Natural Asthma Relief - Apple Cider Vinegar

A natural asthma relief comes in the form of apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar, known as the "wonder medicine", has been used since ancient times to cure ailments. It has been used to aid and promote a variety of number of health benefits, including promoting longevity! And if you are suffering from asthma, regular intake of it will help you feel much better.

Just take a spoonful of it every day, and you will reap all the health benefits that comes with it. If you do not like the taste, you can put the spoon right to the back of your mouth, beyond your taste buds, and just swallow it quickly. Otherwise, you can mix it with a glass of water and some lemon to hide the taste. Usually, after a few days, you will get used to the taste and may even begin to enjoy the acquired taste.

Another way that you can take it is by heating it slightly and take it with some honey. Make sure that you heat it over the stove, and not in the microwave, as this will change the molecular structure of it and cause it to lose its efficacy. Do not over heat it, just heat it slightly with some honey to make it more pleasant for you. This will soothe your throat and bronchial, and ward off the irritation of the throat that cause those nasty coughs that accompany asthma.

By taking this regularly, you will find your health improving drastically. Whenever you feel an asthma attack coming on, take one tablespoon mixed in water and sip it slowly. You will find that the wheezing will lessen considerably. If it does not stop, take another spoonful with another glass of water, and breathe deeply. Apple cider vinegar contains a potent supply of potassium which can help relief symptoms like running nose, sinus, excessive mucus formation and watery eyes. You will find that it will clear your breathing passage.

However, natural asthma relief remedies can only do so much for you, if you do not get rid of the cause of the asthma itself. If it is work related asthma due to stress, you may need to find alternative jobs in the long term. So many people are suffering from asthma that it is becoming a rather alarming disease to society. We need to take preemptive measures to put a stop to this.

The Truth About Secondhand Smoke

If you are a regular smoker and are hesitant to quit then consider this: You habit is not only harming your body, it is also harming the bodies of those around you-especially the people you love most like family and friends. Smokers harm those in the surrounding environment via secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke is the smoke that is exhaled after each puff on a cigarette and it contains over 4,000 toxins and cancer causing compounds. It can be fatal to both the smoker and the innocent bystander.

There are many ways that second hand smoke harms non-smokers, but it is especially hazardous to those suffering from respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways in the respiratory system. Cigarette smoke is extremely hazardous to people with asthma. It triggers asthma attacks and increases the severity of the attacks.

Inhaling tobacco smoke allows the toxins and irritating substances in the smoke to settle in the moist areas of the airways. This is what triggers an asthma attack; it also makes the attack more intense than usual and more difficult to recover from since the cilia in the airways are damaged and cannot sweep the toxin and junk away and help the breathing process even out.

Smoking also causes major mucus build ups which can be hazardous to asthma sufferers as this further blocks their airways. Additionally, if someone is suffering from a cold or other respiratory illness, inhaling secondhand smoke makes it more difficult for them to clear out the excess gunk and junk backed up in their airways.

Aside from secondhand smoke exaggerating preexisting asthma, secondhand smoke can also cause new cases of asthma to develop in small children. Small children have small and delicate bodies and they breathe much more rapidly than adults. This rapid breathing causes them to inhale more toxins form secondhand smoke than an adult or teenager and the damage to their airways can cause asthma to develop or lead to other respiratory illnesses and difficulties.

The information above about how secondhand smoke damages the health of those around you should make you think upping your altruism-you may not want to give up your smoking habit for yourself, but you should at least want to give it up for the health of those around you. Why damage the bodies of those you love and care about, especially if they are small, vulnerable children. It is never too late to change habits and your smoking habit is definitely one that is worth giving up for good.

A Brief History Of Asthma

Asthma is a disease that has been mentioned in medical history over and over again. So it can aptly be termed as an ancient disease. It is not right therefore to term it as a disease that is only a resultant of modern day lifestyle. But definitely there is an increase in number of asthma cases over the last few years. This is obviously attributed to the increase in number of pollutants in the atmosphere. The term asthma comes from Greek language, the original word panos meaning to pant or to breathe with an open mouth.

The Greek people respected the panos as they considered their condition to be a visit from Gods. In the first century AD Aretaeus, a Greek physician made an observation that the women were more susceptible to asthma than men. He said that the men had more chances of dying from it. And also, that the children had better chances of complete recovery from the disease. In the second century AD Galen, the consulting physician to many Roman emperors described asthma to be a seizure-like disease of the lungs. He also correctly observed that asthma was a disease caused by blockade of the bronchial tubes.

In 1552 Archbishop Hamilton of Saint Andrews, who was suffering with asthma for a long time was treated by a famous physician of his era. His name was Girolamo Cardano. He gave the Archbishop a complete new routine replete with exercise and diet. He also was known to have removed a leather pillow and large feather bed from the Archbishop's bedroom. All this gave immediate relief to the Archbishop from his lifelong illness and gave much fame and acclaim to the physician. This hugely popular success story was perhaps the first reported case of usage of environmental controls in the treatment of asthma.

Van Helmont, the famous physician who suffered from asthma was the doctor who established a clear link between asthma and smoke and irritants. He compared asthma to epilepsy like attacks. He also wrote that asthma originated in the pipes of the lungs. Thomas Siddenheim compared the asthmatic condition to be a disease of the lungs wherein the bronchial tubes were all stuffed up. In the year 1830 Eberle made an observation of asthma being associated with heredity and infection. Eberle treated the patients with bloodletting, inducing vomiting with opium and instructing them to smoke stramonium leaves.

In 1835 when Laennec invented the stethoscope the research on asthma took a giant leap. The doctors could now clearly hear the classic symptom of wheezing. In 1850 Gerhardt mentioned in his writings that asthma can be triggered by chemical odours, strong perfumes and changes in temperature and humidity. Now the physicians were really making headway into the right directions in diagnosing and treating asthma. There were clear indications of the disease having a clear connection with allergens.

In 1864 Dr. H. Salter discovered that animal dander could trigger asthma. There were many more researches in this field of establishing asthma to be closely related to certain allergens. For many years then asthma was still an enigma for the doctors because sometimes it was evident that it had a clear genetic connectivity and on other occasions it was clearly indicative of being allergic in nature.

By 1900 it was also established that asthma and hay fever were closely related disorders. Since the confusion regarding the disease was still heavily prevailing, many doctors also started predicting the disease to be purely a psychosomatic disorder. Many of the studies of the earlier twentieth century were focussed on this. This kind of mindset was actually very hampering to the advancement in researches in the field. The discoveries that happened also were sidetracked because of this popular belief. It was much later that it was finally proved beyond all doubt that asthma was a physical illness that was totally governed by physical reasons and was not really a disease having its origin in the mind.

In the later part of the twentieth century there was considerable advancement in the field of research pertaining to asthma. This was possible because of multiple advancements in science and technology, including the progress in the field of genetics. With major discoveries in the field of allergies it was clearly established that asthma was triggered off in many allergic people because of allergens and not heredity.

The field of asthma research was finally reaching new horizons and various hoaxes associated with the disease were broken one after the other. Also with the advancement in technology came many more lifestyle diseases and some kinds of asthma were also established to be associated with the hazards of modern day living and occupational exposure to many kind of allergens.

Now the doctors have varied knowledge about asthma and can very effectively diagnose, treat and control the disorders in people from all age groups. This has given new hope to millions of people all across the globe who get diagnosed with the disease almost on a daily basis.

Information on Asthma - Facts You Should Know

One thing everyone needs to know about asthma is that everyone who is suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has this form of asthma. However many people that do have emphysema also known as chronic bronchitis often experience symptoms similar to asthma. The debate is still on if this condition should be classified as chronic asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

The medical term for the asthma we know of is Bronchial Asthma and it refers to a respiratory illness which is chronic and causes the inflammation of the air intake passageways. The most common symptoms of asthma include wheezing, short breath, tightening of the chest and coughing in addition to many other more subtle symptoms. 

The Center for Disease Control in the United States estimates that there are well over 22 million Americans suffering from asthma. Many experts agree that the no.1 cause of asthma today is air pollution. They stress that many people are asthma suffers because of allergic reactions which are caused by airborne substances. 

In order to prevent asthma sufferers from suffering asthma attacks it is important that they stay away from potential asthma triggers. There are a few things that can trigger an asthma attack but once the asthma attack is underway it can be life threatening. Asthma can be flared up by airborne allergens, fur, smoke, food, anxiety and addictives. Also excessive singing, laughing and crying can cause an asthma attack in some patients. Infections of the respiratory tract such as colds, sinusitis, and cough are also capable of triggering an asthma attack. This is why it is stressed that people with asthma eat a good healthy diet with exercise so that their immune system can fend off these attacks. 

The wheezing sound in your breath is not the only marker that doctors use to determine if you have asthma. Now because the chances of an asthma attack happening during a doctor's visit are low you should vividly describe your symptoms to the doctor. You will also need to tell the doctor what you were doing and what you do when the asthma attack flared up. This helps doctors locate the trigger of your asthma. 

However there are a number of tests which can be conducted in order to determine if you have asthma. Many physicians will recommend a chest x-ray, and peak expiratory flow. This will help doctors determine for sure if you are suffering from asthma. 

Bronchial Asthma Treatment - Bronchial Asthma Attack Remedies

Bronchial asthma is a kind of asthma condition where the lungs are having disturbances or obstructions in the ventilation of the air passages in the respiratory system. Once these disturbances and obstructions occur, the lungs will evoke a feeling of shortness of breath.

