Sep 14
2007

Most asthma sufferers are familiar with the inhalers and oral remedies prescribed by their doctors for the treatment of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath that accompany an asthmatic episode. While these medicines are typically effective in the treatment of the condition, there are people who may prefer a more natural approach to asthma relief, for a variety of reasons. Some people want more natural remedies.

Any drug introduced to the body has the potential for unpleasant side effects; short term reactions such as nausea and long term concerns such as potential permanent damage from steroids used to decrease inflammation in the lung tissues. There has been ongoing controversy in the medical community regarding the safety and advisability of steroid use. While these can be life-saving, there is concern that the steroids may cause irreversible damage such as muscle weakness and bone loss. To minimize the frequency of use, the asthma sufferer can make some dietary and lifestyle changes to help reduce the likelihood of an asthma attack.

The best “natural” defense against an asthmatic episode is to avoid known triggers. People with sensitivity to tobacco smoke should obviously stay away from it; and if your trigger is cat dander, you’ll just have to avoid petting the kittens in the pet store – no matter how adorable. Stay indoors on “high pollen” days if that is your trigger and always try to keep stress levels down. Using common sense is the first step toward lowering frequency of asthmatic episodes.

Asthma sufferers can also make healthy changes to their diets which can minimize asthma symptoms. Beyond avoiding known dietary triggers such as food allergies, nutritional supplements in the form of necessary vitamins and minerals can go a long way toward minimizing asthma attacks. Nutritional deficiencies make for a weakened system that isn’t able to effectively fight unexpected environmental triggers. Asthmatics need to exercise care even when using natural supplements. Make sure supplements are hypo-allergenic so as not to react to those! The need for certain vitamins and minerals may be greater among asthma sufferers than the average person as the condition itself tends to contribute to certain deficiencies. A good multi-vitamin is recommended to compensate for these deficiencies and make for a healthier body, better equipped to ward off reactions. Asthmatics also tend to have very low magnesium levels – a mineral that helps relax bronchial tubes – so a supplemental dose may be advisable. Finally, Vitamin C is believed to improve bronchial functioning.

More and more people are turning to herbal remedies to find relief from asthma symptoms. While most herbal supplements are not evaluated or endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration, there have been reports of success among those who have used them. Tylophora indica, used in Auyervedic medicine in India, has been getting a lot of positive attention thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, some individuals treated with the herb, Boswellia, reported a reduced number of asthma attacks. Butterbur is another promising herb shown to be as effective as traditional antihistamines in initial studies. As conclusive studies have not been done on most herbal remedies, the asthma sufferer is advised to be cautious when experimenting with these.

While it is possible to relieve symptoms of asthma, and reduce the likelihood of an asthma attack by avoiding known triggers, making lifestyle and dietary changes, and using certain herbal remedies, it is imperative to listen to your healthcare provider. Discuss vitamin and herbal supplements with your physician, and keep him informed of any changes you make and improvements you notice in your condition. The journey to a healthier life begins with a healthy amount of care and old-fashioned common sense.

About the author:

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for AsthmaDocs.com. To learn more about natural asthma remedies and asthma treatments, please visit our site.

Written By: Gray Rollins

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Jul 25
2007

An asthma patient generally has sensitive air passages, or airways, resulting in difficult breathing for the patient when these air passages are irritated from an atmospheric change.

As mentioned earlier, it is crucial to note that some sports will have a higher probability of inducing attacks in an asthmatic. However this does not mean that an asthmatic cannot exercise safely.

If an asthmatic is looking for a safe sport, researchers point to swimming as the best possible sport for asthmatics ” as the breathing required rarely if ever causes chest tightness among swimmers. Although, participating in another form of exercise that would require exactly the same about of oxygen to circulate might not cause the same reaction in the participant. Yo ur guide to asthma, symptoms, causes, treatment and more.

Of course, some asthmatics will experience acute attacks when they enter the swimming pool. Researchers needed to find an explanation, and it did not prove difficult to explain the reason. Some asthmatics are very sensitive to chlorine, as an irritant. Thus, it is not possible to state that swimmers who are asthmatic do not have attacks.

Running of any type is often a terrible idea for asthmatic patients as it will, in some people, trigger an almost immediate attack. However, recent treatment advances have enabled some athletes who were previously unable to run for more than a few seconds to adapt their exercise routines to include running.

If an asthma patient is in a situation where they are breathing heavily, it may trigger the start of an asthma attack. Common instances of heavy breathing include not only exercising, but also the breathing tests required for the diagnosis of asthma.

