11 home remedies to help manage asthma

11 home remedies to help manage asthma

Asthma is a lung-related disease that causes the inflammation of airways, leading to troubled breathing. Chronic asthma can make it difficult for one to talk or be active. Asthma has no specific diagnosis or treatment, and therefore, identifying the causes will help better understand the symptoms. Various allergies, consumption of tobacco, environmental factors, stress, tension, obesity, and even genetics can result in developing asthma symptoms. There are a few visual indicators to identify the cause.

Here are some easy home remedies you can incorporate into your daily food regime to help manage asthma.

Parsley leaf
When it comes to herbal remedies, nothing beats parsley. Tea made from parley leaves will help soothe your throat and take care of any congestion that is causing difficulty in breathing and swallowing. Simple and very easy to make, parsley tea is a great remedy for respiratory symptoms of asthma.

Milk and olive oil
The combination of warm milk mixed with olive oil might not sound very appealing on the first onset; however, this has proven to be an effective natural remedy. A few garlic cloves added to this combination will open up blocked passageways without much effort or time invested.

Herbal tea
Two distinct ways of preparing herbal tea, one involves the use of licorice root, and the other is a combination of lime juice, crushed ginger, and herbal tea. Both will help tackle some of the moderate asthma symptoms, though the licorice recipe might taste a bit odd.

Bitter gourd juice
A tasty paste made by crushing basil leaves and mixing it with honey, incorporated into freshly extracted bitter gourd juice proves to be an effective remedy for people who are suffering from recurrent asthmatic attacks.

Soup
Soup not only is comfort food but also has time and time proven to be an effective remedy for asthma symptoms. Radish naturally has rich, strong properties, the juice of which when combined with some honey and freshly squeezed lemon will help in clearing up the respiratory tract. This helps open up the airways and aids in effective breathing.

Wild gooseberries
The juice of gooseberries, freshly squeezed when combined with honey not only makes a tasty drink, but also the combination helps tackle a number of asthma symptoms like a cough, wheezing, dry cough, and more.

Fruits
Fruits are rich in a number of vitamins and essential nutrients that are vital for the immune system which is why fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and oranges are all a great choice to prepare drinks which can help reduce the discomfort from various asthma symptoms. These fruits can also be combined to make tasty concoctions with lemon which is essentially rich in vitamin C.

Cooked vegetables
Inflammation of the airway is one of the most important symptoms of an asthma attack which is why vegetables which are rich in anti-inflammatory properties have been proven effective to reduce the discomfort. Onions are especially rich in anti-inflammatory properties which is why their consumption should be increased to help open up the airway and help with restoring normal breathing.

Honey
Honey is a very versatile ingredient which can be incorporated into any juice or mixture for providing long-term relief from asthma symptoms, provided it is consumed on a regular basis. A quick and natural remedy for asthma care, even a couple of spoonfuls every day will essentially do the trick.

Eucalyptus oil
A natural and very strong remedy when it comes to tackling many common asthma symptoms. Put a few drops of eucalyptus oil in boiling water and take regular steams to help open up the nose canal and airways in your lungs to provide long-term relief. Simple and inexpensive, eucalyptus oil can be availed at any medical store.

Cloves and ginger
Both are rich in medicinal properties and being versatile ingredients, they can be incorporated into simple homemade recipes. Cloves and ginger can also be simply crushed and mixed with warm water and honey to provide good relief from recurrent or even persistent asthma symptoms.

Common symptoms of asthma
One of the common symptoms of asthma is a dry cough with phlegm. Home remedies can give temporary relief until the severity of the condition can be diagnosed, and a recommended course of treatment can be prescribed for the same.

A number of respiratory problems like difficulty in breathing, wheezing, respiratory infections, and shortness of breath are all caused due to the airways being blocked persistently, thus interrupting air flow going to your lungs.

A cough is a very common symptom and does not necessarily indicate that a person might be in the beginning stages of developing asthmatic problems.
However, a chronic cough is a clear indicator that the condition has been induced due to both internal and external allergens, which then is a clear cause for concern.

Medication
The following are the types of medicines that help bring asthma under control.

