Salt Therapy to Cure Asthma

For the circulatory system of blood vessels, salt has a negative side because it can lead to hypertension if taken to excess. But for the respiratory system, salt can cure asthma through haloterapi or salt therapy.
Haloterapi is an alternative treatment methods of Eastern Europe which is done by using halite or rock mineral, especially NaCl salt. These minerals are not eaten or drunk but inhaled with with pumped air.
Patients sit in a room covered with salt crystals, and breathe air mixed with salt that is pumped by a tool called halogenerator. In general, it is similar to spas , but what is exhaled is not aromatherapy steam but mineral salts.
In the region of its origin, haloterapi are available naturally in caves and salt lakes like the Dead Sea on the border of Jordan, Israel and the West Bank. Once developed with modern touches, this therapy is getting more famous and is now quite popular in Europe, America and Canada.
It is claimed that this therapy is able to treat respiratory problems ranging from asthma, allergies to pneumonia. Not many studies had proven this, but some literature says salt steam does have the effect of the airway.
One of the few studies about it appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2006. The study concluded that high-pressure salt steam (hypertonic saline) can improve lung function when inhaled by humans.
“Haloterapi guarantees the quality of inhaled air with high levels of salt and specific humidity, which can cleanse the skin and airways as well as the entire surface of the body,” said Ron Rofe, Hello Water / Salt Rooms haloterapi clinic manager in New York, according to Reuters.
Rofe added that haloterapi can be done as a detoxing for the smokers. Detoxification with this therapy can overcome the symptoms common in smokers, such as cough and excessive phlegm production.

Depo-Medrol Side Effects

Depo-Medrol is the brand name in the United States for the generically named medication methylprednisolone. It may be used for a variety of ailments, Drugs.com states, including adrenal gland problems, asthma or allergies that occur in severe form, ulcerative colitis, multiple sclerosis and other maladies. The medicine classifies as a corticosteroid that works to reduce inflammation. Depo-Medrol may be administered via injections and it can cause some side effects.

Menstruation Changes

Women who take Depo-Medrol may have their menstrual cycles disrupted by the medicine, MedlinePlus indicates. The drug can cause irregularity of periods. She also may experience amenorrhea, or a lack of menstruation. These side effects classify as non-serious and will usually subside without treatment. MedlinePlus suggests consulting the physician if menstrual changes occur severely or if they do not end.

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Fatigue

The use of Depo-Medrol may induce a feeling of fatigue, usually when the person begins treatment. He may experience the same types of tiredness and physical exhaustion commonly associated with hard work or exercise. Side effects such as fatigue and tiredness should occur in a mild form, Drugs.com indicates. They also should disappear as the person's body system becomes used to the medication. The person should contact his doctor, however, if the use of Depro-Medrol causes significant or persistent fatigue.

Mental Difficulties

During the initial treatment with Depo-Medrol, changes in mental state may be experienced. The patient may feel restless and anxious, MedlinePlus reports. She may notice mood changes. She also may become depressed with feelings of emptiness and sadness. These effects tend to occur only when treatment begins; symptoms should subside without intervention.

Skin Problems

The person using Depo-Medrol may experience new outbreaks of acne or, if he has acne already, an increase in breakouts. Skin may appear thinner than normal and bruise more easily. MedlinePlus reports that spots that appear small and have a purple color may develop on the skin. These side effects, while seeming to be serious, generally are not. They should subside on their own.

Diet for the Asthmatic

Overview

More than 22 million people in the United States have asthma. It is a chronic lung disease that causes narrow, inflamed airways that cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Asthma doesn't have a cure, but you can help manage your symptoms and reduce the effect of asthma by making some simple dietary changes.

Eat Your Fruits and Veggies

Fruits and veggies are an outstanding source of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E and beta carotene. In asthma, inflammation in your lung tissue might be caused by free radicals. These free radicals come from your own metabolism and from pollutants such as smog and cigarette smoke. By increasing the amount of antioxidants in your diet you help to neutralize the effects of these free radicals on your lung tissue and reduce your inflammation.

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Avoid Food Additives

You might find that asthma attacks are triggered by particular foods, especially food additives such as sulfites. This varies widely from person to person, so the things that trigger your asthma attacks might not lead to attacks in other people. Sulfites in particular are well known as a trigger and can be found in dried fruits, wine, pickles and shrimp.