This occurrence may even lead to paroxysms that tighten the air passages of the bronchial system. When these happen, serious bronchial asthma treatment is recommended.

Asthma may have several causes. One of the main causes of it is the raising of resistance level to the air flow of the bronchial passages. As it happens, the muscles of the passages won't be able to support the activities of gas exchanging and breathing in the respiratory system though the muscles are working harder.

When a asthma attack occurs, spasms of the bronchial muscles usually happen. As it happens, there would be an increase in the secretion of mucus and swelling of the bronchial walls. These occurrences should be given with the proper bronchial asthma treatment.

Bronchial asthma treatment now has new treatment protocols that recommend the prevention of asthma medications, such as inhaling corticosteroids or nebulizers. This medication usually helps an asthmatic person to suppress the inflammation of the lungs as well as reduce the swelling of the linings in the airway passages.

Another recommended asthma treatment is alternative therapies. A recent study shows that almost half of the population of asthmatic persons now uses the form of unconventional therapy for their bronchial asthma treatment.

Apparently, there are specific bronchial asthma treatments that may always depend on the severity of the asthma condition present on the person. The frequency of the asthma signs and symptoms are always considered.

Generally, the asthma treatments are classified as preventers, relievers, and emergency treatment. With these, asthma treatment can have different forms that can be recommended to patients considering how often the attacks occur.

Woman's Wisdom: Can a Broken Heart Kill You?

The holiday season is over, many of us may still be paying off bills, we are in the dead of winter and, love it or hate it, we are in the build-up to Valentine's Day - complete with an abundance of pink hearts and frilly chocolate boxes. It is either the best or the worst of days depending on your point of view.

For those who are not fans of this Hallmark holiday, Valentine's Day can be a time to feel a little bit blue and/or fed up with all the fuss. But for others it can be a major source of stress. It can add to the heartache of a broken relationship, or bring on a new wave of grief and loss. It can be lonely and stressful and make you feel that you need to stay on the sidelines of life because you don't have anyone special by your side.

My question is: has anyone died from a broken heart?

I decided to investigate whether being 'broken or lonely hearted' could really lead to physical risk. I was shocked by what we discovered...

'Takotsubo Syndrome' was only first identified in Japan in 1991 and has since been commonly renamed in the western culture as "stress cardiomyopathy" or "Broken Heart Syndrome".

Broken Heart Syndrome, it turns out, is real, it's rough, and it can be dangerous - and it seems to hit women more often than men (90% of diagnosed cases**). Even worse, when women complain of their 'broken' heart they are often ignored! Another ailment that is "all in our head"?

Here's some facts: in layman's terms, Broken Heart Syndrome (BHS) is a cardiac incident brought about by the body releasing a sudden surge of chemicals, including adrenaline, which can shock the heart muscles and cause them to stop working properly. Specifically it is the spasming of the left ventricle of the heart, causing loss of blood flow - just like a heart attack. It even presents with the same symptoms as a heart attack: chest pain, shortness of breath, arm pain, nausea, and sweating. But instead of an arterial blockage (as in a heart attack), when doctors test, they find the left ventricle misshapen to the point where it is constricting blood flow.

What can cause Broken Heart Syndrome?

Extremely stressful incidents like the loss of a loved one, or a pet; sudden bad news; heated arguments with family; relationship breakups, divorce, or an accumulation of stresses leading to a final, triggering event.

Physical stress such as an asthma attack or even low blood sugar.

Who is most at risk?

Although anybody can experience Broken Heart Syndrome, because it is largely stress-related. The majority of sufferers (approximately 90%) are women of menopausal age! Researchers have concluded this may be because the level of oestrogen (which helps women cope with huge stresses), is significantly lowered in menopause. A lessened ability to cope with stress plus the inevitable stresses of mid-life (divorce, parental death, etc) create the perfect circumstances for Broken Heart Syndrome.

Can it be fatal?

Yes - it can be. While evidently some patients can be absolutely fine within days of an incident, there is a possibility that the heart muscle can be so constricted that it can no longer pump blood to the body fast enough, causing heart failure. So theoretically and physiologically, yes, we can die of a broken heart. However, most people do survive broken heart syndrome, just like they survive a broken heart.

What can you do to avoid "BHS"? ( http://www.webmd.com/heart/features/broken-heart-syndrome-stress-cardiomyopathy )

• Talk to your doctor if you have been undergoing emotional stress, trauma, or grief - in fact, talk to anyone!


• Express your emotions. Don't hold it all in. This allows your body to respond better to stress.


• Only you can set the time limit on your grief: whether its for the death of a loved one, or the death of a relationship, do not let others set the agenda or timeframe for your grieving. Be proactive to figure out ways or mechanisms to alleviate your pain or grief.


• See your doctor regularly and make sure you report any new aches and pains so they are up-to-date on your medical history.


• Keep yourself fit, eat well, and get into a regular routine of sleep.


• If you do not feel up for it, then limit your exposure to the holidays and social gatherings that upset you. Be true to yourself and what you feel you can handle.


• Make sure you do something that is good for your body and soul - go for walks, take bubble baths, listen to music. Participating in something enjoyable will lessen the stress on your body. As you feel broken hearted, remind yourself of what you are grateful for.


• If you feel broken hearted, still try to hang out with friends that empathize with what you are going through and who gently encourage you to live life to your fullest definition. The cliche is true that in many cases "time heals" a broken heart.

Although Broken Heart Syndrome is a very real medical condition, in many ways our ability to avoid it is up to us. Large-scale stress happens in life. As we age, we realize that it is unavoidable. In the end, our ability to cope with it and not have it trigger or contribute to major health problems, relies on our ability to handle the smaller daily stresses that we encounter all the time. In essence, the more time we spend loving in our daily lives, the less chance we will ever die of a broken heart.

Is Chiropractic Care Considered a Safe Treatment Option for Asthma?

Asthma is not simply a health issue that causes difficulty breathing but a medical condition that if not properly treated can lead to death. Today, the number of people who live with the effects of asthma has skyrocketed. The significant increase in asthmatics is due to diets consisting of processed foods that cause allergic reactions and high levels of environmental pollutants. While some people control asthma using more conventional methods, many people have turned to chiropractic care.

Asthma is a life-threatening illness that commands proper maintenance and treatment. Because chiropractic care takes an entirely different approach compared to standard medicine, people want to know if it is a viable treatment option. Of course, people with asthma want something that will work but also a treatment that is safe. With growing interest in alternative medicine, we felt it important to offer information on the subject of asthma control in the form of chiropractic care.

Proper Diagnosis and Symptoms

Before treatment can begin, an individual suspected of having asthma would need a firm diagnosis. After all, there are other health issues that cause similar symptoms so seeing a doctor would ensure the right illness is being treated but also help determine the best treatment plan. In addition to taking patient and family history, a doctor would conduct several tests and consider clinical presentation to determine if asthma is in fact the problem.

Regarding symptoms, there are actually a number of things a person would experience with asthma. The most obvious is difficulty breathing, which is the result of a person's airway narrowing and becoming inflamed. However, chronic coughing, wheezing, and a tight sensation in the chest are also expected. Even when an asthma attack is minor, the experience can be frightening, especially for children but during a full-blown asthma attack, the situation becomes dire.

Asthma Attack Triggers

Most people who have asthma also suffer from allergies, which is one of the primary triggers for an attack. However, some of the other things known to trigger an asthma attack include the following:

• Cold weather


• Cigarette, pipe, and cigar smoke


• Pet dander, especially from cats


• Exercise


• Food preservatives


• Specific food items such as some fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, shrimp, and other shellfish, cow's milk, peanuts, eggs, wheat, and soy

Obviously, these and other triggers should be avoided at all costs but regardless, someone with asthma would need to be on a maintenance plan to prevent attacks. Some people take medication and use inhalers to fight off attacks while other people turn to the benefits offered by chiropractic care. In addition, some asthma suffers get the most relieve with a combination of both.

Chiropractic Care for Battling Asthma

Multiple studies have been conducted in recent year to determine the effects of chiropractic care on asthma. The results show that children and adults who get regular spinal adjustments, achieve significant improvement. The improvements were seen as fewer numbers and less frequency of asthma attacks but also less severity.

By using spinal adjustments, misaligned vertebrae (subluxation) are put back in the proper position, which allows signals traveling down nerves to reach various parts of the body. Because of this, the entire body functions better but this also allows healing to take place naturally. Keep in mind that in addition to correction of Vertebral Subluxation Complex reducing the effects of an attack, this also prevents attacks from occurring in many instances.

Chiropractic care causes no pain, is 100% natural, produces no bad side effects, and works in an effective and safe manner. These are all benefits for adults who live with asthma but even more beneficial to children. Compared to conventional medicine and standard treatments, it is easy to see that chiropractic care for asthma is a better solution for many people of all ages.

Asthma is a Chronic Medical Condition

There are many chronic medical conditions and it would be literally impossible to cover each and every one of them in one small article. Instead I have decided to expand upon a single issue and that is asthma.

Asthma has become a worldwide problem which knows no age limit. He is found in both children as well as adults. In recent years the condition has been becoming a very serious health concern to medical professionals particularly due to the vast number of increased cases which are causing an alarming rise in children's afflictions.

For those people who are currently suffering from the effects of asthma they know only too well how this chronic medical condition effects their ability to breath when they experience a flare-up. It become just about impossible for these patients to achieve a normal breathing pattern when their air passages have reacted adversely to any sort of atmospheric change or and other dreaded allergens. These sudden attacks are capable of occurring to even the very best of prepared individuals and can be so severe that death can result.

