use them regularly. However, they probably cause no great risk in people with asthma who use them infrequently. As always, when using chemicals and paints, it is surely a good idea to ventilate the area well during and after use.
Emotional issues
Now, deep seated emotionally issue can be the cause of asthma. When emotion is embedded into the body, it has to express itself in a way that its electrical charge can be released. This release happens over and over as outside situations trigger the memory.
The way an embedded emotion issue choses to express itself is by the path of least resistance. If your heart is weak, the emotional issue will pound your heart. If your joints are weak, it will pound your joints. If your bronchia or lungs are weak, it will pound them and eventually weaken those more, leading you to asthma or other respiratory diseases.
Early on everyone should be aware of their family illness history. This is something that is seldom considered. If it were, you could take preventative measures if you knew you were prone to asthma. Choosing the right foods and keeping specific body organs or systems strong, with the right nutrients early on, would definitely prevent you from having to suffer with asthma as you became older.
Author of this article is Rudy Silva. Rudy is a Natural Nutritionist. To discover more about using natural remedies for asthma go to: http://www.asthmatreatments.info
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Early Detection of Childhood Asthma
But how do you know if you should take your child to a doctor to determine if he or she has asthma? There are certain signs you can look for that will help determine if your child may be suffering from childhood asthma. If you detect any of these signs it is strongly recommended that you take your child to a doctor as soon as possible where a proper diagnosis can be made.
Coughing and wheezing are two prominent signs of asthma. Wheezing is like whistling sound when breathing and often occurs after a child has been running and playing. A tight feeling in the chest and shortness of breath after playing or exercise are also signs of asthma and if you suspect your child might have asthma you should pay close attention to your child during playtime and after playtime for these symptoms.
Colds can be difficult for children with asthma as the cold symptoms tent to concentrate on the chest, which affects breathing, and the colds tend to last longer. Children with asthma also tend to have more respiratory illnesses than normal and they are more severe. Often this is an indicator of “hidden asthma.” Children with hidden asthma often do not show the “classic” symptoms of asthma such as wheezing and this can make diagnosing asthma very difficult.
Allergies can also spark asthma symptoms and asthma attacks. If you know that your child is allergic to certain allergens whether it is food, pollen, mold, or something else, pay close attention to your child if an unavoidable situation arises that he or she comes in contact with an allergen. Is there an increase in breathing difficulties, wheezing, or coughing? Asthma is often induced by exposure to an allergen and can lead to an asthma attack.
If you detect any symptoms of asthma in your child at any time it is important that your child sees a doctor and is tested for childhood asthma as soon as possible. Your family doctor or pediatrician may refer you to an asthma and allergy specialist. Treatments are available that many times will keep the childhood asthma under control.
Daniel Lanicek is an life long sufferer of asthma on a mission to heighten world awareness of asthma and childhood asthma. By giving parents the information they need childhood asthma does not have to degrade the quality of life for their children. You can learn more about asthma at Asthma Explained.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Understanding Asthma
Yet, The illness is little understood, especially by nonsufferers. Even asthmatics often do not understand what is happening to them, and this can create anxiety that only aggravates the condition.
In a typical attack, the sufferer feels a tightness in the chest. Wheezing and coughing, he struggles to breathe. The experience is frightening! An attack may be severe or quite mild. Symptoms may vary, as may the frequency of attacks. Some persons always have the symptoms, although they differ in severity.
What causes these unpleasant sensations? As you probably know, air is channeled into our lungs through the bronchial tubes. In many asthmatic patients, allergic reactions cause oversensitivity in these tubes. The muscles in the bronchial wall may contract, the membrane lining the tubes may swell, and the glands in the bronchial wall may produce excess mucus. The result? The tubes get narrower. No wonder the patient has difficulty breathing!
What Causes Asthma?
What triggers an attack? Perhaps an infection, an emotional upset, or a severe allergic reaction to something. However, once the disease has been triggered in a person, there may be several antigens, or specific substances, that will produce an oversensitivity in the bronchial tubes. And once the bronchial tubes are sensitized to these, other factors, such as temperature changes, varying humidity, emotional upsets, or exercise, may also cause attacks.
Doctors may be able to identify some of the antigens that bring on an asthma attack, but it is not often possible to find all of them. And even when they are found, it is not always possible to avoid them. Thorough investigation to find the causes of asthma and the best way to manage it may take time. It may involve much patience on the part of the sufferer and the doctor. But such time spent will likely result in greater ability to control the symptoms.
How to Prevent Attacks
Many things irritate the lungs and can provoke an attack in an asthma sufferer. Try to avoid contact with the following.
Tobacco Smoke: Do not smoke, and avoid smoke-filled rooms. Doctors quickly lose sympathy for asthmatics who insist on smoking. And friends of someone who suffers from the illness should not smoke in the person's presence. Although the person may not suffer an attack immediately, hours later the individual may be in dire straits because of the effects of the smoke.
Dust: Try to avoid dusty, enclosed areas as well as activities that stir up dust. If your job brings you into contact with a lot of dust, give serious consideration to changing it. Some asthmatics find that their symptoms occur only at night or in the bedroom. Could this be due to house dust or those tiny house-dust mites? In many cases it is; hence, the asthmatic's bedroom should be as free of dust as possible. Following are some housekeeping suggestions especially designed for asthmatics.
Clean the bedroom daily.
Each week, thoroughly clean and vacuum mattress, bed base, blankets, and floor. Hardwood floors are better than rugs or carpets, and venetian blinds than drapes.
Dust furniture, tops of doors, window frames, and windowsills with a damp or oily cloth.
The room should be aired thoroughly and the doors and windows closed after the airing, at least three to four hours before the person retires.
Mattress, blankets, and pillows should not be of allergy-causing materials, and they should regularly be aired in the sun if at all possible.
One more thing. Do not allow pets into the bedroom. And if there is any evidence that you are allergic to your pet, find another home for it-or, at least, always keep it out of the house.
Temperature and Humidity: Sudden temperature changes and extremes of heat and cold may provoke an attack. The ideal is air that is slightly warm and moist. Hence, if you suffer from asthma, go out as little as possible in foggy or crisp, cold weather. Avoid hot, dry central heating. If temperature changes cause attacks during the night, try having a thermostatically controlled heater in your room during the winter months. If humidity brings on your symptoms, try using a humidity controller.
