Do you experience difficulty breathing, wheezing or chest tightness while exercising? If so, you may have a condition called exercise-induced asthma (EIA).
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.
Showing posts with label Asthma Symptoms. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Asthma Symptoms. Show all posts
Friday, December 26, 2008
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Do You Have Asthma?
The number of newly diagnosed asthma cases in the United States has risen dramatically over the past ten to fifteen years. Part of the reason may be due to the availability of better medical care and early diagnostic methods used by many doctors today. More people may be willing to visit their doctors for breathing-related difficulties than in previous generations. But it is also likely that more people are afflicted with asthma than ever before due to a number of environmental factors like pollution, pesticides, and even building insulation.
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
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
Monday, December 1, 2008
Asthma and Its Symptoms
In his book, Essential Allergy, Niels Mygind defines asthma as,
"A lung disease characterised by: 1, variable and reversible airway obstruction; 2, airway inflammation; and 3, bronchial hyper-responsiveness."
Asthma is a disease where bronchial tubes are sensitive to irritants, which cause them to inflame and produce difficult breathing. The inflammation can cause,
* contraction of muscles around the air passages,
* swelling of the airway lining due to airway inflammation, and,
* excessive mucus in the airways.
Asthma occurs in most western countries and is the leading chronic illness of children.
Asthma, in some cases, cannot be cured, but for most patients it can be controlled so that they have only minimal and infrequent symptoms and they can live an active life.
If you have asthma, managing it is an important part of your life. Controlling your asthma means staying away from things that bother your airways and taking medicines or natural remedies as directed by your doctor.
When a person experiences a worsening of their asthma symptoms, it is called an asthma episode or, in severe cases, an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, smooth muscles around the bronchial tubes contract, making the airway openings narrower so less air can flow through. Inflammation increases and the airways become more swollen and narrow. Cells in the airways also make more mucus than usual, which narrows the airways further. The changes to the airways cause the symptoms of asthma.
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. A person suffering from an asthma attack has a sensation similar to drowning.
Learning the warning signs or asthma symptoms can often alert a sufferer in time to take preventive action, such as medication or natural remedies.
Asthma attacks can occur over a long period of time. Although there are times when acute episodes strike asthmatics, most asthma sufferers say that there are long periods during which they suffer few, if any, asthma symptoms.
Here are some asthma symptoms:
* Coughing. Coughing in people with asthma is often worse at night or early in the morning, making it hard for them to sleep. This may be the only symptom a child with asthma has.
* Wheezing. Wheezing is a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe.
* A tight feeling in the chest. This can feel like someone is squeezing or sitting on your chest.
* Shortness of breath. Asthma sufferers often say they can't catch their breath, or they feel breathless or out of breath.
* Narrowing of the air passages in the lungs and hence increased resistance to airflow.
* Significant reversibility with steroid drugs
* Symptom-free periods
* Frequent occurrence of allergy
* Inflammation of the air passages
* Bronchial hyper-responsiveness to non-specific stimuli such as cold air, air pollution, pollen, dust, or other irritants
* Asthma symptoms brought on by exercises
* Coughing or wheezing brought on by prolonged crying or laughing
Not all people have these symptoms, and symptoms may vary from one asthma attack to another. Some symptoms are mild and some are life threatening.
Symptoms also differ in how often they occur. Some people with asthma only have symptoms once every few months, others have symptoms every week, and still other people have symptoms every day.
Learn how to use natural remedies to reduce asthma attacks and to eliminate many of the asthma symptoms
About the Author
Rudy Silva is a Natural Nutritionist. To discover more about using natural remedies for asthma go to: http://www.asthmatreatments.info
"A lung disease characterised by: 1, variable and reversible airway obstruction; 2, airway inflammation; and 3, bronchial hyper-responsiveness."
Asthma is a disease where bronchial tubes are sensitive to irritants, which cause them to inflame and produce difficult breathing. The inflammation can cause,
* contraction of muscles around the air passages,
* swelling of the airway lining due to airway inflammation, and,
* excessive mucus in the airways.
Asthma occurs in most western countries and is the leading chronic illness of children.
Asthma, in some cases, cannot be cured, but for most patients it can be controlled so that they have only minimal and infrequent symptoms and they can live an active life.
If you have asthma, managing it is an important part of your life. Controlling your asthma means staying away from things that bother your airways and taking medicines or natural remedies as directed by your doctor.
When a person experiences a worsening of their asthma symptoms, it is called an asthma episode or, in severe cases, an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, smooth muscles around the bronchial tubes contract, making the airway openings narrower so less air can flow through. Inflammation increases and the airways become more swollen and narrow. Cells in the airways also make more mucus than usual, which narrows the airways further. The changes to the airways cause the symptoms of asthma.
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. A person suffering from an asthma attack has a sensation similar to drowning.
Learning the warning signs or asthma symptoms can often alert a sufferer in time to take preventive action, such as medication or natural remedies.
Asthma attacks can occur over a long period of time. Although there are times when acute episodes strike asthmatics, most asthma sufferers say that there are long periods during which they suffer few, if any, asthma symptoms.
Here are some asthma symptoms:
* Coughing. Coughing in people with asthma is often worse at night or early in the morning, making it hard for them to sleep. This may be the only symptom a child with asthma has.
* Wheezing. Wheezing is a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe.
* A tight feeling in the chest. This can feel like someone is squeezing or sitting on your chest.
* Shortness of breath. Asthma sufferers often say they can't catch their breath, or they feel breathless or out of breath.
* Narrowing of the air passages in the lungs and hence increased resistance to airflow.
* Significant reversibility with steroid drugs
* Symptom-free periods
* Frequent occurrence of allergy
* Inflammation of the air passages
* Bronchial hyper-responsiveness to non-specific stimuli such as cold air, air pollution, pollen, dust, or other irritants
* Asthma symptoms brought on by exercises
* Coughing or wheezing brought on by prolonged crying or laughing
Not all people have these symptoms, and symptoms may vary from one asthma attack to another. Some symptoms are mild and some are life threatening.
Symptoms also differ in how often they occur. Some people with asthma only have symptoms once every few months, others have symptoms every week, and still other people have symptoms every day.
Learn how to use natural remedies to reduce asthma attacks and to eliminate many of the asthma symptoms
About the Author
Rudy Silva is a Natural Nutritionist. To discover more about using natural remedies for asthma go to: http://www.asthmatreatments.info
Monday, November 24, 2008
Understanding Asthma
ASTHMA is a worldwide affliction. It is estimated that 1 in 10 suffers from it. Young and old alike, townsfolk and countryfolk, manual workers and office workers, are among the sufferers.
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.
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.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Asthma Treatment
More than 17 million people in the US alone suffer from asthma, a serious lung ailment, resulting in 5,000 asthma deaths a year. Asthma is an allergic inflammation of the lungs, which is generally triggered by pollens, molds, dust, animal dander, air pollution, chemicals, exercise, temperature changes or ingestion of certain foods. Asthma drugs, which are traditionally used to control asthma symptoms can have very serious side effects, plus they are also quite expensive.
Fortunately there are alternative asthma treatments which are quite effective, relatively inexpensive compared to drugs and best of all they are without negative side effects. However, it is best to prevent the development of asthma in the first place.
Asthma Prevention - Measures You Can Take to Prevent the Devlopment of Asthma
Doctors and researchers agree that the single most important thing that parents can do to prevent their child from developing asthma in the first place is to eliminate or significantly reduce dust mite allergens or asthma triggers in the home.
"Clinical studies have revealed that avoidance of dust mite allergens in early childhood can prevent the onset of asthma..." Michael LeNoir Md
Dust mite allergens are known to play a major role in it's development. Researchers have determined that other important allergens (after dust mites) that also need to be eliminated from the home are cats, certain types of mold, dogs, cockroaches and tobacco smoke. It is a popular misconception that children will "outgrow" asthma. It is a severe and potentially life-threatening illness that should be taken seriously. Long term use of steroid drugs is not recommended by doctors and has serious side effects. Making these preventative environmental changes is a much more viable, healthy and preferable alternative. If you or your child are already suffering from asthma or allergies these measures will certainly help.
What are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are microscopic insects and live in bedding, pillows, mattresses, blankets, upholstery, carpets etc. They thrive particularly in humid climates. They live off of dead skin cells and produce an allergen from their excrement, which is inhaled.
All Homes Contain Dust Mites No Matter How Clean They Are.
Studies have shown that dust mite allergens in the home must be reduced to at least 2mcg/g dust or mite populations decreased to 100/g dust to have any significant benefit. There are several things that can be done to accomplish this.
What Can Be Done To Eliminate or Reduce Dust Mites?
Researchers have found through numerous studies that these are the most effective measures:
Changing the relative humidity and temperature of the home:
-Keeping relative humidity less than 50% is proven to greatly reduce the dust mite population. (Portable dehumidifiers were not shown to significantly reduce humidity).
-Mechanical ventilation with a heat recovery unit has proved to be the most effective to reduce humidity in the home.
-Using air cleaners that have HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which will also eliminate other allergens such as pollen and animal dander.
-Cleaning using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and steam cleaning rugs and upholstery regularly.
-Washing all bedding in hot water (60 degrees C, 130 degrees F) on a weekly basis is known to kill dust mites. Drying bedding in a hot dryer.
-Dry cleaning quilts and blankets weekly will also kill dust mites.
-Placing plastic casings specifically made for dust mite control on pillows and mattresses.
-Chemicals used on carpets and upholstery which are known to kill dust mites include benzyl benzoate, permethrin, pirimiphos methyl, phenyl salicylate, tannic acid, common household disinfectants, combinations of these, and insect growth regulators. (please note: some chemicals can also trigger asthma and allergy reactions, therefore research them carefully before using).
