The Holistic Method Of Salt Therapy For Asthma

Often when people hear the word “salt”, images of high blood pressure and heart disease come to mind but really, good health is dependant upon the proper balance of natural salts. Therefore, adopting the natural holistic method of salt therapy is essential to maintaining a resistance to free radicals and toxins within the body.

Iodized table salt from the grocery store not taken in moderation can have detrimental effects on the body. It thickens the blood which in turn makes the heart pump harder to push the blood through the arteries and capillaries. This is one of the root causes of heart disease. However, natural crystalline sea salt has many powerful antioxidants and can stave off the effects and help to normalize blood pressure, whether it is high or low. A good salt therapy is also used as an alternative asthma therapy due to the fact that sea salt is a natural antihistamine.

Placing natural salt on the tongue and consuming a few glasses of water helps to reduce the effects of asthma and provides relief from dry hacking coughs. Typically, hacking coughs come as the result of phlegm in the throat and the thicker it is, the longer the cough will last; the salt thins the mucous and stops the cough. There are so many advantages to adopting a good salt therapy regimen. Because our bodies are made up of mostly salt and water, replenishing them often will help reduce the effects of osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s Disease in addition to being a good alternative asthma therapy.

There are so many wonderful advantages to adopting the holistic approach of salt therapy. Taken in moderation, it is very good for you and can help reduce the effects of high blood pressure and heart disease. Doctors with good holistic therapy acumen also tout the benefits of salt in regulating emotional disorders such as depression. It is important to note, though, that those with existing kidney and heart conditions should speak with their doctors before adopting any type of holistic approach. While these methods can be very advantageous, they can also be detrimental to those with medically treated conditions so it would be very astute of the patient to notify their doctor when considering this approach.

If you suffer from asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis or even simply hay fever and similar allergies, salt therapy may be an avenue well worth considering to compliment your current treatment.

This article lists some natural cures for asthma that are safe and can be used on children as well as adults. Asthma is a condition that seems to be predominantly hereditary. If you suffer from asthma then you probably also suffer from other hyper allergenic conditions such as eczema and food intolerances. The most common food intolerances are allergies to diary, wheat and nuts.

Many people are now turning away from conventional medicine in search of a cure for their ailments. As amazing as drugs are at treating diseases they very rarely treat the cause of the disease and more often target the symptoms. A patient may start feeling better but not realise that they are simply masking the symptoms and soon the ailment with manifest as some other disease. Are there any natural remedies for asthma that work effectively?

Luckily, there are natural cures for asthma that actually do work. Some work more effectively when taken in combination with other treatments depending on your symptoms. Here is a list of the most commonly used and vouched for treatments for asthma.

1. The Alexander Technique is a method that works to improve ease and freedom of movement, balance, support and coordination. By doing so you also change the way you breathe and this can have a profound effect on asthma sufferers. Although this is not a quick fix method, if practised often enough can lead to reduced wheezing and asthma symptoms.

2. Chinese Licorice Root is a very powerful herb that is used often in traditional Chinese medicine to treat asthma. Asthma can present in many ways and a specific tincture is mixed according to your symptoms. This is normally made into a drink and consumed for 3 to 4 weeks. It is important that you obtain a prescription from a qualified practitioner of herbalist before consuming any herbs.

3. Acupressure is another traditional remedy that dates back from ancient China. It is believed that asthma is caused by a blockage in the lung or spleen meridean and by unblocking this energy pathway, asthma can be cured. Acupressure originates from the same principle as acupuncture but is much less frightening to those who are afraid of needles.

4. The Bowen Technique is a gentle, soft touch therapy that is very popular in Australia, Canada and the UK. This therapy aims to re balance the nervous system and treat the cause of asthma as opposed to the symptoms. Many case studies have reported an 80% reduction in use of inhalers and asthma attacks and in some there is no longer any need for medication.

A nebuliser is a medical device used in the treatment of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other respiratory disorders. Nebuliser treatment normally takes place in hospitals as a way of treating acute conditions in emergency situations, but some patients will also be prescribed nebuliser treatment for use in the home. The medication that is provided in the nebuliser is reliever medication at high doses, although steroids may also be delivered this way. The idea is that the nebuliser delivers the medication in the form of an aerosol which is easily inhaled, however it is generally accepted that using an inhaler with a spacer for around five puffs provides the same level of treatment.

Patients should only ever use a nebuliser when instructed to do so by a doctor or nurse, as they are powerful drug delivery systems and should not be used without supervision. Almost all users have to buy their own nebuliser as they are not available on the NHS. However, patients should be able to buy them VAT free and some NHS funding is available although by no means guaranteed.

Before taking home their nebuliser, patients should be given a thorough personalised and written treatment plan explaining in detail how to use the nebuliser, when and how often to use it and how much medication to use. The plan should also detail how to tell when the condition of the patient is worsening and what to do in this situation. Taking more medication is not a substitute for seeking medical help if the condition worsens as it will only delay the patient from seeking help when their body is clearly signalling that help is needed.

At home, the equipment should be kept on a clean, hard surface, such as a table rather than on the floor as this will limit the amount of dust that can get into the equipment, aggravating the patient’s condition. The nebuliser chamber must be cleaned thoroughly inside and out using warm water every day and the mask or mouthpiece should be cleaned a couple of times a week.

Equipment should be regularly serviced and maintained by the manufacturer. The nebuliser chamber needs a maintenance check every second month and the whole device should be serviced in its entirety twice a year. Whilst the equipment is away being serviced, an alternative should be used. Many manufacturers or hospitals offer loaned equipment in these instances.

To be honest, the asthma attack isn’t over, and it’s been going on for two months. It’s better, but not under control. At first, it was blamed on a severe sinus infection, but that’s been cleared up for weeks. No, the answer isn’t just my lungs. It’s also my emotions.

About five months ago, our eldest daughter, aged 26, disappeared. As she’s an adult, very little can be done to find her, as most officials state that she’s of an age to do what she wants. That’s true. It’s also painful. I was warned of the possibility of my asthma going out of control, and it sure did. Hopefully, what I’ve gone through can help you.