Emotional Stress and Fatigue: Either of these may cause an attack. True, we cannot always control emotional stress. Also, wise sufferers of asthma try to be aware of their physical limitations, avoiding fatigue, which can also trigger an attack.
Food: Food allergies may be causes of an attacks, especially in children or in adults whose asthma started in childhood. Even common foods, such as milk, eggs, and cereals, may be suspect. But it may take a lot of detective work to determine the culprit, especially if it is a widely used substance, such as sugar. And, of course, it could be that more than one food is involved. Adult patients would be well-advised to consider alcoholic drinks, especially beer and wine, to be possible aggravating factors.
Exercise: Sometimes an attack is triggered by overexertion, usually striking after the exercise is completed. If this is your experience, avoid exercises, such as squash, that involve sudden bursts of energy and try a more gradual form of exercise, such as swimming and bicycling. Perhaps it may help to use a bronchodilator (a medicine that relieves congestion in the bronchial tubes) prior to any strenuous activity. A physiotherapist may be able to help you with a program that will increase your tolerance of exercise. This will enable you to take part in more activities without becoming short of breath.
Infection: Often, minor respiratory infections, such as a cold or influenza, will provoke an attacks or make the symptoms worse. The usual medication for relief of asthma is not always effective when an infection is present.
Living With Pollens: While the winter months cause many problems to those with respiratory disease, many suffer from what is called seasonal asthma. Microscopically small particles of pollen floating in the summer air can cause untold misery and discomfort to asthma sufferers. It is impossible to eradicate the sources of this pollen, but some commonsense measures may help. For instance, try to avoid freshly mowed lawns, as well as wilderness or country areas during pollen seasons, and use effective air-conditioning if possible.
Living With Molds: Thousands of molds, or fungi, inhabit our environment. Molds and fungal spores (reproductive bodies) grow on vegetable or animal matter. They are also abundant on wheat, oats, corn, grasses, and leaves. While only a small number have been shown to cause problems for sufferers, a study suggested that spores may be a major allergy factor. Hence, while it is impossible to eradicate airborne spores, the following measures may help:
Avoid damp, musty basements and buildings.
Do not rake or burn leaves or dry grass.
Disinfect or destroy any moldy articles.
Do not keep plants indoors or establish a compost pile in the garden.
Decontaminate household areas infected with mold.
Is Your Child Asthmatic?
If so, he will need your support. You, as well as his teachers, will need to understand his problem and help him to cope with it. The child must not be pushed to do more than he can manage, but neither should he be allowed to hide behind his asthma and avoid doing things that would be good for him.
His physical activities should preferably be noncompetitive, although many children with asthma can play most games when they are free of symptoms. However, the child with chronic asthma may be able to enjoy only limited activity, and adults should be careful not to push him to try too hard. The intelligent use of medication may help him to enjoy regular activities such as physical education, and the instructor should know when and how to use a bronchodilator aerosol.
A few children are so severely affected by asthma that they persistently have difficulty in breathing and are frequently wheezy. Such children are often anxious and tense, and their parents and teachers worry a lot about them. The children frequently miss school and may be unable to join in games.
A parent may be overprotective of such a child. If the child comes from a home where there is constant tension and argument, he may lack the support, love, understanding, and encouragement he so desperately needs. Parents who adopt a healthy, optimistic approach to asthma help reduce anxiety in the child, minimizing the severity of the disorder.
If Someone Has an Attack...
Move him to a quiet place and reassure him. He may stand or sit leaning forward, often the most comfortable position during an attack, and he should use his bronchodilator immediately. If the bronchodilator is an inhalant, it may work faster and therefore be more effective than a medicine taken orally. If the attack is severe-especially if the sufferer cannot speak properly-he should be taken to a doctor as soon as possible. By the way, the patient loses a lot of moisture during an attack because of the gasping and panting. Therefore, give him plenty to drink.
Treatment of the Asthmatic
Physiotherapy is an important aid in helping the asthmatic, especially in showing him how to breathe properly (using the diaphragm) and how to ease shortness of breath. The therapist can also teach him relaxation, good posture, and exercises that help to keep asthma under control. Treatments vary. A doctor is usually the most qualified to suggest what is best in each individual case.
Treatments include the use of drugs, such as sodium cromolyn and steroids, as well as several types of bronchodilators. Of course, with the use of drugs, there may be possible side effects. A doctor may be able to recommend other treatments.
Asthma is complex. Relatives and friends must understand this if they are going to be of any help. Avoid saying things like, 'Just get your mind off it' or, 'You look quite well to me.' We can be better prepared for asthma attacks, better equipped to avoid things that trigger them, and have their stress, anxiety, and discomfort greatly lessened.
Frankie Goh is a full-time family counsellor and researcher.
He manage a website : Earn Money Online http://www.ezy-cash.com
He is also the Internet Marketing Co-ordinator of Ultra-Herbal Products & HerbalBiz Affiliate Program.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Asthma Treatments – With Relievers and Preventers?
These are adrenaline (epinephrine in the USA) and the steroid hydrocortisone and they form the basis for relievers that provide quick relief of symptoms and preventers for longer term care.
Most asthmatics use both preventers and relievers to form a medical regime to control the asthma.
These medicines are usually taken as inhalers so that they can be breathed in through the nose or mouth. Inhalers have advantages over other forms of medication because…
oThe medicine is delivered where it is required in the lungs and so less of the medicine is needed.
oThe medicine can be made to be biodegradable inside the body. After it has done its work in the lungs it can be broken down in the liver so there is little chance of harmful side effects.
oThe medicine works more quickly.
Quick Relief Medicines
Drugs that resemble adrenaline (epinephrine) are known as 'relievers' and give rapid, short-term treatment and are used for when the asthmatic has worsening symptoms that if left untreated could lead to an asthma attack. The patient will feel the effects of these medicines within minutes but they only last a short time.
They are short-acting inhaled bronchodilators that work by relaxing the muscles that have tightened around the airways. They help open up the airways quickly and ease the patient's breathing and are used only when needed. They are sometimes called " rescue " or " relief " medicines because they can stop an asthma attack very quickly and anyone who has asthma should always carry one of these inhalers in case of an attack.
