Description
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder characterized by spasms of the bronchial tubes/narrowing of airways, shortness of breath, cough, wheezing on expiration/inspiration, expectoration of tenacious mucoid sputum. Asthma occurs as recurrent attacks that range from mild wheezing to a life-threatening inability to breath. There are 4 categories of asthma:
Allergic Asthma
Allergic asthma is usually induced by the airborne allergens(dust, airpollution, windborn pollens) in people with hypersensitive airways. This allergens trigger the production of antibodies that cause mast cell to release histamine that causes the constriction of smooth muscles of the bronchi and causes mucosal edema(water retention).
Asthma In Children
Onset of asthma in children usually occurs between 3 and 8 years of age. Reoccurring asthma attacks are usually accompanied by shortness of breath, wheezing, prolonged expiration and irritative cough. Asthma in children is usually extrinsic, that is allergy related condition that caused by pollens, dust, animals danders, molds, chemical pollution in the air, early introduction of solid foods to infants, food additives.
Exercise-Induced Asthma
A form of asthma that produces symptoms after forceful exercise and associated with a bronchial reaction that is due, not to release of histamine, but rather such factor as exercise.
Intrinsic Asthma
A nonseasonal, nonallergic form of asthma, usually first occurring later in life than allergic asthma, that tends to be chronic and persistent rather than episodic. The bronchospasm may occur in cold, damp weather, after sudden inhalation of cold dry air, violent laughing. respiratory infections, such as common cold, and psychological factors, such as an anxiety may also induce the attack.
What to Expect:
The inability to breathe can be both frightening and life threatening. It is important to be aware of your limits and possible reactions to specific situations (pollution, fumes, et cetera).
Remedies
Herbs
Elecampane is used as a popular rejuvenating tonic for the lungs. Pour 4 cups of water over 3 teaspoons of root and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes and divide into 3 doses for the day. If using a tincture, take 10 to 30 drops in 1/4 cup of water, 3 times daily
Lobelia is a powerful expectorant and anti-asthmatic herb where, when taken, the effects are felt all the way down to the toes. It is an ideal method of controlling difficult breathing without any adverse side effects. Infuse one teaspoon with one cup boiling water for 10 minutes and take three times daily. If using a tincture, take 20 to 30 drops when needed, up to three times daily. The best lobelia tinctures are made with apple cider vinegar, as this fully extracts the plants alkaloids
Nettle may also prove helpful. Add 1 to 3 teaspoons dried herb to 1 cup hot water. Drink three times daily.
Homeopathy
Certain remedies can be used in acute situations if your symptoms fit the symptom picture of the remedy. For dosages, see the dedicated section on Homeopathy. Consult your homeopath or naturopath to determine your constitutional remedy: the remedy that best fits you as a whole person. Your homeopath or naturopath will take a complete case history considering all of your mental and physical ailments and match these symptoms with the symptom picture of the remedy.
Aconite: For dry asthma (non productive, no expectoration). Asthma attacks come suddenly and with great intensity. Person is restless and fearful.
Arsenicum: Asthma attacks occur from 12 AM to 2 AM. Made better by sitting in an upright position. The person is full of fears, restless, and weak.
Ipecac: Useful in productive asthma, especially in children. Rattling cough, where the phlegm rattles as the person breathes. Nausea and abdominal pains occur in warm humid weather.
Pulsatilla: Asthma is worse in bed, preventing person from sleep, especially children. Made worse when lying down or has a cold -- increased expectoration causes coughing.
Sambucus: An important remedy for children's asthma. Child cannot breath due to nasal congestion. Awakens at night with feelings of suffocation. Heavy perspiration.
Actions and Remedy Listings
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Allergy Asthma Information association
30 Eglinton Avenue West, suite 750
Mississauga, Ontario
L5R 3E7
Tel.: 905.712.2242
Fax:. 905.712.2245
Asthma Society of Canada
130 Bridgeland Avenue, Suite 425
Toronto, Ontario
M6A 1Z4
Tel.: 416.787.4050
Toll-free: 1.800.787.3880
Fax: 416.787.5807
Web: www.asthmasociety.com
Email: asthma@myna.com
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Base content originally developed for The Alternative Health CD-ROM, ISBN 0-9686618-0-7
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