1) Know of the possibility. That has probably saved my life. If you know that an event or emotional problem is likely to create physical problems, prepare. Make sure all your needed prescriptions are up to date…and know where they are. After four years with zero attacks, I couldn’t even find my old inhaler. That’s probably good, as these things do expire.

2) Know the symptoms: I have never had an attack like this one. The cough seemed to be coming from my toes. Mostly, I just get chest tightness and a strangling sensation. Ask your doctor if the symptoms are likely to change or intensify, and what to look out for. The sooner you realize what’s wrong, the faster you can get it under control. The longer you wait, the harder it will be.

3) Know When to Get Help: Your doctor can help you with this. A peak flow meter can be a good guide, but there are also symptoms to watch for. If your skin, lips or nails start to turn blue, you need immediate help. If you are coughing so much it’s hard to breathe, you need immediate help. These are emergencies. Any time you find it difficult to breathe, it’s time to be concerned.

4) Understand your Inhalers: You have to follow the instructions on your inhalers exactly. Your rescue inhaler cannot be used more than a certain number of times per day, usually limited to two puffs twice a day. If you need to use it more than twice a week (let alone twice a day), your asthma is not under control.

Your maintenance inhaler has to be used exactly as prescribed. It won’t help you during an active attack, its job is to keep you from developing one. If you don’t use it properly, it won’t do you much good.

Asthma is a serious disease that can have deadly consequences. If you’ve been diagnosed with it, you need to learn as many facts as you can about it. Talk to your doctor, especially if you have questions. He or she can help you avoid further problems.

Natural remedies for asthma may be used in addition to inhalers and corticosteroids, which are most commonly prescribed asthma medications. These natural remedies serve to help the body manage and fight off the disease over time.

Natural remedies for asthma that have proved useful are:

• Apples – Eating a minimum of two apples per week can reduce the risk of asthma. Apple skin contains selenium which has been proven to be very beneficial in asthma management.



• Fruits and vegetables, like carrots, tomatoes and leafy greens may ease the symptoms and help in prevention of asthma if taken regularly.



• Omega 3 – Increase your intake of animal-based omega 3 fats, also found in krill oil. But make sure you avoid fish, as it has been linked with asthma.



• Reduce your intake of omega 6 fatty acids – these can increase asthma risk and should be avoided. Omega 6 fats can be found in most cooking oils (such as soybean, sunflower, corn, and peanut oil).



• Vitamin E – Asthma is associated with higher levels of oxidants and vitamin E as an antioxidant may help with reduction of these free radicals. Vitamin E can be found in foods such as: mustard greens, spinach, Swiss chard, turnip, sunflower seeds, and almonds.



• Vitamin D – Vitamin D may improve asthma control by blocking the proteins that cause inflammation in the lungs. It can be found in fish, eggs, cereals and dairy products; and it can also be absorbed through exposure to sunlight.



• Butterbur – a shrub that grows in Asia, Europe and North America, which has been very effective in controlling the asthma symptoms. However it may cause some side effects.



• Alternative natural treatments – Ayurvedic remedies like tylophora asthmatica leaves; mullein tea or juice, ginkgo balboa in different forms, licorice root, lobelia, and cayenne pepper which can be added to water.

Natural remedies for asthma – The importance of blocking the alergens:

Blocking allergens is another important method of asthma management. Learn what triggers your asthma and try to avoid the triggers. Allergies to different foods (eggs, wheat, dairy products, gluten, citrus fruits, and nuts) could all be potential triggers of asthma. Antibiotics can change the balance of microbes in your gastrointestinal tract, which can make it easier for the immune system to overreact to allergens.

Natural remedies for asthma may also include other vitamins such as vitamin C, B6 and B12, and mineral called molybdenum (found in nuts, peas, cauliflower and oats cereal) and other herbs. Other natural ways of treatment may also include some breathing techniques, yoga and exercise.

Not long ago, a brand new holistic treatment method offered new-found hope to people suffering from asthma. It is known as the Norton protocol.You can check out the official webpage and learn more about the natural remedies for asthma.

It is easier for an adult to recognize and understand asthma symptoms. Adults can also communicate better with medical personnel regarding what symptoms they are having so that doctors can make an accurate diagnosis. It is crucial to make an accurate diagnosis for asthma so the correct treatment plan can be started and relief from the symptoms can be on the way.

Asthma, once diagnosed is usually a chronic condition and must be treated consistently in order to control the symptoms. Asthma often begins in childhood so by the time a person reaches adulthood they are usually adjusted to life with asthma and understand well when they are experiencing symptoms and can start treatment immediately.

The first thing many adults notice when they are having an asthma attack is they are coughing, feel tightness or pain in the chest area and have difficulty breathing. They may experience shortness of breath when being physically active if their airway is starting to become inflamed with mucus or becoming restricted as the smooth muscles along the airway contract in reaction to swelling and inflammation in the bronchial area.

Adults can have many triggers for their symptoms of asthma. Some triggers are environmental in nature such as particles in the air that they breathe in and irritate the airway. These particles include dust, pollens, and pet dander. Irritants include pollution, tobacco smoke from cigarettes or cigars, fumes from exhaust or harsh chemicals and breathing in airborne triggers like mold spores or mildew.

There are many medications that can help control the asthma symptoms in adults such as rescue inhalers to take during an asthma attack, oral medications taken on a daily basis that help to control asthma symptoms from occurring or that lessen the frequency of asthma attacks. Some medications work by controlling the inflammation in the airways or help to reduce the sensitivity to asthma triggers.

Adults who understand what triggers asthma symptoms have an easier time of controlling the condition and can enjoy life more without frequent asthma attacks. It is important to understand the symptoms, what causes them and how to avoid the triggers if at all possible in order to really feel that you are in control of your asthma.

When an adult has a firm grasp and understanding of the asthma symptoms they are experiencing they can inform the doctor treating them and a treatment plan can be devised. Symptoms can change over time however especially if the person changes environment at work or home. For instance a move to another city can expose you to different allergens and environmental pollutants that may increase or decrease your asthma symptoms. Whenever you experience a change in asthma symptoms you need to notify your doctor so your treatment plan can be adjusted to enable you to remain in control of your asthma.

