What are effective natural remedies for asthma. How can diet and lifestyle changes impact asthma symptoms. Which holistic approaches show promise in managing asthma. What risks should be considered with alternative asthma treatments.

Understanding Asthma and the Role of Natural Remedies

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition affecting millions worldwide. While there is no cure for asthma, many individuals seek natural remedies to complement conventional treatments and manage their symptoms more effectively. It’s crucial to understand that natural approaches should not replace prescribed medications or medical advice, but rather serve as complementary strategies to improve overall well-being and potentially reduce asthma severity.

Can natural remedies provide relief for asthma sufferers? While research is ongoing, several holistic approaches have shown promise in helping manage asthma symptoms and improve quality of life. These methods range from dietary changes and breathing exercises to herbal supplements and alternative therapies.

Dietary Interventions for Asthma Management

Diet plays a significant role in overall health and can potentially impact asthma symptoms. Research suggests that certain dietary patterns and specific nutrients may help reduce inflammation and improve lung function in asthma patients.

The Mediterranean Diet and Asthma

Studies have shown that following a Mediterranean diet may offer benefits for people with asthma. This eating pattern emphasizes:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Nuts and seeds
• Healthy fats like olive oil
• Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Limited red meat consumption

Why might the Mediterranean diet help with asthma? The anti-inflammatory properties of this diet are believed to contribute to its potential benefits. By reducing overall inflammation in the body, it may help alleviate some of the underlying factors that exacerbate asthma symptoms.

DASH Diet and Asthma Control

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, originally designed to lower blood pressure, may also improve asthma control. This eating plan shares similarities with the Mediterranean diet, focusing on:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean proteins
• Low-fat dairy
• Limited sodium intake

How does the DASH diet potentially benefit asthma patients? By promoting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, the DASH approach may help reduce inflammation and support overall respiratory health.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Asthma

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and cod, have gained attention for their potential anti-inflammatory effects. While more research is needed to confirm their efficacy in asthma management, some studies suggest that increased omega-3 intake may help reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function.

Should asthma patients increase their omega-3 intake? While it’s generally safe to include more omega-3-rich foods in your diet, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Breathing Techniques and Exercises for Asthma Relief

Various breathing techniques and exercises have been explored as potential natural remedies for asthma. While they shouldn’t replace prescribed medications, these practices may help improve breath control and reduce stress-induced symptoms.

Buteyko Breathing Method

The Buteyko breathing technique focuses on slow, controlled breathing and brief breath-holding exercises. While it doesn’t treat asthma directly, some individuals report improvements in their breathing patterns and overall symptom management.

How does the Buteyko method work? The technique aims to retrain breathing patterns, encouraging nasal breathing and reducing overbreathing, which may help some asthmatics feel more in control of their symptoms.

Papworth Method

The Papworth method is a relaxation and breathing system that emphasizes diaphragmatic breathing. This technique teaches individuals to breathe from their diaphragm, maximizing lung capacity and promoting more efficient breathing.

What are the potential benefits of the Papworth method for asthma patients? By focusing on deep, controlled breathing, this technique may help reduce anxiety-related symptoms and improve overall respiratory function.

Pursed-Lip Breathing

Pursed-lip breathing is a simple technique that can be particularly helpful during asthma attacks. It involves breathing in slowly through the nose and exhaling through pursed lips for a longer duration.

How does pursed-lip breathing help during an asthma attack? This technique helps slow down breathing, keeping airways open longer and potentially easing shortness of breath.

Alternative Therapies and Their Potential in Asthma Management

Several alternative therapies have been explored for their potential benefits in managing asthma symptoms. While research is ongoing, some individuals report positive experiences with these approaches.

Acupuncture for Asthma

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Some asthma patients report symptom relief after acupuncture treatments, although scientific evidence remains limited.

Is acupuncture a viable option for asthma management? While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, acupuncture may offer some benefits for stress reduction and overall well-being, which could indirectly impact asthma symptoms.

Biofeedback and Asthma

Biofeedback is a technique that teaches individuals to control certain bodily processes, such as heart rate and muscle tension. Some studies suggest that learning to control these functions may help manage asthma symptoms.

How might biofeedback benefit asthma patients? By learning to control stress responses and promote relaxation, biofeedback may help reduce the frequency and severity of stress-induced asthma attacks.

Herbal Remedies and Supplements for Asthma

Various herbs and natural supplements have been investigated for their potential benefits in asthma management. While some show promise, it’s crucial to approach these remedies with caution and under medical supervision.