Eat Foods High in Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency is a well-known factor in the severity of asthma symptoms. Foods that are high in magnesium can help you correct a deficiency and ease your symptoms. Magnesium helps to relax the bronchial airways and allow more air to pass through. Foods high in magnesium include grains such as buckwheat, oat bran, whole wheat, barley; nuts, including almonds, cashews, pine nuts and brazil nuts; and some vegetables such as artichokes, spinach and tomatoes.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

You have probably heard of omega-3 fatty acids, especially fish oils, being used to prevent and treat heart disease. They are strongly anti-inflammatory and that effect helps if you suffer from asthma. Studies have shown that adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids can help you improve your lung function tests and decrease your overall level of inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are most easily found from fish oils, but can also be found in hemp milk, walnuts, flax seeds, beans, olive oil, and winter squash.

Say Goodbye to Trans-Fats

You know you're not supposed to eat trans fats for a variety of reasons, but if you have asthma, the reasons just got more compelling. Trans fats are found mostly in fast food, highly processed food, commercially baked goods and greasy snacks such as potato chips or microwave popcorn. Studies have shown that kids who have high trans-fat diets are far more likely to develop asthma than their peers.

Signs of Asthma in a Sleeping Child

Overview

Asthma is the most common chronic illness in children worldwide. It occurs when the airways become inflamed, causing the muscles around the bronchial tubes to tighten and contract, and producing excessive amounts of mucus. At night, the airways become more hyper-responsive, resulting in more severe and frequent symptoms, according to a review published in the January 2009 issue of "McGill Journal of Medicine" by Dr. Darrell Ginsberg.

Severity

In a sleeping child, asthma signs and symptoms become more exaggerated. According to Dr. Ginsberg, wheezing, cough and breathing may become worse during sleep. Wheezing or whistling sounds may become louder and more pronounced. Breathing may become more difficult and cause the skin around the ribs or neck to pull in. Cough also becomes worse late at night, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. The airways also become more responsive and easily react to the environment when the child is asleep.

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Cause

According to Dr. Ginsberg, the airways become more inflamed and hyper-reactive following a circadian rhythm at 4 a.m. Sleep can also make the lung functions worse and tend to make asthma symptoms more severe because the sleeping child may not compensate for the lack of oxygen. A sleeping child also may not be able to increase his capacity to take in more air during an attack, compared to when he is awake.

Diagnosis

The gold standards for diagnosing asthma include a medical exam, clinical history and a test for the amount of airflow. However, testing for accurate airflow is not possible while a child is asleep, notes Dr. Ginsberg. Hence, a better alternative is diagnosing nocturnal wheeze using a computerized monitoring device.

Effects on Sleep

Worsening signs of asthma at night may result in poor sleep quality for the child, relates Dr. Ginsberg. Children may wake up more frequently at night because of their symptoms. Intermittent wheezing also makes falling back to sleep more difficult for the child. Children may also become sleepier during the day. Parents of children with asthma also tend to become more moody and feel hassled as they themselves lack sleep, comments Dr. Ginsberg.

Effects on Life

According to Dr. Ginsberg, nocturnal asthma may also result in behavior problems related to lack of sleep. Children may also develop emotional problems, learning disabilities, miss school more, and poorer performance in school, notes a study in the September 2000 issue of "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine." Parents of children suffering from nocturnal asthma also tend to miss more workdays.

How to Lose Weight After Being Nebulized

Overview

Nebulizers are commonly used to deliver steroids in a vapor form, which can be inhaled by the patient. If you have a severe episode of asthma, nebulized steroids may be used to improve your breathing and alleviate the asthma symptoms. One common concern about nebulizer use is that steroids have a tendency to cause weight gain. According to the John Hopkins Vasculitis Center, nebulized steroids can cause overall weight gain, or redistribution of fat around the body so that the face, for example, may become fatter. In order to lose weight after being nebulized, you will need to reduce your daily calorie intake to a level below your body's daily calorie needs.

Step 1

Calculate your body's daily calorie needs. The number of calories your body needs each day depends on your height, current weight, sex and activity level. For example, a 40-year-old female who is 5 foot 2 inches tall and weighs 112 pounds requires approximately 1500 calories per day if she leads a sedentary lifestyle. A 22-year-old male who is very active and weighs 240 pounds at a height of 6 foot 3 inches will require 3300 calories per day. An online calorie calculation tool is provided in Resource 1.

Step 2

Calculate your daily calorie allowance for a weight-loss diet. According to the BMI Calculator website, in order to lose weight you need to create a deficit of 3500 calories for every pound of weight you want to lose. A calorie deficit is created by expending more calories each day than you consume. Your daily calorie allowance should be between 500 and 1000 calories less than your daily calorie requirement calculated in Step 1. The 22-year-old male example above could therefore diet at between 2300 and 2800 calories per day. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that a female never follow a daily calorie limit lower than 1200 calories, and a male should have at least 1800 calories per day. Therefore, the 40-year-old woman exemplified in Step 1 should consume a minimum of 1200 calories per day, even when dieting. An appropriate daily calorie limit for dieters is in the range of 75 to 80 percent of the daily calorie needs established in Step 1.