Spiriva Respimat
One can use Spiriva Respimat inhaler to help manage asthma at home. The medication contains tiotropium, a bronchodilator that can help ease COPD and asthma symptoms. It helps open up the airways in the lungs, making breathing easier. For SPIRIVA RESPIMAT inhaler, the manufacturer is offering a discount coupon in the form of a savings card that may help one get the medication for free.

Dupixent
Dupixent is an FDA-approved medication used to treat moderate to severe asthma in both adults and children above the age of 12. It works by decreasing swelling in the lungs, relieving symptoms and reducing the risk of an asthma attack.

Fasenra
This is a prescription medicine often used in combination with other medications to manage severe asthma. It is given to the patient via injection once every four or eight weeks. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not have this medicine.

Tezepelumab
Tezepelumab is a biological drug in the form of a monoclonal antibody, which is prescribed mainly for asthma or atopic dermatitis patients. This drug blocks thymic stromal lymphopoietin in the body, and thus helps prevent severe and uncontrolled asthma attacks in patients. One should note that Tezepelumab is yet to receive FDA approval.

NUCALA
NUCALA, which is the brand name for a drug called mepolizumab, is an add-on, prescription treatment for those suffering from eosinophilic asthma. It is only prescribed for people older than 6 years. NUCALA helps in lowering the number of eosinophils in the blood. This, in turn, could reduce the amount of inflammation in the airways.

Recommended

5 most common food allergies

5 most common food allergies

Food allergy is common in both children and adults. It is a condition in which a person’s immune system erroneously identifies specific components in food, typically protein, as enemies. As a result, it triggers an immune response that causes inflammation and other symptoms, such as diarrhea, rashes, shortness of breath, and even life-threatening anaphylaxis. Though nearly any food can trigger an allergic reaction, the following are more likely to cause a problem. Peanuts Peanuts are one of the most common causes of food allergies in humans. And the biggest concern is that allergic reactions caused by them can be severe and potentially fatal. Researchers are not sure why some are allergic to peanuts, but they maintain that a family history of peanut allergy increases an individual’s risk. Milk Milk allergy is the most common food allergy in infants and young children. However, most children grow out of it as they age. The problematic components in milk are its proteins—whey and casein. Milk allergy must not be confused with lactose intolerance, which is the body’s inability to fully digest the natural sugar (lactose). Wheat Approximately two-thirds of children with wheat allergy grow out of it by adolescence. Nevertheless, many adults are allergic to any of the hundreds of proteins found in wheat, causing symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, itching, and even anaphylaxis.
Odors as asthma triggers – What one needs to know

Odors as asthma triggers – What one needs to know

People who have eosinophilic asthma usually exhibit high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that helps build a strong immune system. However, when abnormally high levels of eosinophils come in contact with the cells present in the airways, they can cause inflammation. Eosinophilic asthma can also cause type-2 inflammation, resulting in decreased lung function. The following article specifically focuses on allergens like smells that trigger the symptoms of asthma. Symptoms of asthma A person who has inhaled asthma-triggering odors may exhibit symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing when exhaling, and frequent coughing. Shortness of breath may be caused due to decreased lung function or inflamed air passages in the case of eosinophilic asthma type-2 inflammation. Odors that trigger the symptoms of asthma The symptoms may be caused due to a variety of allergens, including dust, dander, or pollen. While these allergens can be avoided to a certain extent, allergens like gases and aerosols can be a challenge to avoid. Statistics suggest that more than 40 percent of people with asthma report health problems due to odors. The odors that trigger asthma symptoms include: Household smells These include air fresheners, chlorine and bleach (present in cleaning products), colognes and perfumes, deodorants, furniture polish (wood varnish), nail polish remover, fireplaces, and wood-burning stoves.
6 worst foods for people with breathing problems