Vitamins and Asthma

Certain vitamins, particularly C, D, and E, have been studied for their potential role in asthma management. Some research suggests that these vitamins may help lower the risk of asthma symptoms or exacerbations.

Should asthma patients take vitamin supplements? While a balanced diet rich in these vitamins is generally beneficial, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, as high doses can have adverse effects.

Magnesium and Asthma

Magnesium has been studied for its potential bronchodilating effects. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may help improve lung function in certain asthma patients.

Is magnesium supplementation recommended for all asthma patients? As with any supplement, it’s crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider before incorporating magnesium into your asthma management plan.

Lifestyle Modifications for Better Asthma Control

In addition to specific natural remedies, certain lifestyle modifications may contribute to better asthma management and overall respiratory health.

Weight Management and Asthma

Maintaining a healthy weight is particularly important for individuals with asthma. Excess weight, especially around the midsection, can make breathing more difficult and exacerbate asthma symptoms.

How does weight loss benefit asthma patients? Losing excess weight can improve lung volume, enhance overall respiratory function, and reduce the risk of comorbidities that may worsen asthma, such as diabetes or hypertension.

Stress Management Techniques

Stress is a common trigger for asthma symptoms. Incorporating stress management techniques into daily life may help reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.

• Deep breathing exercises
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Guided imagery
• Meditation
• Yoga

How do stress management techniques help with asthma? By reducing overall stress levels and promoting relaxation, these practices may help prevent stress-induced asthma exacerbations and improve overall quality of life.

Developing an Effective Asthma Action Plan

An asthma action plan is a crucial tool for managing the condition effectively. This personalized plan, developed in collaboration with a healthcare provider, outlines steps to take based on symptom severity and helps individuals respond promptly to worsening symptoms.

Components of an Asthma Action Plan

• Daily maintenance medications
• Rescue inhaler usage instructions
• Triggers to avoid
• Symptoms to monitor
• Emergency contact information
• Steps to take during an asthma attack

Why is an asthma action plan important? A well-designed action plan empowers individuals to take control of their asthma management, potentially reducing the frequency and severity of exacerbations and improving overall quality of life.

Using a Peak Flow Meter

A peak flow meter is a simple device that measures how well air moves out of the lungs. Regular use of a peak flow meter can help individuals with asthma monitor their lung function and detect early signs of worsening symptoms.

How does a peak flow meter benefit asthma management? By providing objective measurements of lung function, peak flow meters can help individuals and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment adjustments and identify potential triggers.

Risks and Considerations of Natural Asthma Remedies

While natural remedies can offer potential benefits for asthma management, it’s crucial to approach them with caution and under medical supervision. Some important considerations include:

• Potential interactions with prescribed medications
• Varying quality and purity of herbal supplements
• Lack of standardization in alternative treatments
• Individual variations in response to natural remedies
• Possibility of delayed treatment for severe symptoms

Why is medical supervision important when exploring natural asthma remedies? Healthcare providers can help assess the safety and potential efficacy of natural approaches, ensuring they complement rather than interfere with conventional treatments.

The Importance of Continued Medical Care

While exploring natural remedies for asthma, it’s crucial to maintain regular check-ups with healthcare providers and continue prescribed treatments. Natural approaches should be viewed as complementary strategies rather than replacements for conventional medical care.

How can individuals balance natural remedies with conventional asthma treatments? Open communication with healthcare providers, regular monitoring of symptoms, and a willingness to adjust treatment plans as needed are key to integrating natural approaches safely and effectively.

In conclusion, while natural remedies offer potential benefits for asthma management, they should be approached thoughtfully and in conjunction with professional medical advice. By combining evidence-based natural approaches with conventional treatments, individuals with asthma may be able to achieve better symptom control and improved quality of life. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your asthma management plan.

Natural Remedies for Asthma

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Natural Remedies for Asthma?
• 10 Natural Remedies for Asthma
• Are There Natural Remedies for Asthma Attacks?
• Natural Asthma Remedy Risks
• Make an Asthma Action Plan
• Use a Peak Flow Meter
• Keep an Asthma Diary
• Goals of Managing Asthma
• More

With all the studies on alternative medicine and natural remedies, you may wonder if there’s a natural cure for asthma. Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma at this point. In fact, you should avoid any treatment or product — natural or otherwise — that claims to be a “cure” for asthma.

Some natural therapies may help you manage symptoms of asthma. For instance, a negative response to emotional stress can cause an asthma attack. Some natural relaxation remedies like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and biofeedback can help relieve stress.

