Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways that leads to variable and recurring symptoms, including reversible airflow obstruction. In simpler terms, asthma is a long-term lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult and often triggering coughing and wheezing. While asthma affects individuals of all ages, it often begins in childhood. Though asthma cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with the right precautions and medications.
Asthma in Ayurveda: "Swas Rog"
In Ayurveda, asthma is known as "Swas Rog" and is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial airways, leading to increased mucus production. Early symptoms may include indigestion, constipation, and chest tightness, which can progress to sneezing and wheezing as the body attempts to expel congested phlegm blocking the respiratory pathways.
Causes of Asthma
The exact cause of asthma is not entirely clear, but it is likely due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors.
Common Asthma Triggers
Asthma triggers vary from person to person and can include:
1. Airborne allergens: pollen, animal dander, mold, cockroaches, and dust mites.
2. Air pollutants: smoke and other pollutants.
3. Medications: Certain drugs like beta-blockers, aspirin, and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, etc.).
4. Physical Activity: Exercise-induced asthma.
5. Respiratory Infections: Such as the common cold.
6. Strong Emotions and Stress
7. Sulfites and Preservatives: Found in foods like dried fruits, processed potatoes, beer, and wine.
8. Other Health Conditions: Conditions like a runny nose, sinus infections, psychological stress, and sleep apnea can exacerbate asthma.
In Ayurveda, the primary causes of asthma include poor dietary habits and adverse weather conditions, with allergens acting as secondary factors that exacerbate the condition.
Types of Asthma
According to Modern Medicine:
Allergic (Extrinsic) Asthma: Often develops in childhood and is typically linked to a family history of allergies. It may accompany other allergic conditions like nasal secretions and eczema.
Non-Allergic (Intrinsic) Asthma: Usually develops after the age of 30 and is not associated with allergies. It often follows respiratory tract infections and is more common in females.
According to Ayurveda:-
1. Maha-Swas: Severe breathlessness, wheezing, confusion, blue skin, and lethargy, resembling dyspnea.
2. Urdhva-Swas: Labored breathing, requiring forceful inspiration or expiration.
3. Chinna-Swas: Periodic breathing with alternating periods of high and low breathing or apnea, similar to Cheyne-Stokes respiration.
4. Tamak-Swas: Comparable to bronchial asthma, with severe, frequent attacks causing shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.
5. Shudra-Swas: Dyspnea on exertion, triggered by physical activity, cold, or dry food.
Symptoms of Asthma
Common asthma symptoms include:
Coughing: Especially at night and early morning.
Wheezing: A whistling sound while breathing.
Chest Tightness: Feeling of chest constriction.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty in catching breath, feeling of not getting enough air.
Trouble Sleeping: Due to coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness.
Not all individuals with asthma exhibit these symptoms, and having these symptoms does not always mean one has asthma. However, severe symptoms can be life-threatening and require immediate attention.
Diagnosing Asthma-
Asthma diagnosis typically involves:
Medical History: Including the type and frequency of symptoms,
Lung Function Tests,
Physical Examination.