Long-Term Medicines
These are called preventers and are taken every day, usually over long periods of time, to control chronic symptoms and to prevent asthma episodes or attacks. Medicines which resemble hydrocortisone slowly reduce the sensitivity the patient has towards irritants and allergens that would normally trigger an attack. It will take a few weeks to for them to show any improvement and once an attack starts they do nothing to alleviate it. Patients with persistent asthma need long-term control medicines.
Long-term medication includes:
o The most effective and long-term medication for asthma is an inhaled corticosteroid (or steroids for short) because this reduces the swelling of the airways that makes attacks more likely. This is the preferred treatment for controlling mild, moderate, and severe asthma and are safe when taken as prescribed by your doctor. There are many kinds of inhalers that require different techniques, and it is important to know how to use a inhaler in the correct way. In some cases, steroidal tablets or liquid are used for short periods of times in order to bring asthma under control.
o Long-acting beta-agonists are bronchodilators: these are not anti-inflammatory drugs but are used to help control moderate and severe asthma and to prevent night-time symptoms. Long-acting beta-agonists are taken together with inhaled corticosteroid medicine.
o Leukotriene modifiers (i.e., montelukast, zafirlukast, and zileuton) are long-term control medicines that used either on there own to treat mild cases asthma or used in tandem with inhaled corticosteroids for moderate or even severe asthma.
o Cromolyn and nedocromil are also long-term medicines used only to treat mild asthma.
o Theophylline is a long-termmedication used either on it's own to treat mild asthma or along with inhaled corticosteroids to treat moderate asthma. People who take theophylline should have their blood levels checked to be sure the dose is correct.
Most asthmatics will need both a short-acting bronchodilator to use when symptoms worsen and long-term daily asthma medication to control the ongoing inflammation. Over time, a doctor needs to make changes to the asthma medication, increasing or decreasing doses and changing medication where required. The desire should bd to use the least amount of medicine necessary to control the asthma effectively.
Asthma Treatments with Relievers and Preventers
There two main types of medicines for the treatment of asthma:
oQuick Relief Medicines - also called relievers , and,
oLong-Term Medicines - also called preventers .
Quick Relief Medicines are fast acting, providing short-term treatment within minutes and are taken when the patient feels worsening asthma symptoms that can lead to an asthma attack.
Long-Term Control Medicines are taken daily, over long periods of time, to control the disease.
Do you, a spouse or a child, have asthma? Learn more, including the treatments available at Asthma-Explained.com
Thursday, September 4, 2008
How Vitamins Prevent From Asthma
Eat more cold water fish with high content of fish oils. Eating oily fish like salmon, halibut, sardines (packed in mustard or tomato sauce, not oil), or tuna regularly may reduce the risk of asthma symptoms. Children who eat lots of amounts of whole grain products and fish seem to have a reduced risk of developing asthma. "The rise in the prevalence of asthma in western societies may be related to changed dietary habits. Studies of children have shown that asthma is less likely with increasing intake of "fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, and fish. Teens who don't eat enough fruit and vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids are more likely to suffer from bronchitis, wheezing and asthma.
Adding fresh fruits and vegetables to the diet and decreasing both high-fat and high-sugar items also may be part of a process of natural asthma remedies. Controlling highly processed and chemical-laden foods may eliminate any simultaneously occurring food allergies that may be increasing the severity of your asthma conditions. Avoid foods that are made with white flour and try to choose whole grain alternatives. Whole-wheat pastas, breads and even dinner rolls are a wonderful alternative to the highly processed white breads usually consumed in Western diets.
Sources of vitamin E include vegetable oils like olive oil, canola and sunflower oil, margarine, wheat germ, nuts, sunflower seeds, leafy green vegetables, meat and fish. So eating salad before one meal every day is a habit to strive for not just for pregnant women, but for everyone.
A lack of Vitamin B6 has been found in many asthma sufferers.(1) This may be due to the fact that the medications in many asthma inhalers interfere with the absorption of B6 by the body. In mild to average cases, the addition of a B6 supplement to the diet appears to lessen the occurrence of asthma attacks.
Vitamin C in apples helps the immune system and helps protect against bleeding gums and bruising easily. There is also a benefit in preventing tooth decay, as apples have properties that can kill up to 80 per cent of bacteria, and here is a major benefit that most people don’t know about. Apples contain phytonutrients which are substances that can help prevent neurodegenerative brain diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Anyone who suffers from asthma should eat a healthy, whole-foods diet based on lean proteins, grains, fruits, and vegetables. Large amounts of saturated and animal fats should be avoided as should dairy products which tend to increase the production of mucus. Recent research suggests that Western diets may be linked to asthmatic and allergic reactions in children.3 Vegan and vegetarian diets have been tried as therapy for asthma and have shown benefit in some people, possibly due to the elimination of allergens and/or altered fatty acid metabolism.
Read about Herbal Remedies, Natural Remedies. Also read about Breast Enlargement and Breast Enhancement and Pregnancy Information Guide.
Friday, July 4, 2008
If You Think Allergies Are Not a Big Deal, Think Again
The case concerning the connection between allergies and asthma is so strong that it has led Dr. James T. Li, an allergy specialist at the www.mayoclinic.com/health/allergies-and-asthma/ to suggest that it's many as 60% of the people with asthma have a form of allergy induced asthma. If correct, this makes allergies one of the leading causes of asthma. Given the high number and type of asthmatic triggers that have been identified, it shouldn't come as a surprise that allergies may play a large role in the development of asthma
A trigger is simply an event that can cause someone with asthma to have an attack. While many people with allergies have cold and flu like symptoms, an allergy attack can seriously affect one's ability to breathe. Asthma triggers include dust, dust mites, molds and mildew, pet dander, smoke odors and almost anything that can be taken into the body by breathing. So it stands to reason that many of the causes of allergy would be closely related to asthma.
Allergen immunotherapy, which is allergy shots that desensitize, have been shown to significantly improve asthma. If you or someone you know has allergic asthma, the best treatment continues to be reducing your exposure to the things that may trigger an asthma attack. Understand however, that having allergies does not automatically mean that you will develop asthma, only that it increases your risk significantly. According to Dr. Li, up to 78% of the people who have asthma also have hay fever.
The key then is to understand that at a minimum, there is a casual link between allergies in the development of asthma. For this reason alone, it makes sense to try and limit your exposure to potential asthma triggers that may be in your home.
Although allergies seem to play a key role in the development of asthma, it's not the only cause to consider. There are many other forms of asthma that can develop over the course of time. With the prevalence of allergies playing a large role in the number of asthma cases, it just makes sense to protect yourself as much as possible.