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Step 3

Measure the food you eat each day so that the total calories eaten are equal to or less than your daily calorie limit calculated in Step 2. You may find an online calorie tracker helpful for calculating your daily calorie intake from different foods. Consume sufficient protein, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins each day while you are dieting.

5 Things You Need to Know About What Makes Asthma Worse

1. Avoid the Asthma Attack

What do kittens, puppies and freshly mowed grass have in common? They are all joyous things unless you suffer from asthma. Possessing the knowledge of what makes your asthma worse is just as important as knowing how to treat an attack. Respect your lung's limits. Common allergens such as pet dander, pollen and pollution can either be avoided or restricted. Don't call the pound or abandon your apartment; there are simple methods available to assist you in decreasing your personal asthma triggers.

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2. Poor Ventilation and Pollen

Examine your daily living and work spaces. There are probably many contributors to your asthmatic condition, many of which can be eliminated. Start by tossing your feather duster. Instead, use static or cling wipes to dust all surfaces weekly, if not daily. Hardwood floors never looked so good! If cost is not a factor, ripping out your carpets would make your lungs happy. Carpets (especially shag) harbor nasty little creatures such as dust mites, pollen and animal dander, which are potent asthmatic triggers. Don't forget the other household items that can collect dust; window dressings should be professionally cleaned (they need to get to 180 degrees Fahrenheit) at least four times annually. Those who rent or love their carpets can use one of the many air filtration systems available for $100 or less retail in their homes or office to generate cleaner air.

3. Lung Pollution

Step away from the smoking section. Smoke and other noxious fumes literally paralyze your lung's innate cleansing abilities. Specifically, cigarette smoke constricts and irritates your airways, making the onset of an attack inevitable. There are ways to politely excuse yourself from social or work functions that are polluted without making a scene. Clean air is harder to come by when you are outdoors. While driving have you ever smelled the smoke from the car in front of you? Unfortunately, the air coming into your vehicle is not always purified either. Auto dealers are capable of installing high-speed filtration systems for your car's air conditioner. Consider it the next time you drive behind that diesel bus!

4. Get Vaccinated

The common cold can make your asthma worse. Illness of any form has a way of settling into the asthmatics lungs, prolonging coughs and discomfort for months. Beat your body at its own game and prevent illness whenever possible. Vaccines are an effective tool against common diseases. In addition to getting your routine influenza vaccine each fall, there are other vaccines such as the pneumonia vaccine that can prevent the onset of a lung-debilitating illness. Shy of needles? You will be comforted to know that the number-one way to decrease your chance of infection is to wash your hands routinely. A good hand washing should last for at least twenty seconds and include soap, warm water and a lot of friction.

5. Reduce Stress

Light a candle, take a deep breath and practice the ancient ritual of meditation. Reduced lung capacity as well as being overweight can increase your chances of complicating asthma. Any activity such as yoga, Pilates or meditation can increase your lung volume and strengthen your diaphragm. Once you have more control over this large muscle you will have better ability to harness and use each breath to the fullest.

The Best Areas to Live With Asthma

Overview

Asthma can be difficult to control, especially if you live in an area that has a plethora of triggers that make your symptoms worse. Every year, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, or AAFA, conducts the Asthma Capitals project, which analyzes cities across the United States to determine which have the most risk factors for asthmatics. However, such a list is not a definitive tool to help you decide where to live; other factors are involved as well.

Risk Factors

There are certain risk factors Asthma Capitals evaluates when determining how well a city fares on its list of worst places for asthmatics. The risks are a mix of environmental and social factors. According to the AAFA, Asthma Capitals uses a city's annual pollen and air pollution counts as one factor. Another factor is the amount of medical care access a city provides, as well as the amount of people who are uninsured. Anti-smoking laws are also considered, as cigarette smoke is a common asthma trigger.

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Least Risky Areas

The best areas to live with asthma have decent air quality, strict smoking laws and ample access to asthma treatment. Health Guidance states that asthmatics tend to fare better in warm climates, as cold temperatures aggravates asthma symptoms. Your body is more prone to chest infections in cold climates. The last city ranked on Asthma Capital's 2009 "Most Challenging Places to Live with Asthma" list is Cape Coral, Florida. Other cities within the bottom 10 include Daytona Beach and Palm Bay, both in Florida, and San Francisco, California.

