Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the respiratory system. When triggered, it causes inflammation of the airway lining, and the muscles of the bronchi to constrict. When this occurs it makes it hard for the sufferer to breathe, resulting in an asthma attack.
Research has show that this condition is on the increase, particularly
in children, and suggests that our modern lifestyle plays a significant
role in this. It also suggests
that children, who have one or both parents suffering from the
condition, are more likely to have a tendency to develop it.
There is a significant link between asthma and allergies. There are a large number of factors that can trigger an attack. Some of the most common causes include:
- Dust Mites.
- Mold.
- Pets, particularly dogs and cats.
- Food allergies.
- Some Medications.
- Exercise.
- Cigarette smoke.
- Environmental pollution.
- Stress
- Colds and flu.
The symptoms an asthmatic presents include:
- Coughing, particularly at night.
- Shortness of breathe.
- Wheezing.
- Feeling of tightness in the chest.
The severity of the symptoms can vary greatly from individual to individual. Symptoms can also vary greatly within the same individual. Certainly, if the attack is severe, it can be life threatening, requiring immediate medical attention.
It is important to determine what triggers an asthma attack This can enable the individual to take appropriate measures to avoid these triggers, be it, for example, dust mites or mold.
The most common types of medications used are:
- Anti-inflammatories (corticosteroids) – these help to reduce the inflammation in the airways.
- Bronchodilators – these work by relaxing the muscles of the airways.
The Buteyko Method takes a holistic approach to treating asthma.
It involves teaching the individual a set of breathing exercises, and
has been shown to be of some assistance in reducing the symptoms in
some individuals. It does involve a level of commitment, as the exercises need to be practised, which can take time.
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