Asthma affects millions of people worldwide, causing recurring periods of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. This chronic respiratory condition can significantly impact quality of life, limiting daily activities and causing distress during flare-ups.
While there is no cure, understanding its causes, recognizing symptoms, and following appropriate treatment plans can help most people manage their condition effectively. With proper care and lifestyle adjustments, asthmatic patients can lead active, fulfilling lives.
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterized by recurring episodes of breathing difficulty. When triggered, the airways in the lungs become inflamed, narrow, and filled with mucus, making it difficult for air to flow freely. This inflammation causes the muscles around the airways to tighten, further restricting airflow. The resulting symptoms can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening episodes if left untreated.
6 Symptoms to Watch Out For
- Wheezing – A whistling sound when breathing, especially during exhalation, caused by air being forced through narrowed airways.
- Chest tightness – A feeling of pressure or constriction in the chest that may feel like something is squeezing or sitting on your chest.
- Shortness of breath – Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can’t get enough air, which may worsen with physical activities.
- Chronic coughing – A persistent cough that may be worse at night or early morning, sometimes the only symptom present.
- Sleep disruption – Nighttime awakenings due to coughing, wheezing, or breathing difficulties.
- Fatigue – Feeling tired due to poor sleep quality and the extra energy required to breathe during episodes.
4 Types of Asthma and Their Triggers
Allergic Asthma
Allergic asthma is the most common form, affecting approximately 60% of all asthmatic patients. This type occurs when the immune system overreacts to certain allergens in the environment, triggering inflammation in the airways. The reaction can be immediate or delayed, and symptoms may vary in severity depending on exposure levels and individual sensitivity. People with allergic asthma often have other allergic conditions like hay fever or eczema.
Common allergens include:
- Dust mites – Microscopic bugs found in house dust, bedding, and upholstered furniture
- Pet dander – Tiny flecks of skin shed by cats, dogs, and other animals with fur
- Pollen – From trees, grasses, and weeds, especially during spring and fall
- Mold spores – Found in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and outdoor leaf piles
- Cockroach droppings – Common in urban environments and older buildings
Exercise-Induced Asthma
Exercise-induced asthma (EIA), also called exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, occurs during or after physical activity. The condition develops when the airways narrow due to the loss of heat and moisture during rapid breathing during exercise. Symptoms typically begin within 5-20 minutes after starting exercise or 5-10 minutes after completing the activity. EIA can affect people who otherwise have no symptoms, as well as those with other forms of the condition.
Triggers can include:
- Cold, dry air – Particularly problematic during winter outdoor activities
- High-intensity activities – Such as running, soccer, basketball, and hockey
- Endurance sports – Especially in cold weather environments
- Chlorinated pools – Swimming in heavily chlorinated water
- Rapid breathing – Activities that require sustained heavy breathing
Occupational Asthma
Occupational asthma develops due to breathing in workplace irritants or allergens. This type can emerge in people with no previous history, sometimes after years of exposure to certain substances. Symptoms may improve during days off and worsen during workdays. Early identification and reduced exposure are crucial, as continued exposure can lead to permanent lung damage and chronic asthma.
Common triggers would include:
- Chemical fumes – From paints, adhesives, cleaning products, and manufacturing processes
- Dust – From wood, flour, grain, or animal feed processing
- Latex – Common in healthcare settings and manufacturing
- Metal compounds – Including platinum, chromium, and nickel salts
- Biological enzymes – Used in detergent manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries
Non-Allergic Asthma
Non-allergic asthma is triggered by factors other than allergens and is not related to an immune system response. This type often develops later in life and can be more severe and difficult to treat than allergic asthma. Non-allergic asthma may be linked to certain respiratory infections or underlying health conditions. Symptoms may appear suddenly and can be more persistent throughout the year rather than seasonal.
Triggers to watch out for would include:
- Respiratory infections – Including colds, flu, and sinusitis
- Stress and strong emotions – Anxiety, laughter, crying, or anger
- Weather changes – Particularly cold air, humidity, or sudden temperature shifts
- Air pollution – Vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and smog
- Strong odors – Perfumes, cleaning products, and scented candles
Is there a cure for Asthma? Exploring Natural Treatment Methods for Relief
No, there is currently no cure for asthma. This chronic respiratory condition requires ongoing management rather than a one-time treatment that eliminates it completely. Medical research continues to advance our understanding of asthma and improve treatment options, but the focus remains on controlling symptoms and preventing flare-ups rather than curing the underlying condition. Even when symptoms disappear for extended periods, the underlying airway inflammation and sensitivity typically remain.
