Asthma

What you can do if u do have asthma... .







Eat foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants such as fruits and vegetables


Eat foods rich in B vitamins such as green leafy vegetables, and sources of magnesium such as wholegrain cereal products and nuts


Avoid foods or additives that trigger attacks, which could include: cider, wine and beer; tea, aspirin or vinegar; foods containing yeast or mould, such as bread and blue cheeses; foods, drinks and snacks containing colourings; cow's milk.


Don't smoke





Asthma is a chronic, potentially serious respiratory condition. An asthma attack makes breathing difficult, and may cause wheezing and coughing, along with a sense of tightness in the chest due to the swelling of inflamed bronchial passages.

Experts divide asthma into two broad groups: extrinsic and intrinsic. The vast majority of cases are extrinsic. This form of asthma tends to run in families along with other allergic conditions such as eczema and hay fever, and appears first in childhood. Symptoms may be produced by a variety of triggers, such as anxiety, physical stress, infection, air pollution, pollen, dust mites and animal hair. Food allergies may also prompt attacks or make them worse, especially among children who have eczema. Intrinsic asthma appears to begin in adult life; external factors do not cause it, but they can trigger attacks.

POTENTIAL TRIGGERS

Because an allergy is a highly individual condition, it is not possible to give a definitive list of possible triggers. If you suspect that any foods or additives are triggering your asthmatic attacks keep a food diary and seek expert medical help.


The caffeine factor

Before the appropriate drugs were available, asthmatics took coffee to reduce the effects of attacks. Caffeine is chemically similar to theophylline, used in some medications to dilate the bronchial tubes and assist breathing. In emergencies, two cups of strong coffee should bring relief within 2 hours, with the effects lasting for up to 6 hours. However, coffee, tea and caffeine-containing cola drinks should be avoided by those taking theophylline as the combined effect can be toxic. A high intake of caffeine is also inadvisable if your attacks are triggered by anxiety.



Plant remedies






A herb tea made with thyme, hyssop or lavender flowers.


Feverfew or greater celandine, under the direction of a herbalist