It is very rare for asthma to just go away. If your asthma symptoms decrease it is usually because you are managing your condition better, you have improved your lifestyle or your environment has changed for the better (fewer pollutants). It is important that adults learn to pay close attention to asthma symptoms, making note of increases in frequency of symptoms or duration of the presence of a certain symptom and then make the doctor aware of these changes.

Your body may become more sensitive to a trigger and you will notice more symptoms than you had previously. For instance using a new laundry detergent or a new shampoo may trigger symptoms. You may be eating at restaurants or shopping in different locations where others are wearing strong perfumes and suddenly you notice an increase in symptoms.

When you finally understand your symptoms and have devised a good treatment plan you will find that adults can still enjoy an active life.

If you would like to know more about Asthma and it’s remedies click on ASTHMA AND TREATMENT below.

Air travel has become a lot more common now than ever before. Many people take flights in planes and travel to destinations across the globe. Air transport has been said to be the safest mode of transport when compared to other modes of transport. Airlines across the world always endeavour to adhere to strict safety measures to ensure the safety of the passengers, crew and the aircraft.

One of the most important features of airline safety is the oxygen masks. These have become a standard and mandatory safety feature and are found on all commercial planes. The oxygen masks are essential for the safety of a passenger during flights. As many passengers may not have used one before, flight attendants usually demonstrate how an oxygen mask is used and how to fasten and securely use one during a flight emergency.

This is very important, as there will not be time to teach passengers the correct ways of using an oxygen mask during a flight emergency. This is why the demonstration is mandatory and is repeated in several languages.

During a regular flight, the cabin is usually pressurized. This ensures that passengers can breathe normally. In the event that a window breaks or there is a crack or tear on the body of the plane, then the pressure in the plane decreases rapidly to very low levels. Passengers will be unable to breathe normally. During such occasions, the pilot will press a conveniently located button that will automatically release oxygen facemasks from overhead compartments. Passengers will be expected to secure the masks on their own so as to breathe normally and avert a crisis. When the oxygen is worn, it automatically releases oxygen at the correct pressure, enabling passengers survive a crisis that would otherwise be catastrophic. This indicates that the oxygen mask is a very important safety equipment feature used in aircraft.

Some planes fly at altitudes of below 12000 feet. In such planes, pressure is very low and the masks produce continuous oxygen. They are very common in almost all planes across the world.

Some masks are used for high altitude flights such as in fighter jets. These masks must be worn at all times. They provide oxygen at required pressure on a continuous basis.

It is important that passengers learn the benefits and use of in flight masks as this knowledge may come in handy and may save lives. There are manuals as well as info booklets that provide sufficient information to passengers regarding the correct usage of these important flight safety gadgets.

People who require Oxygen Therapy as a “continuous” basis or as an “as needed” basis can now breathe easier with an oxygen concentrator. Patients are able to provide themselves with the ability to have some freedom, without being tied down to a specific location, and partake in everyday activities with an oxygen concentrator.

The home concentrator can be based in a central location in a home, and with an extremely long piece of oxygen tubing, a person can go just about anywhere in their house. I have never measured out the tubing, but I would say they go to about 100 feet long. The only disadvantage is having the long piece of tubing, is that the Oxygen dissipates in the tubing. Plus anyone, including the person using the oxygen, increases their risk of tripping on the tubing. Some concentrators have connections to charge the portable concentrators. The home concentrator can vary in size, the biggest I have seen is a little smaller than a hot water tank.

The portable concentrator once charged and full, a person can participate in every chores and activities; whether it is going to the store, playing bridge with friends, or playing a round of golf. Charging the portable oxygen cylinder is done simply with main concentrator in the home. Most portable concentrator’s have a pulse setting, so that the oxygen is not running. This will prevent the concentrator from running out of oxygen too quickly. Having a spare portable concentrator or two fully charged at home is beneficial especially if the power goes out. The portable concentrator also has a carrying case, and a strap to carry over the shoulder.

With a concentrator, a person does not have to rely on an Oxygen Supply company to deliver oxygen cylinders and supplies. A lot of oxygen Supply Company can only deliver once a week, plus it is a lot less expensive. If not properly stored the can easily fall over and risk being damaged or exploding. If the top is knocked off, it could cause the oxygen tank to take off like a torpedo.

I have noticed that local nursing homes also use concentrator’s for their patients and residents. The setting’s are pretty much the same, and also has a special connection for humidified oxygen. Humidified oxygen helps prevent airway passages from drying out and chapping. This type of concentrator makes a little noise, but it seems the patients and people around get used to it. This type also does not take up too much space in the patient’s room, and are about the same size as a household kitchen garbage can.

In closing I would recommend a concentrator to anyone with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Emphysema, or Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), with the exception of 100 feet of oxygen tubing. They have many more benefits then what I can think of.

Being prescribed the correct medicine is only half the battle, it is equally important to use the correct method to administer the medicine. Respiratory diseases such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are best treated by using a nebuliser. A nebuliser is a devise used to administer a fine mist in to the lungs through using a combination of oxygen, compressed air and ultrasonic power in order to break medicine down in to small aerosol droplets that can be easily inhaled in to the lungs through a mouthpiece. In order for the medicine administered by a nebuliser to have its desired effect it is essential that the droplets are no larger than 1-5 micrometres otherwise they dissolve in the mouth and fail to penetrate in to the narrow branches of the lower airways.

The most commonly used form of nebuliser used today is the jet or compressor nebuliser. These are also known as ‘atomizers’ and are generally used to treat patients in hospital who are suffering from serious cases of respiratory disease, or severe asthma attacks. One of the major advantages to using a Jet nebuliser is its low operational cost, which is particularly appealing when treating patients who need to inhale medicine on a daily basis. One of the major drawbacks however, is the noise that it creates and that it can be rather heavy. Several of today’s leading manufactures have managed to lower the weight and design portable jet nebuliser

Ultrasonic nebulisers offer a convenient, functional and portable alternative to the jet nebuliser. Ideal for home use, these nebulisers work by generating a high frequency ultrasonic wave which causes the mechanical vibration of a piezoelectric element. This vibrating element is in contact with a liquid reservoir and its high frequency vibration is sufficient to produce a vapour. Given these nebulisers work by creating an ultrasonic wave they operate virtually silently and weigh a good deal less than nebulisers that rely on a heavy air compression unit. The development of ultrasonic Vibrating Mesh Technology (VMT) in 2005 was a significant innovation in the nebuliser industry as it successfully reduced the amount of liquid waste and undesired heating of the liquid medicine which prior to this was a common concern.

