Asthma

If you have asthma, you are not alone. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 150 million people suffer from asthma worldwide. In the United States asthma increased nearly 75% between 1980 and 1996. It is estimated that nearly 5% of the population has asthma. It is the leading cause of school and work absences and it is also the leading cause of hospitalizations and trips to the emergency room.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a condition in which there is the chronic inflammation of the airways which leads to a narrowing of the air passages.  This narrowing then results in a reduced airflow in and out of the lungs.

The most common cause of asthma seems to be that it is genetic (atopic). Other factors leading to asthma are environmental such as viruses, allergens (e.g. pet dander, house dust mites, etc.), and occupational.

Unfortunately, there is as of yet no real cure for asthma or allergies. What is critical then for asthma and allergies is their management and control. Also, it is often thought that children will outgrow their asthma or allergies, while in reality, the condition can last for years.

Asthma and diet

There are a number of steps that can be taken, especially to help reduce the incidence and intensity of the asthmatic condition for children:

• Breastfeeding has been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of childhood asthma if continued for at least 4 months after birth and the benefits are even greater for the first year
• Avoid certain types of food during the child’s first year such as chocolate, eggs, strawberries, cocoa, and tomatoes. For a list of foods to be avoided, one should consult one’s pediatrician or health care provider.
• It is important to introduce new foods one at a time and then observe for any adverse reaction. This will help to pinpoint any problematic foods.

An interesting study has shown that a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may also be beneficial for those suffering from asthma. This diet would then include oily fish such as tuna, and canola-based oils and spreads. On the other hands, foods high in omega-6 fatty acids can increase airway inflammation. Omega-6 fatty acids include soybean-based polyunsaturated oils and margarines.

Concern for one’s diet is very important and studies now also show there is a link between childhood obesity and asthmatic conditions in which obesity can have a significant impact on the severity of the asthma and airway obstruction.

Other Preventive measures

If there is a concern for allergies or asthma, there are a number of steps that can be taken to help improve the indoor air quality of the home which can help to reduce the conditions that can trigger asthmatic or allergic reactions.

• Use mattress coverings that can reduce house dust mites
• Washlinens at least weekly
• Remove carpeting
• Avoid smoking
• If pets are problem, consider finding a new home for the household pet
• Consider purchasing an air purifier or purifiers
• Use damp cloths when cleaning furniture which will help to reduce the spread of dust
• Use HEPA filters for vacuuming
• Consider using a dehumidifier, especially in the bedroom. Dust mites need moisture to survive and the drier the climate, the more it will help to diminish their population. The recommended level for the ambient relative humidity is between 40 and 50%.

Conclusion

Asthma and allergies are now exceedingly common in the United States and in the world. While the cure for them remains elusive, we can, however, control much of our indoor air quality and environment which can help to reduce the conditions which will trigger adverse reactions. This takes effort and education, but we know much more and can take action to reduce exposure to the allergens and conditions that can cause these distressing ailments.