Asthma, a condition that causes coughing, wheezing, and breathing problems. It explains that asthma is characterized by inflammation and changes in the lungs that reduce the flow of oxygen into the blood, leading to decreased oxygen supply to the body's cells. Asthma is a serious condition that, without proper treatment, can damage the lungs and make breathing more difficult, with sudden symptoms even potentially causing death.
Ayurvedic medicine ukWhile asthma has no cure, medication can help control symptoms and maintain optimal lung function. The causes of asthma can vary and may include allergies to substances like dust, pollen, and mold, exposure to lung irritants such as air pollution or tobacco smoke, and infections affecting the respiratory system.
Symptoms of asthma include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The frequency and severity of symptoms can vary depending on the individual's asthma classification. Mild asthma may cause symptoms about twice a week, while moderate asthma can lead to daily symptoms without multiple flares. Severe asthma can result in symptoms occurring several times a day, even with medication.
Asthma affects the lungs by inflaming the airways, causing increased mucus production and reduced airflow. Over time, the airways can become stiffer and thicker, impairing normal lung function. Mild and moderate asthma can often be managed with regular medication, but severe asthma may not improve even with multiple medications.
Signs of severe asthma include frequent visits to the emergency room or hospital, frequent use of quick-relief medications, the need for a new quick-relief inhaler more than twice a year, the need for oral steroid pills multiple times a year, and difficulties with everyday activities. Severe asthma can be categorized into different types, such as allergic asthma, eosinophilic asthma, neutrophilic asthma, and airway smooth muscle hypertrophy.
Asthma flares are sudden worsening of symptoms, such as increased coughing or difficulty breathing. Quick-relief medications, also known as rescue medications, are used during asthma flares to provide immediate relief. Long-term control medications target inflammation and help prevent symptoms and lung damage. For severe asthma, additional treatments such as biologics may be necessary to address the underlying causes.
Severe asthma is a chronic condition that may not go away, although symptoms can change over time. It is important to work with an asthma specialist to find a treatment plan tailored to your specific type of asthma. Bronchial thermoplasty is a treatment option that can help reduce overdeveloped muscles in the airways and improve lung function.
Nagara: Nagara (Zingiber officinale) refers to ginger, a popular spice and medicinal herb. Ginger has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and expectorant properties. It may help in reducing inflammation in the airways and improving respiratory symptoms.
Bala (Sida cordifolia) is an herb known for its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator properties. It is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for respiratory conditions like bronchial asthma. Bala helps in opening up the airways and reducing inflammation, thereby easing breathing difficulties.
Prisniparni: Prisniparni (Uraria picta) is another herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for respiratory ailments. It is believed to have expectorant and antitussive properties, which help in relieving cough and clearing mucus from the airways. Prisniparni is often used in the treatment of bronchial asthma and other respiratory conditions Jiraka: Jiraka, also known as cumin seeds (Cuminum cyminum), is a common spice used in culinary applications. In Ayurveda, it is believed to have digestive and respiratory benefits. Jiraka may help in relieving symptoms of respiratory diseases by reducing inflammation and promoting expectoration.