Author of this article is Susan Millar.
Fortunately there are alternative asthma treatments which are quite effective, relatively inexpensive compared to drugs and best of all they are without negative side effects. However, it is best to prevent the development of asthma in the first place.
Asthma Prevention - Measures You Can Take to Prevent the Devlopment of Asthma
Doctors and researchers agree that the single most important thing that parents can do to prevent their child from developing asthma in the first place is to eliminate or significantly reduce dust mite allergens or asthma triggers in the home.
"Clinical studies have revealed that avoidance of dust mite allergens in early childhood can prevent the onset of asthma..." Michael LeNoir Md
Dust mite allergens are known to play a major role in it's development. Researchers have determined that other important allergens (after dust mites) that also need to be eliminated from the home are cats, certain types of mold, dogs, cockroaches and tobacco smoke. It is a popular misconception that children will "outgrow" asthma. It is a severe and potentially life-threatening illness that should be taken seriously. Long term use of steroid drugs is not recommended by doctors and has serious side effects. Making these preventative environmental changes is a much more viable, healthy and preferable alternative. If you or your child are already suffering from asthma or allergies these measures will certainly help.
What are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are microscopic insects and live in bedding, pillows, mattresses, blankets, upholstery, carpets etc. They thrive particularly in humid climates. They live off of dead skin cells and produce an allergen from their excrement, which is inhaled.
All Homes Contain Dust Mites No Matter How Clean They Are.
Studies have shown that dust mite allergens in the home must be reduced to at least 2mcg/g dust or mite populations decreased to 100/g dust to have any significant benefit. There are several things that can be done to accomplish this.
What Can Be Done To Eliminate or Reduce Dust Mites?
Researchers have found through numerous studies that these are the most effective measures:
Changing the relative humidity and temperature of the home:
-Keeping relative humidity less than 50% is proven to greatly reduce the dust mite population. (Portable dehumidifiers were not shown to significantly reduce humidity).
-Mechanical ventilation with a heat recovery unit has proved to be the most effective to reduce humidity in the home.
-Using air cleaners that have HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which will also eliminate other allergens such as pollen and animal dander.
-Cleaning using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and steam cleaning rugs and upholstery regularly.
-Washing all bedding in hot water (60 degrees C, 130 degrees F) on a weekly basis is known to kill dust mites. Drying bedding in a hot dryer.
-Dry cleaning quilts and blankets weekly will also kill dust mites.
-Placing plastic casings specifically made for dust mite control on pillows and mattresses.
-Chemicals used on carpets and upholstery which are known to kill dust mites include benzyl benzoate, permethrin, pirimiphos methyl, phenyl salicylate, tannic acid, common household disinfectants, combinations of these, and insect growth regulators. (please note: some chemicals can also trigger asthma and allergy reactions, therefore research them carefully before using).
Author of this article is Susan Millar.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Know the Symptoms of Childhood Asthma
It is one of the most common illnesses in children. Childhood asthma is the leading reason children miss school, and experts are telling us that close to 4 million kids under the ages of 17 have had some sort of asthma episode in the past year.
It is one of the most common illnesses in children. Childhood asthma is the leading reason children miss school, and experts are telling us that close to 4 million kids under the ages of 17 have had some sort of asthma episode in the past year. Don't you think it's important that you can recognize the symptoms of childhood asthma to help your child if an attach hits? The trouble with childhood asthma is that not all of the symptoms are easy to spot, some quite obvious but others hide under the radar.
Wheezing
High pitched breathing that's very noticeable when a child breaths out. This has to be the most common of all childhood asthma symptoms. It can be severe or mild. It occurs when mucus builds up in the airway, that is already somewhat restricted, making it difficult to breath.
Coughing
Of course not all children will wheeze, often a small percentage will only ever have a persistent cough. Usually most noticeable late in the evenings. This can be a hidden symptom also, as in about 5% of cases in childhood asthma coughing is the only symptom they have. If your child appears to have coughing fits after running, crying or high activity there's a chance they might have asthma.
Frequent Respiratory Infections
Children suffering from frequent and difficult to treat respiratory infections, such as bronchitis, and even pneumonia may have childhood asthma. Of course it doesn't have to be as severe as pneumonia they could just continue to battle chronic cold like symptoms. It's easy for these illnesses to attack a child's lungs that are of course already weakened by asthma.
Inactivity or Being Lethargic
If you notice a child that used to be very active, loved the outdoors running, sports, biking but now shows signs of not wanting to be outdoors anymore along with shortness of breath and check tightening this could be the reason for lack of exertion. Children fighting asthma find it painful when they exert them selves therefore find it easier to avoid the tightness in the chest and shortness of breath,
The real difficulty with diagnosing childhood asthma is that while some kids might display all symptoms other will report very in frequent battles with them. It's important that parents are familiar with the symptoms and can recognize patterns occurring after activity or at night. Knowing more information and recognizing a potential asthma attack will help you know what to do to reduce the intensity as well as help your family doctor diagnose the issues.
To learn more about how asthma can affect children, adults and for rememdies visit our website about medical issues.
It is one of the most common illnesses in children. Childhood asthma is the leading reason children miss school, and experts are telling us that close to 4 million kids under the ages of 17 have had some sort of asthma episode in the past year. Don't you think it's important that you can recognize the symptoms of childhood asthma to help your child if an attach hits? The trouble with childhood asthma is that not all of the symptoms are easy to spot, some quite obvious but others hide under the radar.
Wheezing
High pitched breathing that's very noticeable when a child breaths out. This has to be the most common of all childhood asthma symptoms. It can be severe or mild. It occurs when mucus builds up in the airway, that is already somewhat restricted, making it difficult to breath.
Coughing
Of course not all children will wheeze, often a small percentage will only ever have a persistent cough. Usually most noticeable late in the evenings. This can be a hidden symptom also, as in about 5% of cases in childhood asthma coughing is the only symptom they have. If your child appears to have coughing fits after running, crying or high activity there's a chance they might have asthma.
Frequent Respiratory Infections
Children suffering from frequent and difficult to treat respiratory infections, such as bronchitis, and even pneumonia may have childhood asthma. Of course it doesn't have to be as severe as pneumonia they could just continue to battle chronic cold like symptoms. It's easy for these illnesses to attack a child's lungs that are of course already weakened by asthma.
Inactivity or Being Lethargic
If you notice a child that used to be very active, loved the outdoors running, sports, biking but now shows signs of not wanting to be outdoors anymore along with shortness of breath and check tightening this could be the reason for lack of exertion. Children fighting asthma find it painful when they exert them selves therefore find it easier to avoid the tightness in the chest and shortness of breath,
The real difficulty with diagnosing childhood asthma is that while some kids might display all symptoms other will report very in frequent battles with them. It's important that parents are familiar with the symptoms and can recognize patterns occurring after activity or at night. Knowing more information and recognizing a potential asthma attack will help you know what to do to reduce the intensity as well as help your family doctor diagnose the issues.
To learn more about how asthma can affect children, adults and for rememdies visit our website about medical issues.
Friday, July 4, 2008
If You Think Allergies Are Not a Big Deal, Think Again
There's always seemed to be a suspicion of a link between asthma and allergies. Asthma, is a chronic illness characterized by inflammation of respiratory tubes that result in wheezing, a choking sensation and shortness of breath. A better understanding of asthma will result in an appreciation of the importance to address allergies quickly. Simply stated, continued research is suggesting that allergies are a main cause of the development of asthma.
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
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
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Fish Oil Reduces Symptoms Of Exercise Induced Asthma
Fish oil can reduce the symptoms of exercise induced asthma to below the threshold for diagnosing it and at the same time lower the need for emergency medication according to the results of a trial carried out by Indiana University in Bloomington, USA.
The trial was a randomised double blind cross over study and involved 16 people who had mild to moderate asthma and who normally took medication on a daily basis to control it. During the trial those taking part were given either fish oil or a placebo for a period of three weeks. The dose of fish oil was quite high containing 3.2gr of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 2gr of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Both at the beginning and at the end of the trial, the participants were subjected to lung efficiency tests and had their sputum analysed for pro inflammatory cells and markers. Those who were given fish oil showed improved lung efficiency of about 64% and reduced their need for emergency medication by around 31%. They also had a lower level of pro inflammatory cells and markers in their sputum. These promising results are believed to be due to the anti-inflammatory effect of the Omega 3 fatty acids that are present in fish oil.
What is exercise induced asthma?
After exercise and sometimes even during exercise, the airway passages in people with exercise induced asthma become inflamed and narrower resulting in decreased lung efficiency, often making it necessary to use inhalers. The constriction of the airways causes various symptoms including coughing, tightness across the chest, wheezing and shortness of breath. These symptoms generally start to ease off gradually over a period of half an hour or so following exercise.
No one really knows what causes it but it is thought to be triggered by the drying out and cooling of the airway passages which results in the cells releasing pro inflammatory chemicals which then causes a narrowing of the airways. Consequently, exercising in cool and dry conditions outdoors is more likely to result in an attack of asthma than physical activities such as swimming where the air is moist and warmer.
One major problem with exercise induced asthma is that it can be a barrier to exercise for many people, particularly youngsters who can be put off sport and other physical exercise because of it. It is also on the increase and the reason for this is thought to be linked to an increased consumption of Omega 6 fatty acids in the diet along with a reduction in the amount of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 6 is known to be pro-inflammatory whereas Omega 3 has anti-inflammatory properties and it is this difference in ratio that is thought to be responsible for a rise in a number of health problems.
Omega 6 is found in processed foods, vegetable oils, meats and dairy products so there is an abundance of them in our diet. The Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA on the other hand are only found in oily fish or fish oil as plant sources of Omega 3 do not contain EPA and DHA, they are in the form of Alpha linolenic acid or ALA, but the problem with ALA is that our bodies cannot easily process it to produce EPA, which is the fatty acid best known for its anti inflammatory effects.