Most Risky Areas

On the flip side, areas that have highly polluted air, less access to health care and minimal smoking laws are among the worst places for asthmatics. Some areas include heavily populated and industrial areas like Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but include other seemingly less likely locations. According to the AAFA, the worst city for asthmatics ranked in 2010 was Richmond, Virginia. In fact, other southern cities were ranked higher due to overall poor air quality and a lack of anti-smoking laws.

Considerations

Although you may be tempted to move to an area that is ranked more suitable for your asthma, the AAFA recommends that you stay put. This is not the best solution, as there are risk factors in every area of the country, including pollen, mold, dust and air pollution. Plus, your triggers differ from those of other asthmatics. Living in an area that is considered good for an asthmatic does not mean that there is an absence of triggers. Also, it does not guarantee that you will not have any asthma flare-ups.

Treatment

The AAFA explains that your best line of defense against asthma is through medical treatment, no matter where you live. Since there is no cure for asthma, a physician can work with you to ensure that you have take preventive measure against asthma attacks and receive the proper types of medications. Aside from prescription drugs, try your best to avoid asthma triggers you are most vulnerable to. For example, if pollen or air pollution causes flare-ups, stay indoors on days in which the counts are particularly high. Keep your home clean and avoid cigarette smoke.

About Infant Asthma Treatment

Overview

A delay in medical treatment for an infant experiencing an asthma attack can lead to death. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of infant asthma, in order to identify the condition and find the appropriate treatment. KidsHealth.org defines asthma as a chronic disease that causes the lungs to swell and become inflamed, reducing the infants ability to breathe normally. Talking with a pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options is imperative.

About

An infant with asthma will experience two reactions in the lungs during an asthma attack, according to AskDrSears.com. The first reaction is that narrowing of the airways that constricts breathing and leads to wheezing. The airways get smaller and smaller, making it difficult for the infant to breathe. The airways can also become inflamed and swollen. As the airways swell, air is cut off, leading to difficulty breathing.

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Identification

Baby Center states that identifying infant asthma is difficult because infant's airways are already small and developing. An infant with a cold that causes inflammation in the lungs can lead to similar symptoms, making it difficult to identify. AskDrSears recommends seeking medical advice if the infant is experiencing multiple episodes a week with short, shallow breathing for no known reason.

Home Treatment

According to the interactive parenting network Baby Center, about 80 percent of children with asthma suffer from severe allergies. Taking the infant to an allergist for testing will help determine if the asthma is linked to an allergic reaction. If the infant asthma is the result of allergies, exposing the infant to allergen triggers must be avoided. Keeping the infant indoors, placing an allergy cover over the crib mattress and running a HEPA air filter in the home will help reduce symptoms and severity.

Medical Treatment

KidsHealth.org states that even if a pediatrician cannot confirm an infant has asthma, the infant can still be treated for symptoms such as wheezing. Most oral asthma medical is considered safe for use in infants and may be prescribed by the pediatrician for use during an asthma attack. Some infant asthma may need constant medication, while other cases require application only when there is an asthma attack. A pediatrician will determine the best approach to treating the infant. An infant should not be given any kind of medication without a doctor's guidance.

Prevention

In order to prevent asthma attacks in infants, AskDrSears.com recommends keeping infants away from cigarette smoke, allergens and air pollution. Staying current on the child's immunizations will also help prevent severe allergies and asthma.

At-Home Remedies for Severe Asthma Attack

Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the lungs and respiratory track, restricting airflow due to inflammation. The best way to avoid an asthma attack is to use preventative measures. Some asthma attacks respond to natural remedies, which may help to abort the immediate attack and soothe inflamed tissues; however, home remedies may not be able to cure the disease. Always consult a health practitioner before using home remedies for asthma.

Saiboku-to

Saiboku-to is a traditional herbal mixture from Japan used for the treatment of asthma, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Research shows that using Saiboku-to has enabled individuals to take lower doses of corticosterioids to control their asthma. The herbal tonic contains a mix of well-known herbs such as ginger, licorice, skullcap and ginseng. It can be obtained through herbalists, at health food stores and from online herbal pharmacies. Because some of the herbs in Saiboku-to can cause side effects and may interfere with medicines and other herbs, consult a knowledgeable herbal practitioner before using this tonic.

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Homeopathic Carbo Vegetabilis

Commonly known as Carbo veg, this homeopathic remedy is used to treat asthma when the individual is feeling weak, cold and faint--almost lifeless--according to the University of Michigan Health System. Coughing may lead to gagging and even vomiting. Even though the individual feels very cold, she craves open, moving air or being fanned. Certain concomitant symptoms may be present in the individual needing this remedy, such as stomach upset, trapped gas, belching and acid reflux. It may be necessary to seek immediate medical attention in the event the individual becomes unconscious during an attack and cannot be revived.



