Asthma affects about 17 to 18 million people in the United States and is becoming more common.The reason for the increase in the prevalence of asthma among children is not known, but it may relate to one or both of the following theories.

One theory is that the widespread use of vaccines and antibiotics in children has shifted the activity of a special subgroup of white blood cells (called lymphocytes) in the body from fighting infection to releasing chemical substances that inadvertently promote the development of allergies.

Another theory is that, because children are spending more time indoors and living in better-insulated homes than they were in the past, the exposure to potentially allergic substances is increased. There are few data to support either theory.

There is an array of drugs that can be used to prevent and treat asthma attacks. Most of the drugs used to prevent asthma are also used to treat an asthma attack but in higher doses or in different forms. Some people need to use more than one drug to prevent and treat their symptoms.

Asthma attacks may commonly be prevented if the factors that trigger them are identified and treated or avoided. People who have asthma should avoid cigarette smoke. Often, attacks triggered by exercise can be blocked by taking medication beforehand.

When dust and allergens are the problem, air filters, air conditioners, and other types of barriers (such as mattress covers, which reduce the amount of particles from dust mites that are in the air) can help considerably. For people whose asthma is stimulated by allergies, desensitization through the use of allergy shots may prevent attacks.

A better understanding of the condition can be useful in the treatment of asthma. Asthma inhalers or bronchodilators are the most preferred form of medication for immediate relief. Antihistamines are also used to treat allergic symptoms. In extreme cases, cortisones are prescribed.

Some prefer natural therapies such homeopathy or acupuncture. For chronic suffers, regular breathing exercises such as those practiced in yoga maybe helpful. Care should be taken not to overdo any form of physical activity as this could trigger off “exercise-induced” asthma.

I recommend: The safe and natural asthma treatment information by Susan Millar.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 31st, 2007 at 4:56 pm and is filed under Asthma. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.