The Least Toxic Asthma Remedies

With black box (sudden death) warnings on some combination inhalers and others with new propellants that irritate tissues in some asthma sufferers, the right medication can be hard to find. Patients need to be educated and informed in order to manage asthma symptoms. Home remedies and lifestyle changes can be helpful; the responsible use of prescription drugs may also be part of an asthma management plan.

Triggers and Treatments

• Spasms in the muscles surrounding small airways in the lungs during an asthma attack constrict bronchi and impede air flow. Wheezing, tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing occurs. Bronchial spasms are caused by chronic inflammation and hypersensitivity of the airways. Allergens, irritants, cold air, pollutants, drugs, food additives (sulfites are a common example), even exercise can precipitate an attack. Some sufferers have asthma in response to stress, anxiety, changes in humidity, or low blood sugar. A chest cold increases bronchial irritation making symptoms worse. Avoiding triggers is not always possible. Medications in rescue inhalers do not treat inflammation. While they temporarily open airways, if used improperly these inhalers can cause throat constriction and airway irritation. Mild dependency on rescue inhalers occurs over time; other meds are needed to reduce symptoms.

  Steroids treat inflammation and prevent bronchial spasms. It is important to follow the manufacturer's directions: use only as prescribed and rinse the mouth with water following inhalations.

  A nebulizer machine produces a mist of saline and liquid prescriptions for inhalation. The treatment takes approximately 15 minutes and is useful during a respiratory infection. Treatments can cause fast heart rate, tremors, insomnia and even vomiting. Side effects generally wear off quickly, however.

  Leukotrine modifiers, such as Singulair, modify secretions that irritate the lungs. These medications are generally "added on" to other therapies. They don't work for everyone and there is concern about side effects, including suicidal depression.
  Spirometry is a way to measure the amount and speed of exhalations. Analyzing results can inform the asthmatic and their doctor whether or not asthma is well-controlled. Spirometry helps to determine the smallest effective dose of medication so that toxic side effects can be avoided or minimized. Drugs may have to be adjusted to meet increased needs, for instance when a respiratory infection occurs.

Natural Remedies

• By eating a diet of unprocessed or minimally processed foods, many food additives can be eliminated. Elimination diets take time and dedication, but the results can be worthwhile. Cow's milk allergy is common among asthmatics. Avoid casein, or milk protein.

  Many asthmatics have low blood sugar. Eating small frequent meals of proteins, whole grains, and non-starchy vegetables throughout the day and avoiding sweets will keep blood sugars level.

  Magnesium, manganese, selenium, vitamin C and B vitamins, particularly B6, are deficient in many asthmatics. Use chelated forms; in calcium/magnesium supplements the ratio should not be more than 2:1. Another mineral that has shown promise in asthmatics is methylsulfonomethane (MSM), an organic form of sulfur. MSM has anti-inflammatory properties. It should not be confused with sulfites, which may trigger attacks.

Exercises

• Diaphragmatic breathing, or abdominal breathing, increases air flow. Practice this technique before the need arises. Inhale so that the belly expands and sticks out. Exhale and suck the belly in. The diaphragm is a muscle below the lungs that moves during respiration. Abdominal breathing can eliminate panic that makes asthma attacks worse.

  Forward leaning postures and breathing techniques learned as part of a yoga practice will assist the body to exhale completely and relax. Blowing balloons, learning to play wind or brass instruments, and swimming are enjoyable activities that improve lung function.