You would have to eat an awful lot of fish to get the same amount of EPA that is present in fish oil, which isn't a good idea due to the potentially harmful toxins, including mercury, that are found in our fish. So, for this reason, fish oil offers a viable and safer alternative. Another point worthy of consideration is that long term use of medication for asthma can make it less effective and of course as with any medication there can also be unwanted side effects so if fish oil can reduce the need for medication and inhalers in people with exercise induced asthma, then that is exciting news indeed.
Conclusion
Fish oil is already known to offer both preventative and therapeutic health benefits for a number of conditions and so is an excellent supplement to promote good health in general. However, a word of caution, if you are thinking of trying fish oil supplements it is essential to opt only for the best quality fish oil known as pharmaceutical grade fish oil due to the potentially harmful toxins that can be present in lesser grade fish oils.
About The Author
Dave McEvoy is an expert in omega 3 fish oil EPA with over 20 years experience; for more information about fish oil and how it can help come and visit. http://www.mind1st.co.uk/fishoil_fishoilsupplements.asp
The trial was a randomised double blind cross over study and involved 16 people who had mild to moderate asthma and who normally took medication on a daily basis to control it. During the trial those taking part were given either fish oil or a placebo for a period of three weeks. The dose of fish oil was quite high containing 3.2gr of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 2gr of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Both at the beginning and at the end of the trial, the participants were subjected to lung efficiency tests and had their sputum analysed for pro inflammatory cells and markers. Those who were given fish oil showed improved lung efficiency of about 64% and reduced their need for emergency medication by around 31%. They also had a lower level of pro inflammatory cells and markers in their sputum. These promising results are believed to be due to the anti-inflammatory effect of the Omega 3 fatty acids that are present in fish oil.
What is exercise induced asthma?
After exercise and sometimes even during exercise, the airway passages in people with exercise induced asthma become inflamed and narrower resulting in decreased lung efficiency, often making it necessary to use inhalers. The constriction of the airways causes various symptoms including coughing, tightness across the chest, wheezing and shortness of breath. These symptoms generally start to ease off gradually over a period of half an hour or so following exercise.
No one really knows what causes it but it is thought to be triggered by the drying out and cooling of the airway passages which results in the cells releasing pro inflammatory chemicals which then causes a narrowing of the airways. Consequently, exercising in cool and dry conditions outdoors is more likely to result in an attack of asthma than physical activities such as swimming where the air is moist and warmer.
One major problem with exercise induced asthma is that it can be a barrier to exercise for many people, particularly youngsters who can be put off sport and other physical exercise because of it. It is also on the increase and the reason for this is thought to be linked to an increased consumption of Omega 6 fatty acids in the diet along with a reduction in the amount of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 6 is known to be pro-inflammatory whereas Omega 3 has anti-inflammatory properties and it is this difference in ratio that is thought to be responsible for a rise in a number of health problems.
Omega 6 is found in processed foods, vegetable oils, meats and dairy products so there is an abundance of them in our diet. The Omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA on the other hand are only found in oily fish or fish oil as plant sources of Omega 3 do not contain EPA and DHA, they are in the form of Alpha linolenic acid or ALA, but the problem with ALA is that our bodies cannot easily process it to produce EPA, which is the fatty acid best known for its anti inflammatory effects.
You would have to eat an awful lot of fish to get the same amount of EPA that is present in fish oil, which isn't a good idea due to the potentially harmful toxins, including mercury, that are found in our fish. So, for this reason, fish oil offers a viable and safer alternative. Another point worthy of consideration is that long term use of medication for asthma can make it less effective and of course as with any medication there can also be unwanted side effects so if fish oil can reduce the need for medication and inhalers in people with exercise induced asthma, then that is exciting news indeed.
Conclusion
Fish oil is already known to offer both preventative and therapeutic health benefits for a number of conditions and so is an excellent supplement to promote good health in general. However, a word of caution, if you are thinking of trying fish oil supplements it is essential to opt only for the best quality fish oil known as pharmaceutical grade fish oil due to the potentially harmful toxins that can be present in lesser grade fish oils.
About The Author
Dave McEvoy is an expert in omega 3 fish oil EPA with over 20 years experience; for more information about fish oil and how it can help come and visit. http://www.mind1st.co.uk/fishoil_fishoilsupplements.asp
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Asthma Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Remedies
A common disorder in which chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes (bronchi) makes them swell, narrowing the airways. Asthma involves only the bronchial tubes and does not affect the air sacs (alveoli) or the lung tissue (the parenchyma of the lung) itself.
Asthma attacks all age groups but often starts in childhood. It is a disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person. In an individual, they may occur from hour to hour and day to day.
This condition is due to inflammation of the air passages in the lungs and affects the sensitivity of the nerve endings in the airways so they become easily irritated. In an attack, the lining of the passages swell causing the airways to narrow and reducing the flow of air in and out of the lungs.
Asthma Causes :The cause of asthma is not known, but there is evidence that many factors play a part.
Genetic factors: asthma tends to run in families, and many people with asthma also have other allergic conditions such as rhinitis (inflammation of the nose lining). "Allergy" is a hypersensitivity to some proteins foreign to the body; a small dose of the "allergen" will produce a violent reaction in the person concerned.
Environmental factors: in wealthy, hygienic Western countries, most babies are not exposed to bacterial infections that "kick start" the immune system in early life and may be important in directing the immune system away from allergic responses. They also grow up in warm, well-furnished, carpeted homes that don't allow much airflow. This encourages the rapid breeding of large numbers of house dust mites in bedding, carpets and furnishings.
Dietary changes: changes in diet in Western countries, such as a high proportion of processed foods, a higher salt intake, a lower antioxidant intake and a lack of fresh oily fish (lower intake of omega-3 fatty acids) may contribute to the development of asthma.
Asthma treatment : Your doctor can work with you to decide about your treatment goals and what you need to do to control your asthma to achieve these goals. Asthma treatment includes:
Working closely with your doctor to decide what your treatment goals are and learning how to meet those goals.
Avoiding things that bring on your asthma symptoms or make your symptoms worse. Doing so can reduce the amount of medicine you need to control your asthma.
Using asthma medicines. Allergy medicine and shots may also help control asthma in some people.
Monitoring your asthma so that you can recognize when your symptoms are getting worse and respond quickly to prevent or stop an asthma attack.
With proper treatment, you should ideally have these results:
o Your asthma should be controlled.
o You should be free of asthma symptoms.
o You should have fewer attacks.
o You should need to use quick-relief medicines less often.
o You should be able to do normal activities without having symptoms.
About The Author:
Read about Premature Ejaculation Treatment, Erectile Dysfunction Treatment . Also read about Gifts for Girlfriend, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Boyfriend, Gifts for Him and Male Sexual Enhancement and Increase Penis Size.
Asthma attacks all age groups but often starts in childhood. It is a disease characterized by recurrent attacks of breathlessness and wheezing, which vary in severity and frequency from person to person. In an individual, they may occur from hour to hour and day to day.
This condition is due to inflammation of the air passages in the lungs and affects the sensitivity of the nerve endings in the airways so they become easily irritated. In an attack, the lining of the passages swell causing the airways to narrow and reducing the flow of air in and out of the lungs.
Asthma Causes :The cause of asthma is not known, but there is evidence that many factors play a part.
Genetic factors: asthma tends to run in families, and many people with asthma also have other allergic conditions such as rhinitis (inflammation of the nose lining). "Allergy" is a hypersensitivity to some proteins foreign to the body; a small dose of the "allergen" will produce a violent reaction in the person concerned.
Environmental factors: in wealthy, hygienic Western countries, most babies are not exposed to bacterial infections that "kick start" the immune system in early life and may be important in directing the immune system away from allergic responses. They also grow up in warm, well-furnished, carpeted homes that don't allow much airflow. This encourages the rapid breeding of large numbers of house dust mites in bedding, carpets and furnishings.
Dietary changes: changes in diet in Western countries, such as a high proportion of processed foods, a higher salt intake, a lower antioxidant intake and a lack of fresh oily fish (lower intake of omega-3 fatty acids) may contribute to the development of asthma.
Asthma treatment : Your doctor can work with you to decide about your treatment goals and what you need to do to control your asthma to achieve these goals. Asthma treatment includes:
Working closely with your doctor to decide what your treatment goals are and learning how to meet those goals.
Avoiding things that bring on your asthma symptoms or make your symptoms worse. Doing so can reduce the amount of medicine you need to control your asthma.
Using asthma medicines. Allergy medicine and shots may also help control asthma in some people.
Monitoring your asthma so that you can recognize when your symptoms are getting worse and respond quickly to prevent or stop an asthma attack.
With proper treatment, you should ideally have these results:
o Your asthma should be controlled.
o You should be free of asthma symptoms.
o You should have fewer attacks.
o You should need to use quick-relief medicines less often.
o You should be able to do normal activities without having symptoms.
About The Author:
Read about Premature Ejaculation Treatment, Erectile Dysfunction Treatment . Also read about Gifts for Girlfriend, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Boyfriend, Gifts for Him and Male Sexual Enhancement and Increase Penis Size.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Symptoms Of Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that makes bronchial tubes particularly sensitive to irritants. This is characterized by breathing difficulties.
The symptoms of asthma include:
* Shortness of breath. Asthma sufferers often say they feel as though they can't catch their breath, they feel breathless or out of breath. They feel like you can't get enough air into or out of their lungs.
* A feeling of tightness in the chest. This can feel like someone is sitting on or squeezing your chest.
* Coughing. Coughing in people with asthma is often worse at night or early in the morning, making sleeping difficult.
