Asthma is a disease of the human respiratory system in which the airways narrow, often in response to a trigger such as exposure to an allergen, cold air, exercise, or emotional stress. This narrowing causes symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. With the rising levels of pollution and tendency towards stressful lifestyles, the number of people suffering from this disease is escalating.

Causes

Although the exact cause of asthma is not known, some of the triggering factors that set off an asthma attack or make the symptoms worse include:

• irritants (dust, cigarette smoke, fumes) and chemicals
• allergies to pollen, medicines, animals, house dust mite or certain foods
• infections (colds and flu)
• exercise, especially in cold, dry air
• emotions (laughing or crying very hard)
• stress

Symptoms

Asthma symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. The onset may be sudden, with a sense of constriction in the chest, breathing becomes difficult, and wheezing occurs. Between episodes, most patients feel fine. An acute exacerbation of asthma is referred to as an asthma attack. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, pain or tightness in the chest, flaring of the nostrils when breathing in, interrupted talking, and agitation.These symptoms tend to be variable and may stop and start. They are usually worse at night.

Ayurvedic perspective

Ayurveda regards asthma as a disorder caused by impaired digestion, which is why preliminary symptoms may include indigestion, constipation or diarrhea. This dysfunction in the digestive process is the cause of the hypersensitivity to certain substances, such as dust and pollen that triggers the asthma attacks. Deposits of ama (mucus) in the lungs and respiratory tract create obstruction in breathing and cause wheezing, coughing or sneezing. Ayurvedic treatment focuses on restoring digestion with herbal preparations and advises supporting diet and lifestyle changes. Ayurvedic tonics are also administered to build up the strength of the lungs.

Treatment

Diet

Eat at least 2 hours before going to bed. Drinking warm water or herbal teas throughout the day is beneficial. Heavy foods including dairy products, fried foods, cold foods, rice, beans and legumes should be avoided. The use of spices, pickles and chilies in cooking should also be minimized. Honey, nuts and seeds can be taken in moderate amount.

Exercise

Avoid excessive or physically demanding exercise. Yoga can be beneficial. Breathing exercises (pranayama) can also be helpful. Breathe deeply and rhythmically to strengthen the respiration system.

Remedial tips

Inhaling steam from boiling water mixed with caraway seeds provides relief. Massaging the chest with mustard oil mixed with a few drops of camphor oil assists in loosening the phlegm and easing breathing. Avoid exposure to cold air and wind. Bathing or showering in cold water is not recommended. Boil 3-4 cloves of garlic in a cup of milk and drink daily.

Play the video below to know more about the Ayurvedic prespective.