About the Author
Abigail Franks writes on a variety of subjects . For more information on asthma and asthma treatment visit the site at http://www.asthma-treatment-resources.com/treatment-asthma/treatment-asthma-index.html and the main asthma page at http://www.asthma-treatment-resources.com
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Asthma Treatment and Prevention
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects your airways. The airways are the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. The muscles of the bronchial walls tighten, and cells in the lungs produce extra mucus further narrowing your airways. This can cause minor wheezing to severe difficulty in breathing. Asthma is a common condition: More than 6 million kids and teens have it. Asthma in children occurs in approximately 10%-12% of kids.
Many environmental risk factors have been associated with asthma. Irritants found in the workplace may lead to a person developing asthma. Exposure to various allergens and irritants may trigger your asthma symptoms. Smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of a child developing asthma. People who have a family history of asthma have an increased risk of developing the disease. Allergies and asthma often occur together. Adult onset asthma may develop after a viral infection a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease that causes heartburn and can worsen asthma symptoms, especially at night.
There are several types of drugs available to treat asthma. Drugs such as anticholinergic ipratropium bromide can be used instead. Corticoids inhaled anti-inflammatory drugs are the most effective medications for asthma. They reduce inflammation in the airways. At long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABAs) medicines are part of a group of medications called bronchodilators, which open up airways.In hampered some cases, steroid tablets or liquid are used for short periods of time , to bring asthma under control. Cromolyn and nedocromil, which are used to treat mild persistent asthma.
Asthma Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Regular physical activity is important for good health.
2. Keep your environment clear of potential allergens.
3. Don't smoke because smoking is always a bad idea for the lungs.
4. Cromolyn and nedocromil, which are used to treat mild persistent asthma.
5. Theophylline, which is used either alone to treat mild persistent asthma
6. Leukotriene modifiers , which are used either alone to treat mild persistent asthma.
7. Inhaled long-acting beta-agonists medicines are bronchodilators, or muscle relaxers.
8. Oral medications include aminophylline, leukotriene antagonists, and corticosteroid tablets.
Juliet Cohen writes articles for http://www.healthatoz.info/, http://www.health-disease.org/ and http://www.health-care-articles.info/.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Asthma Air Purifier: An Essential Tool to Reduce Attacks in Your Home
Asthma is a kind of allergic response in which the airways in the lungs become irritated and swell up, restricting airflow. It can be a very frightening experience, when getting a breath of air feels nearly impossible. Young children in particular can be traumatized by asthma attacks, because it is difficult to get them to calm down when the reaction is occurring, and calm is important in mitigating the seriousness of the attack. Unfortunately, asthma is becoming more and more common in our industrialized world.
Although we tend to think of our households as being safer than outside our doors, in the case of air quality indoor air can often be worse, even in urban centres. This is because not only is the air inside essentially the same as outside, there are often trapped components that help create an unhealthy atmosphere. Some of the most common triggers for asthma attacks are house dust, mold spores, pollen, and pet dander.
Another category which is known to trigger asthma is volatile organic compounds, or VOC's. These are a by-product of the manufacturing process of much of our household products, including carpet, furniture, paint, lacquers, all kinds of plastics, and cleaning supplies. Sensitivity to VOC's varies, but many people experience symptoms without being aware of what the cause is.
The good news for asthmatics is that controlling many of these triggers is easily possible with a good home air purifier. Because most of the triggers can be categorized as particulates, these can be filtered out of the air flow using a good HEPA filter. HEPA filters are capable of filtering particles as small as 0.3 microns, meaning it can even catch bacteria, which are generally 0.2 to 20 microns in size. A good asthma air purifier should have a pre-filter which catches larger dust and hair first, then passes the air through a second filter to grab the most minute particles.
It is important that the filters be changed regularly, as the filters will clog up and the amount of air that can then be passed through the filter will drop. Replacement of the filters will depend on the unit, its amount of usage, and of course the condition of the air that it is filtering. Be sure to monitor the filter, especially when first using the unit, to get an idea how often it should be changed. Many units come with a filter alert system, that reminds you when it is time to change the filter.
Unfortunately when it comes to VOC's it is much more difficult to remove them from the air due to their often minute size. The good news is that VOC 'off-gassing' or 'out-gassing' as it is known, usually only occurs for a short period of time, when a product is new. The passage of time and regular exchanges of air (with an open window, for instance) can often reduce the problem considerably.
There is a new kind of system on the market called photocatalytic air purifier which uses a sophisticated ultraviolet method to create free radicals which actually breakdown VOC's completely. The manufacturer claims for these units are outstanding, however, even with this kind of system in place, for the asthmatic it is still important to remove irritating particles from the air as well.
The home should be a sanctuary, but unfortunately much of our modern lifestyle comes at a price. The sharp rise in asthma-sufferers is testament to this. But at least with an asthma air purifier in place, we can make our homes healthy and comfortable for all.
To find out more about the asthma air purifier and other home air purifiers, please visit: http://www.HealthyHomeFacts.com
Brent Craig has a dedicated interest in healthy homes and environmentally friendly lifestyles. He lives in Toronto.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Helpful Tips For Asthma
Assessing and monitoring the condition is the first important step towards treating the condition for any asthma sufferer. The severity and frequency of attacks will determine the course of treatment and these fit into three broad categories of prevention, relief and emergency treatment.
The first preventative treatment to be supplied to every sufferer is a Bronchodilator which can give relief from minor attacks. Many asthmatics will only ever need this form of medication. However, patients who experience regular attacks although they may be mild, will probably use a low-dose glucocorticoid or a mastcell stabilizer which would also be used in conjunction with a standard reliever. Those who experience severe attacks will require a stronger treatment with oral glucocorticoids.
Asthmatics must also identify the triggers that cause the allergic reaction in them and find ways to reduce or eliminate them. This can help the keep an eye out and avoid the factors that will trigger an attack. Medical science has now confirmed that the poorer the air quality the greater the chance that this and other respiratory problems will occur.
Although the specific medications can help the situation it is far better if they can be avoided where possible. They can cause serious side effects if used on a regular basis such as impotence, liver damage, depression, even tiredness and dizzy spells. Pharmaceutical drugs are formulated to make the body's own immune system to take over but more people are now using natural medicines which are treating the cause of the respiratory condition instead.