* Wheezing. Wheezing is a whistling or squeaky sound when you inhale or exhale.
* Faster or noisy breathing
* Inflammation of the air passages, characterised by eosinophils in the airway wall
* Episodes of wheezy difficulty in breathing
* Rapid and considerable changes in airway obstruction (peak flow variation >= 20%)
* Narrowing of the air passages in the lungs and resulting increased resistance to airflow
* Symptom-free periods
* Frequent allergy occurrence
* Bronchial hyper-responsiveness to non-specific stimuli such as cold air or histamine
* Frequent nocturnal episodes and low morning peak flow values
* Significant reversibility with new steroid drugs
* Significant reversibility with drugs that resemble adrenaline, the beta2 agonists
People with asthma may have:
* Coughing or wheezing when they are near an allergen or irritant
* Asthma symptoms brought on by exercises such as running, biking, or other brisk activity, especially during cold weather
* Frequent coughing, especially at night (this is occasionally the only sign of asthma in a child)
* Wheezing when they have a cold or another illness
* Coughing or wheezing precipitated by prolonged crying or laughing
Not all people suffer all of these symptoms. Additionally, symptoms may vary from one asthma attack to another. Symptoms can also differ in severity. For example, symptoms may be mildly annoying at times and at other times they can be serious enough to demand your immediate attention. Sometimes symptoms can be so serious to the point of being life threatening and require medical attention. Symptoms also differ in frequency. Some asthma sufferers only have symptoms once every few months, others have symptoms weekly, and while other people have daily symptoms. With proper treatment and management, however, most asthma sufferers can expect to endure minimal or no symptoms, and are able to lead normal, active lives.
By: William Brown
Monday, May 5, 2008
Asthma Types and Its Symptoms
Asthma can happen to anybody. Asthma starts at all ages. If Asthma is detected in childhood, that is between the ages of two to six, it is mainly due to the exposure to allergens, pollens, smoke and dust particles or mites.
It is very difficult to diagnose whether the child has asthma or not. In many cases, the child shows symptoms which resemble the onset of asthma, but when observed carefully, the child does not get asthma. Adults may also get asthma. The main reason behind getting asthma in adults is respiratory tract infection.
There are two types of asthma.
1. Extrinsic 2. Intrinsic
Extrinsic asthma is the most common type of asthma seen in asthma patients. Extrinsic asthma develops due to allergies and allergens. Extrinsic asthma develops during childhood, since children are most susceptible to allergies. Most allergies in children are due to hay fever, eczema or family history of allergies.
These allergies disappear as the child grows up and so does asthma, but they may reappear in later stages of life. Intrinsic type of asthma occurs mostly in women who are in their 30s. It is not associated with allergies and intrinsic type of asthma is more chronic and perennial.
The cause of intrinsic asthma can be traced to respiratory tract infections. Asthma also has categorizations based on the intensity of the disease Asthma can be mild, moderate and severe Mild asthma is found in 30% of the patients.
Patients with mild asthma do not have frequent attacks and can be cured or minimized with some precautions in dietary habits and lifestyle and a periodic checkup. These sorts of people do not need attention at all times and are self-supporting in case of an attack.
There is almost an equal percentage of people who have moderate asthma. These patients have moderately mild attacks and have the attacks more frequently. Proper medication and precautions must be taken to help the patient remain healthy.
Severe asthma patients require urgent medical attention, as the attacks are frequent and severe. The symptoms of Asthma are almost the same in all cases.
The intensity and the frequency of such attacks increase. Asthma is definitely curable and the frequency of attacks can be minimized with proper support and precautions.
Visit Bjorn Gutter's website at http://asthma--treatment.blogspot.com
It is very difficult to diagnose whether the child has asthma or not. In many cases, the child shows symptoms which resemble the onset of asthma, but when observed carefully, the child does not get asthma. Adults may also get asthma. The main reason behind getting asthma in adults is respiratory tract infection.
There are two types of asthma.
1. Extrinsic 2. Intrinsic
Extrinsic asthma is the most common type of asthma seen in asthma patients. Extrinsic asthma develops due to allergies and allergens. Extrinsic asthma develops during childhood, since children are most susceptible to allergies. Most allergies in children are due to hay fever, eczema or family history of allergies.
These allergies disappear as the child grows up and so does asthma, but they may reappear in later stages of life. Intrinsic type of asthma occurs mostly in women who are in their 30s. It is not associated with allergies and intrinsic type of asthma is more chronic and perennial.
The cause of intrinsic asthma can be traced to respiratory tract infections. Asthma also has categorizations based on the intensity of the disease Asthma can be mild, moderate and severe Mild asthma is found in 30% of the patients.
Patients with mild asthma do not have frequent attacks and can be cured or minimized with some precautions in dietary habits and lifestyle and a periodic checkup. These sorts of people do not need attention at all times and are self-supporting in case of an attack.
There is almost an equal percentage of people who have moderate asthma. These patients have moderately mild attacks and have the attacks more frequently. Proper medication and precautions must be taken to help the patient remain healthy.
Severe asthma patients require urgent medical attention, as the attacks are frequent and severe. The symptoms of Asthma are almost the same in all cases.
The intensity and the frequency of such attacks increase. Asthma is definitely curable and the frequency of attacks can be minimized with proper support and precautions.
Visit Bjorn Gutter's website at http://asthma--treatment.blogspot.com
Saturday, May 3, 2008
Asthma Discussed
1 out of every 7 children is affected by asthma.
o It is the second major reason for the hospitalization of the children up to age 9.
o Asthma has affected 1 out of every 12 adults.
o The death rate due to it is constantly rising in America, Africa and Latin countries.
o It has become one of the major reasons of absenteeism from school in the US.
o It leads to 2 million emergency room visits and amounts up to 5,000 deaths every year in the USA alone.
o It is the second major reason for the hospitalization of the children up to age 9.
o Asthma has affected 1 out of every 12 adults.
o The death rate due to it is constantly rising in America, Africa and Latin countries.
o It has become one of the major reasons of absenteeism from school in the US.
o It leads to 2 million emergency room visits and amounts up to 5,000 deaths every year in the USA alone.
Asthma is a chronic disease, which directly affects your airways. The airways are the tubes carrying air in and out of your lungs. Asthma is caused by inflammation and subsequent constriction of your airway. The condition is characterized by an instantaneous reaction by the airways in response to various triggers or allergens and substances.
During an asthma attack, the airway gets inflamed and restricts the airflow to the lungs. It directly effects your breathing and leaves you short of breath. It makes you wheeze and you can experience chest tightness. During an asthma attack the production of mucus by airway cells increases and it further causes obstruction in the air flow through tubes. You can die due to the lack of oxygen, if the attack is severe and prolonged.
Asthma, if not treated and controlled, can cost you your life.
It is widely known disease, effecting millions of people, still there is no concrete evidence towards its cause. Studies have revealed that it is caused due to allergic reactions caused by the presence of certain antibodies or certain conditions. Some studies also reveal that it is caused due to obesity and weight related problems. Various triggers or allergic reactions are known to cause asthma in people. It might not be necessary that the same trigger causes an asthma attack in all people. There are numerous triggers, which can cause asthmatic attacks. Triggers can be categorized as allergens, irritants and other triggers. Among the common triggers which initiate asthma attacks are as follows:
Allergens
Dust
Pollen
Mold
Cockroaches
Dust mites
Animal dander
Irritants
Tobacco smoke
Air pollution
Strong odor
Laughing
Crying
Others
Workplace chemicals
Common cold
Infections
Exertion
Respiratory infection
Flu
It is important for you to identify what triggers an asthma attack for you. It would help you greatly if, once recognized, you in stayed away from any known causes.
Like other diseases, asthma also presents symptoms that characterize its early, advancing and later stages. Some of the common symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness.
The first stage -- Early warning signs of Asthma
If you are in the early stages of an asthmatic event, you might experience some common symptoms. These common symptoms are characterized during the inception periods of the asthma episode. The symptoms include:-
*Frequent coughing during sleep in the night.
*Experiencing wheezing or coughing after exercising.
*Shortness of breath.
*Extreme exhaustion following exercise.
*Feeling tired and upset all the time.
*Experiencing a running nose, sore throat, headaches and sneezing frequently.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should immediately get yourself checked for asthma. The swifter you act, the more you will be able to control it.
The second stage - Advancement and worsening of Asthma
If you are not able to identify the initial symptoms of asthma, or if you ignore those symptoms, asthma could get even worse. The advancement of asthma starts affecting your daily activities and sleep. Some of the symptoms of worsening asthma include.
*Regular and undying cough.
*Frequent wheezing.
*Declined response to medications.
*Shortness of breath.
*Experiencing regular tightness in the chest.
Asthma should be diagnosed immediately upon countering these symptoms or it could further advance into a severe stage causing damage to your body.
The final stage and its symptoms
When asthma enters into its last stage it starts affecting you severely. It makes life difficult for you and can even cause the death. You would need immediate medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms listed below:
*Rapid breathing.
*Undying chest pain and pressure.
*Non-stop coughing.
*Sweaty and dull face.
*Blue fingernails and lips.
*Hampered talking.
*Retraction of neck and chest muscles.
*Frequent gasping for breath.
*Severe wheezing.
Asthma can only be controlled, not cured. So you must abide by proper medication and medical instructions. It is also important to stay free of any known triggers, which can cause an asthma attack.
You should visit your doctor immediately if you are concerned you may be suffering with asthma.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Asthma Drugs - Medicines Used in Bronchial Asthma
Bronchial asthma is characterised by chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes resulting in narrowing of the airways. Any kind of inhaled stimulus, such as air pollutants, strong odours, tobacco smoke, etc can trigger coughing and wheezing. There is swelling of inner lining of airways (bronchi) and occasional blockage due to thick mucus (sputum). When the air moves in and out of these obstructed and inflamed tubes the patient longs for a mouthful of breath. Every moment of the day! Attacks of wheezing and coughing in persons with inflamed airways can also be triggered by stress, infection; and sudden changes in climate.
