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Common Diseases > Asthma, a Disease of the Respiratory System
Triggered usually by allergy, stress or trauma, asthma is defined as a paroxysmal obstruction
of the airways due to generalised
narrowing of the bronchi which can
reverse either spontaneously or as
the result of treatment. It is
compounded by the excess generation
of mucus.
It is suspected that about four-fifths of asthma attacks are caused by exposure
to common allergens such as
house dust, mites, cat dander and moulds.
Cigarette smoke and other atmospheric
pollutants also contribute
however it is highly probable that
the depleted oxygen levels in the
environment coupled with increased
atmospheric pollution and a weakening
of the immune system contribute
greatly.
Another less discussed cause is nervous stress,
The most common
treatments is the inhaler,
often containing ventalin which is also a heart stimulant this usually
provides temporary relief. However, inhalers are expensive unless covered by
health insurance or you are fortunate to get them under the national health.
Natural Solutions:
Diet and nutrition - reduce sugars, and combinations of sugars and starches. Eat
plenty of salads, lean meats and avoid mixing starch and protiens.
First Aid - self applicable:
- Kaili Phos from the Schussler Cell Salt range often provides immediate
relief.
- An inhaler often works well
Inhaler Types.
- Always carry a relief product in your purse, glove compartment or have
near.
First Aid - for care givers:
If you happen to be in the company of someone suffering an asthma attack, here
are some things you can do
- Get your patient into a quiet space away from noise and stress
- Have them lay down and massage their feet, back and/or chest - sooth them
and encourage them to relax. The relaxation of the body and mind allows the
attack to subside.
A Personal Experience:
As
a teenager with asthma to the point
where it was totally debilitating at
the height of the summer.
My recovery
came from practising karate, after
six months of this vigorous exercise
coupled with self discipline, my
asthma vanished totally for a number
of years. After parting ways with
karate, my fitness level declined a
little and the asthma re-appeared,
but not as severe. Later I took up
the practice of yoga (hatha yoga) and
again the asthma retreated.
My conclusion
therefore is that the physical and
mental exercise such as karate or the
gentler yoga, is a cure for asthma. I
must add here that it is very
important to have an excellent
teacher who is able to also impart
the wisdom that is a part of these
practices. This is very much a code
of personal and social honor, or
ethics. Such an art must work on both
the physical body as well as the
inner being.
Over some years of reflection I have
the feeling that asthma arises out of
an inner feeling of self
worthlessness, that one is not good
enough, a lack of self esteem. The
disciplines of Yoga and Karate assist
the development of self esteem as
well as conditioning the body.
Also over this time in my study of yoga, I have found techniques in
breathing to relieve attacks and leave the patient calm and breathing easily.
Hay fever:
Is again an
imbalance of the respiratory system
where the oversensitivity of the
sinuses causes excess mucus and
irritation. A diet low in mucus
forming foods and the
yoga practice
of neti which de-sensitizes the
sinuses helps to reduce the severity
of this condition. It also helps to terminate the running nose and sneezes
within minutes.
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