What You Need To Know About Asthma

Of all the respiratory problems around the world it is asthma which has become the number one concern; it wasn't that long ago that asthma only affected a small percentage of the population. Asthma is a chronic, treatable disease that causes narrowing of airways in the lungs in response to allergens, making it difficult to breathe. The seriousness of this respiratory condition should not be underestimated, as left untreated, it can result in death when a bad attack occurs.

Keeping a constant check on their condition is the most important step for an asthma sufferer. The medical treatment given to patients will depend on the severity of their condition and will be one of three areas which are; preventing the attacks and then providing relief if they do occur, in addition to supplying medical treatment for serious attacks.

Bronchodilators are recommended for short-term relief for all patients but those with mild occasional attacks need no other medication. For asthma patients with frequent but still mild attacks then a low-dose glucocorticoid or a leukotriene modifier should be all that is required as well as a standard Bronchodilator. Oral glucocorticoids will have to be used for the unfortunate patients who have serious and severe attacks

Asthmatics must also identify the triggers that cause the allergic reaction in them and find ways to reduce or eliminate them. The problem is now believed to be made worse as a result primarily of atmospheric pollution which tends to be found in industrial areas and cities.

Serious side effects can be caused by long term use of medication and the stronger the treatment, the worse the problems can be. For instance, liver damage, impotence, fatigue, depression and dizziness are not unusual. Pharmaceutical drugs are formulated to make the body's own immune system to take over but more people are now using natural medicines which are treating the cause of the respiratory condition instead.

Every attack weakens the body's system a little as it becomes hyperactive where the task of the catalyst in medication is to calm and soothe this hyperactive system. However, the natural medications that are used contain natural catalysts which do not cause any side-effects and help restore the body's equilibrium.

Some asthma sufferers have discovered the benefits of yoga as it helps to improve their breathing and overall health. A good nutritional diet will help boost the immune system and natural therapies will not leave large amounts of drugs in your system. The main focus however,should be on the asthma patient learning to control their own condition.