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Asthma is characterized by repeated, temporary episodes of constriction and inflammation of the airways and lungs, along with excess mucous production. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology estimates that about 20 million Americans have asthma and that number has been rising since 1980.

The respiratory system is made up of bronchial tubes or airways and the lungs. Asthma involves the inflammation of the bronchial tubes and lining of the lungs. The inflammation causes the airways to be overly sensitive to irritating factors, which cause constriction and obstruction to the passage of air into the lungs.

Mucous Asthmatics also produce excess amounts of mucous in the respiratory tract. Mucous is a normal component of respiratory function that aids in carrying irritating particles up and out of the respiratory system to be expectorated from the body. Abnormally thick mucous is produced from Asthmatics which interferes with breathing.

Genetic Factors According to the National Institutes of Health in 2005, chromosomes 5,6,11,14, and 12all play a role in asthmatic predisposition. These genes also are said to control how the immune system responds to the presence to substances that trigger asthma symptoms. The immune system consists of a wide array of specialized cells that work together to neutralize threats to the system. Antigens are any foreign agent invading the body that trigger the immune system and include disease-producing organisms (viruses, toxic chemicals, allergens). In response to foreign particles, some immunes cells produce antibodies to attack antigens. A primary immune response is classified as the initial encounter with an antigen. When the antigen is recognized from past encounters, the antibodies mount a stronger immune response than the primary response; this process is known as the secondary immune response.

Demographics Asthma has been described as the fastest-growing chronic disease and a worldwide epidemic. According to Global Initiative for Asthma, an asthma research and education program, asthma accounts for about one in every 250 deaths worldwide. Gina estimates there are over three million asthmatic individuals worldwide. In most countries, asthmatic cases are increasing 20-50% every decade.

Diagnosis Examiners tend to look for maximum chest expansion during inhalation. Hunched shoulders and contracting neck muscles are other signs of narrowed airways. Nasal polyps or increased amounts of nasal secretions are often noted in asthmatic patients. Skin changes, such as dermatitis or eczema, are a clue that the patient has allergies.

Nutrition Practitioners recommend reducing dairy intake from the diet since such products increase mucous secretion in the lungs and are some main sources of food allergies. It is also recommended to avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial foods. People who have asthma should drink plenty of water, which helps to keep the lungs moist. Onions and garlic should become a part of a asthmatic's diet because they contain quercetin, a flavonoid that inhibits the release of histamine.

Remedies Emotional stress is one of the triggers for an attack. Mind/Body techniques strive to reduce stress and help people manage the psychological component of their health condition. A study in 1992 by Dr. Erik Peper at the Institute for Holistic Healing Studies in San Francisco used biofeedback, a treatment method that uses monitors to reveal physiological information to patients and to teach relaxation and deep breathing. Of the 21 asthmatic patients, 80% reported fewer attacks and hospital visits. Yoga has also been found beneficial to expand the lungs, promote deep breathing, and reduce stress.

Precautions to Antiasthmatic Drugs Since bronchodilators provide quick relief, people are tempted to overuse them which can lead to serious and possibly life-threatening complications. Corticosteroids may cause serious side effects when used over a long period. These effects are less likely in the inhalant forms compared to the oral and injected forms. Leukotriene modifiers should be used to prevent and manage asthma, not to cease an attack. Some side effects may include dryness or irritation of the throat, a dry mouth, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Gargling and rinsing the mouth or taking a sip of water after each dose can help with such problems.