Unfortunately, not all nebulisers currently available today are capable of delivering the level of performance required to achieve their desired outcome. It is therefore, vital that you find a manufacture who can guarantee the level of quality that your health demands.

If you, like me, have a child that suffers from asthma then you know how terrifying it is when your child has an asthma attack and cannot breathe. It is extremely frustrating as a parent to watch your child struggling to breathe and not being able to do anything about it. I am sure just like me you have tried all kinds of different remedies and gained numerous second opinions from doctors.

After trying every remedy out there from acupuncture to herbs I was getting even more desperate when my little girl stopped responding to her inhalers. Her allergies were getting worse and she was constantly being pulled out of school. The hospital visits were regular and she was getting worse and worse.

In May 2009, we visited the Allergy show, held yearly in London. This trip alone was a trek for the whole family as Shawna had been ill the days before. On perusing the stalls, we cam across a stand for the Bowen Technique. None of us had ever heard of this therapy before and we were understandably very skeptical. Nevertheless we decided to give it a go.

On her first visit to the Bowen therapist, Shawna was just recovering from another bout of asthma and was feeling quite weak. Her wheezing was quite bad and she also had a cold. We watched as the therapist treated her and were both quite surprised as to how gentle and simple the moves were. The whole treatment lasted 20 minutes. At the end of it, to our amazement, Shawna jumped off the treatment table, grabbed her doll and started chasing her brother around the room. Her wheezing had stopped and she seemed to have regained colour and strength.

We were told to book in for another treatment in a weeks time. The week following the 1st Bowen treatment, Shawna seemed back to her normal self. By the second treatment she was only using her inhaler once a day (normally at least 4 times a day) and he wheezing had not come back. One of the most amazing things about this technique is that Shawna was taught how to use a move called the ‘Release Move’. This is one she uses on herself and is amazingly effective at releasing any tightness in her chest.

Overall, I have to say that we are very pleased with The Bowen Technique and I have since learnt the Bowen Technique For Asthma to treat Shawna whenever she needs it which is about once in 5 months now!

Asthma affects 1 out of 20 people. Having this illness brings changes to a person’s social activities, like joining sports, going on a long trip, etc.

It’s good to know that there are natural cures for asthma that are slowly being discovered now. But getting to the triggers should also be an utmost concern because getting rid of these will ultimately help the person.

There are variety of triggers that can lead to an asthma attack. Among these triggers are molds, pets, smoke, chemicals, food allergies, and even stress. Physical triggers can be easily removed but the emotional and psychological ones are not. This is where the natural cures for asthma in this article will greatly work.

Reiki therapy is one of the natural cures for asthma that works in removing triggers and making sure that it does not come back. In this, the invisible auric body or Universal life force energy is being healed and properly distributed over different parts that needs healing. With asthma, the healing will flow through the brow chakra, back heart chakra, bronchi, lungs, diaphragm, pancreas, liver, intestines, kidneys and nose.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on “qi”, the energy that circulates around the body. Concentration on lung therapy using qi gong is a natural cure for asthma. Qi Gong therapy, one facet of TCM, has been discovered to have possible connection with asthma. In this exercise, one of the focus is breathing. The patient practices qi gong’s breathing techniques to take better control of asthma symptoms thus suffering fewer asthma attacks. Another area where Qi Gong focuses on is immune system, which help in combating asthma reactions related to triggers. The last one is relaxation, and because asthma are often exacerbated by emotional and physical stress this really aid in managing these causes.

Another cure found is the Far Infrared Ray therapy. This natural cure for asthma was discovered and is being developed in Japan by medical doctors and physical therapists. These group of medical practitioners called “infrared society” discovered that this method increases blood circulation and oxygen supply, which makes the body heal easily from asthma. It is also believed that it promotes sleep and relaxation which helps in reducing stress, another asthma trigger. It also proved to have physical effects to a person’s mucous passages after being exposed to the Far Infrared therapy for about 15 minutes which means that it promotes clear lungs and bronchi.

Normal cures for asthma involve the aid of medicines and chemicals, which means immediate yet short-term relief. The natural cures for asthma are alternative things one can do to alleviate symptoms and to possibly heal the illness completely. It might take time before it is done completely, but the results are for the long-term.

A portable oxygen concentrator is a mobile device that provides oxygen considerably higher than ambient air to a Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease patient who is active. Fourteen million Americans suffer from various stages of COPD. Oxygen concentrators offer greater mobility for physically active COPD sufferers. The demand for less stigmatizing designs for oxygen concentrators has led to the development of smaller, less cumbersome styling and highly portable powered devices.

Portable oxygen concentrators can be very small like the size of a small camera as in the Free Style by AirSep device which weighs only five pounds and offers 90% oxygen concentration. It is for patients who are very active. It is the lightest most portable oxygen concentrator available. This device is powered by AC and battery. The batteries are rechargeable and have a 3.5 hour recharging cycle. When fully charged the battery life can last up to 4 hours.

Oxygen therapy is no longer delivered in dangerous compressed air tanks which can explode if exposed to a spark or an open flame. Now concentrators allow mobility for users. These devices can be up to 14.85 pounds as in the Oxilife Independence which is 12″ x 8″ x 8″ and has a standard electrical outlet for home. It operates for 3hours at 2 LPM and will flow for 1 hour at 3 LPM.

Many devices are very quiet emitting less than 40 decibels of sound in typical situations. The breathing rate of the user may also create a conflict. Devices can deliver a consistent bolus or shot of oxygen during inhalation despite the difference in breathing rate of the user. The Federal regulations do restrict the use of oxygen on an aircraft. For that reason you will not be allowed to carry your own oxygen on an aircraft. But, oxygen is freely supplied by the airline to the passenger that needs it. So COPD suffers cannot take portable oxygen concentrators on an aircraft. After thorough inspection they can be allowed in the airport.