Other findings suggest that diet plays a role in easing asthma symptoms. For example, omega-3 fatty acids found naturally in high-fat fish like salmon, mackerel, and cod may help your body fight inflammation. Whether this may help people who have asthma is still unproven.

Many things get credit for being natural asthma remedies. But because studies on complementary and alternative treatments for asthma have been limited, it’s not clear how safe and effective all of them are.

These natural remedies have been studied:

Acupuncture. This traditional Chinese treatment involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. While some people with asthma say acupuncture eases their symptoms, there’s little proof that it works as an asthma treatment.

Biofeedback. Learning to control your heart rate may help you manage your asthma, but more studies are needed to confirm a benefit.

Herbs and natural dietary supplements. Many people use herbs, plants, and supplements, especially Chinese herbs, to treat asthma. It’s not clear how well many of them work. More research is needed on supplements like magnesium and fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids). But vitamins C, D, and E may help lower your risk of symptoms.

Asthma diet. If you have a food allergy, avoiding trigger foods may also help with some asthma symptoms.

Plant-based diet. Several studies have found benefits for people with asthma who follow the Mediterranean diet.It involves lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil. You eat more fatty fish and poultry than red meat. Experts think this diet helps with asthma symptoms because it helps fight inflammation in your body. A similar eating plan called DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) may also improve asthma control.

Weight loss. Most people who have extra pounds carry them in the middle of their body. This can make it harder for your lungs to work. Losing weight can improve lung volume and lower your chances of conditions that make asthma worse, like diabetes or high blood pressure. It may also make exercise easier, which could improve your asthma symptoms.

Caffeine. Caffeine is a mild bronchodilator, which means it helps open your airways. Studies have found that it may improve airway function in people who have asthma.

Yoga. Stress may trigger asthma symptoms. Breathing exercises used in yoga have been found to help some people with asthma control breathing and relieve stress, a common asthma trigger.

Buteyko breathing. This technique focuses on slow breathing and short periods when you hold your breath. It doesn’t treat asthma, but it may help improve the pattern of your breathing.

Papworth method. This relaxation and breathing system teaches you to breathe from your diaphragm so your lungs fill with as much air as possible.

The typical treatment for an asthma attack is a quick-acting (rescue) inhaler with medication. Sit upright and take slow, steady breaths. Try to stay calm. Follow the asthma action plan that you’ve set up with your doctor. If your breathing doesn’t get better or if you’re so short of breath that you can’t talk, get medical help right away.

Some breathing exercises can help with symptoms of an asthma attack.

• Pursed-lip breathing. This slows your breathing and helps hold your airways open longer so your lungs work better. With your mouth closed, breathe in slowly through your nose. Then breathe out through your mouth, with your lips pursed like you’re whistling, for twice as long.
• Belly breathing. This technique uses the same steps as pursed-lip breathing. But as you breathe in, focus on the movement of your belly. Picture it filling with air like a balloon. It may help to keep your hands on your belly so you can concentrate on the air going in and out.

As you consider the different types of natural asthma remedies, it’s very important to carefully balance your desire to breathe easier with the possible dangers of the treatments, which may be unknown. Keep these things in mind:

• Never use any dietary supplement before checking with your doctor.
• Some natural herbal products, such as bee pollen, may trigger an asthma attack if you’re allergic to the specific plant.
• Never stop using your asthma drugs without your doctor’s knowledge. If you don’t follow your treatment plan, the results can be very serious and even deadly.

If you’re not sure about the claims on a natural dietary supplement product label, call your doctor before taking it. They can check the product to let you know if it has any health benefits.

If you don’t have one already, work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan. This is something you talk about and write down. It helps you tell how well-controlled your asthma is and what to do about it. Your action plan might include:

• How much medicine to take and when
• A list of your triggers and ways to avoid them
• What to do when you have specific symptoms of trouble

A peak flow meter is an inexpensive handheld gadget. You use it to measure how fast air comes out when you exhale hard after a full breath in. This number is called a peak expiratory flow (PEF).

Your doctor may want you to use a peak flow meter to help you recognize signs of trouble. Many asthma symptoms result from not being able to move air out of your lungs. If your PEF goes down, that’s a sign that your asthma is getting worse and that you need to do something.

