Asthma

Definition: a condition of the lungs where the airways narrow, restricting outflow of air

Causes: Asthma is understood as an inflammatory disease of the airways of the lungs, the inflammation caused usually by an allergic reaction to allergens, including cold. Some drugs can caused asthma, as well as congestive heart failure and exposure to environmental agents in the workplace. Exercise-induced asthma occurs in those already diagnosed with asthma, and usually an attack begins 5-10 minutes after beginning to exercise. This may be due to loss of water from the bronchial surface or heat loss.

Signs and Symptoms:

An asthma attack is characterized by wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and a cough. Sometimes the attack is after exposure to a known irritant.

Treatment:

Medically, various steroid medications or bronchodilators are used.

Various alternative therapies are helpful with asthma. The basics of a good diet are fundamental to managing asthma conservatively – a low-glycemic index diet. Avoiding food allergens such as wheat, sugar, food additives, sulfite-containing foods, salicylate containing foods, and dairy are also helpful. A food elimination diet where suspected foods are eliminated for several weeks and then gradually re-introduced can help identify offending substances. Just be careful when re-introducing substances. Anti-oxidants such as vitamin C and A and lycopene have been shown to help, as well as minerals such as magnesium. Anti-inflammatory supplements such as fish oils and evening primrose oil also help. In short, a good diet, supplemented with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant nutrients can decrease the frequency and severity of asthma. The herb butterbur has been shown to be helpful.

Prevention:

Along with diet, reducing exposure to known allergens is important. Stay inside on days with high pollen counts. Clean out ducts in the house, stop smoking, get rid of pets, remove carpets, and seal mattresses and pillows to decrease exposure to dust mites. Drink plenty of water, and use the supplements above.

Reference:

J Asthma 2003;40 Suppl: 47-53.
Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2003 Apr;90(4):371-7.
Clin Exp Allergy 2003 Oct;33(10):1355-9.
Respirology 2003 Dec;8(4):473-8.
Clin Exp Allergy 2004 Jan;34(1):110-114.