Every attack causes the body to become weak due to the stress placed upon it, so to help calm the body down and make it stronger, the drugs used have a catalyst . The catalysts contained in the natural medications are different as they do not have any side-effects so reduce the stress on the system naturally.
Helpful to asthma sufferers are breathing techniques of an eastern nature such as buteyko ,yoga practices and pranayam, and are also as they naturally help the breathing and the general well-being of patients. Feeling better is what it is all about, and is generally the goal of all asthma treatments.
A good nutritional diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins will help boost the immune system quite a bit. And taking part in natural therapies to control asthma will not leave large amounts of drugs in your system. Often taking to many drugs can make an asthma suffer toxic. The main focus however,should be on the asthma patient learning to control their own condition. In any kind of treatment, feeling better, breathing better are the main objectives.
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Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Asthma – Ways To Prevent Asthma
Mold Spores
Molds grow both indoors and outdoors and love damp, dark places. To control mold indoors, keep basements, kitchens, and bathrooms as clean and dry as possible. Avoid the use of humidifiers and vaporizers, which can become breeding grounds for mold. To avoid outdoor molds, stay inside in air conditioning on damp, windy days. Avoid playing or walking in fallen leaves and you may also have to avoid gardening.
Nuts also contain high levels of magnesium, which other research has suggested may protect against asthma and boost lung power.
Irritating fumes such as cigarette smoke should also be avoided. In some people with asthma, aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs trigger attacks. Tartrazine, a yellow coloring used in some drug tablets and food, may also bring on an attack. Sulfites—commonly added to foods as a preservative—may trigger attacks after a susceptible person eats a certain food or drinks beer or red wine.
A daily diet of oranges, apples and tomatoes protected against wheezing and allergic rhinitis, as well as grapes.
If you feel even the slightest symptom, take the medication. Some asthmatics tend to do that. They cough more than once and they think they are having an attack and then they take the medicines and they prevent an attack. We are not saying you have to take the inhaler the second you cough but don’t dismiss the symptoms. Always keep your prescriptions filled at all times. The best thing you can do to prevent an attack when you are away or shopping or in a restaurant is to tell the people you are with, where you keep the inhaler in case they need to use it.
The group of children involved in the asthma intervention program avoided pets, secondhand smoke and dust mites, and were delayed the introduction to solid foods; the mothers were encouraged to breastfeed. The other group of children did not partake in the asthma intervention program.
Short-acting bronchodilator inhalers are used to quickly relieve the cough, wheeze, chest tightness, and shortness of breath caused by asthma (they dilate or widen the bronchial tubes). The most commonly prescribed short-acting bronchodilator is albuterol. However, albuterol only lasts for a few hours. If you need to use an asthma reliever more than twice a week, then your asthma is not optimally controlled. Ask your doctor about improving your asthma controller medication.
Early allergy injection treatment - Two studies in young children who became allergic to a single allergen such as house dust mites showed that allergy shots against that allergen prevented the development of allergy to other allergens. This suggests that allergy testing and injection treatment in children may be important to consider before the time when this is usually first done - i.e., under age 5 years. The cost-effectiveness of doing this is unknown at present.
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Monday, March 17, 2008
Be Careful And You Will Prevent An Asthma Attack
The real facts are that not all asthmatic persons wheeze in their first stage of their asthma attacks. They can have an asthma attack and not even know it, and realizing it too late to do something about it. That is why we will present you other symptoms that can lead you into realizing that you are on a verge to have a severe asthma attack. It can start with a continuous cough; an accelerated breath and you might feel a pressure or a pain in your chest.
“The person experiencing an asthma attack will feel how the chest muscles are contracting and it is possible to inhibit the ability of speaking”
The person experiencing an asthma attack will feel how the chest muscles are contracting and it is possible to inhibit the ability of speaking.
The panic is slowly taking over the asthmatic's mind and body, causing him anxiety feelings and his/her face and fingers will turn blue. When this happens it is the sign that shows that the quantity of oxygen from the blood has dramatically decreased and it will lose his consciousness and can even be in fatal danger. These symptoms could easily aggravate if the medication is not administrated in time, with a powerful dosage.
How can we prevent this from happening? Be informed about all the symptoms that are warning signs of an asthma attack and stay away from any releasing or allergenic factors. Do not underestimate the seriousness of those symptoms: they can cost you your life. Any frequent night coughs, short moments of losing your breath, excessive tiredness, are NOT NORMAL!
Even smaller signs must not be ignored: if you feel tired and moody all the time, if you cannot sleep and you are wheezing and coughing each time you do physical activities, you must go to your physician and check the status of your health, in order to find out if you are an asthmatic person.
If you will do this, you can use those early signs of asthma attacks for your benefit, because learning them means learning about dealing with the asthma attack and, consequently, saving your life.
You can learn much more about Asthma Prevention by visiting the Asthma Symptom Site which provides comprehensive and up to date help and advice on all Asthma issues. Clive thoroughly recommends this site so make sure you check it out today here: - http://www.asthmasymptomonline.com.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Asthma Treatment
Using medications for asthma treatment.
An individual concerned about "asthma treatment" should begin researching two methods for asthma treatments which both use different types of asthma medication. The first treatment of asthma is based around long- term relief asthma medication, while the second method of asthma treatment is focused on short-term control medicines. Recognizing when an asthma attack is about to be triggered is where an asthmatic would use the quick relief method for treating their asthma attack. Additionally, long term control medicines should help prevent asthma attacks from occurring less often, if not preventing an asthma attack altogether in the long term.
Long-Term Asthma Treatments
Long term asthma treatments or controllers are focused on reducing or preventing inflamed airways or blocking chemicals in your body which cause your airways to tighten and swell. Long term asthma treatments concentrate on blocking chemicals in your body which are prone to cause allergy symptoms. Controlling allergy symptoms is a part of preventing asthma triggers which in turn can start an asthma attack is apart of recognizing patter of history realted to asthma attacks.
A part of the goal for long term "asthma treatment" is medication that should not only relax their airways it should also help to reduce inflammation of the airways. Evaluating whether an individual should consider a long term asthma treatment the patient should realize doctors seem to convey a consistent message stating “if you experience difficulties with your asthma 3 or more times a week, then your long term treatment of asthma should be evaluated and discussed with a doctor”. It is also important to discuss what you are doing to prevent asthma attacks through avoidance of asthma triggers. This helps with diagnosing asthma as well as well as the different methods treating asthma.