A diary can help you keep track of how well-controlled your asthma is. Every day, write down:

• Any asthma symptoms you had and how you’re feeling
• Where you were and what you were doing right before a flare
• When you’re using medication and how much
• Your PEF numbers

All of this information, collected in one place, helps you and your doctor see patterns and recognize warnings of asthma attacks. You can learn to prevent them or stop them before you get very ill.

Your doctor can also check your diary to see how well your asthma action plan is working.

Even though there’s no natural cure for asthma, your symptoms can be treated and controlled with several asthma medications. Your goal in managing asthma is to:

• Get an accurate asthma diagnosis.
• Work with your doctor to come up with an asthma action plan.
• Monitor your peak flow rate daily and do the right things when it drops.
• Keep an asthma diary so you can track all your symptoms and medication use.
• Avoid asthma triggers or causes of asthma, including outdoor irritants like smog.
• Seek medical advice and treatment for problems that can worsen asthma symptoms, like GERD, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis.
• Exercise daily to boost your aerobic fitness.
• Prevent exercise-induced asthma by medicating before exercise.
• Eat nutritious foods to boost your immune defenses against viral and bacterial infections.
• Stay at a normal weight.
• Get plenty of restful sleep.
• Call your health care provider at the first sign of asthma symptoms.
• Check in with your health care provider regularly for breathing tests to make sure your asthma is managed and your medications are working at their best.

You hold the key to living well with asthma. Trust your health care provider to give you guidance, and then take daily responsibility for your breathing with proven ways to take care of yourself.

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Natural Remedies for Asthma

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Natural Remedies for Asthma?
• 10 Natural Remedies for Asthma
• Are There Natural Remedies for Asthma Attacks?
• Natural Asthma Remedy Risks
• Make an Asthma Action Plan
• Use a Peak Flow Meter
• Keep an Asthma Diary
• Goals of Managing Asthma
• More

With all the studies on alternative medicine and natural remedies, you may wonder if there’s a natural cure for asthma. Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma at this point. In fact, you should avoid any treatment or product — natural or otherwise — that claims to be a “cure” for asthma.

Some natural therapies may help you manage symptoms of asthma. For instance, a negative response to emotional stress can cause an asthma attack. Some natural relaxation remedies like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and biofeedback can help relieve stress.

Other findings suggest that diet plays a role in easing asthma symptoms. For example, omega-3 fatty acids found naturally in high-fat fish like salmon, mackerel, and cod may help your body fight inflammation. Whether this may help people who have asthma is still unproven.

Many things get credit for being natural asthma remedies. But because studies on complementary and alternative treatments for asthma have been limited, it’s not clear how safe and effective all of them are.

These natural remedies have been studied:

Acupuncture. This traditional Chinese treatment involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. While some people with asthma say acupuncture eases their symptoms, there’s little proof that it works as an asthma treatment.

Biofeedback. Learning to control your heart rate may help you manage your asthma, but more studies are needed to confirm a benefit.

Herbs and natural dietary supplements. Many people use herbs, plants, and supplements, especially Chinese herbs, to treat asthma. It’s not clear how well many of them work. More research is needed on supplements like magnesium and fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids). But vitamins C, D, and E may help lower your risk of symptoms.

Asthma diet. If you have a food allergy, avoiding trigger foods may also help with some asthma symptoms.

Plant-based diet. Several studies have found benefits for people with asthma who follow the Mediterranean diet. It involves lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats like olive oil. You eat more fatty fish and poultry than red meat. Experts think this diet helps with asthma symptoms because it helps fight inflammation in your body. A similar eating plan called DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) may also improve asthma control.

Weight loss. Most people who have extra pounds carry them in the middle of their body. This can make it harder for your lungs to work. Losing weight can improve lung volume and lower your chances of conditions that make asthma worse, like diabetes or high blood pressure. It may also make exercise easier, which could improve your asthma symptoms.

Caffeine. Caffeine is a mild bronchodilator, which means it helps open your airways. Studies have found that it may improve airway function in people who have asthma.

Yoga. Stress may trigger asthma symptoms. Breathing exercises used in yoga have been found to help some people with asthma control breathing and relieve stress, a common asthma trigger.

Buteyko breathing. This technique focuses on slow breathing and short periods when you hold your breath. It doesn’t treat asthma, but it may help improve the pattern of your breathing.

Papworth method. This relaxation and breathing system teaches you to breathe from your diaphragm so your lungs fill with as much air as possible.

The typical treatment for an asthma attack is a quick-acting (rescue) inhaler with medication. Sit upright and take slow, steady breaths. Try to stay calm. Follow the asthma action plan that you’ve set up with your doctor. If your breathing doesn’t get better or if you’re so short of breath that you can’t talk, get medical help right away.