Travelling by other means is not prohibited and carrying a oxygen concentrator is very simple if you use a wheeled carry all for larger devices.

Many devices are now small enough to carry on your body with a shoulder bag. The devices can be only 10 pounds as with the Respironics EverGo device which comes with its own nylon carry bag with a rubberized handle and adjustable shoulder strap. It has an 8 hour battery life which allows patients to be outside all day and participate in an active lifestyle. Its capacity allows someone who would normally run out of oxygen and be forced to return home to stay out longer and to pursue the lifestyle of their choosing.

The COPD sufferer has options with the concentrator. Because of the improved portability of these devices, the patient can carry on an active lifestyle, travel, play outdoor sports, garden, etc. Now oxygen can be carried in a wheeled carry all, in a small camera size bag, or an additional ten pound shoulder bag.

Eczema is a skin disease that covers a number of different skin ailments, from atopic dermatitis (an allergic type reaction) to dyshidrotic eczema (a blistering rash on the palms of hands and soles of the feet often caused by stress). Studies show that 50 – 70 % of all young children who develop severe eczema will go on to suffer from asthma possibly months or even years later. However, research scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have discovered that treating eczema early can help stop the development of asthma. Their studies have shown that damaged skin secretes a substance that circulates through the body and triggers asthma symptoms. Treating the rash early is vital in asthma prevention and for those who already suffer from asthma, it could also prove beneficial for asthma relief.

Eczema is an itching rash that effects the epidermis or outer layer of the your skin. It is easily irritated and when scratched it can also become quite painful and inflamed. The rash can be mild to very severe often consisting of blisters, swelling, redness, dry flakey skin, cracking, crusting, and extreme itchiness. When the rash is scratched there is often oozing or even bleeding in more severe cases. Scratching results in worsening of the rash and therefore it is to be avoided. Doctors will often prescribe corticosteroids drugs to treat eczema. Unfortunately, these drugs are not a cure, they create dependence and have many negative side effects and they eventually weaken the adrenal gland plus cause thinning of the skin. The good news is that there are effective ways to treat eczema naturally without drugs.

Doctors and scientists suspect that there are likely two causes as to why eczema is associated with asthma. One is that an immune system disorder causes an overreaction to allergens that contact the skin and lung airways. The other may be that defective skin and airways trigger an excessive immune response.

Whatever the actual cause may be, holistic medicine has shown that boosting the immune system and the adrenal glands through proper diet, vitamins, adequate rest and exercise is paramount. There are also many herbal creams and natural treatments that help calm the rash, offer relief from itching and also prevent the sufferer from scratching. In this way they are very helpful in slowing the cycle of eczema to prevent the damaged skin secreting the substance that triggers asthma symptoms.

If you are an asthma sufferer, then I am sure you have trawled the Internet looking for a natural asthma remedy that actually does what is says and cures asthma. Maybe you are fed up of being stuck on medication and having to depend on steroids and your inhalers all the time or perhaps you are looking for a cure for someone close to you like your child or a relative. Whatever the reason, you have come to the right place. This article lists some natural asthma remedies and will help you in your search for one that actually works.

Asthma is a condition that not only affects the young but also adults and the very elderly. The odd thing about asthma is that it can come on at any time in your life. Although some have always seemed to have had asthma from childhood, most people develop it later on in life and are not born asthmatics. This condition is normally diagnosed when one encounters difficulty in breathing and is subsequently sent to the doctors for a peak flow test. If this test of lung capacity is below average or the norm the person is then labelled an asthmatic and the standard inhalers and if necessary steroids are prescribed.

Here is a list of natural asthma remedies that claim to cure asthma and treat the difficulty in breathing.

1. Buteyko Method works on the principle that the cause of asthma is breathing is too much oxygen and having too little CO2 in the blood. Simple exercises are used to reset the levels in the body.

2. Alexander Technique uses posture and coordinates breathing and movement to create a more efficient respiratory system that works in line with the bodies movement.

3. Herbs are used in both Western and Oriental medicine to prevent asthma attacks and to try and address the allergens that the body is exposed to.

4. Acupuncture realigns the energy in the body and addresses the meridians associated with breathing difficulties, however it is not very popular due to the use of needles.

5. The Bowen Technique For Asthma is probably the most effective natural asthma remedy as it aims to treat the cause of the breathing difficulty and not just the symptoms. This technique rebalances the nervous system to reduce the amount and severity of allergic reactions also relaxes the muscles of respiration. This is one of the main causes of asthma attacks.

It is said by experts that 90% of the human life depends on oxygen as it regulates virtually all body functions. It gives cells energy to regenerate. Metabolism cannot take place in its absence. The sufficient presence of it is needed if toxins and waste elimination through oxidation must take place. Information in the brain cannot be processed without its aid. Even talking, sleeping, eating, moving, feeling, and thinking cannot be done without the energy that comes from it.

It has been proven that one way to stop the growth of cancer cells is to ensure that the body is not deprived of it, in sufficient amount. In other words the chief cause of cancer can be traced to its deficiency in cell respiration.

Achieving optimum health requires cleansing oneself of toxic substance and revitalizing one’s body energy, a feat that can only be attain through the ingestion of it, in sufficient amount, into the body.

The constant need for it cannot be overemphasised because all body functions will be extinct without it. Provision must be made for the immediate replacement of it, when used up, in the body if the individual is to continue with life.

The loss of the immune system which can be said to be the source of health problems like nerve deterioration, seizures, aids, leukemia and cancer is heavily linked to its shortage in the blood. Its deficiency has been described as the greatest singular cause of disease. Areas of the body with poor supply of it are good breeding grounds for most diseases including fungal or yeast infections.

It is a known fact that when it is deficient in the body, toxin gains grounds which undermine body functions and sap the body of vital life giving energy. Being a powerful detoxifier and when in sufficient amount in the body, ensures that useless substances like debris, refuse, toxins, garbage, and rubble are destroyed and flushed out of the body system. Individuals without enough amount of it in their system will experience these initial symptoms: fatigue, weakness, circulation problems, muscle aches and pains, poor digestion, depression, dizziness, irrational behaviour, memory loss, acid stomach, bronchial complications and irritability.

