The many aspects of asthma

(NaturalNews) Asthma has reached epidemic proportions with over 22 million people suffering from this condition in the United States. It is also the most chronic condition affecting our children today. Although asthma can hamper an individual's lifestyle, it can be addressed safely and effectively by implementing Body, Mind, and Spirit techniques.

Details about asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory disease that constricts the muscles surrounding the airways along with swelling and increased mucous production. Asthma can be controlled by avoiding the triggers that can cause an attack. The most common causes that we associate with asthma attacks are allergies, pet dander, mold and pollen. However, there are many more triggers which include tobacco smoke, environmental toxins, food sensitivities, obesity, and stress.

During an asthma attack, the muscles around the airways constrict, narrowing the air passageways and cutting the supply of air flow. Inflammation becomes more pronounced, which causes additional narrowing of the passageways. Additional mucous is produced, making it even harder for air to get through. Asthma attacks can range from mild to life threatening. During a prolonged attack, carbon dioxide can become trapped in the lungs, not allowing oxygen to reach the bloodstream.

The symptoms of asthma include:

*Coughing;
*Wheezing;
*Shortness of breath; and
*Fatigue

Emotions and asthma

Emotions are another important component in some people who suffer from asthma. Research has found that sudden negative or positive emotions can trigger an asthma attack. Additionally, research tells us that strong emotions can worsen asthma symptoms. Anxiety disorders and asthma often go hand-in-hand.

Besides addressing asthma with natural remedies, it is important to identify emotional triggers. Being aware of those emotional triggers can help to avoid a terrifying asthma attack. Individuals with chronic emotional conditions, such as depression and anxiety, should seek psychological help to resolve the source of their discomfort. Natural remedies, such as St. John's Wort and Passionflower can go a long way in calming emotions; however, these remedies should not be used if a person is taking prescription medicines, such as antidepressants or benzodiazepines (xanax, klonopin, valium, ativan, etc.). Methods such as yoga, hypnosis, and muscle testing can also be instrumental in identifying emotions that can trigger asthma attacks. Although asthma has biological causes, in some people, emotions can be a very large influence.

Asthma attacks can also be triggered in children who become excited or agitated. As with adults, asthma attacks can be lessened if the children are taught to identify their own triggers.

Natural tools for addressing asthma

From the physical aspect, nebulizing with colloidal silver, lobelia extract, and mullein extract eases asthma symptoms. Colloidal silver has shown to be extremely effective in treating asthma and this is because recent research is finding that there may be a link between asthma and bacteria in the lungs. Colloidal silver should also prevent any additional infections caused by excess mucous. Lobelia extract relaxes the airways and makes breathing easier, while mullein extract expectorates congestion. There are other natural remedies that can also be used effectively when addressing asthma.

Diet should not be ignored. There are many foods in our Standard American Diet that cause inflammation. A whole foods diet, focusing on fruits and vegetables is recommended.

Sources:

http://www.tbyil.com

http://www.webmd.com

http://www.prevention.com

About the author:
Luella May is a natural health advocate helping people to heal naturally. She partners with Tony Isaacs, who authors books and articles about natural health including "Cancer's Natural Enemy" and "Collected Remedies" Luella contributes to The Best Years in Life website for baby boomers and others wishing to avoid prescription drugs and mainstream managed illness and live longer, healthier and happier lives naturally. Luella co-moderates the CureZone "Ask Tony Isaacs featuring Luella May" forum as well as the Yahoo Health Group "Oleander Soup" and hosts her own yahoo group focusing on the natural wellbeing of pets "The Best Years in Life Natural Health for Pets"