Corticosteroids
Intravenous hydrocortisone 100 to 200 mg given every six hourly for 1 to 2 days is used in the management of acute severe bronchial asthma (status asthmaticus). Although given intravenously, steroids are not quick acting so treatment through inhalation should be continued. Steroids are also useful in long term treatment in certain cases. Here oral tablets are not preferred but inhaler is used to deliver drug into lungs. Some drugs used are:
Drugs Used for Prevention and Long term Treatment of Chronic Asthma
Bambuterol (Bambudil)
Bambuterol is a bronchodilator which is given orally in a dose of 10 to 20 mg once a day.
Salmeterol (Salmeter, Serobid)
It is used by inhalation (MDI) in a dose of 25 ug, twice a day. It is also available in combination with fluticasone (Seroflo Rotacaps contains 50 ug salmeterol + 100-500 ug fluticasone).
Formoterol (Foratec)
This drug is administered through inhalation, in a dose of 12 to 24 ug, twice a day.
Ipratropium Hydrobromide (Ipravent 20 ug/puff)
It is used as 20 to 40 ug, inhalation 2 to 5 times a day. It is more effective in chronic bronchitis with asthma like problems. It can cause dryness of mouth and palpitation. Nebulised ipratropium alongwith salbutamol are given in refractory asthma.
Montelukast (Montair 4 mg), Zafirlukast (Zuvair 10 mg)
These prevent airway inflammation and are effective orally. They are useful in patients who can not take glucocorticoids. Mild adverse effects like headache or skin allergy may occur.
Sodium cromoglycate (Cromolyn)
It stabilizes mast cells (cells responsible for formation of chemicals which cause asthma) and prevents release of constrictor chemicals. It is given by inhalation.
Fintal 1 mg MDI: It is used as 2 puffs four times a day. It is well tolerated by most patients but sometimes irritating cough and brochospasm may occur. It has preventive value only.
Ketotifen: This drug acts like cromolyn but can be given orally in a dose of 1mg twice a day. Adverse effects are sedation, weight gain, nausea and dizziness.
Combination Drugs
Anti-asthma drugs have a big market as the patient has to take them for a prolonged period of time. Pharmaceutical companies, specially the multinationals are cashing in on this by bringing out new drug combinations and increasing prices. There are a number of drug combinations available in India for asthma. If one drug of a group is unable to provide satisfactory relief, another drug from a different group can be tried or two drugs can be given together, depending on the response of the patient. The common drug combinations available in the market and used more frequently are:
Drug Combinations
Salbutamol 2 mg + theophylline 100 mg (BRONCHO PLUS)
Salbutamol 2 mg + theophylline 100 mg (THEO ASTHALIN)
Terbutaline 2.5 mg + theophylline 100 mg (THEOBRIC)
Terbutaline 5 mg (SR) + theophylline 300 mg (SR) (THEOBRIC SR)
About the author
AdvCare is one of the leading Canada pharmacy website. First established in January 2000, its mission is to become the number one site for discount drugs and online pharmacy searches.
Corticosteroids
Intravenous hydrocortisone 100 to 200 mg given every six hourly for 1 to 2 days is used in the management of acute severe bronchial asthma (status asthmaticus). Although given intravenously, steroids are not quick acting so treatment through inhalation should be continued. Steroids are also useful in long term treatment in certain cases. Here oral tablets are not preferred but inhaler is used to deliver drug into lungs. Some drugs used are:
Drugs Used for Prevention and Long term Treatment of Chronic Asthma
Bambuterol (Bambudil)
Bambuterol is a bronchodilator which is given orally in a dose of 10 to 20 mg once a day.
Salmeterol (Salmeter, Serobid)
It is used by inhalation (MDI) in a dose of 25 ug, twice a day. It is also available in combination with fluticasone (Seroflo Rotacaps contains 50 ug salmeterol + 100-500 ug fluticasone).
Formoterol (Foratec)
This drug is administered through inhalation, in a dose of 12 to 24 ug, twice a day.
Ipratropium Hydrobromide (Ipravent 20 ug/puff)
It is used as 20 to 40 ug, inhalation 2 to 5 times a day. It is more effective in chronic bronchitis with asthma like problems. It can cause dryness of mouth and palpitation. Nebulised ipratropium alongwith salbutamol are given in refractory asthma.
Montelukast (Montair 4 mg), Zafirlukast (Zuvair 10 mg)
These prevent airway inflammation and are effective orally. They are useful in patients who can not take glucocorticoids. Mild adverse effects like headache or skin allergy may occur.
Sodium cromoglycate (Cromolyn)
It stabilizes mast cells (cells responsible for formation of chemicals which cause asthma) and prevents release of constrictor chemicals. It is given by inhalation.
Fintal 1 mg MDI: It is used as 2 puffs four times a day. It is well tolerated by most patients but sometimes irritating cough and brochospasm may occur. It has preventive value only.
Ketotifen: This drug acts like cromolyn but can be given orally in a dose of 1mg twice a day. Adverse effects are sedation, weight gain, nausea and dizziness.
Combination Drugs
Anti-asthma drugs have a big market as the patient has to take them for a prolonged period of time. Pharmaceutical companies, specially the multinationals are cashing in on this by bringing out new drug combinations and increasing prices. There are a number of drug combinations available in India for asthma. If one drug of a group is unable to provide satisfactory relief, another drug from a different group can be tried or two drugs can be given together, depending on the response of the patient. The common drug combinations available in the market and used more frequently are:
Drug Combinations
Salbutamol 2 mg + theophylline 100 mg (BRONCHO PLUS)
Salbutamol 2 mg + theophylline 100 mg (THEO ASTHALIN)
Terbutaline 2.5 mg + theophylline 100 mg (THEOBRIC)
Terbutaline 5 mg (SR) + theophylline 300 mg (SR) (THEOBRIC SR)
About the author
AdvCare is one of the leading Canada pharmacy website. First established in January 2000, its mission is to become the number one site for discount drugs and online pharmacy searches.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
The Deep World of Asthma
The asthma is caused by airway hyper responsiveness to various stimuli such as a virus, allergen and exercise. The asthma affected 17.3 million individuals in the United States and 150 million worldwide. It is more seen in the children's.
This is not curable but the symptoms of the asthma can be reduces. So this is life long disease. Asthma occurs in persons of all races worldwide. The asthma appearance ratio is from male to female is 1:1. The asthma is appeared in the age of 18 years but the effect of asthma is seen in the adult age. The cause of asthma is usually due to the airway wall inflammation and airway wall constriction which arises due to the release inflammatory response chemical signals.
Causes of asthma
Dust
Exercise
Viral upper respiratory infection
Pollen
Genetic
Stress
Environmental changes
Symptoms of asthma
Wheezing
Sputum production
Allergens
Breathlessness
Decreased endurance
Chest tightness
Treatment of asthma
The immunoglobulin E may be decreases the bronchial airflow.
The T-lymphocytes may be used to release of an inflammatory mediators from eosinophils, mast cells, and lymphocytes.
Maintain pulmonary function as close to normal levels.
The T-helper 2 subset produces cytokines which stimulate the growth and the allergic response.
The inhaled corticosteroids are used for the management of asthma.
By using allergy skin test we can reduce the asthma.
Rachel Broune writes articles for Asthma home remedies. He also writes for Asthma causes and cure and Asthma complete information.
This is not curable but the symptoms of the asthma can be reduces. So this is life long disease. Asthma occurs in persons of all races worldwide. The asthma appearance ratio is from male to female is 1:1. The asthma is appeared in the age of 18 years but the effect of asthma is seen in the adult age. The cause of asthma is usually due to the airway wall inflammation and airway wall constriction which arises due to the release inflammatory response chemical signals.
Causes of asthma
Dust
Exercise
Viral upper respiratory infection
Pollen
Genetic
Stress
Environmental changes
Symptoms of asthma
Wheezing
Sputum production
Allergens
Breathlessness
Decreased endurance
Chest tightness
Treatment of asthma
The immunoglobulin E may be decreases the bronchial airflow.
The T-lymphocytes may be used to release of an inflammatory mediators from eosinophils, mast cells, and lymphocytes.
Maintain pulmonary function as close to normal levels.
The T-helper 2 subset produces cytokines which stimulate the growth and the allergic response.
The inhaled corticosteroids are used for the management of asthma.
By using allergy skin test we can reduce the asthma.
Rachel Broune writes articles for Asthma home remedies. He also writes for Asthma causes and cure and Asthma complete information.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
How To Identify An Allergic Asthma?
An allergic asthma. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the lung airways. It's symptoms are made worse by exposure to an allergen (e.g., dust, mold, pollen, dust mite allergens and animal dander) to which the patient has been sensitized.
A simple sneeze could trigger allergic asthma or a simple cough could lead to that as well.
What are the symptoms of allergic asthma?
The symptoms of allergic and non-allergic asthma are the same. They include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or rapid breathing, and chest tightness. These symptoms are often provoked by an identifiable trigger.
What factors can cause or trigger allergic asthma?
A family history of allergies is the most important predictor of whether a person will develop asthma. Environmental substances (allergens) can trigger an exacerbation - or attack - in patients with allergic asthma.
The allergens include tree, grass, and weed pollen, plus molds, animal dander, dust mites and cockroach droppings. Asthma attacks can also be triggered by viral infections, exercise, cold air and non-specific irritants.
How many people suffer from allergic asthma?
Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, of the 17 million asthma sufferers in the United States, 10 million (approximately 60 percent) have allergic asthma. Three million are children and 7 million are adults.