Many health problems and diseases are also caused by the decrease in it amount in the atmosphere. At a time in the past, its content in the atmosphere was approximately 50% but with increased toxins, pollution, and destruction of natural oxygen producers like rain forest, its amount in the atmosphere today is less than 20%. In areas that are overpopulated, its level is lower.

We all know that a human being can survive without food for weeks; even as important as water is, we can do without it for days and still live but it only take few minutes without it for a man to become a corpse.

On average a human being takes approximately twelve breaths in one minute and the rate varies base on the body desires at different times. However, if very little of it and too much carbon dioxide is supply, the body may gasp for air. Such situation may occur during an asthma attack, strenuous exercise or in fright. Failure to correct this anomaly may have serious health consequences. This shows how important this gas is to man.

In order to understand medicine for asthma better it is important to take a look at the different types of asthma medications and how they improve asthma symptoms. To understand what the medication does to the body it is good to know what symptoms occur when a person has an asthma attack.

Most of the symptoms a person experiences while having an asthma attack are related to what is going on in the airways in the lungs. Something usually triggers the asthma attack, usually an allergen or irritant such as pollen, a pollutant, harsh chemical smell, exhaust fume, dust particles or pet dander. The airway responds to the allergen or irritant by becoming inflamed which causes the airway to get smaller, making it more difficult to move air in and out of the lungs. The inflamed airways can lead to a feeling of tightness in the chest, chest pain or discomfort can also be felt during an asthma attack. The person is usually coughing or experiencing shortness of breath.

The purpose of most asthma medications is to open up the airways so the person can breathe easier. Other medications that may be given will reduce the reaction that the body has to the asthma trigger. If the person has allergies an antihistamine or decongestant will be prescribed.

Asthma medications are either long-term control in nature or are quick-relief asthma medications designed to bring an asthma attack under control quickly so the person can breathe more easily. The exchange of air in and out of the lungs is critical to life so a chronic asthmatic must always carry quick-relief asthma medication with them at all times.

Long-term control medications come in two types; those that are anti-inflammatory drugs and those that are bronchodilators. When taken on a regular basis over a period of time the asthma can be controlled and attacks prevented. This allows the adult to enjoy a normal physically active lifestyle.

Steroids are anti-inflammatory medication and reduce the swelling and mucus production that occurs during an asthma attack. Over time the anti-inflammatory drug makes the airway less sensitive and less likely to react to the trigger which means fewer symptoms will be experienced.

Bronchodilators relax the smooth muscles that cause the airways to feel tight. When the muscle is relaxed more air can move in and out of the airway. Bronchodilators also help clear out the mucus that has formed during an asthma attack. The adult will then cough the mucus up and out of the lungs thus improving their breathing.

Some common long-term control drugs include corticosteroids that are inhaled, mast cell stabilizers, which are anti-inflammatory medications, long acting beta-agonists, which are bronchodilators, theophylline which is also a bronchodilator, leukotriene modifiers which are used as an alternative to steroids and mast cell stabilizers and Xolair which is an injectable asthma medication.

Quick-relief asthma medications give prompt relief from symptoms when the airway is restricted. This type of medication includes short acting beta-agonists, anticholinergics, and systemic corticosteroids.

Inhalers, nebulizers, and pills are typical players in the asthma patient’s treatment plan. An inhaler has a metered dose breathed in through the mouth. Nebulizers are machines with medicine inside that are breathed in, and pills are taken orally.

A new asthma medication (Xolair) is given as an injection (shot).

Certain asthma medications can be taken together. Some inhalers contain more than one medication.

It is important to never run out of asthma medications. It is especially important to check the expiration date on quick-acting rescue inhalers to be sure they are ok to use. Get refills on all asthma medications before you run out. Some pharmacies keep track of when you should refill your medication and inform you when to get your prescription refilled. Always call in a prescription at least 48 hours before you need more because the pharmacy may need time to restock it.

Hopefully these facts have made asthma medications a little less confusing.

If you would like to know more about Asthma and its remedies click on ASTHMA AND TREATMENT below.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common lung diseases. It generally defines the conditions which consist of regular difficulty in expelling or exhaling air from the lungs. There are two major forms of COPD: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis consists of a long term cough with mucus. Emphysema is a gradual destruction of the lungs. Most people who have COPD have a combination of these forms because smoking is a major cause of both of them.

The most common symptoms of COPD are a cough with mucus, shortness of breath (dyspnoea) which gets more severe with any mild activity, fatigue, frequently respiratory infections such as colds and influenza, and wheezing. The symptoms of COPD usually develop slowly. This makes it difficult for people to know if they are sick. If people do notice symptoms, they may simply take measures to make their breathing easier, such as taking the elevator instead of the stairs.

For severe forms of COPD, people may experience swelling in their ankles, feet or legs. They may also develop a bluish lip colour due to their low COPD oxygen levels. Other symptoms that sometimes occur in severe forms include weight loss and lower muscle endurance. Weight loss can occur with COPD because of the extra amount of energy that is required for breathing. Additionally, people may develop pulmonary hypertension because the heart muscle is pumping with higher force and pressure to maintain regular blood flow. Some severe forms also result in coughing up blood (haemoptysis), due to the damage of the airways’ inner lining and blood vessels. It is important for people to consult their doctors if they have haemoptysis because sometimes this can be a sign of lung cancer.

The amount of lung damage a person has will determine how severe his COPD is. People who continue to smoke after their COPD diagnoses will have increased lung damage and more severe symptoms. If a person has COPD, one of the best things that he can do for his health is stop smoking.

Some severe symptoms may require hospital treatment. People should seek medical attention if they are having a hard time catching their breath or taking, see their lips or fingernails turning blue or gray (which is a sign of low COPD oxygen in their blood), are not mentally alert, or have a very rapid heartbeat. It is also important to seek medical attention when the treatment that has been recommended for a person’s symptoms is no longer working.

