Asthma is a condition that affects breathing caused by narrowed airways (bronchospasm), a swollen or inflamed respiratory system, and abnormal immune system reactions. Common symptoms of asthma include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and pain or pressure in the chest.
There are many contributing factors, including eating a poor diet, being overweight or obese, having low immune function, spending very little time outside, and having a family history of asthma.
Asthma Symptoms and Signs
Asthma symptoms vary a lot in terms of severity and frequency. It’s possible for asthma attacks to only happen occasionally and be very brief when they do. This is one reason why some people remain undiagnosed with asthma and assume that their symptoms are only temporary and therefore normal. Other people with asthma might cough and wheeze most of the time and have severe attacks in response to things that stress their immune systems.
The most common symptoms of asthma include:
• Sneezing and coughing, which sometimes releases moisture and makes rattling noises
• Wheezing, including sounds emanating from your chest as you try to breath
• Running out of air as you try to speak or inhale
• Pressure and tightness in the chest
• Signs of poor circulation and oxygen, including having blue- or purple-colored toes and fingers or skin changes
• Feeling light-headed, dizzy and weak
• Sometimes during an attack you might feel panicked or anxious over your shortness of breath
• Symptoms similar to those caused by allergies, such as watery and red eyes, itchy throat, or a runny nose.
• Dry mouth, especially if you begin breathing through the mouth more often due to shortness of breath when breathing through the nose
• Having trouble exercising or doing anything that causes increased breathing
• Natural Treatments for Asthma Symptoms
1. Reduce Exposure to Irritants and Indoor Allergies
Spending less time in places with high amounts of dust mites, chemical fumes and other toxins can help control asthma symptoms. Cleaning your home regularly with natural products, vacuuming, and using a humidifier can also be helpful.
2. Improve Your Diet and Remove Allergen Foods
The majority of people with asthma have some sort of allergies, which can include food allergies or intolerances that contribute to poor gut healthRemoving allergen and inflammatory foods from your diet — such as gluten, conventional dairy and packaged foods with preservatives and chemicals — can help lower asthma symptoms.
3. Quit Smoking and Lower Environmental Pollution Exposure
Smoking cigarettes or using tobacco products can make asthma symptoms much worse, not to mention that they commonly cause many other lung and health problems. Burning fumes, inhaling gases and contact with construction debris should also be avoided.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight and Exercise Regimen
Obesity is linked to higher risk for asthma and other breathing problems. Although exercise can sometimes cause symptoms in people who already have asthma, staying active is generally very beneficial for improving immune function, preventing obesity and lowering inflammation.
5. Avoid Conditions that Can Trigger Attacks
Very drastic temperature changes, humidity, high temperatures or extreme cold can all make asthma symptoms worse.
Although it’s rare, asthma attacks can sometimes become fatal, so being cautious is always best.
Stay healthy till we meet next week