Homeopathic remedies are available in health food stores and from online pharmacies for self-treatment. In the case of asthma, a homeopath or other health practitioner familiar with homeopathy should be consulted before using a particular homeopathic remedy. If the chosen remedy is not effective, another remedy may be indicated.

Home Remedies-Prevention

According to the Mayo Clinic, certain actions and remedies may be helpful in preventing asthma attacks, and are as important as taking treatments to stop an attack. Remove as much dust from the home as possible to reduce exposure to known allergens, helping to control asthma attacks. Wear a mask or scarf across your face in cold weather. Remove carpets, upholstered furniture and cloth curtains in the bedroom, and replace with hard flooring and plastic blinds that are easy to clean and do not attract dust, suggests the Yale-New Haven Teachers Institute. Create a smoke-free environment by installing an air filter in your bedroom to keep the air clean.

Holistic Treatments for Asthma

Asthma is a chronic breathing disorder that affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide, as estimated by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Traditional treatments include medications such as bronchodilators and steroids that open congested airways and soothe inflamed tissues. Holistic treatments for asthma can complement the medical approach by attending to asthma's emotional aspects, which are known to affect stress levels and the severity of asthma attacks.

Aromatherapy

Life stress and anxiety play a major role in the functioning of the immune system. Because asthma can be triggered by environmental factors such as allergies, any treatment that supports the immune system can alleviate asthma indirectly. Aromatherapy is an easy method of reducing stress, requiring only essential oils. Peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus oils are the three most popular essential oils for respiratory difficulties, according to the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. These can be applied in combination with massage oils, used in a steam bath, or heavily diluted to make a room-cleaning spray. Cedarwood and clary sage also have a calming effect on the mind, and can be applied to the chest in drops before showering to open the airways.

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Massage

Like aromatherapy, massage affects not only the body but also calms the mind. Massage for asthmatics is helpful in reducing muscular tensions and anxiety. A 1998 study published in the Journal of Pediatrics reported that their study group of children with asthma had lower anxiety and increased air flow after 30 days of massage treatments. These treatments were given by parents for 20 minutes directly before bedtime, so parents can easily integrate this helpful practice into family routines.

Homeopathy

Western medicine rejects the claims of homeopathy, but the practice has maintained a solid and growing foothold in self-care for over a hundred years. In general, homeopathic treatments are benign herbal remedies taken in extraordinarily diluted forms. Homeopathic doctors have a holistic approach to wellness, as the emotional state and personality characteristics of the patient are taken into account. For asthma, homeopathic remedies address prevention as well as recovery from attacks, but not the actual acute episodes.

Although the scientific merit for homeopathy has not been established by traditional medicine advocates, some medical practitioners believe it is worth researching more due to its popularity in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM). For example, a 2001 article in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing recommends open lines of communication between conventional care providers and parents of asthmatic children, as children respond well to homeopathic asthma remedies for unknown reasons. If you are new to homeopathy, always see a board-certified homeopathic practitioner first. Talking to your medical provider about this and other holistic self-care methods can also prevent unpleasant counter-indications in medications.

An Anti-Asthma Diet

Overview

Although it's not known exactly what causes asthma, when people switch from a diet high in nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables and fish to one with processed "junk" foods, the rates of asthma tend to increase. Many studies are beginning to show that if you choose a healthy diet, you may be able to treat and even prevent the disease.

Identification

Asthma occurs when the smooth muscle cells in your lungs malfunction, contracting and tightening around the air passages, and close them off. This causes another type of cell, the endothelial cells, to start producing a very thick and sticky type of mucus that traps air inside your lungs. Symptoms of asthma can include shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, difficulty speaking, exhaustion and in rare cases, collapse and death, according to the Whole Foods website.

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Significance

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 300 million people worldwide suffer from asthma, with 250,000 annual deaths attributed to the disease. Between 1980 and 1994, asthma rates increased 75 percent overall; however, the rate among children under the age of 5 increased 160 percent. Changes in dietary habits are believed to be the reason behind these dramatic increases, which include consuming more omega-6 fatty acids found in farm-raised meats, vegetable oils and margarine, as well as more salty foods and artificial food additives and preservatives.

Expert Insight

In a study published in March 2007 in the journal "Thorax," led by S. Willers, it was found that women who ate apples and fish while pregnant had children who were 53 percent less likely to have asthma. A study by C. Tabak et al., published in "Thorax" in December 2006, linked children ages 8 to 13 who ate more whole grains and fish to a 54 percent decrease in asthma rates. Children in Crete who consumed a typical Mediterranean diet rich in fruit and vegetables and low in saturated fats had almost no rates of respiratory allergies or asthma, according to an article in the 2004 edition of "The American Thoracic Society." Other studies such as one by T.C. Medici, published in 1993 in the journal "Chest," and another conducted by the National Institutes of Health in 2009, linked a high-salt diet and vitamin D deficiencies, respectively, to higher asthma rates.