The Bowen Technique originated in Australia and is named after its creator Mr. Tom Bowen. Tom Bowen was believed to have trained as an osteopath before inventing the Bowen Technique. Tom Bowen’s wife suffered from chronic asthma and was often hospitalised; it was this which led Mr Bowen to develop this part of his therapeutic work, as he searched for some means of helping her. Once he developed the Bowen Technique For Asthma she never had to go to hospital to be treated for this condition again.

How does the Bowen Technique work? The Bowen Technique consists of a series of gentle moves that trigger the body to heal itself. The moves are made on specific parts of the body, such as across muscle on either side of the spine. It is an extremely gentle, simple yet highly effective technique for treating all kinds of conditions and is very successful at treating asthma.

Most of the work can be performed through light clothing, although some therapists prefer to work on skin. Bowen can have very powerful effects on the body and it is extremely important to ensure the body is not bombarded with signals causing confusion and ultimately doing more harm than good. For this reason, the less is more principle is commonly applied when treating clients.

Most patients have positive responses after only one session. Within three sessions even long-standing chronic asthma can be relieved. Some conditions might need to be treated more often, but in either case it is recommended clients return for regular treatments every six to eight weeks to maintain optimum health.

Asthma attacks are usually caused by the breathing muscles and diaphragm going into increasing spasm. The triggers for such an attack range from pollen to respiratory illnesses. As soon as a trigger is detected, the spasm increases. Hence, one of the first signs of the increasing problem can be wheezing, sometimes there all the time.

In an acute asthmatic attack, the patient can breathe in but is unable to breathe out as the diaphragm is in full spasm. This can be illustrated by the fact that the stomach appears to collapse inwards especially in small children and babies. The Bowen Release Move, part of the Bowen Technique for asthma is a highly effective, downwards movement that releases the diaphragm from spasm and an immediate release of air from the lungs is achieved. This move is so simple an easy it is even used by toddlers to relive tightness in their chest.

Oxygen saturation levels are the amount of dissolved oxygen that is being carried though the bloodstream. There are several ways to measure how much oxygen the blood is carrying. Using a non-invasive pulse oximetry device is the quickest and easiest way. Drawing an arterial blood sample for testing is the most accurate way. But, why are these levels influential and when would they need to be measured?

Why We Need to Know

many different illnesses put people at risk for not having enough circulation oxygen in the bloodstream. A person experiencing respiratory difficulty may not be exchanging air properly. This could cause them to retain carbon dioxide or fail to take in sufficient oxygen. Being able to check their saturation levels quickly lets the physician know how their body is handling the illness.

Anaemia is when the body has insufficient red blood cells. It is these red blood cells that carry the oxygen through the blood. Thus, people who are anaemic are also at risk for not having sufficient oxygen in the bloodstream. Mechanical problems such as failing to breathe deeply due to pain or being overly sedated can all restrict the amount of oxygen the body has in circulation. Being able to measure these saturation levels helps physicians treat these illnesses effectively.

How we test

the easiest way to test is using the pulse oximetry. This method uses light waves to measure the saturation levels. It is non-invasive and pain free. Pulse oxygenation can be measured on the finger, toe nail beds or the ear lobes. It can be measured in seconds and will change rapidly as the levels change.

Drawing blood and having it analyzed is more accurate, and can tell the physician a number of other things too. However, this method is extremely painful and takes longer. Usually it takes ten to fifteen minutes to have the blood analyzed. Blood is drawn from the femoral or radial artery. This test can also provide information such as PH balance.

What is normal

most people run 97% to 100% oxygenation. Doctors become concerned if it drops and stays below 90%. The most valuable thing to do is identify and correct the cause. The first thing most physicians try is using oxygen by the nose or mask. If anaemia is the culprit, the physician will order a blood transfusion.

The key to rectifying the situation is treating the cause. Whether the patient needs blood, oxygen or pain control the cause must be identified and resolved quickly. If the case is prolonged, or severe enough brain damage will occur. Oxygen saturation levels are extremely serious and tell medical personnel a lot about how the body is functioning.

What causes wheezing in toddlers? Wheezing is a harsh, raspy sound normally associated with narrowing of the airway and heard on breathing out. Young children can develop the symptom of wheezing if they suffer from asthma, a respiratory infection causing blockage or narrowing of the airways or structural abnormalities in the airways.

If your child also suffers from eczema and allergies then the most likely cause of wheezing is asthma. This is a condition that causes the airways to react to certain triggers such as pollen, dust mites and even cold air. The constriction of the airways is caused both by inflammation and excessive mucus production.

Wheezing in toddlers can be very alarming for parents who have never heard or experienced it before. Often the wheezing starts off as a cough (usually at night for asthma sufferers) and then progresses to a wheeze. This can then set off a full-blown asthma attack in some children.

It is very important to identify the triggers that cause wheezing in your child and remove them. For example, if your child tends to start wheezing at night whilst asleep in bed, there may be an allergy to dust mites. Regular vacuuming will help reduce wheezing and allergic reactions. Also, look out for any soft toys that may be harbouring dust mites and collecting dust. These should be removed from the room your child is sleeping in.

Current treatment of wheezing in toddlers involves the use of bronchodilators to open up the airways and steroids to reduce inflammation. However, these methods do not always work very effectively. One of the main causes of wheezing is associated with tightness of the breathing muscles namely the diaphragm and the muscles surrounding the chest. Drugs and medication do very little to relax these muscles and they gradually become more and more tense.

No matter what the cause of wheezing in toddlers, it is very important to address the issue of muscle tightness. Tense respiratory muscles very quickly go into spasm. An asthma attack is an example of the diaphragm going into spasm and preventing any air from being inhaled or exhaled.

Even if your young child does not have asthma but a respiratory infection which is causing wheezing, the diaphragm and breathing muscles will be very tense due to the added effort of breathing. By relaxing these muscles you not only aid the breathing process but also treat the wheezing itself.

Types of asthma – overview

There are many different classifications for the disease, by severity, underlying cause or the way it is controlled. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Understanding the type you have can help you find the most effective treatment.

Types of asthma:

1. Allergic asthma (or bronchial asthma) is one of the most common types of asthma and it may be triggered by allergic rhinitis (or hay fever), different allergens (such as pollen, dust, mold), and also smoke or strong smells.