Yes, if you are an asthmatic you should exercise. There remain many choices for type of exercises and sports. Asthma-afflicted athletes should get an appointment with a sports medicine specialist who will be able to address athletic medical issues with the patient. The specialist may also be able to provide useful tips and innovative treatment methods to the asthmatic that other physicians might not have considered trying.

Sports which involve short bursts of activity interspersed with short periods of rest make great activities for the asthmatic. Some examples include; swimming, team sports like football or softball, volleyball and yoga or Pilates. Generally, the time required for exercise induced acute attacks to occur is six minutes of constant heavy breathing.

As inspiration to continue exercising and participating in sports, it is key to notice that many past Olympians have also been asthma sufferers who managed their condition carefully, with the input and treatment plan of their physician.

These steps, if followed in combination with a personalized asthma treatment plan, will help the patient to have a successful and healthy exercise routine: * Warm up properly, and do not forget to cool down. * Avoid exercising in dry, cold air. If it cannot be avoided, be sure to cover both mouth and nose. * Stay in good physical shape – Staying healthy will increase an athlete’s ability to successfully avoid asthma attacks during exercise periods.

Many patients will require not just a preventative or reactive medication, but a tailored combination of both types of medications in order to provide them with maximum relief from their illness. Most physicians agree that the desired outcome it to get the maximum relief from the minimum amount of medication.

About the author:

Diana for www.health-care-information.org Complete guide to as thma and asthma treatment.

Written By: Diana Statham

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Jul 22
2007

Are you looking for some inside information on Asthma? Here’s an up-to-date report from Asthma experts who should know.

One of the keys to effective asthma treatment is asthma education – not just for the patient but for everyone involved in his or her life. Rather than treating asthma like a string of isolated asthma attacks, doctors are now treating asthma as a chronic condition that is affected by nearly every aspect of the patient’s life. Instead of focusing on acute care intervention, doctors now focus on daily management, medication and monitoring to help minimize symptoms of asthma and lessen the severity of asthma attacks when they do happen.

Asthma education is a key part of that management. By teaching the patient and his family how to monitor his own condition, what causes flare-ups of symptoms and how to avoid them, doctors can reduce the number of hospitalizations and emergency room visits due to asthma. Using a peak flow meter, an asthmatic can keep track of his lung capacity – and seek appropriate treatment if it wanders into the danger zone. Education about asthma can impress upon him the importance of measuring every day – and keeping careful records.

Extending that education into the community can literally save your child’s life. Something as simple as spending an hour with a third grade class to show them how to help someone having an asthma attack can pay back unexpected dividends. After all, wouldn’t you rather know that all of your child’s classmates will recognize an asthma attack – and do the right thing when they see one?

Sometimes the most important aspects of a subject are not immediately obvious. Keep reading to get the complete picture.

The administration of your child’s school is another place where asthma education can pay off big dividends. Many schools still don’t understand how vital it is that a child with asthma has his inhaler with him at all times. When schools deny an asthmatic child his right to carry his inhaler for fear that other children will find a way to abuse it, the results can be disastrous. Making the effort to do a bit of advocacy and asthma education can literally make the difference between life and death.

Community asthma education can also make a big difference in whether or not children with asthma are properly diagnosed. Many people still don’t recognize the symptoms of asthma unless they see an acute attack – but mild asthma, and the symptoms of chronic asthma can be devastating to a child’s life. Chronic respiratory illnesses, bronchitis, pneumonia and chest pain can keep children out of school and in the emergency room. By educating the community through public service announcements, school outreach programs, clinic visits and physician incentives, many children with hidden asthma can be reached and treated, reducing the overall costs of health care as well as improving the individual child’s health.

Like diabetes education ten years ago, asthma education today can help alert parents, identify those who suffer from asthma and make sure that appropriate treatment is available to everyone who needs it. This is especially important in the case of childhood asthma, where the diagnoses and treatments and standards of care so often seem to be inequitable. Asthma education can help ensure that all parents are aware of the standard of treatment that their children SHOULD be getting – which is the first step to ensuring that the children get the care that they require. Now you can understand why there’s a growing interest in Asthma. When people start looking for more information about Asthma, you’ll be in a position to meet their needs.

About the author:

Check out MyHealth-Info.com for more information on asthma education.

Written By: Masni Rizal Mansor

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Jun 19
2007

Summer is the time of the year that most of us look forward to but overexposure to heat can cause heat related illnesses.
Summer is the time of year most of us look forward to but with the heat and humidity that accompany it there is a risk of heat related illness. Sunburn is one of the most frequent effects of too much time spent in the sun. Some people with extremely sensitive skin may be prone to sun poisioning when they get a sunburn. Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can cause heat cramps which consist of muscle spasms, excessive sweating and sometimes nausea or vomiting.

