Allergic Asthma & Respiratory Information

The word asthma is derived from a Greek term meaning "breathlessness". Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that is marked by shortness of breath - a feeling of being unable to get enough air, no matter how hard one tries; coughing - expectoration of sticky, stringy sputum; and a feeling of tightness in the chest. These symptoms are followed by a prolonged phrase marked by abnormal breathing sounds and wheezing.

THE IMMUNE SYSTEM AND ALLERGIC ASTHMA

Allergic asthma begins with exposure to an allergen, such as pollen or animal dander, which is usually inhaled. Your body becomes sensitized, when it recognizes the allergen as a foreign substance and begins to produce special antibodies to fight off the invaders. The antibody is a protein called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). IgE binds to mast cells to release histamine, a chemical that causes the smooth muscles lining the bronchial passage to tighten. The muscle linings constrict the small air passages, or bronchi, of the lungs, which keeps air from leaving the lungs.

Asthma involves the lower respiratory system, which includes:

• the trachea (windpipe)
• lungs
• the main bronchi, which are air tubes that branch off from the trachea and go into the lungs
• the bronchioles, which are smaller tubes that branch off the main bronchi within the lungs
• the alveoli, which are terminal air sacs

ALLERGIC VS NONALLERGIC ASTHMA

Asthma can be allergic or nonallergic. Individuals with allergic asthma, have attacks usually triggered by inhaling an allergen to which they become sensitized. Nonallergic asthma, meanwhile, can be brought on by exercise, respiratory infections, and even changes in the weather.

WHAT CAN TRIGGER ALLERGIC ASTHMA?

The underlying reasons that some people develop asthma is unknown, although it seems likely that heredity, a history of allergies, and adrenal disorders may all play a role. Things that can trigger an acute attack vary from person to person.

• Allergens: Most often implicated in asthma are pollen, molds, cockroaches, animal dander and dust mites. Chemicals such as sulfites can also be allergens. Sulfites are added to processed potato chips, dried fruits, frozen shrimp, wine and beer.
• Air pollutants: Attacks can be caused by irritants in the environment, such as smog, wood smoke, and one-of the most common triggers: cigarette smoke.
• Respiratory infections: Some viral infections, including bronchitis and pneumonia, can trigger asthma.
• Occupational irritants: Paint fumes, chemical vapors, gases, biological enzymes, and the dust found in laboratories, manufacturing, mining, construction sites.
• Strong odors and sprays: Perfume spray, as well as household cleaners and cooking fumes.
• Strenuous exercise: Asthma can be brought on by prolonged exercise in cold, dry air; breathing for a long time through your mouth; and strenuous activity such as biking and hiking. There are different variations of exercise such as yoga, and deep breathing that may help to strengthen your air passages.
• Weather: Changes in weather, as well as cold air, wind, and rain, can trigger asthma attacks.
• Medications: most common offenders are aspirin, aspirin-like NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and drugs called beta-blockers, which can trigger severe episodes of asthma to patients that are allergic to them.

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Use essential oil of thyme in aromatherapy to ease congestion. Do not use this treatment during an acute attack.
• Eat more fish, cold water fish are a rich source of omega-3 essential fatty acids.
• These EFAs are also found in borage seed, evening primrose, flaxseed (linseed), and hemp. When combined with reducing your consumption of sugar and saccharin, consuming omega-3 oils can reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
• Take antioxidant vitamins. Vitamin C (1000 mg daily) reduces the frequency of coughing, by reducing the ability of dust and pollutants to irritate the bronchial passages. Vitamin E (400 IU daily) eases the passage of phlegm. Beta-carotene is the most useful antioxidant for treating asthma. Preferably taken in the form of green leafy vegetables or yellow and orange vegetables and fruit, this nutrient helps to stop wheezing.
• For frequent attacks take 500 to 1000 mg daily of magnesium, as it is nature?s bronchodilator.
• Drink 8 - 8oz. glasses of water daily. Water helps to loosen phlegm and is necessary after an attack.
• Avoid eating before bedtime, as this may encourage the development of gastreoesophageal reflux disease, which causes acids to be sent to the back of the throat, from which they are inhaled into the lungs.
• Avoid sulfites. Sulfites are preservatives commonly used in the making of dried fruits and wine, and are frequently used in restaurant salad bars. They promote bronchial constriction that can induce an attack.
• Deep breathing and other relaxation techniques, such as yoga and Tai Chi can be useful for both adults and children, even if practiced for only a few minutes a day; along with the building of physical strength.
• Relaxation and visualization techniques can be useful for controlling asthma attacks in children.
• Decrease elevated stress levels.
• Keep your environment clear of any asthma inducing allergens. For example: Use natural household cleaners - as they are free of chemicals and irritants, breathe clean air free of cigarette smoke or second hand smoke and other toxic fumes. Use hypoallergenic bedding and home accessories, and try to decorate your abode with natural furniture choices that are free of chemical paints and preservatives.

MORE INFO ABOUT ASTHMA PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

Managing allergic asthma requires a two-pronged approach. First, a number of suggestions or recommendations that can prevent symptoms. Second, you should seek appropriate treatment. The treatment of asthma has improved over time as the scientific understanding of the disease has advanced.

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Today, doctors have a variety of specific, effective and safe medications available. However, prescription drugs such as steroids, which are often prescribed for asthma, can have serious side effects, including changes to the skin and hair, reduced resistance to infections, swelling, and weight gain. This type of treatment may not appeal to all affected individuals, some may seek alternative routes of care such as herbal medicine. This may include both single herbs and combination formulas, which can be most effectively used to prevent asthma attacks. The formulas must be chosen with careful regard to the entire pattern of an individual?s symptoms, preferably under the guidance of an herbal practitioner.

Herbal treatments should not be used to treat an acute attack, see a physician promptly.

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