Some long term asthma treatment consist of inhaled corticosteroids. There are several types of inhaled steroids. Although these are steroids they are not the same type of steroids used to build muscles. These corticosteroids are designed to reduce swelling in the airways while strengthening the lungs. Some common brand names of this inhaled steroid are Flovent, Azmacort, Advair, Beclovent, Aerobid, Pulmicort even singulair and asthma as medications. These medications are taken orally and are normally taken 2-4 times a day. This type of medication can come in the form of a round disc or other mechanical object providing the ability to inhale the medicine. Although these medications have proved to be effective for some asthmatics some of these have side effects and should be discussed with a doctor prior to treatment. In addition to the former there are also Leukotriene Modifiers which comes in the form of a pill. Common brand names of Leukotriene Modifiers are Serevent, Fordil or Volmax. These are also designed for long term treatment and provide no quick relief. These are designed to also reduce swelling in the airways and longs. Leukotriene is used both alone and in combination with other medications such as corticosteroids in the treatment of mild to moderate asthma.
Short –Term Asthma Treatments
Short term "asthma treatments" were established to quickly provide relief to muscles surrounding the airways which often tighten at the onset of an asthma attack. Using the quick relief treatment should be utilized as soon as the individual begins to feel chest tightness, begins coughing, wheezing or experiences shortness of breath. Quick asthma treatments consist of short acting Beta-2 agonists treatments. This is by far the most recognizable medications related to asthma. These are the easily recognized by inhalers asthmatics often carry. Unfortunately, these in-halers are for temporary relief and are short lived. These inhalers help reduce anxiety and the stress that quickly evolves as the person suffers an asthma attack. Using short –term asthma treatments more than twice a week usually constitutes that the individuals asthma is not in control and the person should seek medical advice to achieve a better control over their asthma. Bronchodilators are the most recognized inhalers are Albuterol. However, there other beta-2 agonist medication which is used for short term asthma treatments. Other inhaled medications are Proventil, Ventolin, Xopenex, Maxair, Alupent or Atrovent. Each of these medications seems to have the same side affects which causes slight tremors with an increase in the individuals heart rate.
In summary, there is a two tiered approach to treating asthma or preventing asthma attacks. The first is a long-term treatment with the second being a short- term treatment of asthma. The main goal is to reduce the affects of allergens, reduce inflammation of the lungs. In the end using the two tier step while monitoring your asthma with tools such as a peak flow meter will help the individual to be successful in their asthma treatment using the right "asthma medication".
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Asthma Symptoms and Treatment in Adults
When asthma strikes a person in his or her middle ages it is a very different kind of disorder with very different kinds of symptoms and repercussions. Like when a person in his forties gets diagnosed with asthma it is usually non-hereditary and inheritance through the family history plays no role. Generally it is seen that in this stage in life asthma is usually of intrinsic or non-allergic type. Adult asthma is considered to be also more serious than the childhood asthma.
This is because it is more difficult to control and also because the unpredictability factor is very high. Also it strikes the women much more than the men, so there are clear indications that the disease is gender biased. Adults with asthma are more susceptible to allergy of aspirin and related drugs. In fact many times the adult asthma may remain hidden and then one day strike with full fury after getting an allergic reaction to aspirin. Also sulphite reactions, other allergies, chronic sinus problems and nasal polyps are also more common in adults.
Asthma is extremely common in the people as the age advances. In fact there are distinct indications that the frequency of asthma is rising with the advancement of age. Sometimes people do not show symptoms till they are well over sixty five years of age. But it is generally believed that such incidents are rare. Nearly one-third of all asthma cases begin in childhood and the early teens.
There are not many studies to confirm the exact statistics but it is believed that most people who get diagnosed with asthma at a later stage in life may not have been properly diagnosed earlier for asthma. This is because in adults especially in senior citizens the symptoms of coughing and wheezing are also associated with so many other diseases as well.
Another reason for this diagnostic failure in elderly is that the main perception of symptoms of asthma in senior citizens is that of chronic cough with production of mucous, while they may only show sudden bouts of wheezing. And this may be associated with emphysema or chronic bronchitis. But with breathing tests they show clear indications of asthma and respond well to conventional treatments of asthma.
Asthma triggers are very difficult to zero down to, in adults. As the age advances pin pointing them keeps getting more and more difficult. These triggers are also mostly associated with respiratory tract infections and air pollutants. As the age advances considerably there is a lot of confusing signals given out by the patients that may make the diagnoses difficult further still. Asthma symptoms may also be manifesting in the form of tightness in the chest, shortness of breath or cough.
They are also many times misinterpreted as cardio-vascular problems. The disturbance in the patterns of sleep that is associated with asthma may also be confused with urinary tract disorders. But many of the patients who are given a confirmed diagnoses for asthma after the age of fifty also are believed to have shown distinct symptoms earlier in their life, which may have either gone unnoticed or undiagnosed and untreated.
After the diagnosis is complete the next step is to take adequate precautions so as to not get caught unawares with the fury of an asthmatic attack. Most young people respond very well to conventional treatments. These coupled with some regular precautions and disciplined changes in the lifestyle make them lead healthy, happy and perfectly normal lives. Since they are in the prime of their lives and sexual activity is also important, it is advised to them to use a puff or two of inhaler before indulging in any sexual activity.
This is because the exercise factor involved in any normal sexual activity is equivalent to walking about six kilometres in an hour or can be compared to climbing about two to three flights of stairs in a few minutes. This may be very hectic for a person suffering with asthma. It is also worth mentioning that some of the drugs especially some corticosteroids taken for asthma may cause impotency or temporary decrease in sexual desires.
Asthma treatment in the elderly people my have several difficulties. There are many drug interactions with conventional asthma treatments. Glaucoma or high blood pressure medications such as beta blockers may enhance the symptoms of asthma. It is also seen that because of multiplicity of treatments in elderly people for various diseases happening all at the same time, the asthma medications may be required in smaller dosages. An average dose for a young adult may prove to be a toxic dose for an elderly patient.