2. Cough-Variant asthma is asthma in which dry cough is the main symptom, and other symptoms may be excluded. The cough exasperates with common triggers.



3. Exercise-Induced asthma is triggered by vigorous exercise or strenuous physical activity. Symptoms may be obvious only during exercising, and few minutes after.



4. Occupational asthma (or work-related asthma) is caused or triggered by, exposure to various substances in the workplace. These substances may cause an allergic or irritant reaction or a reaction in the body which results in an asthma attack. Types of occupation that may induce asthma include: health care workers, hairdressers, chemical industry workers, animal breeders, farmers, painters, and woodworkers.



5. Nighttime asthma (or nocturnal asthma) patients experience more severe symptoms during night time and before bed, which can result in inability to fall asleep and other sleep disturbances. This type may be very dangerous and needs to be treated properly.



6. Seasonal asthma, in which symptoms appear seasonally, usually in the spring (because of the pollen allergies) or summer (due to the heat and air pollution)



7. Medication induced asthma is another of the most common types of asthma. Certain medication, such as anti-inflammatories (Motrin, Advil or Aleve), some heart disease medications, glaucoma drugs or ACE inhibitors, may cause attacks and worsen the asthma.

Types of asthma – less common types:

Other types of asthma exist as well, including silent asthma (in which the attacks are sudden and come without much warning) and infant asthma (wheezing in small babies).
There are many other conditions that mimic asthma symptoms, but are not in fact asthma. This is why your doctor needs to do a thorough examination to make the right diagnosis. These conditions may be: sinusitis, pulmonary embolism, angina, bronchitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, congestive heart failure and others.

Types of asthma can also be classified based on the way it is controlled, and it can be well controlled (mild symptoms that don’t impair quality of life), not well controlled (frequent symptoms), and very poorly controlled (symptoms occur daily).

Recently, a new treatment protocol has stirred the waters of asthma treatment – it’s called the Norton protocol. It looks into the autoimmune aspect of asthma. You can visit the official home page of the protocol and learn more about the types of asthma and alternative treatment options.

In recent years environmental researchers have done studies that show that in most cases the air we breathe indoors is more polluted then the air outside. There are a few reasons for this; more energy efficient homes, more synthetic materials used throughout our homes, and the chemicals in many of the cleaners used daily.

Because of this increasing indoor pollution people who suffer from asthma are at a greater risk of having an attack inside. One way to solve this problem is to filter, or purify the indoor air. Pollen, dirt, dust, pet dander, mold spores, and bacteria can all trigger an asthma attack and the best way to deal with these airborne threats is with an air filter.

There are many reasons that asthmatics need clean air to combat the effects of their condition. An understanding of the disease helps to clarify just why this is true.

Asthma affects between 3 to 5 percent of the general population at one time in their life. With the exception of newborns it affects all ages and genders equally. It is a condition that causes the bronchioles and bronchi, (the airways in the lungs), to narrow, restricting airflow and causing difficulty breathing.

The symptoms of asthma are pretty well known; trouble breathing, inability to catch ones breath, and a wheezing cough are the main signs of an asthmatic attack. Most asthmatics seem to experience more severe symptoms at night. The severest of attacks cause a sharp increase in respiration rate and a rapid pulse. Unable to speak the asthmatic may also exhibit cyanosis in which the skin starts to turn blue due to the lack of oxygen.

Pollutants and other foreign substances in the air are the main cause of an asthmatic attack. Bronchiole hypersensitivity to these substances is the main trigger point for this disease. Just about any airborne pollutant can trigger an attack; vehicle exhaust, smoke, smog, animal fur and dander, tobacco smoke, ozone, perfumes, and the list goes on. Because of the increasing amounts of airborne pollution both indoors and out asthma is becoming increasingly common around the world.

While steroid inhalers provide sufferers quick relief from the affects of this condition, avoiding the airborne triggers is an important part of the daily management of asthma. For indoor air an air purifier can significantly reduce the amount of irritants an asthmatic is exposed on a daily basis, helping decrease the number and severity of reactions they might have.

There is one type of air purifier that someone with asthma should avoid; ozone producing air cleaners are not recommended as the ozone they produce may trigger an attack.

Preventing asthma attacks with an air purifier is a good way to manage the affects airborne pollutants have on this condition. There are a wide variety of filters on the market today, from single room units to whole house systems, so be sure to research the choices thoroughly to choose the right filtration option for your needs.

It seems that these days more and more kids are discovering that they have asthma. For some it is allergy related and for others it may be environmental or hereditary. While in our current society we seem to act as if difficulty breathing is normal, the truth is that it isn’t. Everyone should be able to breathe and if they can’t there are probably some significant reasons for this difficulty.

Many doctors believe that it is because many children are not given the opportunity to develop fully, and that maybe the timetable that Obstetricians are using to figure out when babies should be born may be off either because the amount of time that it takes a fetus to develop is increasing or because there are so many babies being taken out before they are truly full term. Of course, being that the lungs are one of the final organs to develop this could be a major contributing factor to the increase in asthma in children.

Many factors exist that can add to breathing issues in the young and we ought to be careful not to fail to notice troubles with the atmosphere, problems with cigarette smoke and other pollutants in the atmosphere, in addition to all the other irritants we are exposed to daily. There are even persons who think that the augment in instances of asthma may be due to partially the prenatal examinations performed habitually on the fetus.

A food allergy can also cause asthma flare-ups. Additionally allergens in the air can stop a person from inhalation and leave them out of breath. This can be an extremely scary experience for both kids as well as adults. When a person cannot inhale or exhale it only takes a small number of minutes prior to their color change and they faint which is the reason it is so significant to recognize an asthma attack in the early hours and to bring life-saving medication around with you as backup.

Asthma is considered a very common condition these days and while there are instances of individuals dying from asthma for the most part by using cortico-steroids and a rescue inhaler most people can live a relatively normal life. This does not mean that we should consider not having the ability to breathe freely as a normal facet of life. Everyone should be able to breathe freely and if there are things you can do to avoid those issues that cause asthma flare-ups then that is definitely a better way to manage your asthma.