:::Pro-Homoepathy:::

Asthma is a respiratory disease which is characterized by attacks of cough, wheezing and breathlessness due to airway obstruction, inflammation and hypersensitivity.

CAUSES

Infections: Viral infections in childhood such as influenza or parainfluenza virus.
Dust, smoke and air pollution can cause asthma.
Dust mite in blankets or children’s stuffed toys can trigger asthma.
Cigarette smoking can cause asthma.
Inhaled allergens such as pollens, animal dander, smoke can trigger asthma.
Milk, eggs, shellfish, nuts, chocolates, strawberries are ingested allergens which may trigger asthma. Allergens are things which cause allergy.
Exercise especially running may trigger asthma.

SYMPTOMS

Dry irritating cough may precede or accompany the attacks of asthma with a whistling sound known as wheeze.
There is a sense of tightness in the chest with restlessness.
Patient sits up and bends forward to breathe or runs to the window to relieve his sense of suffocation. He may become anxious with perspiration and cold extremities.
Duration of the attack may vary from few minutes to several hours.
The attack may terminate spontaneously or with treatment as the bronchial spasm gets less.

INVESTIGATIONS

X RAY CHEST
Complete blood count shows eosinophilia.
Skin tests confirms the allergens.

MANAGEMENT

Try to find out what triggers your asthma attack.
Identify the allergen and try to avoid it. For e.g. If eating non vegetarian food triggers asthma then try to avoid it, instead include fresh fruits, vegetables and soups in your diet.
Keep away from strong perfumes, smoke etc.
Avoid food which contains artificial color and flavors.
Keep children away from stuffed toys.
Perform Yoga regularly.