Those people who suffer from this condition have learned that there are certain ways that they can effectively reduce their risks of asthma attacks by carefully monitoring their condition on a daily basis. The actual frequency of the attacks as well as the severity of them will determine what course of actions and treatment the patient must follow.

Usually treatment falls into one of several major categories. First should be medications which will prevent such attacks from occurring. Second, the treating of those minor attacks which happen and lastly, treating any life threatening situations as they occur.

During the preventive phase each asthma sufferer will be provided with what is called a Bronchodilator. This instrument will provide immediate relief from any minor attack. Many asthma patients have found this to be very sufficient and no other asthmatic medication is generally required.

For those patients who may be experiencing a more serious condition the medical care giver may advise the use of a low dose glucocorticoids or perhaps a mastcell stabilizer. Unless your condition is extremely severe you should not expect your physician to prescribe the use of oral glucocorticoids.

Regardless of the patients severity condition a patients has some sort of medical reliever to help their condition. It is important that the asthma patient be able to quickly assess the various situations which tend to trigger the attacks in order to successfully avoid those particular conditions.

Atmospheric pollution is now believed to be making the asthmatic condition even worse around major cities or industrial areas.

The medications prescribed for asthma will help to prevent or to treat flare-ups but they should be used very sparingly as they bring with them some very serious side effects. As an example, continued and regular use has resulted in fatigue, dizziness, a lack of sex drive, depression or liver damage.

An alternative to this is the use of more natural products that may be recommended for those patients who are suffering from respiratory conditions. These natural products tend to attack the root cause of the problem and not merely cover up the reason for the condition.

Psychological Causes of Asthma

To be honest, the asthma attack isn't over, and it's been going on for two months. It's better, but not under control. At first, it was blamed on a severe sinus infection, but that's been cleared up for weeks. No, the answer isn't just my lungs. It's also my emotions.

About five months ago, our eldest daughter, aged 26, disappeared. As she's an adult, very little can be done to find her, as most officials state that she's of an age to do what she wants. That's true. It's also painful. I was warned of the possibility of my asthma going out of control, and it sure did. Hopefully, what I've gone through can help you.

1) Know of the possibility. That has probably saved my life. If you know that an event or emotional problem is likely to create physical problems, prepare. Make sure all your needed prescriptions are up to date...and know where they are. After four years with zero attacks, I couldn't even find my old inhaler. That's probably good, as these things do expire.

2) Know the symptoms: I have never had an attack like this one. The cough seemed to be coming from my toes. Mostly, I just get chest tightness and a strangling sensation. Ask your doctor if the symptoms are likely to change or intensify, and what to look out for. The sooner you realize what's wrong, the faster you can get it under control. The longer you wait, the harder it will be.

3) Know When to Get Help: Your doctor can help you with this. A peak flow meter can be a good guide, but there are also symptoms to watch for. If your skin, lips or nails start to turn blue, you need immediate help. If you are coughing so much it's hard to breathe, you need immediate help. These are emergencies. Any time you find it difficult to breathe, it's time to be concerned.

4) Understand your Inhalers: You have to follow the instructions on your inhalers exactly. Your rescue inhaler cannot be used more than a certain number of times per day, usually limited to two puffs twice a day. If you need to use it more than twice a week (let alone twice a day), your asthma is not under control.

Your maintenance inhaler has to be used exactly as prescribed. It won't help you during an active attack, its job is to keep you from developing one. If you don't use it properly, it won't do you much good.

Asthma is a serious disease that can have deadly consequences. If you've been diagnosed with it, you need to learn as many facts as you can about it. Talk to your doctor, especially if you have questions. He or she can help you avoid further problems.

Asthma - Do You Find it Hard to Breathe?

What is asthma?

Asthma comes from the Greek meaning "painting". The person who has an asthma attack usually pants or feels breathless.

It is an allergic disorder characterized by:

- Resistance to the airflow in the airways, which varies in severity over a short period of time.
- Inflammation of the airways, that is, the bronchial tubes are swollen and red.
- Increased responsiveness to a variety of stimuli.

At any other times, when the person does not suffer from an asthma attack, his breathing is normal.

Signs and Symptoms

Cough, which may be either dry or productive

The mucus glands lining the bronchial tubes start to produce mucus which then blocks the airways. The nerves in walls of the airways are stimulated causing the mucus to be coughed up as sputum. This is called productive cough.

A dry cough which is unaccompanied by moisture is caused by spasm, which is involuntary, violent contraction of the bronchial muscles.

Shortness of breath

The sufferer will have a feel that he is being choked. He feels that he is not getting enough air into the lungs. He will also find it difficult to breathe out. The stale air builds up in the lungs, causing them to become overinflated. As a result, he will breathe too heavily and quickly.

Wheezing

A wheeze is a whistling sound caused by air being forced through narrowed airways. The wheezing may come unexpectedly and may turn worse early in the morning or at night.

Painless feeling of tightness in the chest

Sufferer often feel the tightness of someone standing on their chest.

Other signs of asthma are:

Early Warning Signs

- Symptoms persisting or getting worse even with enough medication
- Inhalations bringing relief that last for hours
- More medication needed than usual
- Coughing more often than before
- Sleep interrupted by wheezing, coughing or even breathlessness

Dangerous Signs

- Feeling exhausted and fatigue
- Sleep being greatly disturbed
- Difficulty in breathing is clearly noticeable, especially during resting
- Feeling very confused, frightened, anxious and drowsy
- Inability to talk (saying a few words only)
- Cyanosis (lips and face turning bluish or bluish purple)
- Asthma worsening quickly rather than slowly, despite the use of medication
- Serious chest pain
- Sweating
- Rapid pulse

It may be noted that sometimes symptoms of asthma may persist for years even though the sufferers are no longer coming into close contact with the offending agents. Hence, a severe asthma attack can still start suddenly, catching everyone by surprise.

Increasing Your Magnesium Levels Can Help Prevent Allergy and Asthma Attacks

Most people are deficient in magnesium due to the refining of foods- find out how increasing your daily intake of this important mineral can make a big difference to your overall heath and also prevent allergies and asthma attacks. Magnesium is a trace mineral that is required for not just building strong bones but for the proper functioning of our entire bodies.

"Magnesium is not limited to improving bone health. There are some three hundred bodily enzymes that require magnesium, which suggests that magnesium is vital for most cells and tissues of the body." - from American Chiropractic.

Studies show that insufficient magnesium levels not only can cause asthma and allergies, but also muscle cramps, muscle twitching, muscle weakness as well as muscle aches, TMJ disorders, depression, insomnia, osteoporosis, attention deficit disorder, fibromyalgia, diabetes, mitral valve prolapse, migraines, attention deficit disorder, noise sensitivity and nervousness among several other conditions.

Today's refined food simply doesn't contain enough magnesium and foods that do contain it lose it through the cooking process. Even if you are purposefully eating raw foods daily that are rich in magnesium, consuming coffee, alcohol, soda or soft drinks and salt will result in a loss of this mineral. Foods that contain magnesium are cereals, nuts, green vegetables, and dairy products. However, according to an article in The Lancet by Britton et al. Magnesium deficiency is surprisingly common. In one study 65% of an intensive care population and 11% of an outpatient population suffered from magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is used pharmacologically in acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) angina, (chest pains) cardiac arrhythmias, (irregular heart beat) alcohol withdrawal, and pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). It has been used to treat acute asthma and plus magnesium may also help prevent asthma symptoms.

Maintaining proper levels of magnesium in the body helps by relaxing airway smooth muscle and dilating bronchioles in the lungs. It also reduces histamine release and inflammation of the airways and lungs by stabilizing mast cells and T- lymphocytes. Studies like the one in The Lancet showed that increasing magnesium intake helped to reduce and even prevent allergy and asthma symptoms. Taking a good magnesium citrate supplement, which is easily absorbed is important. Recommended daily dosages vary from 500 mg to 1000 mg if you have a substantial deficiency, but be aware that a dose of 1000 mg of magnesium will cause a loose stool. It is best not to take it after a meal since it neutralizes stomach acids, which would interfere with digestion. It is best to consult a naturopathic doctor or nutritionist for advice and testing to determine your individual needs. Trace mineral deficiencies can be determined through a tissue mineral analysis using a stand of your hair at a medical lab.

If you are looking for an effective drug-free alternative asthma treatment you should consider The Dramatic Asthma Relief Report, which is based on extensive medical research & proven clinical trials that will positively change your life.

Asthma Attack And Treatment

What is Asthma & what happens during an asthma attack?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways in the lungs, causing breathlessness in the patient. An asthma attack takes place when a person becomes hyper-responsive to some stimuli like cold air, exercise, dust, pollutants and even stress and anxiety. This happens due to some changes in the person's lungs. The muscle tissues of the bronchi go into spasm, the cells lining the airways swell and mucus secretion takes place resulting in narrowing of the bronchi, thus making it difficult to breathe out.

Treatment for Asthma can be done by various methods.

Allopathic asthma attack treatment: Medical practitioners conduct a spirometry test to measure the functions of the lungs in patients. Some of the most common drugs used in allopathic treatment are the methylxanthine (theophylline) that has anti-inflammatory effects and controls night-time symptoms, Bronchodilators that relieve sudden attacks effectively, steroids that are drugs resembling body hormones, block inflammation and leukotriene modifiers that counteract the leukotriene produced by the white blood cells in the lungs. These drugs are either inhaled or administered orally or as injections.