Heat exhaustion is a condition that can affect anyone although elderly people and young children are more easily affected. This condition is sometimes confused with heat stroke. If not treated immediately and properly heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. In heat exhaustion there is usually heavy sweating and muscle weakness. The skin may be cool or cold and clammy. Fainting may also occur. Heat stroke occurs when the body’s temperature control malfunctions. The skin becomes hot, dry and flushed. This is a life-threatening condition that may require hospitalization. Immediate treatment is imperative in heat disorders since any delay could result in the condition being fatal. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke call an ambulance immediately. Remove as much clothing as possible and sponge bathe the skin with cool water. Use fans or air conditioning to try and cool the person. If they are conscious do not give them any fluids.

Sun and heat exposure can also cause skin rashes such as heat rash. Fair-skinned people are especially prone to heat rash which is caused by excessive sweating that results in reddish blisters that are extremely itchy. Those who are prone to heat rash should always use a sunscreen when planning outdoor activities. Prickly heat is a rash which also occurs when there is excessive perspiration due to heat and humidity. Heat rash is a fine red rash that may last from a few hours to a couple of days.

Those who suffer from chronic conditions which affect the lungs such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), bronchitis, emphysema and asthma should take extra care in extremely hot weather since these conditions are easily aggravated. Extrinsic asthma occurs when there is an allergen in the environment. Those who have been diagnosed with this type of asthma are apt to have more attacks in the spring and summer when allergens are most potent. During cooler months they are able to breathe better and have less attacks.

People who suffer from allergies such as hay fever are also more likely to have attacks during hot, humid weather. They may have periods of excessive sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and difficulty breathing. Even if you are on regular medication you may want to ask your physician about ways to lessen the effects of heat and humidity on your allergies. It may be best to stay indoors and try to keep cool when humidity is at its highest. If you suffer from any type of illness that may be heat aggravated stay out of the heat as much as possible, take extra measures to keep cool, follow your physician’s instructions and have a happy, healthy summer.

About the Author

Darlene Zagata is a freelance writer and poet. Her work has appeared in several electronic and print publications. Darlene is the Editor of the Health department at RITRO.com and she co-authors a column with her son at RaisingASon.com. She is also a Review Editor for MyShelf.com and an Editorial Reviewer for The Writer’s Room Magazine. Her book of poetry “Aftertaste” is now available at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble. Her first book of fiction, “The Choosing” is currently in the process of publication.

Written By: Darlene Zagata

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Apr 5
2007

The number of newly diagnosed asthma cases in the United States has risen dramatically over the past ten to fifteen years. Part of the reason may be due to the availability of better medical care and early diagnostic methods used by many doctors today. More people may be willing to visit their doctors for breathing-related difficulties than in previous generations. But it is also likely that more people are afflicted with asthma than ever before due to a number of environmental factors like pollution, pesticides, and even building insulation. With increased industrialization, more factories are burning more fuel and releasing greater amounts of waste products into the air. Since a significant percentage of the population now lives in urban areas, they are undoubtedly feeling the effects of chronic exposure to airborne toxins. Conversely, even in rural areas improved technology is impacting the way that farmers grow crops and control pests. Pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers may help to ensure better crops, but runoff from fields where these substances are used can get into the water system or food products and lead to the development as asthmatic-type symptoms.

Although many people do not know if they have asthma, there are some symptoms to look for that may indicate the presence or development of this chronic condition. The most obvious clue, and one that should be checked promptly by a doctor, is shortness of breath. This may come and go or show up only when a person is exposed to certain triggers, often allergens like dust, pet dander, or household chemicals. Some foods can bring on an asthma attack, especially nuts, eggs, and shellfish, although others are likewise culprits. See your doctor promptly if you develop a breathing disorder, and if you experience difficulty catching your breath, seek emergency assistance.

Other possible signs and symptoms of asthma include a dry cough, chronic allergy symptoms like sneezing or watery eyes, wheezing, and other related breathing changes. Asthma causes the airway to become congested, which tightens the throat and lungs, making it harder for air to pass through. This is what leads to breathing difficulties.