Learn More About Asthma Attacks, Asthma Treatment and Adult asthma at http://www.yourasthmatreatment.com/ - Asthma Information and Treatment Guide.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Asthma Prevention
Preventing an asthma attack
There is no documented way to prevent Asthma, how ever there are several methods for asthma treatment. The same questions discussed in “diagnosing asthma” play equally important role in trying to prevent Asthma attacks along with treating asthma.Identifying triggers asthma attacks as well as their “asthma history” is only one part of the process used to help prevent Asthma Attacks and while seeking effective "asthma treatments".
When discussing asthma prevention and asthma treatments they go hand in hand are can be used almost interchangebly. In otherwords you want to treat asthma prior to an asthma attack. this in turn leads to a proactive type of asthma prevention even though once you have been diagonosed with asthma you will likley deal with the disease and the ways to treat your asthma for the rest of your life.
The individual and especially children can have Asthma attacks from simple exposures to things such as mold (spores), dust mites, smoke (also second hand), weeds, pollen or strong smells. This is especially important if a child has asthma and is often subject to attacks due to exercise. These are only some of the things to consider when dealing with asthma and trying to find ways to prevent asthma attacks or deciding the best form of asthma treatment.
The initial response to attempt to prevent Asthma is not really prevention in as much, as it is avoiding asthma triggers that help launch the asthma attack. To help the indvidual with asthma the strategic approach should look at trying to prevent an asthmatic episode or asthma attacks from triggers. Initially, the person needs to identify if the asthmatic has allergies. Such ways to help prevent asthma attacks is to ask questions such as, What is the person allergic to and what can be done to prevent the trigger from being launched, this is best method from treating asthma or preventing asthma attacks?
How do you find what are the asthma triggers? This can easily be identified at an adult level by getting the scratch test or allergy test. However, finding ways to identify triggers due to allergies may prove a little more difficult in children with the constant changing of their body. However, quickly identifying triggers is the most effective way to prevent asthma attacks.
In hopes of preventing Asthma attacks an allergist will typically scratch the individuals back with an object like pin that has been dipped into a predetermined type of animal or plant compound. For instance, I had a scratch test. I found I was highly allergic to horses. I was also allergic to cats, dogs and even more surprising was when I found out how allergic I was to mold and dust mites. In esseance the best form of "asthma treatment" or best way to prevent an asthma attack was to stay away from those triggers.
Learning what the asthmatic is allergic to helps prevent irritation which leads to discomfort and coughing which in turn leads into wheezing and most likely an Asthma Attack. So, the key to preventing an asthma attack is learning what the Asthma triggers are for each individual. This why someone should help the asthmatic create an asthma log of what was happening when the asthmatic episode started. This is an excellent way to track a child's asthma history as well as diagnosing asthma.
My research says mold is not really considered a large trigger for asthmatics. I would tend to disagree from my personal experiences. However, if the individual is allergic to mold and the person lives in a damp place then chances are likely the person will suffer an attack from triggers created by mold spores. However with the proper medication and asthma treatment this can be avoided.
One thing to consiser about preventing an asthma attack is to look at where the asthmatic sleeps. If the asthmatic sleeps in a basement they should try to move to an upper level room to sleep. If this is not possible then the person should consider regularly using a dehumidifier. However, the dehumidifier should be emptied and cleaned regularly as to avoid the growth of mold spores.
Dust Mites are often overlooked and are the most abundant trigger to Asthma Attacks. Although most people don’t have the time to do nothing but clean and sweep one area should never be neglected and needs continuous cleaning, the bedroom needs to be vacuumed and dusted weekly. Sheets need to be changed and pillow cases need to be cleaned weekly. Pillows gather large number dust mites and should be replaced annually or as often as possible. This is all related to preventing asthma attacks as well as a prelude to treating people with asthma.
Reducing pet dander is also a key to succeeding in Asthma prevention. People who can not give up their pets after they find they have asthma need to really pay attention to grooming of their pets. To reiterate it not the pet hair that triggers the asthma attack it is usually pet dander or saliva from the animal. This is why it is essential pets are bathed if they live in the home and hands are always washed after touching animals.
I recently experienced an asthma attack as an adult when giving my outside dog a bath because he was going to be staying inside the house for couple of weeks during upcoming freezing temperatures. I started to give him a bath inside, about midway through his bath my eyes started to get red and I started to have hard time breathing. The fact that I had not had an asthma attack such as this since I was a kid is proof how pet dander can affect an asthmatic. With my Asthma history I should have thought it though and asked the wife to give the dog a bath. Although these are some of my experiences the only thing Asthmatics can do is identify what the triggers are and avoid those triggers to prevent Asthma attacks while being proactive in treating your asthma.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Asthma - Preventing An Asthma Attack
Different things set off asthma attacks in different people. Smoke from cigarettes or a fire, air pollution, cold air, pollen, animals, house dust, molds, strong smells such as perfume or bus exhaust, wood dust, exercise, industrial chemicals--all can trigger an attack.
Asthma cannot be cured, but most people with asthma can control it so that they have few and infrequent symptoms and can live active lives.
Asthma attacks are not all the same—some are worse than others. In a severe asthma attack, the airways can close so much that not enough oxygen gets to vital organs. This condition is a medical emergency. People can die from severe asthma attacks.
Taking care of your asthma is an important part of your life. Controlling it means working closely with your doctor to learn what to do, staying away from things that bother your airways, taking medicines as directed by your doctor, and monitoring your asthma so that you can respond quickly to signs of an attack. By controlling your asthma every day, you can prevent serious symptoms and take part in all activities.
Asthma Symptoms
owheezing oshortness of breath or trouble breathing ocoughing, either during the day or at night, but often worse at night and with exercise and activity ochest pain or chest tightness odecreases in your child's usual or predicted peak flow or poor performance on pulmonary function tests
Preventing an Asthma Attack
House dust exposure can be lessened by using bare floors, vacuuming frequently, and changing furnace and air cooler filters frequently. You should avoid using feather, wool, or foam bedding. Use polyester pillows and plastic covers over your mattress.
It's important to avoid all triggers to prevent having an asthma attack. Below are resources to help you manage asthma, tips to help you recognize an asthma attack and advice on planning ahead.
The best way to prevent an asthma attack is to avoid your triggers as much as possible. It's also important to learn how to recognize what might be known as your "early warning signs" of an impending asthma attack. These are symptoms that happen just before an asthma attack begins. They tell you that your condition is about to worsen,or get out of control.
