Natural Ways to Ease Asthma Symptoms

Past Medication

In case you have asthma, you know how important it is to take your medicine as prescribed by your physician. That often means having a long-term control medication daily and maintaining a quick-relief inhaler handy. But managing asthma is not only about medication. You can do several different things that will assist you to breathe as freely and easily as possible.

Natural Ways to Ease Asthma Symptoms

Grab an Espresso

While coughing, wheezing, and trouble breathing telephone for your rescue inhaler, you could consider a carbonated drink if your symptoms are mild. Caffeine is a weak bronchodilator, so it opens your airways a little. More research is required, but some studies suggest it might assist your lungs to work better for up to 4 hours.

Hit the Steam Room

Lots of people with asthma find a hot atmosphere soothing. A steam bath — in a sauna or your shower at home — can help clear out mucus which may make it tough to breathe. 1 word of warning: Some folks find that warmth makes their asthma worse, so it is important to understand your own personal triggers.

Add Spice to Your Life

Garlic and ginger have anti-inflammatory chemicals that may ease your asthma symptoms. Begin with fresh garlic cloves and ginger root. You can steep either in boiling water and drink it like tea after the water has cooled, or only use these spices more frequently in your cooking.

Learn How to Decompress

When you are stressed, all of the muscles in your body tense up, including those in your chest. Handling that tension may mean fewer asthma flare-ups. Meditation and yoga are great options, as is tai chi, an ancient, gentle Chinese martial art. Research suggests it may help control asthma symptoms in some individuals.

Keep Moving

Exercise can make your lungs more powerful, but it can also be an asthma attack, especially if you’re outside in cold weather. To remain safe, speak with your physician before beginning a new routine and ask if you should take medication before you get going. Also make certain to work your way up gradually (think walking, then jogging, then running). And heed the weatherIf it is cold out, cover your nose and mouth or move your workout indoors.

Eat the Rainbow

Colorful produce is full of antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamins E and C which help combat inflammation in your body, such as in your lungs. And while you are watching your diet, be cautious with sulfites, a sort of preservative which triggers asthma symptoms in some individuals. You’ll often see them in wine, dried fruit, pickles, and shrimp.

Let the Sun Shine

Many Americans are low in vitamin D, and individuals with severe asthma may be more inclined to get this issue. Ask your doctor to check your levels. If you do not have sufficient, eggs, milk, and bony fish such as canned salmon can help. Your body also makes vitamin D when you are in sunlight. Just make sure you use sunscreen, and do not stay out too long or you could increase your odds of skin cancer.

Take Deep Breaths

Special breathing exercises help your lungs work better. Pursed lip breathing is 1 alternative: Breath in through your nose, then breathe out at least twice as slowly through pursed lips. Diaphragmatic breathing also referred to as belly breathing, is another helpful technique. If you require assistance with these, your physician can refer you to an expert.

Watch the Weather

Cold or dry air may make your symptoms worse. When the mercury dips, you may drape a scarf around your mouth and nose to make it easier to breathe. Your indoor air issues, too. A dehumidifier or humidifier can help make certain that your air is not too humid or too dry. And remember to keep windows shut and run the air conditioner during allergy season to keep out pollen.

Mind the Scale

Extra fat around your torso and abdomen can make it more difficult to breathe, and fat cells may lead to inflammation that may influence your airways. Cutting back on fat and calories and walking daily can help.

Know Your Triggers

Lots of people with asthma also have allergies, and common allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can make your asthma symptoms flare if you are sensitive to them. When you haven’t been tested for allergies, visit an allergist so that you can find out precisely what bothers you and try stay away from it. As reported by WebMD.com