Some breathing exercises can help with symptoms of an asthma attack.

• Pursed-lip breathing. This slows your breathing and helps hold your airways open longer so your lungs work better. With your mouth closed, breathe in slowly through your nose. Then breathe out through your mouth, with your lips pursed like you’re whistling, for twice as long.
• Belly breathing. This technique uses the same steps as pursed-lip breathing. But as you breathe in, focus on the movement of your belly. Picture it filling with air like a balloon. It may help to keep your hands on your belly so you can concentrate on the air going in and out.

As you consider the different types of natural asthma remedies, it’s very important to carefully balance your desire to breathe easier with the possible dangers of the treatments, which may be unknown. Keep these things in mind:

• Never use any dietary supplement before checking with your doctor.
• Some natural herbal products, such as bee pollen, may trigger an asthma attack if you’re allergic to the specific plant.
• Never stop using your asthma drugs without your doctor’s knowledge. If you don’t follow your treatment plan, the results can be very serious and even deadly.

If you’re not sure about the claims on a natural dietary supplement product label, call your doctor before taking it. They can check the product to let you know if it has any health benefits.

If you don’t have one already, work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan. This is something you talk about and write down. It helps you tell how well-controlled your asthma is and what to do about it. Your action plan might include:

• How much medicine to take and when
• A list of your triggers and ways to avoid them
• What to do when you have specific symptoms of trouble

A peak flow meter is an inexpensive handheld gadget. You use it to measure how fast air comes out when you exhale hard after a full breath in. This number is called a peak expiratory flow (PEF).

Your doctor may want you to use a peak flow meter to help you recognize signs of trouble. Many asthma symptoms result from not being able to move air out of your lungs. If your PEF goes down, that’s a sign that your asthma is getting worse and that you need to do something.

A diary can help you keep track of how well-controlled your asthma is. Every day, write down:

• Any asthma symptoms you had and how you’re feeling
• Where you were and what you were doing right before a flare
• When you’re using medication and how much
• Your PEF numbers

All of this information, collected in one place, helps you and your doctor see patterns and recognize warnings of asthma attacks. You can learn to prevent them or stop them before you get very ill.

Your doctor can also check your diary to see how well your asthma action plan is working.

Even though there’s no natural cure for asthma, your symptoms can be treated and controlled with several asthma medications. Your goal in managing asthma is to:

• Get an accurate asthma diagnosis.
• Work with your doctor to come up with an asthma action plan.
• Monitor your peak flow rate daily and do the right things when it drops.
• Keep an asthma diary so you can track all your symptoms and medication use.
• Avoid asthma triggers or causes of asthma, including outdoor irritants like smog.
• Seek medical advice and treatment for problems that can worsen asthma symptoms, like GERD, allergic rhinitis, and sinusitis.
• Exercise daily to boost your aerobic fitness.
• Prevent exercise-induced asthma by medicating before exercise.
• Eat nutritious foods to boost your immune defenses against viral and bacterial infections.
• Stay at a normal weight.
• Get plenty of restful sleep.
• Call your health care provider at the first sign of asthma symptoms.
• Check in with your health care provider regularly for breathing tests to make sure your asthma is managed and your medications are working at their best.

You hold the key to living well with asthma. Trust your health care provider to give you guidance, and then take daily responsibility for your breathing with proven ways to take care of yourself.

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Treatment of bronchial asthma

Bronchial asthma is a disease in which there is a periodic narrowing of the bronchi due to the contraction of their smooth muscles. Narrowing is manifested by sudden shortness of breath mainly on expiration or even suffocation , coughing or coughing attacks, attacks of whistling and dry wheezing in the lungs.

In the absence of treatment bronchial asthma can lead to irreversible changes in the bronchial wall and further in the lung tissue itself. Which is especially sad when it comes to the health of fairly young people. Asthma is treated by a pulmonologist.

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Frequent complaints in bronchial asthma (manifestations)

Periodic coughing – the manifestation occurs suddenly, on certain smells or when it enters certain rooms, in certain months of the year. With non-allergic bronchial asthma, it can manifest itself at certain times of the day (an adult coughs at night), in the cold and during exercise.

Feeling of incomplete inspiration – occurs due to incomplete exhalation, which is prevented by narrowing of the bronchial lumen. In other words, there is already air in the lungs, so it is impossible to inhale even more, even if you really want to.