What is the relationship between allergies and allergic asthma?
Most people with asthma also suffer from other allergic disorders. In fact, research from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that at least 70 percent of asthmatics also suffer from allergic rhinitis or "hay fever."
Nasal allergies and allergic asthma are both triggered by exposure to allergens, initiating a series of events that result in tightening of the airways, swelling of the lining of the airways, nose and eyes, and mucus production.
What is IgE and why is it important in allergic asthma?
IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is an antibody in the human immune system that plays a critical role in the allergic process.
When an individual is sensitized to an allergen, he or she produces an IgE antibody directed against that allergen. The IgE antibody attaches to mast cells.
When the individual is exposed to that same allergen again, the allergen binds to the IgE on the mast cell causing it to release substances such as histamine, prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which cause symptoms such as chest tightness, coughing and wheezing.
What treatments are available for people suffering from allergic asthma?
It is important for people with asthma to seek treatment. First, patients are evaluated to identify their specific allergic triggers and a program of allergen avoidance is recommended.
Asthma is treated with medications including anti-inflammatory agents, such as corticosteroids and anti-leukotrienes that decrease inflammation in the lungs, and bronchodilators used for relief of symptoms.
Allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a program of injections that reduces allergic sensitization.
A new drug currently under review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), known as anti-IgE, concentrates on short-circuiting the allergic reaction in the body before it even begins.
Anti-IgE therapy stops the allergic reaction before it starts, allowing the patient to avoid allergy symptoms that often trigger an asthma attack or lead to the development of asthma attacks.
Researchers are looking for targets for new forms of treatment. Future therapies may focus on cytokines, substances that maintain the chronic inflammation responsible for asthma.
Other research may also lead to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs, which may retain the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids but cause fewer systemic side effects.
As the more and more developing countries are emerging, more and more air pollution is arising, whether asthma or allergic asthma, the number of people having is rising.
They could have acquired this chronic illness rather than having it genetically as the environment is getting more and more dirtier.
Eddy Elton is the owner of website, UniqueAsthmaTreatmentSecrets.com. You can subscribe to a free report by visiting his web site at Allergic Asthma and receive updates when the latest to be released on asthma treatment is available.
A simple sneeze could trigger allergic asthma or a simple cough could lead to that as well.
What are the symptoms of allergic asthma?
The symptoms of allergic and non-allergic asthma are the same. They include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or rapid breathing, and chest tightness. These symptoms are often provoked by an identifiable trigger.
What factors can cause or trigger allergic asthma?
A family history of allergies is the most important predictor of whether a person will develop asthma. Environmental substances (allergens) can trigger an exacerbation - or attack - in patients with allergic asthma.
The allergens include tree, grass, and weed pollen, plus molds, animal dander, dust mites and cockroach droppings. Asthma attacks can also be triggered by viral infections, exercise, cold air and non-specific irritants.
How many people suffer from allergic asthma?
Allergic asthma is the most common form of asthma. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, of the 17 million asthma sufferers in the United States, 10 million (approximately 60 percent) have allergic asthma. Three million are children and 7 million are adults.
What is the relationship between allergies and allergic asthma?
Most people with asthma also suffer from other allergic disorders. In fact, research from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that at least 70 percent of asthmatics also suffer from allergic rhinitis or "hay fever."
Nasal allergies and allergic asthma are both triggered by exposure to allergens, initiating a series of events that result in tightening of the airways, swelling of the lining of the airways, nose and eyes, and mucus production.
What is IgE and why is it important in allergic asthma?
IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is an antibody in the human immune system that plays a critical role in the allergic process.
When an individual is sensitized to an allergen, he or she produces an IgE antibody directed against that allergen. The IgE antibody attaches to mast cells.
When the individual is exposed to that same allergen again, the allergen binds to the IgE on the mast cell causing it to release substances such as histamine, prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which cause symptoms such as chest tightness, coughing and wheezing.
What treatments are available for people suffering from allergic asthma?
It is important for people with asthma to seek treatment. First, patients are evaluated to identify their specific allergic triggers and a program of allergen avoidance is recommended.
Asthma is treated with medications including anti-inflammatory agents, such as corticosteroids and anti-leukotrienes that decrease inflammation in the lungs, and bronchodilators used for relief of symptoms.
Allergen immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a program of injections that reduces allergic sensitization.
A new drug currently under review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), known as anti-IgE, concentrates on short-circuiting the allergic reaction in the body before it even begins.
Anti-IgE therapy stops the allergic reaction before it starts, allowing the patient to avoid allergy symptoms that often trigger an asthma attack or lead to the development of asthma attacks.
Researchers are looking for targets for new forms of treatment. Future therapies may focus on cytokines, substances that maintain the chronic inflammation responsible for asthma.
Other research may also lead to the development of new anti-inflammatory drugs, which may retain the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids but cause fewer systemic side effects.
As the more and more developing countries are emerging, more and more air pollution is arising, whether asthma or allergic asthma, the number of people having is rising.
They could have acquired this chronic illness rather than having it genetically as the environment is getting more and more dirtier.
Eddy Elton is the owner of website, UniqueAsthmaTreatmentSecrets.com. You can subscribe to a free report by visiting his web site at Allergic Asthma and receive updates when the latest to be released on asthma treatment is available.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Asthma – Ways To Prevent Asthma
The key to preventing asthma attacks and better asthma control is to avoid your known asthma triggers. We have some basic tips on how to avoid your triggers. Keep your asthma symptoms at bay with these helpful asthma prevention techniques.
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.
Read about Natural Herbal Home Remedies and Pregnancy Information Guide. Also read about Dental and Tooth Care Guide
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.
Read about Natural Herbal Home Remedies and Pregnancy Information Guide. Also read about Dental and Tooth Care Guide
Sunday, March 16, 2008
All About Asthma Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects your airways. Your airways are tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. If you have asthma, the inside walls of your airways become sore and swollen. That makes them very sensitive, and they may react strongly to things that you are allergic to or find irritating. When your airways react, they get narrower and your lungs get less air. This can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and trouble breathing, especially early in the morning or at night.
Different people have different signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma signs and symptoms are also variable - they can change over time or depending on the situation. People with asthma often have one or more these symptoms:
o Wheezing
o Chest tightness
o Coughing
o Feeling short of breath
Asthma Causes
Asthma is caused by inflammation in the airways. When an asthma attack occurs, the muscles surrounding the airways become tight and the lining of the air passages swell. This reduces the amount of air that can pass by, and can lead to wheezing sounds.
Most people with asthma have wheezing attacks separated by symptom-free periods. Some patients have long-term shortness of breath with episodes of increased shortness of breath. Still, in others, a cough may be the main symptom. Asthma attacks can last minutes to days and can become dangerous if the airflow becomes severely restricted.
How to exercise with Asthma?
Take your medications as directed. If you're having trouble breathing, you should take your rescue medicine (blue inhaler, for example, Ventolin). Your doctor may also ask you to take your blue rescue inhaler or another bronchodilator fifteen minutes before you exercise.
Warm up and cool down properly
o Before exercising, warm up slowly by walking, stretching, and doing other low-level activities.
o After you've finished exercising, cool down slowly for at least 10 minutes. Don't stop exercising all of a sudden. If you've been running, taper the run to a walking pace. If you've been swimming, finish your swim with a slow paddle. Give your body time to adjust.
If you have symptoms, stop exercising and take your blue rescue inhaler
o Sit up. Wait a few minutes to see if your symptoms improve.
o If your symptoms improve a lot, warm up again and slowly go back to exercising.
o If your symptoms don't improve, take another dose of your blue rescue inhaler. Wait a few minutes to see if your symptoms improve.
What Are Major Triggers Of Asthma?
There are many factors that can trigger an asthma attack--
o Upper Respiratory Infections
o Weather Changes
o Allergens from dust, molds, pollen, animals, and occasionally food
o Exercise
o Environmental Irritants: such as cigarette smoke, auto exhaust, smog, or cleaners
o Emotions
o Early Morning
o Sulfites
o Certain Medications
The main anti-inflammatory preventer drugs are inhaled corticosteroids.
Examples of inhaled corticosteroids are:
o AeroBid; Bronalide (flunisolide)
o Advair (fluticasone + salmeterol)
o Azmacort (triamcinolone) (has a built-in spacer device)
o Beclovent; Vanceril (beclomethasone)
Article By: Peter Sams
Read about Acne Cure Treatments and Hair Loss Treatments. Also read about Beauty and Makeup Tips
Different people have different signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma signs and symptoms are also variable - they can change over time or depending on the situation. People with asthma often have one or more these symptoms:
o Wheezing
o Chest tightness
o Coughing
o Feeling short of breath
Asthma Causes
Asthma is caused by inflammation in the airways. When an asthma attack occurs, the muscles surrounding the airways become tight and the lining of the air passages swell. This reduces the amount of air that can pass by, and can lead to wheezing sounds.
Most people with asthma have wheezing attacks separated by symptom-free periods. Some patients have long-term shortness of breath with episodes of increased shortness of breath. Still, in others, a cough may be the main symptom. Asthma attacks can last minutes to days and can become dangerous if the airflow becomes severely restricted.
How to exercise with Asthma?
Take your medications as directed. If you're having trouble breathing, you should take your rescue medicine (blue inhaler, for example, Ventolin). Your doctor may also ask you to take your blue rescue inhaler or another bronchodilator fifteen minutes before you exercise.
Warm up and cool down properly
o Before exercising, warm up slowly by walking, stretching, and doing other low-level activities.
o After you've finished exercising, cool down slowly for at least 10 minutes. Don't stop exercising all of a sudden. If you've been running, taper the run to a walking pace. If you've been swimming, finish your swim with a slow paddle. Give your body time to adjust.
