Asthma

Understanding Asthma

Normally, with every breath taken, air goes through the nose or mouth and down into the throat and into airways, eventually making it to the lungs. There are lots of small air passages in lungs that help deliver oxygen from the air into the bloodstream.Asthma symptoms occur when the lining of airways swell and the muscles around them tighten. Mucus then fills the airways, further reducing the amount of air that can pass through. These conditions can then bring on an asthma “attack,” the coughing and tightness in the chest that’s typical of asthma.

Types

1. Atopic - which is due to eczema, cold, coryza, dust, or swelling
2. Non-atopic - due to allergy
3. Idiopathic - no definite reason- may be diet or stress

Causes of Asthma

Exposure to various irritants and substances that trigger allergies (allergens) can trigger signs and symptoms of asthma. Asthma triggers are different from person to person

• Airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, mould spores, pet dander or particles of cockroach waste
• Respiratory infections, such as the common cold
• Physical activity
• Cold air
• Air pollutants and irritants, such as smoke
• Certain medications, including beta blockers, aspirin, and no steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Sulfites and preservatives added to some types of foods and beverages, including dried fruit, processed potatoes, beer and wine

Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma signs and symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or pain
• Wheezing when exhaling, which is a common sign of asthma in children
• Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
• Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus, such as a cold or the flu

Signs that your asthma is probably worsening include:

• Asthma signs and symptoms that are more frequent and bothersome
• Increasing difficulty breathing, as measured with a device used to check how well your lungs are working (peak flow metre)
• The need to use a quick-relief inhaler more often

Diagnosis

1. Physical Exam

   Doctors will perform a physical exam to rule out other possible conditions, such as a respiratory infection or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The doctor will also ask questions about signs and symptoms and about any other health problems.

2. Tests to measure lung function

   May be given lung function tests to determine how much air moves in and out as breathe. These tests may include

   • Spirometry

     This test estimates the narrowing of your bronchial tubes by checking how much air you can exhale after a deep breath and how fast you can breathe out.

   • Peak Flow

     A peak flow metre is a simple device that measures how hard you can breathe out. Lower than usual peak flow readings are a sign that your lungs may not be working as well and that your asthma may be getting worse. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to track and deal with low peak flow readings.

   • Lung Function Tests

     Often it is done before and after taking a medication to open your airways called a bronchodilator (brong-koh-DIE-lay-tur), such as albuterol. If your lung function improves with use of a bronchodilator, it's likely you have asthma.

Complications

• Signs and symptoms that interfere with sleep, work and other activities
• Sick days from work or school during asthma flare-ups
• A permanent narrowing of the tubes that carry air to and from your lungs (bronchial tubes)
• Side effects from long-term use of some medications used to stabilise severe asthma

Homeopathy and Asthma

Homeopathy offers various treatments aimed at alleviating asthma symptoms and improving overall respiratory health. Initially, palliative medicine is used to overcome acute attacks, followed by constitutional medicine for long-term relief.

Homoeopathic Medicines for Asthma

1. Belladonna

   When there are violent spasms of asthmatic breathing attended by constriction of chest and a sense of constriction of throat if the patient would suffocate , an anti- spasmodic remedy

2. Aspidosperma

   an effective remedy in asthma with difficult respiration , given in 2x or 3x dilution

3. Grindelia

   When there is the abnormal accumulation of mucus, breathing stops when asleep. Emphysema with dilated heart. Asthma in old persons suffering from bronchitis causes partial paralysis of the pneumogastric nerve. An excellent remedy for bringing back the appetite and for ameliorating palpitation and dyspnea,

4. Natrum Sulph

   Attacks during wet weather or in the rainy season should be tried when the patient gets attacked at every change of season. Attacks early in the morning.

   Cough loose, humid with copious, viscid, greenish yellow phlegm, mucus rales, rattling, noises, expectorating large quantities of white mucus which is thick and ropy, the chest feels sore and oppressed. Holds the chest with the hand which gives relief to cough. Asthma associated or alternating with chronic rheumatism.

Benefits of Homoeopathic Treatment

1. Individualised Care: Homoeopathy recognizes that each person's experience with migraines and headaches is unique. A homoeopath will assess the symptoms, triggers, medical history, and individual characteristics to prescribe a personalised treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs.
2. Gentle and Natural: Homoeopathic remedies are derived from natural substances and are known for their safety and minimal side effects. They work in harmony with the body, promoting self-healing and overall well-being.
3. Holistic Approach: Homoeopathy considers not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and mental aspects of an individual. It aims to restore balance at all levels, providing comprehensive care.
4. Long-Term Results: By addressing the underlying causes of migraines and headaches, homoeopathy strives to achieve long-term relief, reduce the frequency and intensity of episodes, and improve overall well-being.

Consulting a Homeopath

Consulting a professional Sanjivani homoeopath is essential for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan. Sanjivani Homoeopaths take a holistic approach, considering the patient's overall health, lifestyle, and specific asthma triggers. They select remedies based on individual symptoms and constitutional types, aiming to provide long-term relief and prevent future asthma attacks.