Sudden shortness of breath in asthma also manifests itself when exposed to allergens (odors, mold and fungus, animals), often combined with cough, dry rales or whistling. If sudden shortness of breath occurs at night, you can think of non-allergic asthma.

I suffocate, asthma attacks – this manifestation of asthma occurs due to a sudden narrowing of the bronchi. Asthma is primarily suspected when a cough is combined with suffocation. However, the appearance of suffocation in heart disease, COPD is possible, especially in adults at a respectable age. People can suffocate with pneumonia. When contacting a pulmonologist, tests and examinations are carried out to identify the causes of asthma attacks.

Wheezing when taking a deep breath – with bronchial asthma, dry: wheezing, buzzing, extended, appear at the beginning of expiration and usually disappear during inspiration. Wheezing during inhalation can be a manifestation of advanced bronchial asthma or when an infection is attached.

I can’t breathe cold air – an adult patient with so-called cold bronchial asthma can present such a complaint. It appears due to the release of histamine in the bronchi in the cold. In addition, cold air is known to promote respiratory tract infections, which often trigger non-allergic asthma.

I suffocate from household chemicals – many adults with allergic bronchial asthma have this manifestation. Substances from household chemicals enter the lungs, where, in the presence of allergies, they cause a contraction of the smooth muscles of the bronchi and the release of mucus. There may be complaints of the same plan: “I suddenly suffocate”, “I suffocate from smells”, “I suffocate at night”.

Dry wheezing and heaviness in the lungs can be a manifestation of both infectious diseases and asthma. Sudden appearance and disappearance, association with smells or the season of the year with a high probability indicates the presence of bronchial asthma.

Whistling in the lungs during breathing – is a variant of dry rales. It is formed from the narrowing of the smallest bronchi, so it has a high tone. Without treatment, other manifestations of asthma join the whistling in the lungs: complete shortness of breath or even asthma attacks.

Forms of bronchial asthma

The form of bronchial asthma is helped to determine the data of the medical history, special respiratory tests – spirometry (FEV1 / FVC), skin tests with allergens, laboratory tests for asthma (sputum and blood). The choice of drugs for the treatment of bronchial asthma and the distribution of accents during it largely depend on the form of the disease.

• Allergic or atopic bronchial asthma occurs due to allergic reactions to various substances of biological or chemical origin. Even in small doses, these substances cause a rapid narrowing of the bronchi, down to the smallest ones, the secretion of mucus in them. Hence the manifestations of asthma: cough, dry wheezing, whistling in the lungs, shortness of breath mainly on exhalation. Allergic asthma often occurs at a young age. With the help of examinations and laboratory tests, it is possible to detect the presence of allergic immunoglobulins (antibodies) E, general and specific, a decrease in respiratory rates when exposed to allergens.
• Non-allergic or non-atopic bronchial asthma occurs due to exposure to poorly understood causes, often due to chronic infections (staphylococcus aureus, viruses, mycoplasmas, chlamydia). Tests for allergic asthma do not show a reaction to any specific allergen. The amount of total immunoglobulin E may be normal or elevated. Non-allergic asthma may be indicated by attacks (shortness of breath, choking, coughing, wheezing, and wheezing) at night, in response to exposure to cold, exercise, or aspirin. And also, the occurrence in adulthood.
• Mixed bronchial asthma is a combination of both main forms. Accordingly, with it, it is possible to single out some group of allergens to which an attack occurs. And at the same time, there are some internal changes that lead to periodic effects on the walls of the bronchi. Perhaps, as asthma is studied, an increasing (percentage) number of patients will be included in this group.

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Can asthma cause complications?

Bronchial asthma can and often causes complications. Especially when it manifests itself in adults against the background of concomitant pathology or when the patient refuses basic treatment.

Respiratory failure – in addition to short-term effects from a lack of oxygen (feelings of suffocation, shortness of breath, dizziness) that an adult feels during the attack itself, there are also long-term effects (weakness, decreased performance, mental and physical retardation in children).

Pulmonary emphysema – the formation of air-filled blisters with connective (scar) tissue in the walls. It arises from increased pressure in the lungs when coughing and intense attempts to exhale during an asthma attack. In conditions of a closed lumen of the bronchi, this leads to ruptures and stretching of the lung tissue.

Pulmonary fibrosis – replacement of lung tissue involved in respiration with scar tissue, which only maintains its shape (not always successfully). Fibrosis eventually occupies an increasing part of the volume of the lungs, which makes their functioning less and less efficient.

