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Asthma Treatment
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which leads to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing. Treatment typically involves a blend of medications and lifestyle adjustments aimed at managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Inhaled corticosteroids are often prescribed to reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms, while long-acting beta-agonists help keep the airways open. For immediate relief during acute asthma attacks, rescue inhalers containing short-acting beta-agonists are essential. Additionally, leukotriene modifiers and immunomodulators may be used to further control inflammation and reduce the frequency of exacerbations.
Managing allergies is also crucial since allergens can trigger asthma symptoms. Identifying and avoiding common triggers such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can greatly improve asthma control. Regular monitoring of lung function and adherence to prescribed medications play a vital role in effective asthma management. With proper treatment and lifestyle modifications, individuals with asthma can lead a relatively normal and active life.
Asthma Symptoms and Ayurvedic Insights
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Coughing, especially at night, with or without sputum (phlegm) production.
- Wheezing and frequent coughing, particularly at night.
- Shortness of breath or losing breath easily.
- Feeling very tired or weak when exercising.
- Wheezing or coughing after exercise.
- Feeling tired, easily upset, grouchy, or moody.
- Signs of a cold or allergies (sneezing, runny nose, cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache).
- Trouble sleeping due to breathlessness.
- Wheezing – a musical, whistling, or hissing sound with sudden onset.
- Chest tightness – pulling in of the skin between the ribs when breathing.
- Respiratory infections (viral or bacterial).
- History of tobacco use.
- Bluish color of the lips and face.
- Decreased alertness, such as severe drowsiness or confusion.
- Rapid pulse, severe anxiety due to shortness of breath, profuse sweating.
- Drug allergies.
- Hormonal imbalances.
- History of chronic alcoholism.
- Non-specific causes like extreme emotional stress (anxiety, anger).
If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may be suffering from asthma. It is crucial to seek medical advice from Sant Hari Singh.
Understanding Asthma:
Asthma is a condition that makes it difficult to breathe due to swelling in the airways. This inflammation causes the muscles around the airways to tighten, and the lining of the air passages becomes swollen, reducing airflow.
Ayurvedic Perspective:
In Ayurveda, bronchial asthma is known as tamaka svassa. This ancient medical science considers gastrointestinal factors, in addition to respiratory issues, as causes of bronchial asthma. Preliminary symptoms may include indigestion, constipation, or diarrhea. Asthma is primarily a kapha syndrome, though it can be associated with any of the three humors—vaata, pitta, or kapha.
Types of Asthma in Ayurveda:
- Vaata Type Asthma: Characterized by dry cough and wheezing. Additional symptoms include thirst, dry mouth, dry skin, constipation, anxiety, and craving for warm drinks. Attacks occur at vaata times—dawn and dusk.
- Pitta Type Asthma: Characterized by cough and wheezing with yellow phlegm. Other symptoms include fever, sweating, irritability, and a need for cool air. Attacks occur at pitta times—noon and midnight.
- Kapha Type Asthma: Characterized by cough and wheezing with abundant clear or white phlegm. The lungs may be congested, producing a whistling sound. Attacks occur at kapha times—morning and evening.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Asthma:
Recent-onset asthma can be treated effectively with Ayurveda, combining medication with dietary regulation and lifestyle changes. Key treatments include:
- Panchakarma Chikitsa: This detoxification process includes:
- Vamana Karma (medicated emesis)
- Virechana Karma (medicated purgation)
- Vasti Karma (medicated enema)
- Nasya Karma (nasal administration of medicines)
- Rakthamoksha (bloodletting)
- Other Treatments:
- Dhoomapanam (medicinal smoke inhalation)
- Abhyangam (oil massage)
- Takradhara Dhara (medicated buttermilk pour)
- Swedanam (medicinal perspiration)
- Rasayana Chikitsa (rejuvenation therapy)
- Padhya (dietary recommendations)
- Medications
- Yoga
Additional Therapies:
Consider acupuncture and acupressure at the following points:
- DU-14
- UB-13
- LI-11
- LI-4
- ST-36
- LU-7
- LU-9
For personalized advice and treatment, consult Sant Hari Singh.
info@santharisingh.com