Food & Nutrition therapy: Avoiding milk, processed foods, refined starches, sugars, foods with artificial additives and sulfites is recommended under this therapy. The patient is advised to take a diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low salt. A vegan diet is said to have reduced the incidence of attacks in patients. Drinking plenty of water keeps the airways moist. Including onions and garlic in the diet also helps as they are rich in flavonoids which inhibit the release of histamines. Regular intake of multivitamin supplements with vitamins A,C,E and B complex and minerals like magnesium and selenium, and omega 3 fatty acids improve conditions.

Herbal treatment for asthma: Chinese herbs like Ephedra containing ephedrine works as a bronchodilator. Ginkgo had shown to reduce the frequency of attacks. Licorice is a natural decongestant and expectorant. Other herbs like lobelia, nettle, thyme, passionflower, Asian ginseng are also being used to treat asthma. Caffeine and theophylline present in coffee and tea respectively make them good bronchodilators. The herb Tylophore asthmatica is used in Ayurvedic treatment.

Homeopathic treatment: Thuja occidentalis, Antimonium tartaricum, Kali carbonicum, Silicea, Tuberculinum are some common drugs used in homeopathic treatment but the exact treatment is determined by an in-depth evaluation of the case.

BLOCKBUSTER herbal formulation for ASTHMA - CURE your ASTHMA in 10 days

ASTHMA ATTACK AND TREATMENT

How Can Osteopathy Help People With Asthma?

Asthma is a long-term disease which usually affects children and can stay with them for the rest of their lives. If not regulated or controlled, asthma can cause a lot of other serious conditions and complications. When you have asthma, your airways become inflamed and become more sensitive than usual to certain substances and particles. This can cause wheezing, which is the noise you produce when you breathe which indicates swollen airways. You also will have thick and more amount of mucous that you can secrete through these airways, too. You can also start coughing and have shortness of breath.

Although asthma has no known cure, the effects and symptoms of this condition, whenever it reoccurs are reversible. You may be able to reverse the effects by consulting to health care providers that can advice you with some medications and treatments.

Practitioners of osteopathy offer natural and non-invasive treatments that may help you with regulating the symptoms of asthma. They will offer to look into your condition in a holistic approach. This means that an experienced and skilled osteopath will look into your whole respiratory system, including parts such as your ribs, diaphragm, spine, and other muscles involved in breathing.

Furthermore, an excellent osteopath will also consider other parts of your body as an excellent osteopath believes that the human body is interconnected and linked all over so there may be a possibility that asthma can be a referred condition caused by other underlying conditions happening at the other areas of your body. Because of this approach, a good osteopath will carefully look into your body structure and try to relax your respiratory muscles, improve the condition of the lymphatic system which cleanses your body, enhance your blood supply, and remove all restrictions within your lungs.

Moreover, an excellent osteopath is also concerned with the overall living condition of people who suffer from asthma. He or she will formulate some exercises and breathing patterns suitable for your condition and capabilities that can help you minimize the re-occurrences of this condition. Also, a good osteopath may also suggest for you to improve your posture, diet, and lifestyle for you to have a better living condition.

All in all, the practice of osteopathy may be of great help to patients with asthma. But you may also want to take into consideration that an excellent osteopath may also collaborate with other health care providers such as a general physician. It is still important for people with asthma to have anti-inflammatory medications if in case a severe attack happens.

Manage Asthma and Get Rid of Flare-Ups

Though we know the factors or allergens that trigger asthma (a chronic inflammation disease of the airways) but determining its causes is not possible. It can occur due to food, chemicals, air pollutants, or may be because of drugs and if unattended it may lead to asthma attack, when severe this calls for emergency care or sometimes leads to death. So, the wise thing is to find out the risk factors associated with asthma if any of your loved ones suffer from this medical condition because only proper diagnosis can best aid with the treatment.

To know the nature of asthma a person is suffering from and there are various tests conducted for optimal diagnosis of which Lung Function Test and Allergy Test are very prominent. The former is done to analyse the performance of lungs while the latter helps in finding allergens causing asthma in a person. In addition, chest X-ray and arterial blood gas analysis are also performed to know the severity of this chronic disorder.

Whoever has the symptoms or diagnosed with asthma, peak flow meter is a must-to-own medical equipment as it lets you know how well your lungs function whether you are under the risk of an asthma attack. When you blow air into this device it measures how quickly you can blow air out of your lungs. Based on the values you can learn whether your breathing is proper, you have symptoms of asthma flare-up, or you need help right away.

Speaking about the asthma treatment, it is a world-known fact that this medical condition cannot be cured, but with proper management one can lead a peaceful life without the risk of flare-up (or attack). There are two types of medications used to treat asthma; long acting and quick relief. Corticosteroids, bronchodilators, leukotriene inhibitors, and aminophylline fall under the first type and are preferred to prevent attacks. Quick relief medications, as the name goes, are opted for immediate relief during an attack, and the various fast-acting medications include Proventil or Ventolin (for opening up the airways) and methylprednisolone (to reduce inflammation).

Coming to delivery methods, metered-dose inhalers along with an asthma spacer are widely used for the purpose, and also nebulizers that turns liquid medicine into mist are often utilised for delivering medication to the lungs.

More than anything else self care is vital to prolong the symptom-free period and a home air filtration system can be best aid in this.

Ease Asthma Symptoms With Good Nutrition

Asthma can be a terrifying condition for the millions of Americans who suffer from it, often debilitating. More women than men are affected by asthma, approximately 70% more, and it is possible that asthma may even be related to hormonal fluctuations in menstruating females.

Risk Factors For Developing Asthma

Along with hormones, there are a number of risk factors for developing asthma, including obesity, respiratory infections, certain drugs, allergies, and even sharp intakes of cold air. This can cause mild asthma attacks in people who have never had any symptoms of asthma in the past. Smoking is a huge no-no for anyone, especially asthmatics, because it is extremely likely to trigger asthma attacks. Asthmatics should also try to avoid cat dander, household dust, molds, pollen, and scented products.

Most people have experienced a form of asthma attack at one time or another, but for most people, these are minor, and extremely infrequent. Chronic asthma sufferers can have several attacks daily, and often find it difficult to live their day-to-day lives.

Treat Asthma With "The Pill"

Many women take birth control pills for reasons other birth control, including weight and acne control. Well, because asthma affects the menstrual cycle, and inflames the airways, taking an oral contraceptive is often recommended for female asthma patients as well. In the past, it was thought to be just the opposite, but studies in recent years have proven that oral contraceptives are an effective method of treating asthma-related symptoms.

Exercising With Asthma

People who suffer with asthma symptoms, like anyone else, can greatly benefit from an exercise program. Of course, they should always consult with their physicians before beginning any diet or exercise program, to make sure that they are doing everything they need to obtain the benefits they are seeking. In addition to consulting with a physician, there are some specific guidelines when it comes to exercising with asthma:

- Make sure you use a bronchodilator before exercising.

- Work out indoors, where the air is warmer and more humid.

- Yoga is an extremely beneficial exercise, and not just for asthmatics.

The Right Diet Can Help Too

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is not only good for your overall health, but it can also play a role in asthma treatment. There are three macronutrients that every human being needs in their diets in order to survive: carbohydrates, fats, and protein. Plus, there are a number of vitamins and minerals that we also need to have in our diets.

Because weight can be an asthma trigger, a healthy diet is of the utmost importance for asthmatics. Many asthma medications can actually cause an increase in appetite, as well as fluid retention, so an asthmatic's diet should counteract these effects. Preservatives, such as sulfites, are particularly dangerous, and foods like imported beer, shellfish, potatoes, and guacamole should be avoided. Asthma patients who are taking oral steroid drugs need to watch their salt intake as well. Calcium is necessary, especially for children.

Proteins: Proteins are necessary, and can be found in animal and some plant sources, especially soy. Not only is protein needed for building and maintaining strong, healthy muscles, it is also a dietary source of energy, and a natural appetite suppressant. Asthma sufferers looking for additional protein in their diets should opt for such food sources as oily fish (mackerel, salmon and swordfish are all good examples) and soy. Protein supplements should also be used.

Carbohydrates: Even though there are many diet plans that restrict carbohydrate intake, we do need carbohydrates in our diets. In fact, the bulk of our diets should come from carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, such as white flour and sugar, should be restricted, and even avoided, as they can lead to weight gain.

Fats: About 15 to 20% of our diets should come from healthy fats. Saturated fats, which are fats that are still solid at room temperature, are the ones to avoid, as well as hydrogenated vegetable oil, which is a saturated fat.

Protein Supplements

There are a number of terrific protein supplements available on the market today that are convenient, healthy and delicious. In addition to capsules, there are also many popular liquid proteins, including protein-packed protein shots, and protein powders. Some of the more popular forms of protein for supplements include:

Whey Protein - Whey, as mentioned above, is a derivative of milk, a bi-product of the cheese-making process. It is a protein that is quickly and easily digested, making it a great option for body builders and other athletes who are looking for muscle recovery following workouts, or to build muscles.

Soy Protein - Soy protein is a wonderful option for vegetarians, and people who are intolerant to milk and milk products, such as cheese and yogurt. Soy protein comes directly from soybeans, so it is vegetable-based. It isn't the greatest tasting protein, but you can get plenty of soy supplement products that are flavored and taste really great.

Egg Protein - This is highly recognized as a protein for body builders. In fact, before there were nutritional supplements, it was not uncommon to see weight lifters drinking raw eggs for a protein boost. Now, there are a number of egg protein powders available that taste great in shakes.

Rice Protein - This protein comes from brown rice, and is considered to be a complete protein. Rice protein contains all of the essential amino acids, as well as nonessential amino acids, and since it is hypoallergenic, it is great for everyone.