Pulmonary edema occurs due to increased pressure in the capillaries and leakage of blood plasma into the intercellular space, often leading to a fatal outcome.

Methods of treating bronchial asthma

Gradual treatment of bronchial asthma is by far the main one for any form. Depending on the number and duration of attacks, 4 or 5 steps are distinguished in the treatment. The first two steps use inhaled glucocorticoids and short-acting beta-2-agonists. With each next step, the dosage of glucocorticoids and the frequency of inhalation increase, it becomes preferable to use various combinations of basic drugs for bronchial asthma, as well as long-acting drugs that expand the bronchi. The added drugs largely depend on the form of bronchial asthma and are selected by a pulmonologist or allergist.

Self-treatment is unacceptable, any treatment is possible only on prescription.

The effectiveness of the treatment of bronchial asthma is controlled not only by the patient’s feelings (decrease in the number of attacks of shortness of breath, suffocation, dry cough), but also with the help of breath tests prescribed periodically during the selection of the optimal drug combinations.

In case of allergic and mixed asthma, against the background of stepwise treatment and a clear definition of allergens, it is also possible to conduct allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT), which over time can eliminate or reduce the need for basic therapy (glucocorticoids or other drugs).

In case of non-allergic and mixed asthma, also against the background of the basic stepwise treatment, it is possible to treat chronic lung infections (from staphylococcus, chlamydia, mycoplasmas and viruses).

If the sputum in bronchial asthma becomes yellow or green, this may indicate the addition of an infection. An allergist or pulmonologist may prescribe expectorants or inhalants that dissolve the sputum to make it easier to pass such sputum.

Asthma physiotherapy and massage help drugs to penetrate deeper and work more effectively.

The restructuring of the bronchial wall by scar tissue can also be partially corrected by the appointment of drugs that absorb scar tissue.

Average treatment times

Asthma treatment is usually lifelong. In the case of ASIT (allergen-specific immunotherapy), the treatment takes on average up to 4 years, and then it can be hoped that basic therapy will not be required for several years. With non-allergic and mixed asthma in the case of treatment of chronic lung infections with antibiotics or immunomodulators, one should not hope for complete success and the abolition of basic therapy is not worth it, such treatment will largely be experimental. The answer to the question: “Is asthma in adults completely treated?” – will be negative.

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Investigations, diagnostics for suspected asthma

Computer spirography (examination of the function of external respiration)

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Computed spirography (examination of respiratory function)

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To diagnose the functions of external respiration in bronchial asthma, medical spirographs and spirometers are used, which record the volumes of inhaled and exhaled air, the speed of the process under conditions of physical exertion, in the presence of an allergen and a drug that dilates the bronchi. For home use, devices are much simpler and cheaper – peak flow meters. Allergen skin tests are used to look for an allergen. The more allergens are used, the easier it is to control the manifestations of bronchial asthma in the future. Laboratory analyzers determine the total levels of immunoglobulin E in the blood or sputum. If desired, you can determine the amount of specific immunoglobulins E against certain allergens. In this case, the doctor will be clear which allergens are the strongest.

Popular questions:

How to treat asthma?

Current guidelines describe stepwise asthma management. The central place in it is occupied by basic therapy with inhaled glucocorticoid drugs (budesonide, fluticasone propionate, mometasone furoate, beclomethasone dipropionate), sodium cromoglycate, antileukotriene drugs. It is basic therapy that can prevent serious changes in the lungs. To expand the bronchi during an attack, beta-2-agonists, ipratropium bromide, theophylline are used. How to treat asthma – in each case, the doctor determines, the delivery of the drug, dosage, frequency of use are of considerable importance.

What is asthma in adults?

An illness characterized by sudden attacks of coughing, shortness of breath, choking, coughing, dry wheezing, heaviness in the chest, or whistling in the lungs. Bronchial asthma usually continues throughout life. Over time, it can lead to severe complications or even death.

Causes of asthma in adults

Occurs due to an allergy to some substances in the air or as a result of poorly understood processes in the bronchi themselves (possibly chronic viral and bacterial infections). Ultimately, the smooth muscles of the bronchi begin to contract on their own, narrowing their lumen and making exhalation predominantly difficult.

How does bronchial asthma manifest itself?

Bronchial asthma can also occur at a young age. Then it manifests itself with sudden attacks, most often associated with the presence of allergens. It can be shortness of breath mainly with difficulty exhaling, coughing fits, coughing, dry wheezing (whistling) in the lungs, heaviness in the chest. Older adults may have the same manifestations, but associated with taking aspirin, inhaling cold air, falling at night, and this will also be a manifestation of bronchial asthma.