Recommendations

You should aim for five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables daily, preferably organic and unprocessed and eaten raw or lightly steamed or stir-fried. Apples in particular have been shown to improve lung function. Avoid red meats, pork and processed luncheon and breakfast meats and instead use eggs and nuts, and fish like salmon, cod, halibut, mackerel, tuna, sardines and herring for your protein sources. Stay away from heavily refined vegetable oils like corn or safflower and opt for canola or pure extra-virgin olive oil; season your food with fresh herbs instead of reaching for the salt shaker. Researchers from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood in Auckland, New Zealand, recommend calcium-rich dairy products for children to ease asthma symptoms.

Warning

Because asthma is a potentially serious and even fatal condition, you shouldn't try to cure it via diet alone if you or your child suffers from a severe form of the disease. A diet may help reduce your symptoms, but you will need to continue using asthma medications and seeking regular medical advice from your doctor. If you suffer from food allergies, your diet may have to be adjusted to eliminate any foods, even otherwise healthy ones, that cause allergic reactions and may also contribute to asthma.

Effects of Diets on Asthma

When asthma occurs, the airways narrow and swell. The muscles surrounding the airways constrict and the inner lining of the airways produces extra mucus, according to Mayoclinic.com. These symptoms make breathing difficult. The most common asthma signs are coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. The impact on daily life can range from a minor nuisance for some people, to major problem disrupting daily activities for others. Asthma attacks can sometimes be life-threatening, particularly when they are associated with allergic reactions.

Oily Fish

Asthma can't be cured, but its symptoms can be controlled. Treatments include taking steps to avoid particular asthma triggers such as certain foods that are known to cause allergic reactions. Some foods and nutrients are known to protect against asthma. In the Westernized societies, asthma occurrence is on the rise. It has been postulated that the increased prevalence of asthma may be caused by a reduced intake of antioxidant vitamins, including beta-carotene, vitamins A, C and E, and minerals essential for antioxidant defense mechanisms as a result of reduced consumption of meat, fresh fish, fruit and vegetables in Western diets. The study led by Linda Hodge from Institute of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney and published in 1996 in "The Medical Journal of Australia" indicates that regular consumption of fresh oily fish is associated with a reduced risk of asthma. This reduced risk is regardless of other known risk factors for asthma, including gender, parental asthma, parental smoking, early respiratory infection, ethnicity and place of birth. Oily fish include sardine, salmon, trout, hilsa, anchovy, and mackerel.

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Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the most extensively investigated and has been shown in several case-control and cross-sectional studies to be associated with a reduced risk of asthma. In randomized trials, vitamin C given in combination with other antioxidants protects against ozone-induced asthma, according to Foggarty and Britton, in an article published in 2000 "Clinical and Experimental Allergy." The antioxidant effects of vitamin C are widely established. Vitamin C is naturally found in fruits and vegetables. Consistently, high fruit intake has also been demonstrated to reduce risk of asthma, according to an article by Smit, published in the "Respiratory Research" in 2001.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a dietary mineral. It has several biological effects of potential relevance to asthma when given intravenously in acute asthma, according to a study led by Rowe and published in the "The Cochrane Library" in 2004. There is also strong evidence of protection by dietary magnesium against asthma. Foods rich in magnesium include beans, pumpkin seeds and spinach.

Sodium

Sodium is the main component of salt. It plays a vital role in maintaining cellular osmosis and signal transmission. High sodium intake has been associated with increased airway responsiveness. Sodium may exacerbate existing asthma by contributing to muscle contraction in the throat, according to a study led by Carey, published in "Thorax" in 1993. Therefore, asthma patients are advised to be on a sodium-restricted diet.

How Can I Control Asthma With My Diet?

Overview

During an asthma attack, the muscle bands surrounding the airways tighten in a process called bronchospasm. According to the Cleveland Clinic, two other things occur at the same time: the airway lining becomes inflamed and swollen, blocking the air, and the cells that line the airway produce more copious amounts of thicker mucus. Most asthmatics control their asthma with prescription medication and inhalers. It's possible that certain foods may trigger asthma attacks and other foods may help prevent them, or at least lessen the frequency. Unfortunately, there is no diet that will completely control or eliminate asthma.

Step 1

Consult with a physician before making any dietary changes, especially when taking prescription medications. Bring a complete list of all medications and supplements to the appointment. There may be some reactions with certain foods.