Liquid Protein

Muscles need protein to grow and stay strong and healthy, and sometimes, we need extra protein. Liquid protein supplements are made for people looking for muscle recovery following workouts or exercise, those who are trying to build their muscles, and anyone else who needs additional protein in their diet. They are also used as meal replacements for many diets, and for busy people who are always on the go.

Liquid whey protein shakes are easily and quickly digested, and their effects are almost immediate. They are ideal for those don't eat a lot of meat. You can get liquid protein shakes that are low or without fat and carbohydrates, which are ideal for dieters who are just looking for additional protein. Because many of these are milk-based, people who are lactose intolerant should read the ingredients carefully before buying any liquid protein supplement.

Have You Got Hay Fever? You Are Probably Not Drinking Enough Water!

The human body is made up of between 60% and 75% water. The brain is even more than that, reaching 85% of water content. Water is vital to carry nutrients through the system, to regulate our temperature and blood pressure, as well as to carry out toxins and other unwanted residues from our body. It should be easy to conclude therefore that drinking water is one of the most fundamental actions we do during the day to keep us healthy and to keep our body working efficiently.

Many people however wait until they are very thirsty before they drink, and often, even then, they drink something other than water. Tea, coffee, alcohol or a carbonated drink like coke are the worst choices and a fruit juice is the least damaging option. Truth is your body needs just pure water in an amount of about 1 litre for every 30 kilos of body weight, and not even a freshly squeezed orange should be counted as part of the daily water intake. Any fluid other than water contains substances like sugar in alcoholic drinks, or proteins in the case of milk, or potassium in orange juice, which need water to be broken down and processed by the body. Therefore the amount of water that these drinks contribute to the body is greatly reduced by the other substances that they contain. In the case of alcoholic drinks like wine and beer, the amount of water needed by the body to process them down is actually much greater than the amount of water that the drinks provide to the body in the first place.

Histamine is a very important protein and neurotransmitter which helps regulating the amount of water in our body. When there is an insufficient amount of water for the healthy functioning of the body, a greater amount of histamine is produced to manage the limited water in our body and make sure that we survive. It does that by shutting down areas of the body that are not fundamental to live, like muscles, bones and skin, so that the brain, lungs, kidneys, liver and glands can receive and use the limited supply of water. The more we are dehydrated, the more histamine our body produces to switch on the "drought emergency process" in our body. As histamine shuts water off areas of the body that are not essential for life it also creates the perfect environment for an allergy or an asthma attack.

Let's start with hay fever: there is pollen in the air and the wind brings it into direct contact with your eyes. A normal reaction of a well hydrated body would be to produce tears and wash off the intruder. However, because there is not sufficient water in the body, a great amount of histamine is produced and its "water saving program" starts... Eyes are not as essential to life as the brain or the kidneys, so histamine severely limits the supply of water to the eyes which then become red, swollen and itchy because of the pollen.

Traditional allopathic medicine treats allergies with anti-histamine which stops the ability of histamine to redirect the limited amount of water to the areas that most need it. So due to the action of anti-histamine your eyes will have back the water needed to wash away the pollen, but at the same time it will also severely reduce the water into the cells of vital organs like the brains, liver, lungs and kidneys causing damage to their already stressed and dehydrated cells.

Let's now look at asthma: in a situation where there is not sufficient water in the system, the increased histamine production will cause the bronchioles in the lungs to constrict reducing in that way the amount of water that evaporates from the body during breathing. Lung tissue is very vulnerable to dehydration because the thin walls of the air sacs that form the lungs have to stay moist all the time. Therefore dehydration will cause a huge damage unless the amount of water lost through evaporation is restricted by the action of histamine, which can also be a trigger of an asthma attack and the classic shortness of breath.

Once again allopathic medicine addresses the symptoms and administers inhalers that force the reopening of the bronchioles for easy breathing.

In both cases, allergy and asthma, the remedy provided by traditional western medicine solves the immediate problem and relieves the symptoms, but in reality also acts against the natural defences of the body which, through histamine, tries to make the best use of the little water it has available. Proper hydration, or to put it simply, a few good glasses of pure water would actually serve both purposes to relieve the symptoms and correct one of the possible triggers of the allergy or asthma attack: lack of water.

To give a different example, if you had a broken pipe in the house which was pouring water all over the floor of the house, would you mop up the water from the floor or try to fix the broken pipe?

Meditate Using Brainwave Entrainment And Lessen The Severity of Your Asthma Attack

Research has shown a strong link between meditation and asthma attack control.

Meditation is a mental focus technique that aims to induce a deep state of relaxation. If you meditate long enough and stay consistent with the brainwave frequency, your brain will make new neural pathways in your grey matter that will become your default when an attack is triggered.

It increases your mental alertness and oxygen flow to the respiratory system while lowering your blood pressure.

Meditation will stop the overproduction of stress hormones that impair the immune system and most importantly, stop your panic.

Meditation can lessen the severity of an asthma attack but it can be hard to reach this brainwave frequency on your own.

Brainwave entrainment is perfect for people who have trouble meditating. Entrainment introduces specific brainwave frequencies to the brain with the intention of changing its dominant frequency and state of consciousness. Within six minutes, the brain entrains or follows this designed brainwave pattern and produces a state of deep relaxation, the same that meditation induces. Brainwave entrainment will then hold this frequency state steady for 20 more minutes, increasing the benefits of the meditative state.

Asthma is a condition that affects the lungs, the bronchi or tubes that process the air you breathe to retrieve oxygen. With asthma, the bronchi become constricted, causing tightness, wheezing, and coughing, with an overriding sensation that you are going to smother and die.

There are no known causes for asthma but certain triggers will cause an attack. Cigarette smoke, cold weather, running, pollen, dust and dust mites, and stress will trigger an asthma attack.

An asthma attack can be brought on by stress and tension and the severity of the attack is often increased by fear and panic about the attack itself, forming a self-fulfilling cycle.

How Brainwave Entrainment Helps

• There are no side effects


• Puts you into a meditative state, keeps you there, while you focus on the tones and breathe slowly and deeply.


• Controlled breathing while listening to a brainwave entrainment recording specifically designed for asthma, will strengthen your lungs and may aid in preventing a future attack.


• Can be used as a great complementary therapy to standard asthma treatment


• Can feel the benefits immensely


• Lessens the severity of the attacks


• Relaxes the mind and busts stress


• Increases mental alertness


• Can calm you almost immediately


• When your mind is in this relaxed state, you can control your emotions better and the positive effect will be an increase in blood and oxygen flow to the body, while decreasing blood pressure.


• Relaxing during an attack, your default state of mind after regular practice, will enable drug treatment to take effect more quickly and efficiently.

Meditating using brainwave entrainment can lessen the severity of an asthma attack, and with regular practice, will aid in strengthening your respiratory system. If your immune system and respiratory system is strong, you may have less asthma attacks, less severe, and less often.

Meditating using brainwave entrainment can be a very effective complementary therapy in the controlling of your asthma symptoms.

Asthma During Pregnancy Does Not Have To Be A Problem For Your Baby

Why Is Asthma Dangerous?

Asthma is a condition where the air passages of the lungs are sensitive to certain allergens and become irritable and swollen. During pregnancy, this can be a dangerous situation. If this condition is not diagnosed and managed correctly, it can endanger the health of mother and child.

The major symptoms are wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. Getting a handle on the symptoms is difficult since the severity of the attacks are different with every case.

How To Avoid Potential Complications

Birth complications come in many forms. While some mothers worry about taking additional medications during the prenatal period, it is the adverse effects from a lack of oxygen that is the greatest threat to the baby. This deprivation of oxygen can lead to cerebral palsy, low birth weight or premature birth. Blood pressure changes, or pre-eclampsia, can also present themselves in the mother, and these can be life-threatening.

But with proper medical care, complications such as these can be avoided.

Diagnosis and Treatment

An expecting mother with asthma should be on a long term treatment plan and this will depend on the severity of the symptoms. After a doctor takes a complete history and physical exam, he or she will have a good idea of what is causing the attacks and plan a course of action.

The final product will be an asthma management plan that will show triggers, medications and emergency contacts. This involves identifying the symptoms of asthma, avoiding allergens that trigger attacks, and starting a medical treatment plan to prevent and treat symptoms.

Triggers To Avoid

An expecting mother should know her triggers and how to avoid them.The best policy is to avoid all known allergens, such as pollen, dust, and animal dander. The immediate environment should be clear of mold, mites, and animal dander. Strong chemicals have also been proven to be hazardous to the health of expecting mothers with respiratory issues so a chemical-free environment is best.

Monitoring A Baby's Condition

Asthma during pregnancy must be monitored extremely closely because the unborn child is extremely vulnerable in the development of the womb. If the mother has an attack without proper response time and treatment, there is a high potential for complications. It is always best for an expecting mother to document her experiences and share them with her practitioner.

If you are asthmatic and become pregnant, your doctor will create an action plan to accommodate your baby. If there is any change in your condition, you should be monitored more closely.

Thankfully, there should be no fear in becoming pregnant if you have this respiratory condition. Carefully consider how well your asthma is managed. If it is well controlled, you have the green light to expand your family. If it is not properly managed, work with your doctor to ensure a healthy and successful nine months.

How Spices Can Help Asthma Sufferers By Reducing Asthmatic Symptoms

Although asthma is primarily a respiratory or breathing abnormality or imbalance, diet can play a pivotal role in how its managed. Diet can either help or hinder an asthma sufferer. If you are serious about controlling asthma without drugs, then you need to eliminate or reduce as much as possible those foods that hinder and include those foods that help into your daily diet!