If you have symptoms, stop exercising and take your blue rescue inhaler
o Sit up. Wait a few minutes to see if your symptoms improve.
o If your symptoms improve a lot, warm up again and slowly go back to exercising.
o If your symptoms don't improve, take another dose of your blue rescue inhaler. Wait a few minutes to see if your symptoms improve.
What Are Major Triggers Of Asthma?
There are many factors that can trigger an asthma attack--
o Upper Respiratory Infections
o Weather Changes
o Allergens from dust, molds, pollen, animals, and occasionally food
o Exercise
o Environmental Irritants: such as cigarette smoke, auto exhaust, smog, or cleaners
o Emotions
o Early Morning
o Sulfites
o Certain Medications
The main anti-inflammatory preventer drugs are inhaled corticosteroids.
Examples of inhaled corticosteroids are:
o AeroBid; Bronalide (flunisolide)
o Advair (fluticasone + salmeterol)
o Azmacort (triamcinolone) (has a built-in spacer device)
o Beclovent; Vanceril (beclomethasone)
Article By: Peter Sams
Read about Acne Cure Treatments and Hair Loss Treatments. Also read about Beauty and Makeup Tips
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
The Mystery of Thunderstorm-related Asthma
Thunderstorm-related asthma simply refers to the triggering or worsening of asthma due to rainfall or thunderstorm. Thunderstorms have been linked to asthma epidemics, particularly during the pollen seasons. A few of these epidemics have been well documented, including the epidemic of 24/25 June 1994 in southern and central England. Asthma epidemics associated with some thunderstorms have been found to contribute significantly to the number of hospital attendances for asthma given the appropriate meteorological conditions. The environmental changes found to be important are a sudden change in air temperature and a sudden rise in grass pollen concentration. Individuals who are affected are more likely to have a history of hayfever and much more likely to be allergic to rye grass; they are also less likely to be taking inhaled corticosteroids at the time of the thunderstorm.
The mechanisms behind thunderstorm asthma are not well established as it is caused by a combination of many factors. However, thunderstorms are known to have a marked effect on pollens, fungal spores, as well as dust and smoke particles. Although representing a small proportion of airborne particles present in the atmosphere, pollen grains can be causative agents of allergic respiratory responses in individuals who are allergic to pollens. Some grass allergen (for example, ryegrass allergen) is located on the surface of starch granules within pollen grains. A single pollen grain contains up to 700 starch granules of 0.6 to 2.5 um (small enough to reach the lower airways in the lung). When it rains or is humid, pollen grains can absorb moisture and burst, releasing hundreds of small allergenic particles that can penetrate deep into the small airways of the lung. It is also thought that an increased release of fungal spores may occur after a thunderstorm or heavy rainfall, thereby precipitating asthma. According to a study carried out by Celenza et al (1996), based on the asthma epidemic, which occurred in London on 24 and 25 June 1994 after a thunderstorm, it was noted that lightning strikes, rainfall, drop in air temperature, air pressure, and humidity seemed to be related to the onset of the asthma epidemic.
According to D'Amato et al (2007), the characteristics of described epidemics of thunderstorm-associated asthma can be summarized as follows: 1. A link exists between asthma epidemics and thunderstorm. 2. Epidemics related to thunderstorm are dependent on seasons when there are high atmospheric concentrations of airborne allergenic pollens. 3. The start of the thunderstorm has a close temporal association with the onset of epidemics. 4. Subjects with pollen allergy, who stay indoors with closed windows during thunderstorm, are not usually affected. 5. Subjects who are not under correct anti-asthma treatment are at a major risk whilst subjects with allergic rhinitis and those without previous asthma can experience severe bronchoconstriction (constriction of the bronchial air passages).
Precautions to take in the event of a thunderstorm 1. Watch out and listen closely for weather reports. 2. Be aware that thunderstorms could trigger your asthma. 3. Increase you preventer inhaler, in consultation with your doctor or nurse, and seek medical attention if you experience an extreme attack. 4. Keep a close eye on your condition either by taking regular peak flow readings or recording your symptoms.
References 1. Venables KM, et al. Thunderstorm-related asthma - the epidemic of 24/25 June 1994. Clin Exp Allergy 1997; 27: 725-736. 2. Wark PAB, Simpson J, Hensley MJ, Gibson PG. Airway inflammation in thunderstorm asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2002; 32: 1750-1756. 3. Celenza A, Fothergill J, Kupek E, Shaw RJ. Thunderstorm associated asthma: a detailed analysis of environmental factors. BMJ 1996; 312: 604-607. 4. Campbell-Hewson G, Egleston CV, Sherriff HM, Robsinson SM, Allitt U. Epidemic of asthma possibly associated with electrical storms. BMJ 1994; 309: 1086-1087. 5. D'Amato G, Liccardi G, Frengueli G. Thunderstorm-asthma and pollen allergy. Allergy 2007; 62: 11-16.
Learn more about asthma by visiting our Asthma Learning Centre.
Start shopping from our range of Asthma products.
About the Author
BSc (Hons) Pharmacology MSc. Pharmaceutical Science with Management Studies
The mechanisms behind thunderstorm asthma are not well established as it is caused by a combination of many factors. However, thunderstorms are known to have a marked effect on pollens, fungal spores, as well as dust and smoke particles. Although representing a small proportion of airborne particles present in the atmosphere, pollen grains can be causative agents of allergic respiratory responses in individuals who are allergic to pollens. Some grass allergen (for example, ryegrass allergen) is located on the surface of starch granules within pollen grains. A single pollen grain contains up to 700 starch granules of 0.6 to 2.5 um (small enough to reach the lower airways in the lung). When it rains or is humid, pollen grains can absorb moisture and burst, releasing hundreds of small allergenic particles that can penetrate deep into the small airways of the lung. It is also thought that an increased release of fungal spores may occur after a thunderstorm or heavy rainfall, thereby precipitating asthma. According to a study carried out by Celenza et al (1996), based on the asthma epidemic, which occurred in London on 24 and 25 June 1994 after a thunderstorm, it was noted that lightning strikes, rainfall, drop in air temperature, air pressure, and humidity seemed to be related to the onset of the asthma epidemic.
According to D'Amato et al (2007), the characteristics of described epidemics of thunderstorm-associated asthma can be summarized as follows: 1. A link exists between asthma epidemics and thunderstorm. 2. Epidemics related to thunderstorm are dependent on seasons when there are high atmospheric concentrations of airborne allergenic pollens. 3. The start of the thunderstorm has a close temporal association with the onset of epidemics. 4. Subjects with pollen allergy, who stay indoors with closed windows during thunderstorm, are not usually affected. 5. Subjects who are not under correct anti-asthma treatment are at a major risk whilst subjects with allergic rhinitis and those without previous asthma can experience severe bronchoconstriction (constriction of the bronchial air passages).
Precautions to take in the event of a thunderstorm 1. Watch out and listen closely for weather reports. 2. Be aware that thunderstorms could trigger your asthma. 3. Increase you preventer inhaler, in consultation with your doctor or nurse, and seek medical attention if you experience an extreme attack. 4. Keep a close eye on your condition either by taking regular peak flow readings or recording your symptoms.
References 1. Venables KM, et al. Thunderstorm-related asthma - the epidemic of 24/25 June 1994. Clin Exp Allergy 1997; 27: 725-736. 2. Wark PAB, Simpson J, Hensley MJ, Gibson PG. Airway inflammation in thunderstorm asthma. Clin Exp Allergy 2002; 32: 1750-1756. 3. Celenza A, Fothergill J, Kupek E, Shaw RJ. Thunderstorm associated asthma: a detailed analysis of environmental factors. BMJ 1996; 312: 604-607. 4. Campbell-Hewson G, Egleston CV, Sherriff HM, Robsinson SM, Allitt U. Epidemic of asthma possibly associated with electrical storms. BMJ 1994; 309: 1086-1087. 5. D'Amato G, Liccardi G, Frengueli G. Thunderstorm-asthma and pollen allergy. Allergy 2007; 62: 11-16.
Learn more about asthma by visiting our Asthma Learning Centre.
Start shopping from our range of Asthma products.
About the Author
BSc (Hons) Pharmacology MSc. Pharmaceutical Science with Management Studies
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Asthma: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Asthma
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease—sometimes worrisome and inconvenient—but a manageable condition. With proper understanding, good medical care, and monitoring, you can keep asthma under control. Chronic condition characterized by difficulty in breathing due to spasm of the bronchi (air passages) in the lungs. Attacks may be provoked by allergy, infection, and stress. The incidence of asthma may be increasing as a result of air pollution and occupational hazard. An asthma attack can be very serious. If you have trouble breathing, call 9-1-1 for help right away. You can't cure asthma, but you can control it. Asthma is a chronic lung condition that is characterized by difficulty in breathing. People with asthma have extra sensitive or hyper responsive airways that cause symptoms of asthma. Airways react by narrowing or obstruction when something irritates them. Making a correct diagnosis is very important, because that is the only way to treat it appropriately.
Asthma is a disease that affects the breathing passages of the lungs (bronchioles). Asthma is caused by chronic (ongoing, long-term) inflammation of these passages. This makes the breathing passages, or airways, of the person with asthma highly sensitive to various "triggers." When an asthmatic person has an asthma attack the membranes inside the bronchial tubes release mucus and become inflamed. The inflammation causes the muscles to contract and create spasms. These muscle spasms are responsible for wheezing. Asthma is a common condition that causes coughing, wheezing, tightness of the chest and breathlessness.