No matter how probable it may be that you or a loved one is showing signs of asthma, you will need to see the doctor for an accurate diagnosis and a prescription for treatment. You may need to use a bronchodilator, which blows a special medical vapor into your throat and lungs to ease constriction. Prescription medications can help, as can avoiding obvious or suspected triggers. Controlling allergic symptoms by removing household or job-related allergens also can help to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks. Some doctors supplement conventional treatment with herbal remedies, but check with your physician before taking over-the-counter medications or formulas.

Asthma can be a serious condition and may even become life threatening for some. Work with your doctor to get the best care and improve your condition, or that of a loved one, to avoid serious complications from this chronic condition.

About the Author

Do you need more information on treatments for asthma? Visit The Asthma Directory at http://www.asthma-dir.com

Written By: Charles Kassotis

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Feb 10
2007

An asthma patient has particularly sensitive air passages, or airways, resulting in difficult breathing for the patient when these air passages are irritated from an introduced substance or atmospheric change.

Asthma medications frequently need to be reviewed by a patient’s physician in order to ensure that the medication continues to be effective for the patient in controlling and preventing the onset of asthma attacks. Yo ur guide to asthma, symptoms, causes, treatment and more.

Many patients will require not just a preventative or reactive medication, but a tailored combination of both types of medications in order to provide them with maximum relief from their illness. Most physicians agree that the desired outcome it to get the maximum relief from the minimum amount of medication.

There is currently no cure available for asthma, however new discoveries in the medical research field are increasing the medications and techniques used to monitor and treat asthma in patients with the disease.

Among both children and adults, asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses in countries including the United States and much of Europe. Because asthma is considered a chronic illness, treatment regimens for patients must be followed accordingly in order to reduce the affects and ongoing health problems that can result from mismanagement of the condition.

Pregnant women who suffer from asthma need to monitor and reat their asthma correctly, not only for their own health but for that of their unborn child. It is perhaps never more important for a woman asthmatic to stay in touch with their treating physician than when they are pregnant.

Although there is much concern of the safety of medications taken during pregnancy, most of the commonly used asthma medications have been proven to be both safe and effective. Although no new asthma medications (or other medications, for that matter) will ever undergo direct testing on pregnant women due to the serious risks and implications facing the developing company.

Some asthma medications have proven through repeated usage over many years, that they are not only effective in treating asthma and safe for the unborn child, but also that they provide protection of the unborn child from afflictions like oxygen deprivation that might occur as a result of the mother’s asthma condition.

Physicians and researchers agree that it is imperative for pregnant women to continue their treatment plan for their asthma. There is no risk associated with treatment medications that is large enough to counteract the benefits to the unborn baby as a result of keeping its mother healthy.

About the author:

Diana for www.health-care-information.org Complete guide to as thma and asthma treatment.

Written By: Diana Statham

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Nov 15
2006

In approximately 25% of people with lung cancer, there are no symptoms and the cancer is detected during screening or a routine physical examination. However, in three-quarters of lung cancer patients there are warning symptoms and signs that can alert the patient or their physician.

Most commonly, lung cancer patients experience respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, hoarseness and a persistent cough. These symptoms are very common among smokers, and are also present in a number of other conditions such as asthma, emphysema and chest infections. A new cough should always be evaluated, as it may be a symptom of lung cancer. Lung cancer may spread to the chest wall, causing chest, shoulder and back pain. If cancer cells erode lung blood vessels, the patient may cough up blood. There may also be other generalized effects that occur with most cancers, such as fever, fatigue, appetite loss and weight loss.

As a lung cancer grows, it increasingly compromises the normal functioning of an affected lung. Secondary complications may occur, such as collection of fluid in the tissue lining the lungs (pleural effusion), lung collapse, airway obstruction, and repeated lung infections. Lung cancer may also spread or metastasize to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, bones, liver and brain. Bone pain and abnormal liver or brain function may result.

The absence of symptoms does not necessarily indicate early disease, and the presence of non-specific chest symptoms can often go unheeded. Both these factors contribute to the fact that only about 15 percent of lung cancer patients are diagnosed in the early stages of disease. The later lung cancer is diagnosed, the less effective treatment options are. Delays in diagnosing lung cancer patients result in an overall survival rate of only 15 percent at five years after diagnosis.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Asbestos Lung Cancer provides detailed information on Asbestos Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer, Lung Cancer Stages, Lung Cancer Survival Rate and more. Asbestos Lung Cancer is affiliated with Asbestos Exposure.

Written By: Steve Valentino

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Nov 12
2006

Identifying the triggers can help Asthma sufferers

Asthma affects millions of Americans each yea and is extremely prevalent in children, affecting more than 5 million. Asthma is caused by the smaller airways in the lungs being blocked causing the person to cough and to have shortness of breath. Many people may not be able to breath for an extended period of time requiring an emergency response.