Today's overly processed foods contain various food additives that can trigger asthmatic symptoms, especially in those sensitive to food allergies. Processed foods should be avoided as much as possible for both good general health and asthma management.

Spices have been used as medicine by various Eastern cultures around the world for thousands of years. They are one type of food often overlooked by Western culture. Spices are superfoods when in comes to immune boosting, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. For these reasons they are recognized as having a dramatically positive effect on asthma sufferers.

Asthma is an auto-immune disease, therefore it makes perfect sense that by boosting your immune system through consuming spices, you can help alleviate asthmatic symptoms. A strong immune system will help your body better cope with allergens and germs which could otherwise create havoc on your health and your asthma.

Spices are also arguably the best anti inflammatory foods in existence. When an asthma attack strikes, the airways become inflamed and make breathing difficult. By eating a diet high in anti inflammatory foods, such as spices, you will have a dramatic reduction or you could even completely eliminate your next asthmatic episode.

Free radicals are also known to cause many health complications including asthma. Antioxidants are your body's only defence. By consuming foods with the highest antioxidant content such as spices, you are giving yourself the best possible defence against free radical damage. Free radicals can damage cells within your body, including airway cell membranes which contribute to asthma.

All spices have positive impacts on health and it's a good idea to include a broad cross section of spices into your diet. However not all spices are created equal and I have researched the best spices for asthma. These are Ginger, Turmeric, Liquorice, Black Pepper, Iodized Sea Salt, Mustard, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Cumin & Cloves.

Spices make it to number 2 on my top ten list of superfoods for asthma. For the full list and to see what makes it at number 1, visit my website by clicking on the link below.

No Need To Suffer With Asthma, Here Are Some Excellent Solutions

Are you stressed about asthma and how it's ruining your life? Many people have the need for some common sense tips about this illness. Lots of people want more information regarding asthma but aren't familiar with the places to find this info. The information and knowledge you are going to learn in the following paragraphs regarding asthma might just catch you off guard.

Asthma can be caused by genetics, environmental factors, or a little bit of both. This is why it's important to recognize the signs of asthma if your family has a history of the condition. Environmental factors such as pollution, smoke, mold spores and excess dust can cause asthma, so make sure to keep yourself and little ones away from these hazards.

Visit at least two different doctors. Your primary care doctor should be the first person you go to, but think about seeing a few specialists. The allergists, pulmonologists and nutritionists in asthma centers can help you take full advantage of all treatments available.

Make sure you keep calm if you are having an asthma attack. You should use your inhaler immediately upon the first signs of an attack. Once you have used it, use it again 30 seconds later. If this does not help and your attack gets worse, you need to get immediate medical assistance. Have someone call an ambulance for you, or have them bring you to a hospital. To calm yourself on the drive, bring a paper bag and breathe into it, as this will slow your breathing.

Asthma is not a curable disease and will require life-long health management. You need to always take your medications for your everyday symptoms, and keep your quick relief medication with you in case you do have an attack. Talk to your doctor and allergist to see what is the best idea for you.

Keep the air fresh and clear when cooking by opening windows to air out smoke, and to prevent aggravating asthma symptoms. This kind of smoke can trigger asthma symptoms, and make it harder for you to breathe. If your house is still smokey with the windows open, step outside.

If you have asthma, it is imperative that you stay away from smokers. Tobacco smoke causes your lung function to decrease, increasing the risk of a very severe attack, especially in enclosed rooms without much air flow or ventilation.

The cleaner your home is, the less asthma attacks you're likely to have there. You also need to make the air in your home as dry as possible. Using a dehumidifier will control moisture levels in your house. The number of seasonal asthma attacks that you suffer will drop if you can keep the humidity at a consistent level.

If you have asthma, you should get a flu shot once per year. Make sure your child's vaccinations are up-to-date to avoid as many infections as possible.

Both Vitamin C and Vitamin E are important if you suffer from asthma. These vitamins are thought to help improve lung function and control asthma symptoms. You can gain vitamins from supplements or the old fashioned way, from food! These vitamins will also help prevent illnesses by boosting your body's immune system.

It is important to visit with your doctor often, every two months or so, in order to stay on top of your asthma. This will give your doctor a chance to assess your current asthma condition, and make any needed adjustments to your medication. It is up to you to schedule these visits with the doctor so he or she can monitor your progress, and work to keep you healthy.

When you have asthma, it is especially important to warm up before exercising and to cool down when you are finished. Doing both of these things will help prevent you from having a serious asthma attack during your exercise or after it.

Make certain that all members of your family get their annual flu shot. Try to avoid getting any respiratory infections if you have asthma. This means you should also be sure to wash your hands frequently and get vaccinated.

Asthma is an uncurable disease, but that doesn't mean that the symptoms are permanent and can't go away. However, just like most things in life, overcoming your asthma symptoms takes time and effort. If you follow these easy tips, you'll find that your symptoms will get better over time and you'll be able to enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Travel Nebulizer - A Noiseless Alternative

Nebulizers are of various types and the most preferred and convenient among them are the Travel Nebulizer. Even among portable nebulizers there are a number of varieties to choose from. Pick the right travel nebulizer depending upon the usage. A regular user needs to carry the nebulizer wherever they go. People who stay away from home and are suffering from respiratory disorder for an extended period should take portable nebulizers along with them. Price and quality play a major role while purchasing a travel nebulizer. A respiratory therapist will be in a better position to explain which type of nebulizer will suit your medication.

There are some medications that can be used only with traditional air compressor jet nebulizer. Respiratory illness like cystic fibrosis can be treated only with the ultrasonic nebulizer. Travel nebulizers are covered by most insurance companies, but it is recommended you talk to your agent before buying one. Some insurance companies cover full cost and yet others cover only part of the cost. The brand is also at times suggested by the insurance agency. Since insurance companies have tie ups with medical supplies stores they ask their customers to buy from them. Ultrasonic nebulizers are not covered by insurance companies unless regarded as mandatory.

Battery powered nebulizer is a must for people who are always on the move. There are disposable nebulizer kits also available in the market. These are non-valved type. Disposable nebulizer has no chamber to hold the medicine before use, whereas a valved nebulizer has a chamber to retain the medicine. Many prefer non-valved to valved as they are more comfortable to use. Valved type lasts longer. Portable nebulizers are handy when a family member suffers from a sudden asthma attack. Emergency visits to the hospital can be avoided if you have a travel nebulizer in place. Portable nebulizers are silent and are operated with the help of battery and therefore produce less noise while in use.

Travel nebulizer can keep asthma flare-up under tremendous control. Traditional compressor nebulizers are becoming obsolete these days and simple hand-held battery operated travel nebulizers are slowly replacing them. Using this nebulizer you can give treatment to your child even while asleep. Imagine how convenient it would be to treat a child without disturbing or frightening him. The medication administered during sleep ensures that the child gets good rest. With ample rest the child recovers faster than usual.

Hay Fever, Perennial Sneezing And Asthma

Some people who inherit an allergy sensitive background develop certain allergies from time to time. These allergies may be due to many environmental factors and sometimes symptoms of asthma are also impersonated by them. Some common forms of these allergic reactions may be seasonal while others may be perennial in nature.

It is important to understand the differences between these and asthma so that they are never confused with asthma because their treatments as well the severity both differ from each other. Seasonal sneezing is called seasonal allergic rhinitis or hay fever in the common parlance. As against the name it is not caused because of hay but because of certain pollutants mainly certain kinds of pollen in the environment to which a person may be allergic.

In contrast to these people some others suffer with sneezing bouts, stuffy or running nose almost all the year round. These people suffer from perennial sneezing or perennial allergic rhinitis. When these people are exposed to cold wind, sunlight, dust and fumes the symptoms of the sneezing bouts precipitate.

In hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis the symptoms appear gradually or all of a sudden. This depends upon the degree of exposure to the offending allergen and also upon the degree to which the person may be allergic to them. When the symptoms appear gradually they are accompanied with mild sensation of itching and burning of the eyes and mild irritation in the nose or itching of the palate inside the mouth.

The symptoms usually appear in the early morning hours when the concentration of pollen grains is at its peak. The sneezing bouts are also accompanied with marked increase in the nasal congestion, throat congestion, running of the nose profusely and watery eyes. The nasal mucous membrane becomes highly sensitive with advancement of symptoms and any slight change in the nasal mucous membrane manifests in heavy bouts of sneezing.

These changes may be of very slight nature like appearance of a draft, strong odours, or even minute quantities of dust. In addition to these symptoms there may be appearance of other associated symptoms like general lethargy, loss of appetite, drowsiness and also pain in the body with slight rise in temperature.

In some patients in addition to the above mentioned conditions the symptoms of bronchial asthma also develop side by side making the conditions worse. These symptoms either develop right from the start of the other symptoms or may develop later as the disease advances. The worse part is that once a person starts with these symptoms he may continue with the symptoms of asthma even after the sneezing attacks stop.

This condition can be very easily diagnosed with the study of the case history of the patient. The tests usually undertaken to identify the pollens are skin tests with extracts of the pollen and scratch or intracutaneous tests giving positive reactions to the pollens simultaneously with a confirmation of the same through consultation of the pollen calendar.

Once the offending pollen is identified the effect of it can be controlled efficiently by hypo sensitization tests. Treatment with antihistamine tablets generally proves to be every effective. But it is only a temporary resort. The allergen has to be properly identified and then treated accordingly with preventive measures and drug therapy if need be.

