On average, one in four children, and one in ten adults suffer from asthma. Interestingly enough, the developed world is far more prone to the condition, which researchers believe relates to our ‘clean’ lifestyle1.
While the causes are not fully understood, asthma often arises when a family history of the condition, as well as eczema or hayfever, exists. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy and early childhood has also been linked to heightened tendency towards asthma.
This chronic inflammatory disease is accompanied by wheezing and shortness of breath. The two main types of asthma are intrinsic asthma, which usually develops in conjunction with an infection or later in life or may follow the birth of a child or after change of life, and extrinsic asthma, which is caused by allergies.
During an asthma attack the mucous membranes swell and the bronchial tubes go into spasm, breathing is an effort, and the exhalation of air from the lungs becomes more and more difficult.
In some individuals foods may cause an adverse reaction that leads to asthma. Clinical studies have shown that egg, fish, shellfish and nuts (in particular peanuts) can cause the immediate onset of asthma. Delayed onset of asthma may be caused by chocolate, wheat, citrus fruit and colourings, in particular tartrazine (yellow dye food additive number 102). Other foods such as those high in amine or salicylate could also be the cause of allergic symptoms such as asthma.
Unfortunately many individuals may suffer from multiple allergies and if this is the case then time will be needed to establish all allergy problems. Asthma attacks may also be caused by small particles of feathers, pollen, dust, mould, animal dander, air pollution and fly sprays etc. These allergens can aggravate the bronchial tubes in sensitive children or adults, causing an asthma attack.
Other triggers include1:
- Colds and flu
- Exercise
- Inhaled allergens (eg pollens, moulds, animal dander and dust mites)
- Environmental factors (eg dust, pollution, woodsmoke, bush fires)
- Changes in temperature and weather
- Certain medications (eg aspirin)
- Chemicals and strong smells (eg perfumes, cleaners)
- Emotional factors (eg laughter, stress)
- Some foods and food preservatives, flavourings and colourings (uncommon)
Medical management is required for the treatment of asthma, which involves drawing up an ‘Asthma Action Plan’ with the assistance of your GP.
Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be managed. Most people with asthma carry out their daily activities without symptoms. Good asthma management allows you to lead an active, healthy lifestyle.
Complementary therapies include:
- Vitamin C to reduce the sevierity of symptoms of allergic reactions.
- Cod Liver Oil is a rich source of Vitamin A which is essential for lung and mucous membrane repair, and omega-3 fatty acids which are soothing to inflamed respiratory tissue.
Light exercise can help reduce asthma frequency in some individuals.
Consult your healthcare professional or go to hospital:
- If your asthma does not respond to your medication If the attack is worsening even after using relieving medication
References
1. The Asthma Foundation Victoria. http:www.asthma.org.au (accessed 4 July 2006).