Causes of Asthma
The exact cause of asthma isn't fully understood at present. Sometimes, the symptoms flare up for no obvious reason, but you may notice certain triggers that set off an asthma attack or make your symptoms worse. These triggers irritate the airways in your lungs and can include:
oinfections such as colds and flu
oirritants such as dust, cigarette smoke, fumes
ochemicals found in the workplace - this is called occupational asthma
ollergies to pollen, medicines, animals, house dust mite or certain foods
oexercise - especially in cold, dry air
oemotions - laughing or crying very hard can trigger symptoms, as can stress
oBronchoconstriction
oInflammation
oDietary changes
oOccupational exposure
oStrong emotional expression (including crying or laughing hard) and stress.
oA condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease that causes heartburn and can worsen asthma symptoms, especially at night.
Symptoms of Asthma
oCoughing is the most common asthma symptom. Coughing associated with asthma generally worsens at night and early in the morning, making sleeping difficult.
oRapid breathing is a common asthma symptom. When breathlessness occurs, you may try to breathe faster to try to get air in and out of your lungs.
oPeak flow numbers may be in the caution or danger range
oNeck area and between or below the ribs moves inward with breathing.
oWalking causes shortness of breath.
oGray or bluish tint to skin, beginning around the mouth.
Treatment
oControllers, also called "preventers," reduce inflammation in the airways. Controllers should be taken every day. You will know that the controller medication is working because you will, over time, have fewer and fewer symptoms. When your asthma is totally controlled and you have no symptoms, do not stop taking them.
oGenerally, dairy products are not good for asthmatics. They're too mucus-forming. We have heard, though, that cheddar cheese might be an exception. It contains "tyramine," an ingredient that seems to help open up the breathing passages.
oTurmeric is valuable in asthma. The patient should be given a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a glass of milk, two or three times daily. It acts best when taken on an empty stomach.
Read about Acne Cure and Treatments and Breast Enlargement Enhancement. Also read about Beauty and Makeup Tips.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease—sometimes worrisome and inconvenient—but a manageable condition. With proper understanding, good medical care, and monitoring, you can keep asthma under control. Chronic condition characterized by difficulty in breathing due to spasm of the bronchi (air passages) in the lungs. Attacks may be provoked by allergy, infection, and stress. The incidence of asthma may be increasing as a result of air pollution and occupational hazard. An asthma attack can be very serious. If you have trouble breathing, call 9-1-1 for help right away. You can't cure asthma, but you can control it. Asthma is a chronic lung condition that is characterized by difficulty in breathing. People with asthma have extra sensitive or hyper responsive airways that cause symptoms of asthma. Airways react by narrowing or obstruction when something irritates them. Making a correct diagnosis is very important, because that is the only way to treat it appropriately.
Asthma is a disease that affects the breathing passages of the lungs (bronchioles). Asthma is caused by chronic (ongoing, long-term) inflammation of these passages. This makes the breathing passages, or airways, of the person with asthma highly sensitive to various "triggers." When an asthmatic person has an asthma attack the membranes inside the bronchial tubes release mucus and become inflamed. The inflammation causes the muscles to contract and create spasms. These muscle spasms are responsible for wheezing. Asthma is a common condition that causes coughing, wheezing, tightness of the chest and breathlessness.
Causes of Asthma
The exact cause of asthma isn't fully understood at present. Sometimes, the symptoms flare up for no obvious reason, but you may notice certain triggers that set off an asthma attack or make your symptoms worse. These triggers irritate the airways in your lungs and can include:
oinfections such as colds and flu
oirritants such as dust, cigarette smoke, fumes
ochemicals found in the workplace - this is called occupational asthma
ollergies to pollen, medicines, animals, house dust mite or certain foods
oexercise - especially in cold, dry air
oemotions - laughing or crying very hard can trigger symptoms, as can stress
oBronchoconstriction
oInflammation
oDietary changes
oOccupational exposure
oStrong emotional expression (including crying or laughing hard) and stress.
oA condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease that causes heartburn and can worsen asthma symptoms, especially at night.
Symptoms of Asthma
oCoughing is the most common asthma symptom. Coughing associated with asthma generally worsens at night and early in the morning, making sleeping difficult.
oRapid breathing is a common asthma symptom. When breathlessness occurs, you may try to breathe faster to try to get air in and out of your lungs.
oPeak flow numbers may be in the caution or danger range
oNeck area and between or below the ribs moves inward with breathing.
oWalking causes shortness of breath.
oGray or bluish tint to skin, beginning around the mouth.
Treatment
oControllers, also called "preventers," reduce inflammation in the airways. Controllers should be taken every day. You will know that the controller medication is working because you will, over time, have fewer and fewer symptoms. When your asthma is totally controlled and you have no symptoms, do not stop taking them.
oGenerally, dairy products are not good for asthmatics. They're too mucus-forming. We have heard, though, that cheddar cheese might be an exception. It contains "tyramine," an ingredient that seems to help open up the breathing passages.
oTurmeric is valuable in asthma. The patient should be given a teaspoon of turmeric powder with a glass of milk, two or three times daily. It acts best when taken on an empty stomach.
Read about Acne Cure and Treatments and Breast Enlargement Enhancement. Also read about Beauty and Makeup Tips.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Yoga For Asthma Cure
Yoga has helped in curing and preventing many diseases. The poses and asanas stimulate the required organs and help you with your ailments. Asthma is a very common problem. It is basically shortness of breath due to the chronic lung condition. Even kids are not spared by this disease. You suffer wheezing, coughing, heaviness in the chest causing blockage in your lungs. During asthma attack lack of oxygen can lead to death too. By doing the required asanas you can fight back.
Yoga betters your asthma condition due to the free flow of air. By continuously practicing yoga you can leave your medications at bay. Asthma attacks would lessen with the increase of yoga practice. The breathing exercises are very useful to open up your lungs for fresh air.
Back bending postures are very good to open up your chest to improve your heart and lung condition. Practicing upper back bends and chest opening postures helps, in exhaling during asthma attacks. Forward bends and lower back bending poses help in inhaling, during the attack. Mucus can be removed by inverted postures.
Pranayama is an excellent way to have a controlled breath to avoid any asthma attacks. According to the triggering factors for asthma attacks, one should practice pranayama. Dirga prananyama is a multi-purpose asana and helps in slow and deep breathing exercise. Nadi Sodhana can help you with stress and emotional turmoil.
Asthma triggered by cold can be helped by Ujjayi pranayama. Allergic trigger patterns can be avoided by Sitt Kari or Shitali pranayama. Kapalbhatti pranayama is very good to reduce the mucus congestion.
These breathing exercises are very good to strengthen and relax the muscles of lungs. During the asthma attack this proves to be very useful. It reduces the nerve activity in the airways causing fewer bottlenecks during the attack. It helps cleanse the air passage to breathe easily. It helps in stabilizing the autonomous nervous systems.
Pranayama if practiced regularly can do lot of difference to your health. This would help you to have asthma free life. Props used while doing these asanas may help you better. Breathing helps to soothe the lining of the bronchial tree and helps in preventing the external allergens. It is said that the single and long inhalation is very good for relaxation.
Some Asanas which would relieve Asthma from your life
- Dandasana
- Baddhakonasana
- Upavista Konasana
- Virasana
- Supta Baddhakonasana
- Supta Virasana
- Setubandha Sarvangasana
- Adhomukha Svanasana
- Uttanasana
- Tadasana Samasthithi
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions before following any of the asanas from this article and the site. To avoid any problems while doing the asanas, it is advised that you consult a doctor and a yoga instructor. The responsibility lies solely with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
Sharon Hopkins handles sites related to yoga, which opens a new door of knowledge towards yoga and its health benefits Yoga for Asthma Cure - These yoga asana help you live an asthma free life.
Yoga betters your asthma condition due to the free flow of air. By continuously practicing yoga you can leave your medications at bay. Asthma attacks would lessen with the increase of yoga practice. The breathing exercises are very useful to open up your lungs for fresh air.
Back bending postures are very good to open up your chest to improve your heart and lung condition. Practicing upper back bends and chest opening postures helps, in exhaling during asthma attacks. Forward bends and lower back bending poses help in inhaling, during the attack. Mucus can be removed by inverted postures.
Pranayama is an excellent way to have a controlled breath to avoid any asthma attacks. According to the triggering factors for asthma attacks, one should practice pranayama. Dirga prananyama is a multi-purpose asana and helps in slow and deep breathing exercise. Nadi Sodhana can help you with stress and emotional turmoil.
Asthma triggered by cold can be helped by Ujjayi pranayama. Allergic trigger patterns can be avoided by Sitt Kari or Shitali pranayama. Kapalbhatti pranayama is very good to reduce the mucus congestion.
These breathing exercises are very good to strengthen and relax the muscles of lungs. During the asthma attack this proves to be very useful. It reduces the nerve activity in the airways causing fewer bottlenecks during the attack. It helps cleanse the air passage to breathe easily. It helps in stabilizing the autonomous nervous systems.
Pranayama if practiced regularly can do lot of difference to your health. This would help you to have asthma free life. Props used while doing these asanas may help you better. Breathing helps to soothe the lining of the bronchial tree and helps in preventing the external allergens. It is said that the single and long inhalation is very good for relaxation.
Some Asanas which would relieve Asthma from your life
- Dandasana
- Baddhakonasana
- Upavista Konasana
- Virasana
- Supta Baddhakonasana
- Supta Virasana
- Setubandha Sarvangasana
- Adhomukha Svanasana
- Uttanasana
- Tadasana Samasthithi
Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautions before following any of the asanas from this article and the site. To avoid any problems while doing the asanas, it is advised that you consult a doctor and a yoga instructor. The responsibility lies solely with the reader and not with the site or the writer.
Sharon Hopkins handles sites related to yoga, which opens a new door of knowledge towards yoga and its health benefits Yoga for Asthma Cure - These yoga asana help you live an asthma free life.
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