Keep Your ASTHMA Under Control

Asthma is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes that causes swelling and narrowing of the airways which results in difficulty in breathing. An asthma attack may last a few minutes or for days and can happen anywhere, at any time.

Causes:
Asthma is caused by a complex interaction of environmental and genetic factors. Exposure to various allergens and irritants may trigger your asthma symptoms. The following are common things that trigger asthma symptoms:

• Allergens, such as pollen, animal dander or mold
• Cockroaches and dust mites
• Air pollutants and irritants
• Strong odors or scented products or chemicals
• Respiratory infections, including the common cold
• Physical exertion, including exercise
• Strong emotions and stress

Symptoms & Signs of Asthma:

The symptoms of asthma vary from individual to individual. Some of the symptoms are:
Shortness of breath - especially with exertion or at night
Wheezing - a whistling or hissing sound when breathing out
Coughing - usually it becomes worse at night and early in the morning; and may occur after exercise or when exposed to cold, dry air
Chest tightness - may occur with or without the above symptoms.

What care should be taken at home?

These guidelines may help to keep asthma under control:
• Avoid smoke, especially cigarette smoke, vapours and chemical fumes
• Stay indoors during the humid season or the change of seasons especially when the pollen count in high.
• Do not use fans in closed and dusty places
• Cover mattresses and pillows with plastic covers.
• Do not use a vaporizer or humidifier unless it is thoroughly cleaned.
• The cleaning of the house or the surroundings should be done by wet mopping rather than sweeping, wherever possible. This avoids the generation of allergen aerosols which could act as a triggering factor.

Yoga & Asthma

Yoga is an alternative treatment for asthma. It helps our lungs work better and enhances airflow during asthma attacks.

Kapalabhati Breathing Technique

Yoga and asthma cannot distance themselves from pranayama, a highly meditative breathing technique. Kapalabhati requires that you breathe rapidly in short sequences and consciously control the movements of the diaphragm (a membrane separating the abdomen from the chest). This exercises the entire respiratory system.

Anuloma Viloma Breathing Technique

This is known as alternate nostril breathing technique. You inhale through one nostril and exhale through the other with a long retention of the breath in between. This brings breathing a much needed rhythm.

Asthma cannot be cured, but careful management can help you to avoid asthma attacks and keep its symptoms under control.