According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), more than 20 million people suffer from asthma. Asthma is a chronic condition where the airways become inflamed and produce excessive mucus that leads to shortness of breathe, coughing and wheezing. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no cure for asthma, only treatments that can help reduce asthma symptoms. Various treatments for asthma are available such as medications, immunotherapy and home treatments. For people who prefer not to use medication, home treatments may be the best place to begin. A doctor's consent should be given before a person attempts to use any treatment.
Modify Diet and Nutrition
According to Dr. Weil, a person can greatly reduce her asthma symptoms by changing her diet and nutrition. His recommendations should be discussed with the individual's primary care giver before being implemented. He recommends that a person avoid excessive amounts of protein in the diet (10 percent of ingested food). Substitute dairy products, eat organic food as much as possible, get rid of unhealthy oils and fats such as polyunsaturated and partially hydrogenated oils and increase omega-3 fatty acids. He also recommends removing soy, sugar, wheat and corn from the person's diet, one at a time to see if it improves the asthma.
Indoor Maintenance
The Mayo Clinic recommends keeping the indoor environment clean and free of irritants such as pollen, smoke or pet dander. Use the air conditioner to keep pollen and airborne molds from entering the home. Air conditions also lower the humidity in the home, which can kill off dust mites. Using an air purifier can also help create an optimal indoor environment, according to the Mayo Clinic. Keeping a clean house is also recommended to reduce the amount of dust and dust mites that are able to colonize in the home. People with pets should keep them cleaned and groomed and should create a separate space specifically for the animal to live to avoid dander throughout the home.
Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
Dr. Weil recommends drinking plenty of water throughout the day to thin-out mucus secretions in the lungs. Exercising is recommended by the Mayo Clinic as a home treatment for asthma. A person with asthma should use caution when exercising and should be under a doctor's care. Exercise can help to build up the lungs and heart which can help reduce asthma symptoms. The Mayo Clinic recommends eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
