Stopping an Asthma Attack in Its Tracks

By Kim Archer

In the U.S. there are over ten million people who are asthma sufferers, and many physicians regard asthma as an epidemic because it so widespread.

Exposure to noxious chemicals in the air and environmental pollution are usually held responsible for contributing to this disease. There is an increase in the number of people dying from asthma, mostly because the warning signs are being ignored.

During an asthma attack, the airways in the lungs will begin to swell and develop mucus secretions, and will eventually spasm. It becomes harder to breath as the airways become narrower. Breathlessness, coughing, wheezing, congestion, a dry mouth, fever and pain are all symptoms that can appear during an asthma attack.

An attack can be caused by almost anything. Upper respiratory infections, overexertion, poor nutrition, and stress are frequent causes, and allergies are the most typical trigger of an asthma attack.

Many attacks are a result of contact with irritants like pollen, gas odors, smoke, and exhaust fumes. Attacks can also be caused by foods like chocolate, dairy products, corn and peanuts. They can also be induced when you take antibiotics, tranquilizers or hormone therapy.

There are a number of herbal, mineral and vitamin supplements that can be used for the treatment of asthma. Vitamin B is the most significant of these. Not only can it decrease the severity of an attack but it preserves the biochemical equilibrium in your body.

If you use vitamins A and E in concert they collaborate to defend your lungs from pollution. As well, big dosages of Vitamin C are highly successful in combating asthma.

Another effective treatment for improving breathing and assisting with bronchial responses is gingko biloba. Odorless garlic is also a good alternative. The anti-inflammatory properties of this supplement decrease the risk of an asthma attack.

If you think you might have asthma, see your doctor right away to get tested. Until then, eat a diet high in protein with lots of vegetables and fruits and steer clear of known triggers.

An asthma attack can be a stressful experience, however there are always ways to defend against it and keep it from negatively impacting your life. If your doctor diagnoses you with asthma, ask questions and seek advice on what you ought to be doing.

It's possible to avert an asthma attack, so there is no reason for it to keep you from the activities you enjoy. It can usually be contained even if it does slow you down for a while.

About the Author:

Kim Archer writes for Asthma Treatment Today, a great source of information on causes and treatments of asthma.