Taking preventive action to overcome seasonal sneezing attacks is very important. For this undue exposure in a particular season should be completely avoided. Outdoor activities like tending to the garden or farming should not be done. The windows of the rooms should be kept closed as far as possible to avoid exposure to the allergen. In extreme cases using air conditioning may be the only way out.

The patients of perennial sneezing or perennial allergic rhinitis have sneezing, running nose, blocked or stuffy nose and nasal discharge almost all the year round. These people many - a - times are found to be snoring at night and are in the habit of breathing through the mouth. They have discomfort in the ears because of blockage in the ear tubes that open in the throat.

These are called Eustachian tubes. When the irritation persists for a long time a person tends to rub the nose vigorously and repeatedly. This leads to development of a crease across the nose called the allergic crease. Some paranasal sinuses may also get blocked leading to accumulation of secretions.

When the ear, nose and throat get infected repeatedly there may be accompanying fever. Exposure to irritants like cold wind, sunlight, dust, fumes and smoke all lead to aggravation of the symptoms. These symptoms usually occur in the early morning hours and then the symptoms may continue throughout the day and even at night. The symptoms in severe cases may resemble symptoms of asthma accompanied with bronchial spasm and suffocation.

The condition is generally diagnosed after studying the family history of allergy. The lab test of eosinophil count is a must to come to concrete conclusions. Skin test of pollen and other allergens is necessary in case the eosinophil count is normal. Treatment with antihistamines helps very limited people. Nasal drops may provide temporary relief but they should be used very sparingly as they work on the principle of cauterization, that is burning o the mucous membrane of the nose so that the nasal passage becomes insensitive. Hyposensitization works efficiently and surgery may be used in very extreme cases only.

Some Relief For Canadians Suffering From Asthma

There are about three million Canadians living with the effects of asthma. It is treatable, but can be severely disabling in the worst cases. Every year, 500 people in Canada die from the consequences of an uncontrolled asthma attack.

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airway passages of the lungs. It may be mild, moderate, or severe, even in the same person from flare up to flare up. The causes are not understood. There is often a family history of asthma or respiratory disease. The symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person. Most commonly, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and a sensation of tightness in the chest are experienced.

An asthma attack may be triggered by any number of things. When that happens, the lining of the airways gets inflamed and irritated, causing the muscles surrounding them to spasm. An excess of mucus may be produced, as well. It becomes difficult to breathe and, in the worst attacks, can become impossible, leading to an emergency situation. In an asthmatic, the airways are almost always inflamed to some extent, so that when exposed to a trigger they react quickly.

The most frequent triggers are allergens such as pollen, dust, and animal dander. Cigarette and fire smoke can also be triggers. Exercise, because you are asking the airways to process more air may lead to an attack. Cold air can trigger an attack because it is irritating to already inflamed tissues. Even stress can be a trigger for some people.

Despite the fact that asthma is a treatable condition, cases of disabling asthma have risen in recent decades at a disproportionate rate relative to the prevalence of asthma in the population. The reason for this is not fully understood. Some researchers believe that it is because more time is now spent indoors, where allergic and non-allergic triggers can concentrate while the sedentary lifestyle contributes to a decline in health.

The financial impact of living with disabling asthma can be considerable. The cost of medical treatment and medications, as well as lost wages from sick days, or from not being able to work at all, can all contribute to a strained money situation. In that case, any sort of financial help can be of great value to asthmatics and their families, enabling them to live more comfortably.

Asthmatics with a significant impairment in two or more aspects of daily life, and with marked impairment in one aspect, may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. The other main requirement is that the condition must have been, or be expected to be, present for a duration of at least one year. The tax credit can be taken by a supporting family member, if the disabled does not make enough income to pay taxes.

It is critical that the paperwork be complete and accurate. Denials are often the result of an error or omission to the documentation, when the applicant would otherwise have qualified. For this reason, it can be of benefit to have the filing prepared by an experienced professional.

Best Ways To Treat an Asthma Attack

Asthma is a serious health condition that can happen in all different ages and backgrounds. You have to be careful with the asthma. In this article, you can find some basic ideas to help you to handle your asthma effectively and prevent the asthma attack. Read this article before you consult your doctors about your condition.

1. Avoid any scented products

If you have asthma, you probably know that scented products, such as perfume, air fresheners, and detergent, may be dangerous for you. Some scented products might irritate your nasal system and induce your asthma attack. Try to substitute those scented products with the unscented ones. By doing so, you are able to control your asthma better.

2. Avoid feather pillows

If you suffer from asthma, do not use feather pillows in your bedroom. The feathers can cause asthma symptoms and damage your lungs. My recommendation is hypoallergenic pillow because it is effective to prevent asthma attack.

3. Apply dehumidifier in your house

This is an excellent tool to manage your asthma. It reduces the asthma attack by decreasing the humidity in your house. If you use a dehumidifier with filter, you will also be able to remove some allergens, such as dust, insect, mites, from the air. It is important because humid air can trigger your asthma symptoms instantly. By doing so, you also prevent the mold to grow in your house. Protect yourself against these allergens to control your asthma symptoms.

4. Visit your doctor often

One of the most important things that you can do to control your asthma is to visit your doctor regularly. He will identify the triggers for your asthma. You can ask him about taking the allergy test to know your triggers. After you know the substances that can trigger your asthma symptoms, you can prevent the asthma attack by avoiding those substances. Your doctor may give you some medications for you to treat your allergies. Be careful with those medications. Do not forget to read the instructions before taking those products. You may also consider using some natural remedies to control your asthma.

5. Avoid being exposed to pollen

You need to protect yourself from being exposed to pollen. Make sure that you stay at home when the amount of pollen is high. If you need to go outside at this time, make sure that you wear a protective mask to prevent the pollen to come into your nasal system.

Asthma Attacks - What You Can Do

When a person with asthma experiences a sudden worsening of his or her asthma symptoms it is called an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, the smooth muscles around the bronchial tubes in the lungs contract, making the airway openings more narrow. Less air can flow through these openings and inflammation of the lungs is a result. This inflammation quickly increases and the airways become more swollen. Mucus production by the cells in the airways increases more than usual and this narrows the airways even further. These changes to the airways cause the symptoms of asthma, notably wheezing and difficulty in breathing.

When you are with someone who is having an asthma attack there are things you can do to help them. First of all you should remove the victim from the cause of the asthma attack. This will be a certain allergen such as pollen in the air or on the skin, smoke, or other strong odors. Keep the victim calm, comfortable, and sitting upright.

If the asthma attack victim has not already used a rescue inhaler, ask the person if he or she has an inhaler and assist the victim with the inhaler, if necessary. A rescue inhaler is the best first aid for asthma attacks. It is important that you use the rescue inhaler prescribed to the asthma attack victim and not use someone else's inhaler.

In the event that there is no rescue inhaler to use or if the asthma symptoms do not improve after administering the inhaler, you can also use steam to help the victim. Run very hot water from a faucet and have the person inhale the steam being careful not to touch the scalding water. Help the victim focus on their breathing and pucker their lips when he or she exhales.

If an asthma attack is severe then it may be possible that all of the preceding steps will not decrease the asthma symptoms. In this event, or when a rescue inhaler is not present, you may need to call for emergency medical help. The information given here is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. If someone you know or love has asthma it is important to learn all you can about this condition so that you can help the person in the event of an asthma attack.

Asthma Treatment and Eight Things Not to Do

* The first thing not to do is deny you have asthma. Saying "Oh it's just a common cold and I'm wheezing a bit. Maybe it's bronchitis?" When a doctor has just confirmed you have the chronic disease of asthma. Being obstructive is a course of action that will likely set your health back dreadfully. Accept the prescribed medications offered.

* Remember to take the medications and do not refuse to take them. Not at first anyway. You need to get acute asthma under control before it controls you. Do not deliberately deviate from the therapy guidelines.

* You may be given an asthma treatment program. Usually corticosteroid inhalers to begin with and possibly some breathing exercises to assist the airways. Not taking your asthma medication to this prescribed schedule can lead to the symptoms becoming erratic. This can be inconvenient at best and possibly fatal at worst. Not using your prevention inhaler regularly as prescribed can add to the possibility of an untimely asthma attack.

* I have read that a peak flow meter is an essential part of your asthma tool kit. Do not believe it. You need the correct oxygen to carbon dioxide balance in your system. Part of the asthma problem is a lack of carbon dioxide in the lungs. Giving a big blow into a peak flow meter will deplete even further the amount of carbon dioxide that is left. Thus exacerbating the problem rather than helping to cure it. One blow into a peak flow meter will take around thirty minutes of careful controlled breathing to recover from.

* Not eating certain foods might be an advantage. It is known that dairy foods, white flour and white sugar help to produce the mucus you do not want. While I am not advocating you become obsessive in avoiding these type of food at all cost, do not eat them to excess. It would be difficult to totally avoid that combination anyway as they are used in so many processed foodstuffs.

* Do not smoke. If your lungs are at risk from asthma then it should be pretty obvious not to add to the aggravation with all the cocktail of toxins that is in cigarette smoke. Even if you do not smoke, make sure you are not in close proximity to others that are smoking. People have been known to have asthma attacks from secondhand smoke from others.

* Sudden changes in temperature can definitely set off some adverse asthma symptoms. It is one of those famous asthma triggers. So do not go straight outside into cold weather without taking care to ensure you are properly wrapped up suitably against such conditions. Make sure you have your rescue inhaler when going out as well.

* Having said all the above, the one thing I did not do was to believe all the doctors told me. While you should use the prescribed medications and plan of treatments offered there are some side effects to these medications. Tell your doctor when you notice those side effects. You could research to see if there are safer effective alternative asthma treatments available.

