During normal breathing, the bands of muscle that surround the airways are relaxed, and air moves freely. But in people with asthma, allergy-causing substances and environmental triggers make the bands of muscle surrounding the airways tighten, and air cannot move freely. Less air cause a person to feel short of breath, and the air moving through the tightened ,iii-vvays causes a whistling sound known as wheezing. This airway narrowing is reversible, a feature that distinguishes asthma from other lung diseases such as bronchitis or emphysema.

People with asthma have red and swollen bronchial tubes contributing to increased tenacious secretions and narrowing of airways. This inflammation is thought to contribute greatly to the long-term damage that asthma can cause to the lungs. And, therefore, treating this inflammation is key to managing asthma in the long run.

The airways of people with asthma are extremely sensitive. The airways tend to overreact and narrow due to even the slightest triggers such as pollen, dust, weather changes or fumes.

• Infections such as viral infections, sinusitis, colds, and flu
• Allergens such as pollens, mold spores, pet dander, and dust mites
• Irritants such as strong odors from perfumes or cleaning solutions, and air pollution
• Tobacco smoke
• Exercise, in exercise-induced asthma
• Weather; changes in temperature and/or humidity, cold air
• Strong emotions such as anxiety, laughter or crying, stress
• Medications, such as aspirin-sensitive asthma

People who have asthma know all too well the distressing and at times terrifying sensations that accompany the helplessness to inhale which occurs when the airways compress and lead to serious difficulties with breathing. The kind of asthma treatment required for each person might be different according to the specific causes that set off an asthma attack. Still, irrespective of what sets off an attack you must deal with the matter promptly to help re-establish normal breathing and maybe even prevent tragic

Basically, asthma is a persistent problem with breathing due to the bronchial tubes that take air to the lungs becoming narrower, clogged with mucus or swollen and irritated. Asthma treatment normally involves ongoing drug treatment, usually dispensed through an inhaler to give instant relief. Some of the more typical triggers of an asthma attack are air that is overly cold or hot, cigarette smoke, smoke from a burning fire, pet dander and pollen. In fact, allergies and asthma are very closely related.

Though the ideal way to treat asthma is through avoidance of the triggers, keeping entirely clear of these circumstances will not be possible at all times. In addition, sometimes asthma attacks can be triggered by the person's inherited tendencies and the asthma treatment that was effective for their mother or father might not be as successful for them. Basically, establishing a treatment approach that is effective for a certain individual could necessitate trying out various treatments until an effective one is discovered. When a suitable therapy is discovered, the person must keep to it unless a different approach is suggested by their health care provider.

There are several drugs commonly used for asthma treatment and the kind of asthma will dictate which one is most suitable for the person. Corticosteroids that are inhaled are the most universally prescribed drugs for irritation and swelling of the bronchial tubes. For asthma triggered by the airways becoming full of mucus, beta-2 agonists are the most commonly administered medications.

Leukotriene modifiers are utilized to clear out the airway while eliminating mucus in the bronchial tubes and lowering irritation and swelling. But not all of us will react alike to these drugs and many individuals would prefer to utilize a more natural approach to asthma treatment owing to the possibility of negative reactions to many of the steroidal treatments.

Quite a few of the medicines intended as asthma treatments are offered in the form of either oral medications or inhalers. Some of them offer relief for a longer period of time than others and many people who suffer from asthma will also have available something known as an emergency relief inhaler that can immediately clear out their airway when they experience an asthma attack.

Asthma in monsoon is a kind of allergic asthma, triggered by humidity as well as the presence of allergens, like pollens and molds, in the atmosphere. An allergy is the immune system's reaction when exposed to what is otherwise a harmful substance, such as plant pollen, mold or animal hair. The immune system normally acts as the body's defense; yet for people with allergies, the immune system treats these substances, called "allergens," as harmful, causing a series of reactions, including an attack of asthma.

Common inhaled allergens include: animal dander (hair), dust mites, mold and pollen.

• Heavy rains with thunderstorm may be responsible for an epidemic outbreak of asthma, because of a sudden release of a large amount of pollen in the air.
• Increased humidity gives rise to the growth of fungal spores or molds, which increase the incidence of asthmatic attacks, as these molds are strong allergens for asthmatics.
• Housedust mites thrive in damp houses, thereby increasing the asthma symptoms, especially in children.
• The monsoon rains can increase air pollution levels by precipitating dissolved chemicals like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, which may  act as direct irritants to asthmatics.
• During monsoon, vehicular air pollution does not dissipate easily and tends to remain suspended in the atmosphere, thereby increasing the rate of asthmatic attacks.
• Monsoon also forces pets like cats and dogs to stay indoors, thereby increasing dander in the house.
• During the monsoon season, some viral infection  may also increase, exacerbating the symptoms of asthma.

Prevention

There are some important things that you can do to prevent worsening of your asthma:

Keep asthma under control. Take your asthma medicine regularly.