Is asthma in adults completely treatable?

Modern step / basic therapy has a minimum of side effects and in most cases completely prevents severe complications and death from bronchial asthma. Independent attempts to abandon basic therapy in most cases only lead to a deterioration in the condition and the appearance of complications. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) and/or treatment of chronic lung infections makes it possible to reduce the doses of basic drugs.

What helps with bronchial asthma?

Bronchial asthma is helped by glucocorticoids and beta-2-agonists, which are used for inhalation (inhalation). Pharmacies already have ready-made combinations of these drugs. However, in addition to these basic tools, there are others that can be extremely useful in your case. In the treatment of bronchial asthma, the lack of specific drugs in the home pharmacy helps to a greater extent. And the ability to apply them and specific knowledge that can be obtained during the visit to a pulmonologist and / or an allergist.

Treatment of bronchial asthma

Bronchial asthma is a chronic infectious-allergic disease of the bronchi, manifested by inflammation of the bronchi and the appearance of shortness of breath.

The main mechanism of bronchial asthma is bronchial constriction caused by bronchial muscle spasm, swelling of the bronchial mucosa and accumulation of thick sputum. In addition, the disease has a pronounced relationship with allergies and attacks are provoked by contact with various allergens – plant pollen, dust, chemical reagents, etc. Also, bronchial asthma is considered a psychosomatic disease, there is a connection between stress and exacerbation of attacks.

All of the above defines the main directions in the treatment of bronchial asthma.

Inhalers are used to quickly eliminate an attack: salbutamol, fenoterol (Berotek), terbutaline. Sometimes intravenous administration of aminophylline is used.

Treatment of asthma (not just relief of an attack) requires an integrated approach that combines pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods.

First (and this is not medication), lifestyle changes. This is a hypoallergenic diet and a hypoallergenic lifestyle. This means reducing (ideally, eliminating) contact with allergens: inhaled, consumed with food, getting on the skin. Sometimes you have to change your place of residence for this. Sanitation (purification) of foci of chronic diseases (nasal sinuses, teeth, tonsils, nasopharynx and oropharynx) is also desirable. Psychotherapy is recommended to adapt (increase resistance) to stressful loads.

Medications should be selected by a pulmonologist after examination and examinations (peak flow, spirometry, radiography, pulse oximetry). Medications differ in their mechanism of action and indications for use:

– antiallergic,

– bronchospasmolytics,

– non-hormonal inhalation drugs,

– adrenomimetics and antileukotriene drugs,

– cromones ,

– anticholinergics,

– expectorants,

– inhaled hormonal drugs,

– glucocorticosteroids,

– sodium bicarbonate,

– combined preparations.

Thus, the treatment of bronchial asthma is the selection of the most effective drugs for relieving attacks and preventing attacks.

Treatment uses a stepwise approach based on the severity of the condition. If the condition worsens, the transition to a higher stage in treatment. If the condition improves, vice versa. To comply with the stepwise approach, constant monitoring of the patient’s condition is necessary, which means regular meetings between the patient and the pulmonologist.

In the treatment of bronchial asthma, physiotherapy is actively used: aerosol therapy (through an ultrasonic nebulizer), aeroionotherapy, magnetotherapy, laser therapy, electrotherapy, phonophoresis, massage, hydrotherapy, hardening, electrosleep, halotherapy (salt cave), sunbathing.

For the prevention and improvement of vitality, spa treatment is indicated . For asthma treatment to bring the greatest benefit, you need to carefully choose a resort – this will help not only improve your health, but also get a good experience.

There are many factors to consider, one of which is acclimatization. When moving to other climatic conditions, the human body goes through the so-called period of adaptation. In the adaptation time, there is a deterioration in well-being, and the sharper the climate differs, the worse the person tolerates the move. Therefore, we recommend choosing a sanatorium located in a place where the climate differs little from what you are used to.

For patients with bronchial asthma, it is best to visit the resort at a time when ragweed and other plants that can cause severe allergic reactions do not bloom. Plant pollen most often provokes an exacerbation of the disease. It is better to prefer boarding houses located in the highlands or on the territory of coniferous forests.

In the case of a vacation in a sanatorium zone in another part of the country or abroad, the vacationer is expected to change the usual hourly schedule. It also has a negative impact on health, especially if the journey is by plane.