Symptoms of chronic asthma sufferers are coughing, especially once the person is exposed to cold, shortness of breath and wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing. However it is important to note that not everyone that suffers from asthma wheezes and vice versa.

There are many different triggers that can cause asthma. Persons with asthma in their family tree are more likely than others to develop asthma as children. Many environmental factors can trigger asthma, including living in an urban environment with increased levels of pollution. Many studies show that pollution is a major trigger of asthma sufferers. Allergies have also been shown to trigger asthma. Allergies such as mold, mites and pollen have uncomfortable affects on asthma sufferers. Virus’s such as parainfluenza virus and respiratory syncytial virus are also leading triggers of asthma.

Reducing the above triggers can be extremely useful in reducing asthma. Paying close attention to the environment that you live in, such as staying away from areas with high levels of pollution. Effectively cleaning your home to remove mold and mites can also lessen the intensity of asthma as well as purchasing a good filtration system if you live in an area with a high pollen count.

If you think that you or a loved one may be suffering from asthma it is best to consult with a physician.

About the author:

Jay is the web owner of Weight Loss, that provides information on weight loss, diets, and excercise. You can also visit his website at: Diet Pill Information or Health Insurance Information

Written By: Jason Bauder

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Oct 13
2006

Managing and controlling asthma is very important for asthma sufferers. Knowing the triggers that affect your airways and learning to avoid these things is key.

Asthma triggers can be any number of things. If you smoke or allow smoking in your home, you should stop. Wash sheets, blankets, and pillows once a week and look into dust-proof covers for mattresses to help control dust mites. If the pollen count is too high, stay indoors.

Asthma suffers affected by cold air should wear a scarf over the mouth and nose in winter, and should wash their hands often and get a flu shot to prevent colds and the flu. Food triggers should be avoided. If animal dander is a problem, owning a pet can be a major hassle. Keep the pet out of the house, or at least out of your bedroom, and wash your pet often. Keeping humidity levels at a rate beneficial to your health is crucial, but avoid the use of humidifiers.

Once you know what your triggers are and how to control them, you should make a plan of action with your physician. Your doctor will help you figure out if any of your current medications are affecting your asthma, and what asthma medication is right for you. You should follow your asthma plan properly with the correct usage of your medication. If you’re unsure about the use of your medication, consult your doctor, who can teach you how to properly use the inhaler or other treatment methods.

Controlling your asthma is crucial, but if your asthma symptoms are not under control, it can get worse. If your symptoms happen more often and are getting worse, or you have to use a quick-relief inhaler often (every day is too often), you should contact your doctor for a change in medication or other steps to control your asthma.

Asthma affects so many people and should be managed and controlled to keep the dilemma from getting out of hand. Using and sticking to a plan that works for both you and your doctor is the only way to ensure that your asthma is controlled properly.

This article is for information purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose or prevent any health issue or illness. If you have or think you have asthma or any other illness, consult your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.

About The Author

Amanda Baker writes for http://tobeinformed.com – a website for health, fitness and wellness.

Written By: Amanda Baker

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Sep 16
2006

Tips for Extrinsic Asthma Sufferers

Asthma onset can sometimes be serious, but the good news is that there are plenty of over the counter remedies and doctor prescribed medication that it is usually treated effectively. Aside from all of the medication that is available to treat asthma, here are some tips to decrease the severity for Extrinsic Asthma sufferers.

If you suffer from extrinsic asthma which is asthma due to environmental factors, the following substances may ail you: pollen, pollution, pet dander, and certain molds. The best way to decrease the onset of an asthma attack is to avoid these substances and protect yourself against them. Make sure that there is no mold growing in your house. Use the air conditioning or an air purifier during times of high pollen and if you decide to have a pet, make sure that your pet does not increase the incidence of your asthma attacks.

Other factors that can wreak havoc on an extrinsic asthma suffer is the weather. Many people don’t realize but going from one extreme temperature to another increases the risk of an asthma attack. You may decide that a mild climate such as southern California or the southwest is best for your health. If you live in the north parts of the country you might be doing more damage to your body than is necessary.

If you have any questions about asthma, you should consult your physician.

About the author:

Jay is the web owner of http://www.weight-loss.biz Weight Loss, that provides information on weight loss, diets, and excercise. You can also visit his website at: http://www.diet-pill.info Diet Pill Information or http://www.insurance-health.biz Health Insurance Information

Written By: Jason Bauder

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