Asthma - Understanding Your Rescue Inhaler - Dosage and Usage

Say you're asthmatic and have been for years. That should make you an expert on asthma inhalers, right?

Not likely. In decades of experience as a family physician I have found that patients tend to forget the specifics of inhaler use, especially once they're feeling better.

Or say you're new to inhalers. Your doctor probably explained their use and purpose, but by the time you got home you weren't certain which medicine was for what purpose.

Inhalers are divided into two classes: 'rescue inhalers' and 'controller inhalers'. Here is the essence of what you should know about the first and most common type, the so-called 'rescue inhalers.'

Rescue inhalers are intended for immediate relief, or 'rescue' from a serious or bothersome asthma problem. Symptoms of asthma include shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and cough. Rescue inhalers should provide relief within a few to several minutes. Nearly every asthmatic should have a rescue inhaler available for emergency or urgent use.

The most common rescue inhaler is albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin, Proair). Of these, Ventolin is the only one with a dose counter, making it much easier to know how much medication remains in the canister. The most common dosage is 2 inhalations (separated by at least a breath or two), at least a few hours apart. I generally prescribe them every 4 to 6 hours as needed, although in a bad case of asthma they may be needed more frequently.

Also generally speaking, the intention is that the rescue inhaler won't be needed more than a few times a week, unless a patient is experiencing an acute attack due to a respiratory infection, allergy, or other transient situation. Patients who required a rescue inhaler more often than this should also be on a controller inhaler. One exception to this may be exercise-induced asthma. Athletes who only need a rescue inhaler prior to exercise should discuss the possibility of adding a controller drug with their doctor. It may or may not be advisable.

Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent) is another rescue inhaler, often used with asthma, but more frequently with COPD (chronic obstructive lung disease, generally due to tobacco use). It is somewhat more effective in older patients than younger patients. A therapeutic trial may help you decide whether this drug is beneficial for you.

Combivent is a rescue inhaler that contains both albuterol and iptratropium. Anyone needing this inhaler should probably be on a controller drug as well.

Maxair (pirbuterol) is less commonly used, especially now that albuterol comes in generic form at low cost. The beauty of Maxair is the delivery system in the form of the Maxair Autohaler, which delivers the medication automatically when the patient inhales through the mouthpiece.

Dosing any of these medications more frequently than prescribed may lead to side effects of a tremor, jitteriness, wakefulness, insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, or nervousness. The drugs resemble adrenalin - the hormone which courses through your body when someone jumps out and surprises you. Some patients experience these side effects even at low dosages. A higher dose probably will not help you breathe any better, but is more likely to induce side-effects.

Both albuterol and ipratropium come in an inexpensive nebulizer form as well, but patients requiring a nebulizer should generally be on a controller medication.

The primary danger of the rescue inhalers lies in not using them when they are needed, or in using them too much, and thereby avoiding seeking needed medical care.

All of these rescue inhalers are effective for asthmatic patients, although individuals may find that one product works significantly better than another. The expected effect is relief from wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. They will not help head cold symptoms. If you use your rescue inhaler and are still having trouble breathing, you should seek medical attention promptly - call 911 if needed.

Copyright 2010 Cynthia J. Koelker, M.D.

What Are the Best Natural Asthma Medications?

Most of the people around the world are suffering from Asthma, and there are so many reasons for this. Nowadays, the environmental atmosphere in office and home contains so many allergies, pollens and dust mites caused for asthma. From the past few years, it has been observed that, most of the people are using some natural medications. There are so many natural remedies available in the present market, and you can use them without hesitation.

Because of the natural medications, they are not caused for any side-effects. The following few lines will give you some useful information on natural breathing techniques, honey, cloves and some other ingredients in Asthma medications. When it comes to Asthma, it is a respiratory problem, and we can see in children generally. According to health magazine survey, almost 20% of people is suffering from Asthma. If any unfamiliar particles like dander or dust care filled in your lungs, then it caused for irritation.

In most of the times, these particles are caused for blocking entire breathing system and leads for asthma attacks. Every one of us believes that, the asthma heals itself with time. You can find a wide range of conventional methods to control asthma in the present market. When in comparison with conventional methods, the natural remedies are potential in preventing attacks.

First, we will discuss the natural breathing techniques developed by a Russian researcher. In this technique, there is a chance of raising oxygen levels in the body by shallow breathing. This is also similar to the ancient breathing technique called pranayama performed so many people. With this technique, almost sixty percent of people across the world are significantly reduced. And there is no need to depend on inhalers.

The next best natural remedy to prevent asthma attacks, you need to use Honey. You need to take two spoons of honey into a glass of lukewarm milk, mix and drink before going to bed. Moreover, you can use some other honey based remedies with a half tablespoon of safflower seeds and take the mix once in a day. This kind medication will help you in controlling asthma attacks.

Here is the best solution, if you have a copper vessel in your home, please full that vessel with water and let it sit overnight. After that, you need to drink the water before brushing your teeth. As we know that the copper works as a decongestant agent and when you fill the water, it will absorb the elements in the water. This water will prevent the respiratory problems, and it used as natural asthma medication by several people.

After that, if you are suffering from seasonal asthma, then you need to drink a glass of boiled milk with eight to ten cloves of garlic. You need to remove the cloves after the milk gets cool, and you need to drink the milk. It is one of the best natural remedies for preventing seasonal asthma.

Finally, the above said remedies are just a few basic and simple remedies for asthma. However, the best remedy for you is, it is advised to stay away from dust and powerful smelling perfumes and others. Whenever you are going outside, you need to keep a cloth across your nose to prevent entering allergen and pollen material.

Short Guide to Asthma Control

Asthma control is the secret to living comfortably with the disease. If you understand how to identify early symptoms you can expect reliable asthma attack relief.

A tool you must have for asthma control is a "peak flow meter".

It is a hand-held device that measures the rate at which you can discharge air from your lungs. This is called your peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). When you measure your peak flow regularly you will be able to identify an oncoming asthma attack.

To properly use a peak flow meter, you first calculate your best peak flow of discharged air. You do this by taking a deep breath and blowing as hard as possible into the meter's mouthpiece. Give yourself this test over a period of two week when you are breathing with no sign of asthma. Now you will have your personal best peak flow reading.

In the future, when you suspect an asthma attack may be imminent, you can quickly take a meter reading and see of you have a below average reading. If so, you can begin medication for asthma attack relief.

You should be ready to use your medicines when:

You have a peak flow reading less than 50% of your personal best
You feel tightness in your chest
Your experience prolonged coughing or wheezing
Your experience shortness of breath

You doctor can prescribe asthma medicines that prevent attacks and those that treat attacks. These are called "controller medicines" and "rescue medicines". You doctor will explain when and when not to use each of those for asthma control

As you would expect, controller medicines work to reduce swelling in your airways. Medicines with such brand names as Azmacort, AeroBig, Flovent, Intal and Tilade fall into the controller category.

Singulair, Accolate and Zyflo are prescribed for some patients. They are designed to prevent asthma attacks

Controller medicines take hours or days to begin having an effect on your breathing passages and must be taken regularly even if you have no symptoms of an oncoming attack. You could consider controllers every day asthma medicine.

When you are experiencing an asthma attack you need the muscles surround your breathing passages to relax and allow air to pass. You need quick relief and that is exactly what is provided by the medicines in the rescue group.

Brethine, Proventil, Tornalate are examples of inhaled bronchodilators. They are rescue medicines and can be used on a regular basis for fast relief.

If these medicines fail to provide relief emergency room drug treatment of severe asthma attack may be necessary.

This has been a short guide to asthma control, one of the secrets of learning to live comfortably with asthma.

Asthma and Panic Attacks - A Simple Drug-Free Approach Anyone Can Use

If you suffer from asthma, you often live in fear of not being able to breathe properly at any given time. Perhaps you control it with medication and inhalers, but what happens when you are exposed to something that sets it off unexpectedly or if you reach for your inhaler and it is empty? More than likely, you will start to panic and your panic will increase your difficulty to breathe.

Fearing that your lungs are totally shutting down is more than enough reason to set off an attack. Research conducted in Switzerland found that asthma sufferers are almost five times more likely to suffer from panic attacks than those who do not have asthma. The study looked at young adult asthma patients and followed their health and asthma attacks over the next 20 years of their life. About 600 people in all were involved in the study and the resulting asthma induced panic attacks found in many of them led to the findings.

The good news is that with the results of this study and many others that examine the signs and symptoms of asthma and panic attacks, doctors are taking a look at the two conditions as a combined health issue and considering how to treat both conditions at the same time. This is becoming more critical as medical studies are now starting to find that panic attack sufferers are actually developing asthma. Their condition is somehow making them more susceptible to asthma which is a very serious concern for anyone with panic attacks.

Some doctors are expressing concern that this relationship may however actually be a misdiagnosis and some of the symptoms could be easily confused. Something like hyperventilation is common in both conditions. If doctors are not aware that their patient is suffering from chronic panic attacks, they may misdiagnose the case as actually being asthma when that is not the case.

Anyone suffering from either of these conditions should consult with their health care practitioner to ensure that the original diagnosis is correct and that they are getting the proper treatment for their condition. Putting the cases of misdiagnosis aside, it only makes sense to have some sort of treatment that will help these conditions simultaneously. Asthma is usually treated with drugs and people with frequent panic attacks are also usually given drugs as well. But with the side effects of these drugs adding another concern to the picture, seeking alternative approaches to managing asthma and panic attacks makes a lot of sense.