Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is a condition where lining of the airways in the lungs narrow, due to inflammation and swelling of the airway lining. There is a strong link between asthma and allergies.

This leads to the tightening of the airway muscles and the production of excess mucus, resulting in breathing difficulties.

Symptoms of asthma can include:

• Tightness of the chest
• A chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

What causes asthma?

Asthma is a multi-factorial condition, and the causes vary depending on the individual. Although, there are several factors that contribute to its development. So, what causes asthma?

• Family history – 30% to 50% of children with one parent with an allergy and 60% to 80% of children with both parents with allergies will develop an allergy related condition
• Allergies – about 80 per cent of asthma sufferers also have allergies. It also often occurs with other allergic conditions like hay fever and eczema
• Environmental factors – such as viral infections or cigarette smoke exposure during early childhood can result in a higher incidence of allergic conditions.

Asthma and allergies

Asthma and allergies go hand in hand. Over 2 million Australians, and over 500 thousand New Zealanders, have asthma. Of these, about 80 per cent also have allergies.

Common substances that trigger symptoms of asthma fall into two categories:

1. Airborne and seasonal allergens
   • Pollens
   • Grasses
   • Dust mites/dust
   • Moulds
   • Animals
2. Foods and food chemicals
   • Dairy
   • Wheat
   • Salicylates (naturally occurring chemicals in fruits and vegetables)
   • food additives (including preservatives, colourings, flavour enhancers, etc.)

These triggers are usually detected when the reaction occurs (e.g. upon exposure to grass). However, in some cases (particular when dealing with food sensitivities) asthma triggers can be hard to pinpoint, as the reaction may be delayed or only occur when the person is exposed to an amount about their toleratance “threshold”.

It may also go hand in hand with other allergic conditions like hay fever and eczema, which can often appear at the same time, or in succession of one another.

Natural Treatment for Asthma

At Health & Wellness Australia & Auckland, we use a technique called muscle testing (or kinesiology) to help identify which substances you may be reacting to.

Following testing, you can work with your practitioner to address your reactions using a natural allergy treatment called Positive Association Technique (PAT) as a natural treatment for asthma.

PAT is a non-invasive, holistic therapy, which:

• draws on acupressure and kinesiology techniques
• aims to re-train your body
• may reduce your reactions to food and environmental substances triggering your asthma symptoms

Some cases can be complex, so our Naturopaths may also recommend supplements, herbs and lifestyle advice to help you achieve the best long-term results.

• Send our PAT Practitioners a Question HERE
• Request a FREE PAT Information E-PACK HERE
• Book online HERE

Please note PAT cannot “cure” asthma – we aim to reduce your reactions and help manage asthma-related symptoms. We do not intend to raise unrealistic expectations. If symptoms persist, consult your health care professional.