Asthma – what you need to know
Asthma is a long-term condition that can cause a cough, wheezing and breathlessness. The severity of the symptoms varies from person to person. Asthma can be controlled well in most people most of the time. However, occasionally it can be fatal.
Symptoms
- breathing difficulty
- sudden fits of wheezing
- coughing
- shortness of breath
If you are overweight or obese, your odds of developing asthma are 50% greater than if you maintain a healthy body weight
Causes of Asthma
Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways. These are the small tubes, called bronchi, which carry air in and out of the lungs. If you have asthma, the bronchi will be inflamed and more sensitive than normal. When you come into contact with something that irritates your lungs, known as a trigger, your airways become narrow, the muscles around them tighten and there is an increase in the production of sticky mucus (phlegm). This makes it difficult to breathe and causes wheezing and coughing. It may also make your chest feel tight. A severe onset of symptoms is known as an asthma attack or an ‘acute asthma exacerbation’.
Common Triggers of Asthma
A trigger is anything that irritates the airways and brings on the symptoms of asthma. These differ from person to person and people with asthma may have several triggers. Common triggers include house dust
Watch the salt intake! Too much salt may aggravate asthma symptoms, particularly in men. Cutting back may help keep airways clear dust, mites, animal fur, pollen, tobacco smoke, exercise, cold air and chest infections.
Supplements that may help relieve Asthma
- Garlic may help relieve mucus congestion in chest
- Vitamin C it may have antihistamine/anti-allergen effect
- Quercetin anecdotal evidence suggests it may have antihistamine/anti-allergen effect
- marshmallow may have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties to reduce symptoms of asthma
Supplements that may help to prevent Asthma
- Vitamin A and D – may support health of lungs and repair of tissues to protect mucous membranes
- Evening Primrose Oil – asthmatics often have low levels of GLA
- Bromelain – may help to reduce mucus build up
- Selenium-may have a protective effect against asthma
- N Acetyl Cysteine- may help to reduce mucus build up
Complementary
- Peppermint Essential Oil may help clear the passages for immediate relief
- Rescue remedy-emergency remedy useful if brought on by panic or anxiety
Recommended lifestyle changes
- A vegan diet in conjunction with other dietary changes such as avoiding caffeine, sugar, salt, and chlorinated tap water can lead to improvements.
- Some asthmatics react to food additives and chemicals. A doctor or an allergist can help determine if you are chemically sensitive.
- Unrecognised food allergy can aggravate asthma. Try an elimination diet to uncover potential problem foods. A healthcare professional must supervise this test because it is possible to trigger a severe asthma attack during the reintroduction.
