Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that is becoming more prevalent within society. It effects children and adults. It is a condition that cannot be cured but it can be managed.

During an attack athsma causes the airways to constrict which causes problems with being able to breath. The most common reason for an attack is a response to something which is in the environment. The more common causes include tobacco smoke, cold or warm air, perfume, animals, cleaning fluids, moist air, exercise or exertion, and even emotional stress. Children can have an asthma attack when they are suffering fom a virus.

Asthma causes the airways to narrow which brings symptons such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Asthma is treated using bronchodilators more commonly called puffers. Most asthmatics generally feel well and have little impact from asthma other than when they have an asthmatic attack.

Asthmatic attacks can be life threatening, although the medication that asthmatics should have with them will generally control the attack. Without medication or if the medication does not stop the attack then medical help should be sought. In some cases it should be treated as a medical emergency and help sought without delay.

A recent report show that a Mediterranean style diet can significantly reduce asthma attacks. In parts of the Mediterranean asthma is rare. Not only are diets of fresh fruit, grain and fish associated with the areas where asthma is rare, these diets can also reduce asthma attacks by up to 78%. This report was published in the journal Allergy.