Asthma is a common ailment that results in inflammation of the lungs’ airways. Breathing becomes more difficult as a result of the ensuing swelling and constriction of the airways, as well as the tightening of the muscles around them and the elevated mucus levels. People suffering from asthma may occasionally need to stay at home from work or visit the hospital. In some cases, the condition can even be lethal.
People with asthma can frequently control their daily symptoms with the aid of home cures and therapies. However, these can only assist a medical treatment plan, not replace it.
Acupuncture: Thin needles are inserted into particular spots in the body as part of this ancient Chinese treatment. Although some asthmatics claim that acupuncture helps them manage their symptoms, there isn't much evidence to support its efficacy as a treatment.
Biofeedback: Although additional research is required to prove any benefits, learning to control your heart rate may help you manage your asthma.
Natural dietary supplements and herbs: Asthma is often treated with plants, herbs, and vitamins, particularly Chinese herbs. In most cases, their effectiveness is unclear. Vitamins C, D, and E, however, may help reduce your likelihood of experiencing symptoms.
Diet for asthma: Avoiding trigger foods may assist with some asthma symptoms if you have a food allergy.
Plant-based diet: The Mediterranean diet has been shown to help asthmatics in a number of trials. It contains a lot of whole grains, nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats like olive oil. One consumes more poultry and fatty fish than red meat. According to experts, this diet reduces inflammation in the body, which helps with asthma symptoms. DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), a similar diet plan, may also help control asthma.
Reduction of weight: Most people who are overweight carry excess weight in the centre of their bodies. The lungs may have a tougher time functioning as a result. Losing weight can increase lung capacity and reduce the risk of diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure that exacerbate asthma. Additionally, it can make exercising simpler, which could lessen the symptoms of your asthma.
Caffeine: As a moderate bronchodilator, caffeine facilitates airway opening. According to studies, it might help asthmatics' airways function.
Yoga: The symptoms of asthma may be triggered by stress. Yoga breathing techniques have been shown to assist some asthmatics manage their breathing and reduce stress, which is a typical trigger for asthma.
Buteyko's respiration: This method emphasises holding your breath for brief periods of time and gradual breathing. Although it doesn't cure asthma, it might help you breathe more regularly.
Papworth technique: This breathing and relaxation technique instructs you to use your diaphragm to inhale as much air as you can into your lungs.
An asthma attack is usually treated with medication and a quick-acting (rescue) inhaler. Breathe steadily and slowly while sitting up straight. Keep your cool. Adhere to the asthma action plan that you and your doctor have established. Seek medical attention immediately if your breathing doesn't improve or if you're so out of breath that it’s difficult to speak.
The symptoms of an asthma attack might be lessened with certain breathing techniques.
Breathing with pursed lips: This helps your lungs function better by slowing your breathing and keeping your airways open for longer. Breathe in slowly via your nose while keeping your mouth shut. Then, for twice as long, exhale from your mouth while keeping your lips pursed like you're whistling.
Breathing in the belly: The same stages as pursed-lip breathing are used in this technique. However, pay attention to how the belly moves as you inhale. Imagine that it is like a balloon inflating with air. Keeping your hands on the stomach may help focus on the air entering and leaving your body.
Before taking any dietary supplements, make sure to consult your doctor.
If you have a plant allergy, some natural herbal products like bee pollen can cause an asthma attack.
Never stop taking your asthma medication without first consulting your doctor. There could be fatal consequences if you don't adhere to your treatment plan.
Before taking a natural dietary supplement, ask your doctor if you have any questions about the claims on the package. They can examine and inform you of any potential health advantages.
Create An Action Plan For Asthma
Create an asthma action plan with your doctor if you don't already have one. It assists you in determining the level of control over your asthma and how to manage it. You may include the following in your action plan:
• When and how much medication to take
• A record of your triggers and strategies for avoiding them
• What to do if you experience certain signs of distress
Use A Peak Flow Metre
A peak flow metre is a portable, low-cost device. It's used to gauge how quickly air leaves your body after taking a deep breath. Your doctor may advice you to use one to help you spot warning symptoms. The inability to expel air from your lungs is the cause of many asthma symptoms. If your PEF decreases, it indicates that your asthma is worsening and that you should act.