Step 2

Eat plenty of organically grown fresh fruits. According to MayoClinic.com, they are a great source of the anti-oxidants vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene, which may reduce lung inflammation caused by free radicals. Fresh fruits and vegetables are the best source of these nutrients.

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Step 3

Increase the amount of green vegetables in the diet. WomenFitness.net states eating plenty of leafy green vegetables can benefit asthmatics. Leafy green vegetables contain anti-oxidants that can help reduce the amount of free radicals in the body.

Step 4

Use onion, chilies and and spicy mustard to flavor other foods. According to ReadersDigest.com, onions contain several compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, including quercetin, which can help dilate air passages. Spicy foods cause the body to release watery fluids, which can help thin the mucus.

Step 5

Increase intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in oily fish and flaxseed oil and are good sources of natural anti-oxidants. They also have some anti-inflammatory properties. Fish rich in oil, such as salmon, mackerel and cod, are also rich in magnesium. According to WomenFiteness.net, when magnesium levels are low, asthmatics tend to suffer more frequent attacks.

Step 6

Drink lots of water each day. Staying hydrated keeps mucus thinned out and moving.

Step 7

Drink two cups of coffee a day. According to WomenFitness.net, caffeine is similar in structure to theophylline, a medication often used to treat asthma. Caffeine is thought to dilate the airways to assist breathing.

Step 8

Drink milk. While many dairy products are thought to exacerbate asthma symptoms, a study in the European Respiratory Journal stated that children who had a diet rich in calcium were less like to develop wheezing from asthma. Milk is also high in magnesium, which may also help to reduce asthma attacks.

Step 9

Eliminate certain foods from the diet. Dairy foods other than milk, chocolate, refined white flour and white sugar can increase mucus production, causing blockage of the airways. Avoid benzoates found in some processed foods, such as soda and chewing gum. Avoid foods with sulfites, such as cider, beer and wine. They have been found to bring on asthma attacks.

Naturist Treatments for Chronic Asthma

Asthma, described on MedicineNet.com, is a chronic disorder affecting both men and women alike. These frightening attacks result from muscular spasm which constricts the lung's bronchial, leading to a decrease in diameter. Initiated by smoke, overexertion, or even chemical fumes, asthma leaves the patient wheezing and struggling for breath. With varying degrees of severity and causes of onset, an individual assessment and treatment plan must be considered by physicians of both traditional and holistic medicine to assure the appropriate care is administered for each person.

Herbal Remedies

For centuries, herbs have been used in the treatment of various ailments, with asthma being no exception. "Encyclopedia of Natural Healing," describes several herbs that have shown to be effective in the treating asthma and assist in preventing the onset of these muscular spasms. Licorice, known for its flavor enhancement in candy, obtains anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties which work by increasing the half-life of cortisone. Green tea consumption will dilate the bronchial, along with provide a natural antioxidant reaction. Ephedra, commonly known as ma huang, used in the Orient for thousands of years, is believed to possess the ability to decrease inflammation along with lowering the allergic response which may trigger the asthmatic onset. Though thought to be extremely effective, herbal remedies should never replace the use of an emergency inhaler.

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Reflexology

This art of promoting health and preventing illness involves the combination of squeezing pressure points in conjunction with massage. FirstAidforAsthmaAttacks.com explains that pressure, applied to precise regions of the foot, will provide relief to patients with asthmatic symptoms. After ten to fifteen seconds of direct pressure to these trigger points, respiratory distress should be alleviated. Non painful trigger points indicate the person is not undergoing any respiratory issues. It is recommended that the pressure be applied until the site is no longer tender, or until the asthmatic attack subsides.

Chiropractic Adjustments

With patients' growing demand to seek alternative care, chiropractic medicine has been presented by some as effective in treating diseases by promoting the body's innate ability to heal itself. According to Chiropracticresearch.org, a 1996 study by the Michigan Chiropractic Council reported that after thirty days of chiropractic manipulation, asthmatic attacks reduced to only one per week, decreasing by approximately seventy percent. Overall patient satisfaction was rated at eighty-five percent with regards to the benefits witnessed under chiropractic care. This only proves neurological stimulation through spinal manipulation can enhance the body's capability to self heal.

Asthma Treatment Protocol in Children

Overview

Asthma is a condition of chronic inflammation of the lungs. Children with asthma have episodes of coughing, wheezing and respiratory distress triggered by allergies, upper respiratory infections, exercise and changes in the weather. Asthma treatment protocols aim to treat acute exacerbation of asthma and to prevent the frequency of attacks.

Control and Avoidance of Allergens

Avoidance of allergens is key to preventing asthma attacks, especially in children with allergic asthma. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen and cigarette smoke.

