A typical inhaler used by one inflicted with asthma.
Millions of people worldwide suffer from various degrees and types of asthma. For some, the condition triggers a mild struggle-for-breath sensation, while for others breathing seems completely impossible and an attack can lead to hospitalization or even death. Whether one is inflicted with the milder form or a more extreme version, an asthma attack can be a scary experience. What to do, then, when such an attack hits at home? Do fast home asthma treatments exist?
Inhaler
Though inhalers are designed to be used before strenuous activity, thereby preventing an asthma attack, they also can be helpful during an attack--as treatment. The user should breathe out, place the inhaler on the mouth, press down on the inhaler button (at the top), then breathe in deeply and hold that breath for several seconds. This will open up the air passages--and hopefully treat the asthma attack. Speaking in terms of a more regular basis, it may be a good idea to breathe in the inhaler once each morning. In the end, this last option should be made in consultation with one's physician.
Herbal Treatments
A whole host of herbal treatments exist to fight and treat asthma at home. For example, turmeric powder is said to combat asthma, acting best when taken on an empty stomach two to three times a day (perhaps with milk). Dry figs, taken with water, are allegedly good for reducing phlegm. Dairy products, which are mucus-forming, are said to be mostly a no-no for asthma victims. One herbal remedy calls for a daily drink of the following mixture: a quarter cup of onion juice, an eighth of a tablespoon of black pepper, and a tablespoon of honey. When an attack hits (or any type of wheezing ensues), asserts another remedy, white cloth strips saturated in vinegar should be wrapped around one's wrists to calm things down.
Steam
Inhaling steam can help calm an asthma attack. Some people prefer inhaling the steam of recently boiled potatoes, but steam from simple boiled water can really help things subside.
Education
That's right--if you haven't attempted to really educate yourself on asthma, now is the time. Knowing the various types of asthma that exist, what the symptoms of each are, and control them can literally change one's life. It may also lead to the right questions--that only the individual afflicted with asthma knows--to ask one's physician. After all, many types of asthma exist, and there are no blanket solutions.
Tags: asthma attack, types asthma, attack hits, inflicted with, treat asthma