They might include things such as a frequent cough, especially during the nighttime hours, getting short of breath more easily, increased peak flow meter readings, feeling extra tired when you're active, a change in mood toward the negative, and trouble sleeping. You might also notice signs of a cold, such as nasal stuffiness, sore throat, sneezing, or runny nose. If you notice any of these symptoms, take action quickly to prevent an asthma attack.
Regular physical activity is important for good health. Keep your environment clear of potential allergens. Don’t smoke because smoking is always a bad idea for the lungs. Cromolyn and nedocromil, which are used to treat mild persistent asthma.
Theophylline, which is used either alone to treat mild persistent asthma Leukotriene modifiers, which are used either alone to treat mild persistent asthma.
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Monday, February 4, 2008
How to Cure and Control Asthma
Asthma can come from more than just running out of air. It can be triggered by numerous allergies that you may have. A major step in controlling asthma is knowing your allergies.
But with the proper treatment and medication you can live a longer life.
Treatment Through Medication
Dont get confused and think there is a cure for asthma. You have to take medication to control it. Most asthmatics take anti-inflammatory medications through an inhaler. This medication is a steriod that strengthens the air ways and reduces mucus and swelling.
Bronchodilators is another form of medication that strengthens the airways. There three types of bronchodilators. There are (anticholinergics) short acting, (theophylline) long acting bronchodilaters, and (agonists) short and long acting. The short actings is for immediate rescue of an asthma attack. Long acting is to control and prevent asthma symptoms.
Treatment Through Lifestyle Changes
Knowing what your allergies are and staying away from them are good ways of treating your asthma. That doesn't mean avoiding them all together. If you know you're going to be in an environment that you're allergic to, you may be able to take your medicine before you come in contact with the allergen.
For those asthmatics that exercise. Just monitor your activities and limit the strenous workouts so that you dont have the risk of an attack. For example, instead of running a mile in 3 minutes, run your mile in 6 minutes.
Not Asthma Cures, Asthma Control
Remember, there is no cure for asthma, but that doesn't mean you have to suffer. Just control your lifestyle and take the proper medications and you'll live a long life. Take control of your asthma. Figure out your allergies, exercise smart, and be happy!
For more information on Asthma visit http://asthma-cure-tips.com, a website that specializes in providing health tips, advice, and asthma care information to include Asthma Attacks, Asthma Symptoms, and more. There are many links to great information about controling asthma and living a long life.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Asthma Cures - Eliminate the Causes First
Fortunately, there are many possible remedies out there. It's just up to each of the many asthma sufferers to find the cure that works for them.
A Variety of Asthma Cures
There are a variety of possible and promising asthma cures out there and not all of them involve taking drugs. In fact, there are many that don't involve taking medicine or seeing a doctor. Besides finding a drug that works, some of the other natural cures for this include: breathing techniques, adjusting living conditions, adjusting eating habits, and performing mental exercises.
Some people find that their asthma is much better or cured all together by doing just one of the above, while others find it works to do a variety of the above. What exactly works is different for each person.
For example, with adjusting diet, some people may find that if they eat a certain food then it helps to relieve their asthma symptoms. However, some other people may find that the exact same food causes an allergic reaction and makes it worse.
Everything depends on the individual person.
The Importance of Looking to Treat Asthma
There are so many causes of asthma that it's often tough for each asthmatic to know what causes his/her asthma. However, it's important to find out that cause. If the cause can be determined than a cure can be found much easier.
So all asthmatics should begin looking for what might be causing it. To begin everyone should look at their living conditions and eating habits. Often this is caused by allergies and the most common allergens are found in the home (or workplace) and in foods.
Again, one person may have mold in his basement causing his asthma while another person may be eating food with MSG that is causing it to get worse. Each person has to take the initiative to find what's causing this and then take the proper steps to eliminate the causes.
Asthma cures can be found just by eliminating the causes.
There is No Silver Bullet
Many people mistakenly believe that one magic pill, technique, or exercise will cure everyone's asthma. But this isn't true.
Everyone needs to find the cause of their asthma and then try the different strategies that have worked for others until they find the cure that works right for them.
Discover the asthma remedies that many asthma sufferers including Olympic athletes have used to cure their asthma and now live a fulfilling life at http://www.AsthmaCureGuide.com These little secrets compiled by Jonathan Hatton have helped hundreds of people to take full control of their asthma naturally without taking expansive drugs or medications. For more information, visit Asthma Cure Guide today.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
How To Cope With An Asthma Attack
Additionally, emergency room visits for asthma sufferers, both young and old, are very common. Even worse, thousands die every year as a direct or indirect result of an asthma attack. Most of these deaths could be avoided with proper treatment. In the United Kingdom, for example, approximately 1400 people every year die from an asthma attack. That's about four people a day.
In short, people are dying needlessly. If you learn to deal with your asthma, you can not only live a normal life, but you may very well save your own life. If you're an adult and have recently been diagnosed with asthma, make sure you talk to your doctor and get proper information. The Internet is also a fine resource to find information on treatment. However, you should take care that that the sites you get information from are endorsed by the proper professionals and not simply "quack" treatments. Remember that information is power, and if you have the proper information, you're well armed to deal with an asthma attack, should it occur.
To find out what your triggers are, keep a log for a few days and note when asthma attacks occur. It is a trigger dust? Animal hair? By keeping track of your symptoms and when they occur, you can learn which substances trigger asthma attacks. Or perhaps it's situational, wherein you have an asthma attack triggered when you breathe in cold air, for example. In that case, it would be advised to limit your outdoor exposure during winter months, or wear a scarf over your mouth to help warm the air that you breathe in.
Your doctor may mention a peak flow meter. This is an instrument you use daily to measure your lungs' strength and efficiency. It can help you predict when an asthma attack is going to happen. Should you have an attack, remember to keep calm.
This may be difficult for you if you've just been diagnosed with asthma, but once you become experienced at this, you will be able to do this easily. Place your hands palms down in your lap and focus on breathing in slowly. Try not to take big gulps of air. The attack should subside in 5 to 10 minutes. However, if symptoms don't go away, go to the hospital or call an ambulance immediately, so that you get medical intervention right away.
Gaetane Ross is a Certified Natural Health Consultant who has spent over 4 years focusing on Nutrition and Health. She also specializes in Alternative Medicine, Spiritual Healing and Healthy Lifestyle. For her FREE report on Asthma http://NewTreatmentBreakthroughForAsthma.com