- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- iparenting fitness articles
- iparenting fitness q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Breathe Easy
Natural Approaches to Asthma
By Andrea Candee
For some, asthma can be life threatening. The same toxins that cause eczema in one person, or sinus congestion in another, can cause the breathing tubes to constrict in someone so genetically predisposed. Skin and sinus issues are uncomfortable, but a fight for breath can be terrifying.
If the asthma requires medication, perhaps you can keep it to a minimum by combining it with natural approaches.
Dangers to Your Airway
There are five basic challenges to the person with asthma:
- Environmental toxins
- Food intolerance
- Emotional stress
- Physical exertion
- Infection
Other hot spots that can set off an asthma attack include the following:
- Recirculated air in malls, airplanes and office buildings
- Unclean filters used in home or office air-conditioners, air purifiers and heating systems
- Pollen and mold spores
- High ozone counts, "bad air" days, smog and factory air pollution
- Cleaning products (home, office and laundry). Restaurants often allow staff to clean floors and tabletops while you are dining – watch out!
- Chemicals in newly purchased, unlaundered clothing and linens
- Dust in the home (check curtains, carpeting, stuffed animals – behind, above and below everything)
- Fragrances (perfumed samples in magazines, fragranced products)
- Classroom threats (paint, chalk, newspaper ink, naptime bedding and marking pens)
- Exhaust fumes from autos and machinery
- Chlorine in swimming pools and cleaning products
- Damp, musty bedding and clothing
- Houseplant mold
- Outdoor barbecue fumes and fireplaces