6 worst foods for people with breathing problems

Leading a regular life becomes quite challenging when one faces breathing troubles sporadically. Breath-related issues, such as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and pain or pressure in the chest are usually symptoms of lung diseases like MAC disease and COPD. Certain foods we regularly eat can negatively affect our lungs and exacerbate breathing problems. So, this article lists some common foods one must avoid to ease breathing issues and control MAC disease and COPD symptoms. 1. Fried foods Fried foods, such as French fries, fried chicken, and potato chips, are among the unhealthiest foods anyone can eat. These foods can cause gas and bloating, making breathing more difficult in those suffering from breath-related conditions. Fried foods, being calorie-dense, can also lead to weight gain, which increases pressure on the lungs. 2. Salty foods Too much salt spells more trouble when you’re suffering from breathing problems. That’s because salt, or sodium, can cause fluid retention in the body, triggering high blood pressure and shortness of breath. Steer clear of various high-salt foods like canned soup, pasta sauce, and tortilla chips, and replace salt with spices and herbs in dinner recipes. 3. Processed meats Ham, hot dogs, sausages, and other processed meats are usually loaded with nitrates to improve color and prolong shelf life.
Top easy at-home teeth whitening tips

Top easy at-home teeth whitening tips

Oral health is essential, but despite that, most often easily neglected by individuals. While it is recommended to visit a dentist regularly, there are some tips and tricks that we can use at home to make sure our teeth are healthy, clean, and white! Here are some ways on how you can keep your teeth shiny and white through safe and tested methods. Do speak to your dentist before using these tips regularly at home. Easy at-home teeth whitening tips Whitening trays and strips You can easily find reputed whitening strips and trays which contain a bleaching agent called hydrogen peroxide. These strips are applied directly to the enamel to see desirable results. Activated charcoal whitener Charcoal whiteners have three very effective ingredients, namely activated charcoal, bentonite, and an oil like orange seed oil. These whiten the teeth by getting absorbed into them. Teeth whitening pastes These pastes contain ingredients such as sodium bicarbonate, hydrated silica, and calcium carbonate that remove stains from the teeth and polish them. Whitening packs These whitening packs are to be applied directly onto your teeth. You can do so at night after brushing your teeth. The pack is to be used as per instructions.
Foods and remedies to help manage Parkinson’s

Foods and remedies to help manage Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s is a degenerative neurological disorder that commonly affects senior individuals. However, there are times when patients are diagnosed with the early onset of the condition. The disease is associated with a lower amount of dopamine in the brain and damaged nerve cells. Dealing with a condition such as Parkinson’s does not have a specific to-do not-to-do plan; however, there are certain foods that are believed to aid in its management. Foods that help manage Parkinson’s Bananas Bananas contain magnesium, a critical nutrient that helps lower the risk of spasm and muscle cramps. Patients with Parkinson’s are also low on dopamine, an essential neurotransmitter that regulates communication linked to movement. Bananas contain tryptophan and tyrosine, both key building blocks of dopamine that help supplement this requirement. Berries Studies reveal that free radicals can damage healthy brain cells and worsen the cognitive symptoms linked to Parkinson’s. Blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, goji berries, and elderberries are loaded with essential antioxidants and vitamin C to combat this stress and boost cognitive function. Berries are also loaded with fiber that helps manage constipation, one of the critical discomforts linked to the disease. Broccoli Green vegetables are rich in fibers and antioxidants that actively help combat oxidative stress to minimize dopamine loss.
6 superfoods that help reduce cholesterol levels

6 superfoods that help reduce cholesterol levels

Cholesterol is a naturally-produced essential fatty substance in the body. The type of fat found in the blood helps the body build healthy cells, thereby ensuring it functions smoothly. However, excess cholesterol is harmful as it can lead to fatty deposits in the blood vessels, narrow or clog the arteries and increase the risk of heart conditions. Below are six foods that help lower cholesterol levels and also improve heart health. 6 superfoods that help lower cholesterol levels Apples Apples are rich in a type of soluble fiber called pectin that brings down cholesterol levels by about 10 percent. It also helps reduce triglycerides, which is a type of fat in the blood. In addition to their fibrous content, apples also contain polyphenols, which could help control cholesterol levels. Avocados Avocado contains monounsaturated fatty acids or MUFAs, which keep the cholesterol levels in check and help in keeping the heart healthy. This fruit contains about 10 grams of fiber. You can pair it with whole grain, pumpernickel, or rye toast to make it even more fibrous. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or sprinkle some herbs like oregano for extra flavor. Dark chocolate Cocoa in dark chocolates contains flavonoids that control blood pressure levels and lower cholesterol.