Most people with chronic asthma take medication (usually an inhaled corticosteroid) that decreases the inflammation of the airways. Studies show that taking these drugs on a daily basis decreases your risk of having asthma attacks. If your doctor puts you on a daily asthma medication, it's important that you take it as prescribed and DO NOT MISS A SINGLE DOSE!

You can take an active role in controlling your condition by identifying those things that trigger your asthma attacks, and taking measures to minimize these triggers at home and at work or school. If there is a situation where you cannot avoid the trigger, pre-treatment with appropriate medication prescribed by your doctor can prevent the symptoms.

• •   Air out damp, humid areas frequently. Run a dehumidifier to keep humidity between 25% and 50%.
• •   Use air conditioners when possible.
• •   Clean  bathrooms regularly using products that kill and prevent mold.
• •   Use exhaust fans to vent steam.
• •   Keep indoor plants out of bedrooms.
• •   When painting, add mold inhibitor to paint to prevent mold from growing.
• •   Avoid sources of outdoor molds, such as wet leaves or garden debris.
• •   To clean visible mold, use a cleaning solution containing bleach and detergent.
• •   Limit your outdoor activities during times of high pollen, such as early morning.
• Stay indoors during humid or windy days when pollen counts are high.
• Keep windows closed during pollen seasons.
• Encase pillows and mattresses with allergen-proof, zippered covers.
• Pillows and bedding should not contain feathers.
• Wash all bedding in hot water, once a week.
• Non-carpeted flooring is best. If you cannot get rid of your carpeting, vacuum often with a multi-layer, allergen-proof vacuum bag. Wear a mask while vacuuming. If your child has asthma, do not vacuum while he or she is in the room.
• Avoid curtains and drapes. Use plain window shades instead of mini-blinds. Washable curtains should be washed in hot water every 2 to 4 weeks.
• Dust all surfaces with a damp cloth often, including lampshades and windowsills.
• Keep clutter under control. Toys and books should be stored in enclosed bookshelves, drawers or closets.
• Replace traditional stuffed animals with washable stuffed animals.
• Keep all clothing in drawers and closets. Keep drawers and closets closed.
• Cover air ducts with filters. Change these when soiled. .:
• Regularly change filters of heaters and air conditioners.

Asthma attacks

It an range from mild to severe, however, in many cases the severity or frequency of attacks can be reduced by following a few simple steps.

Things You Will Need

• Willingness to change routine behavior to breathe easier
  Essential oils
  Natural cleaners
  Air filters
  Meditation and deep breathing exercises

Step 1

Asthma sufferers can be particularly susceptible to harsh chemicals. In general, any household (or commercial) cleaner that comes with an inhalant warning should be avoided. Chemicals in an aerosol form can be particularly troublesome. To reduce the risk of an asthma attack, never use spray paints, chemical cleaners, bug spray or other harsh chemicals without donning a face mask. If at all possible, avoid them altogether. There are many products on the market that forego harsh chemicals and are made instead with eco-friendly ingredients, which are significantly better for your health.
Step 2

Allergies are known triggers for asthma attacks. If you have frequent asthma attacks, but aren't sure what is triggering them, discuss it with your doctor. There are several allergy tests that can be performed to pinpoint allergy indicators such as pollens, animal hair and even common household dust. If you have already undergone these types of allergy tests then you should have a fairly detailed idea of the types of triggers you can avoid to reduce the risk of an asthma attack. Be sure to stick with the protocol your doctor has prescribed, which should include preventative measures as well as reactive ones.
Step 3

Be mindful of the air you are breathing. Air quality can greatly affect asthma sufferers. To reduce your risk of frequent or severe attacks, avoid road or construction dust, smoke, and other outdoor as well as indoor air pollutants. In your home and office, you can improve the air quality by making sure the heating and air conditioning systems are maintained on a regular basis. Changing out the filters and vacuuming the vents can make a significant difference in the air quality.
Step 4

Try using natural remedies to reduce the symptoms of an asthma attack before it escalates. Eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, tea tree and clary sage are all essential oils used in aromatherapy blends that can help you breathe easier. Essential oils can be purchased at a variety of health and beauty stores.
Step 5

Strenuous exercise, stress and anxiety have also been know to trigger an asthma attack. Learn proper breathing techniques and practice meditation on a regular basis to help reduce asthma symptoms.

The good news for many asthma sufferers is that the severity and/or frequency of attacks can be reduced when you change your routine to include healthier options.

Tips & Warnings

Did you know both migraine headaches and acid reflux disease has been linked to asthma? Learning to control the risks can reduce symptoms for all.

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asthma

• Asthma (AZ-ma) is a chronic (long-term) lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. Asthma causes recurring periods of wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe), chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. The coughing often occurs at night or early in the morning. http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Diseases/Asthma/Asthma_WhatIs.html
• Most people believe that asthma can be treated only with inhalers, bronchodilators and cortisone. Asthma can amazingly be controlled with homeopathy. http://www.asthma.net.in/app/default.asp