One
in ten children and one in three adults suffer from chronic
asthma. That is about 15 million Americans alone. An acute
asthma attack is caused by inflammation in the airways of
the lungs, causing contraction and narrowing of the airways
(bronchioles), restricting airflow and making breathing very
difficult.
Chronic asthma is a lung condition characterized by frequent
asthma attacks and requiring medical management to prevent
and minimize acute attacks.
Symptoms of Asthma May Include:
 Characteristic wheezing sound, especially when exhaling
 Shortness of breath
 Tightness in the chest
 Persistent cough, especially
at night
 May include an increased
pulse, anxiety or fear
What
Causes Asthma?
Nobody
really knows what causes asthma, but the tendency to develop
it frequently seems to be inherited. During an attack, the
airways become swollen, excess mucus plugs these narrow passages,
and the muscles lining the airway tighten up. Children and
adults may experience coughing, wheezing, chest tightness,
increased heart rate, perspiration, and shortness of breath.
Asthma
is strongly associated with pollution. The incidence of asthma
has risen sharply in the last thirty years along with a rise
in industrialization and higher levels of environmental pollution.
Other
possible causes of asthma in vulnerable individuals include
allergic reactions to dietary
substances like wheat, dairy products, chocolate, nuts, preservatives
and other chemical food and beverage additives. Asthma attacks
may also be brought on by pollen, house dust mites, tobacco
smoke, feathers and other allergens. Even a temperature change,
or the cold morning air can cause broncho spasm and increase
the likelihood of an attack. In some individuals, anxiety
can precipitate an asthma attack and stress
and are therefore a contributory factor.
There
is a strong hereditary link and asthma can often be seen to
run in families. Children who live in houses with smokers
are also at higher risk for developing asthma at any time
in their lives. Homeopathic medicine recognize that immune
system functioning can play a vital role in helping to control
the symptoms of asthma and strengthen the body's defenses
against environmental allergens.
How
is Asthma Usually Treated?
Conventional
Western medicine deals with asthma treatment with a combination
of inhalers, anti-inflammatory medication, bronchodilators
and even steroids. Other treatments take the form of homeopathic
or naturopathic treatment. While many asthma attacks are relatively
mild and can be treated and controlled at home, some are more
severe and may even require hospitalization.
While
conventional medical treatment may sometimes be necessary,
there are some definite limitations, including side effects,
as well as negative effects on immune system functioning -
thereby leading to more asthma attacks and reduced resistance
to allergens. You should not stop your asthma medication
without first consulting your doctor or health care provider.
Can
Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies Help?
They can help some people who suffer from asthma. Herbal and
homeopathic asthma treatments can often be effective. Depending
upon the severity of the asthma. They can reduce or eliminate
the need for the synthetic drugs and inhalers and can also
be safely used with conventional treatment of asthma. Talk
to your health care provider first before consulting with
a trained homeopathic provider.