Chiropractic Care for Asthma
Chiropractic care offers a complementary approach to conventional asthma management by focusing on proper spinal alignment and nervous system function. Chiropractors perform targeted adjustments to the spine, particularly in the thoracic (mid-back) region, which may help improve nerve communication to the lungs and respiratory muscles.
These adjustments aim to reduce tension in the chest and optimize breathing mechanics, potentially decreasing the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms for some patients. Many chiropractors also incorporate breath work, stress reduction techniques, and lifestyle advice as part of a holistic approach to supporting respiratory health and overall well-being.
5 Chiropractic techniques and strategies commonly used are:
- Spinal adjustments – Targeted manipulations focusing on the thoracic spine (mid-back) to potentially improve nerve function to the lungs and reduce tension in respiratory muscles.
- Soft tissue therapy – Massage and stretching techniques for chest and neck muscles to help ease breathing restrictions and reduce tension around the ribcage.
- Breathing exercises – Guided breathing techniques to strengthen respiratory muscles and improve lung capacity, often incorporated into treatment sessions.
- Posture correction – Adjustments and exercises to improve overall posture, potentially reducing pressure on the lungs and opening airways.
- Lifestyle counseling – Recommendations regarding allergen avoidance, physical activity modifications, and stress management techniques tailored to your specific needs.
6 Alternative Treatment Options
- Breathing exercises – Techniques like the Buteyko method or pranayama yoga breathing can help strengthen respiratory muscles and improve breathing efficiency during non-acute periods.
- Acupuncture – Some studies suggest acupuncture may help reduce inflammation and relax airway muscles, potentially decreasing the frequency of attacks in certain individuals.
- Dietary changes – Anti-inflammatory diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce overall inflammation, while avoiding food allergens can prevent reactions in those with food triggers.
- Salt therapy – Inhaling microscopic salt particles in specialized salt rooms is claimed to reduce inflammation and clear mucus, although scientific evidence remains limited.
- Mind-body practices – Techniques such as meditation, tai chi, and guided imagery may help manage stress, which is a common trigger for many people.
- Essential oils – Some people find relief using eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender oils in diffusers, though these should be used cautiously as they can trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals.
10 Tips for Living with Asthma
- Create an asthma action plan with your healthcare provider. This written document should outline daily treatment, how to recognize worsening symptoms, and what to do during an attack. Review and update this plan regularly, especially after any severe episodes.
- Take medications exactly as prescribed. Even when feeling well, continuing maintenance medications helps prevent inflammation and keeps airways open. Set reminders if needed and always carry rescue medications.
- Identify and avoid personal triggers. Keep a symptom diary to track when attacks occur and what might have caused them. Common triggers include dust mites, pollen, pet dander, cold air, and strong odors.
- Maintain a clean living environment. Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, vacuum with a HEPA filter, and consider removing carpets, which can harbor allergens.
- Monitor air quality before outdoor activities. Check local air quality reports and limit time outdoors when pollution levels are high or pollen counts are elevated for those with allergies.
- Get vaccinated against respiratory illnesses. Annual flu shots and pneumonia vaccines are especially important for asthmatic patients, as respiratory infections can trigger severe attacks.
- Exercise appropriately. Work with your doctor to find activities that don’t trigger symptoms, use pre-exercise medications if recommended, and warm up properly before vigorous physical activities.
- Learn proper breathing techniques. Diaphragmatic breathing and pursed-lip breathing can help improve lung function and provide relief during minor symptom flare-ups.
- Manage stress levels. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or gentle yoga to reduce stress-induced symptoms.
- Build a support network. Connect with friends, family, and perhaps a support group who understand your condition and can provide emotional support or assistance during difficult times.
Conclusion
Living with asthma presents challenges, but with proper knowledge, medical care, and lifestyle adjustments, most people can effectively manage their symptoms and lead active lives. Understanding your specific triggers, maintaining a treatment plan, and staying prepared for flare-ups are essential steps toward better respiratory health.
For personalized support in managing your asthma symptoms, schedule an appointment with us at New Wave Chiropractic. Our team offers complementary approaches that may help improve your breathing and overall quality of life. Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram for regular health tips, or check out our patient experiences on Yelp to learn how we’ve helped others in their asthma management journey.