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Treatment of an Acute Asthma Attack

Treatment of an acute asthma attack includes oxygen; bronchodilators, which help open up the airways; and steroids, to reduce the inflammation surrounding the airways. Oral steroids, such as prednisone, can help if the child can take medicines by mouth and is not in significant distress. Otherwise, intravenous steroids can be used.

Prevention of Asthma Exacerbation

Preventive medicines include inhaled steroids to decrease the chronic inflammation of the lungs, and allergy medicines to prevent allergic triggers of asthma attacks. Inhaled steroids include fluticasone and beclomethasone. Allergies can be controlled with anithistamines, such as benadryl, cetirizine and loratadine; and with nasal steroids.

Asthma Vs. Allergy Symptoms in Children

Overview

Children with a family history of asthma or allergies are more likely to develop one or both of the conditions. In fact, it is common for asthma and allergy symptoms to develop concurrently in children, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Learning to differentiate between asthma and allergy symptoms in children will help in prevention and treatment of the condition.

Differences

Pediatric asthma is a respiratory disease that affects children, according to MedlinePlus. Pediatric asthma causes inflammation in the child's lungs, leading to shortness of breath, chest tightness and wheezing.



The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that the most common allergy condition in children is allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Allergic rhinitis primarily affects the nasal passages and the eyes.

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Causes

Half of asthma is related to allergies, caused by exposure to an allergen, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The other half of pediatric asthma is caused by other triggers such as exercise, environmental irritants and exposure to cold weather. Allergies are caused by any substance that causes an allergic reaction in the child. The most common allergens in children are pollens, molds and dust.

Asthma Symptoms

MedlinePlus states that pediatric asthma symptoms include tightness of the chest, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing and chest pain. If the child develops a rapid heart rate, turns blue in the face, has severe difficulty breathing or sweats profusely, he may be experiencing an emergency asthma attack. Emergency medical care is required.

Allergy Symptoms

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that pediatric allergy symptoms mainly affect the sinuses, ears and eyes. A child will develop symptoms, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal discharge, a scratchy throat and facial pressure. Allergies cause inflammation in the ears, which in children can lead to recurring ear infections.

Prevention and Treatment

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, asthma and allergies are preventable and treatable. Prevention begins by removing triggers such as air pollution, household allergens and maintaining proper humidity levels in the child's home. Treatment will differ for each child but may include the use of antihistamines, corticosteroids or allergy shots.

What Are the Causes of Bronchial Asthma in Children?

Bronchial asthma is a disease that causes swelling and obstruction of bronchi, or the air passages of the lungs. Over 300 million people worldwide suffer from the disease, and it is the most common chronic disease among children, according to the World Health Organization. Asthma can be treated with proper medication, and patients can live a relatively normal life. By studying what causes asthma attacks in children, doctors can offer better advice on how to control and prevent the disease.

Allergens

Bronchial asthma can mimic an allergic response to various substance, called allergens. These substances can trigger an asthma attack, according to Kids Health. Common allergens that may cause asthma include dust mites, pollen, animal dander, molds and cockroaches. When a child is exposed to a specific allergen, his airways will start to constrict and produce mucous. This prevents air from moving freely from and to the lungs. Patients will develop difficulty breathing.

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Medications

Certain medications have been found to cause asthma, according to the World Health Organization. Aspirin, ibuprofen and heart medications such as beta-blockers have all been listed as possible triggers for the disease. These medications can cause side effects that cause the airways to tighten. The medications begin the process, and the disease continues it. Patients will need asthma medication to reverse the airway narrowing and should avoid the triggering medication in the future.

Respiratory Infection

Children who develop a respiratory infection can manifest asthma, according to Medline Plus, a National Institutes of Health website. The most common respiratory infection associated with asthma is the common cold. The organism causing the infection can cause minor damage to the cells and tissues of the respiratory tract. This causes the bronchi to become inflamed and to swell. This prevents air from reaching the lungs and brings about an asthma attack.

Emotional Stress

Patients who are undergoing intense emotions can suffer from an asthma attack, according to Kids Health. The emotions cause a release of hormones that induce a narrowing of the airways. Anger, fear and stress are the common emotions that may lead to an asthma attack. Typically, the attack resolves when the child calms down, but if the asthma attack is severe, the patient may require medical assistance.

Exercise

Exercise has been listed as a cause of asthma by Medline Plus. Exercise forces the body to release chemicals that normally cause a dilation of the airways. However, in some cases the opposite occurs. The patient’s bronchi become narrower and filled with mucous. Patients will be unable to breathe and sustain the physical activity. Patients must stop exercising, attempt to catch their breath and seek medical care.