How caffeine affects asthma
Caffeine is a mild natural antihistamine. It is similar to the Theophylline that was commonly used to control asthma before more effective treatments were discovered. Research shows that 2 cups of strong coffee, taken during an asthma attack, can significantly reduce symptoms. The bronchial tubes open more, and breathing eases. If no coffee is available, two chocolate bars can have a similar effect.
Caffeine is not recommended as a regular treatment for asthma, but as a stop-gap measure when the patient has absent mindedly left the rescue inhaler at home, or has misplaced it. For daily use, asthma medications such as long-acting bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are used to prevent asthma attacks in the first place.
There is some debate about negative effects of caffeine if used on a regular basis. Consuming caffeine before lung function tests may skew the results, since the improvement found with caffeine is temporary. Another concern with caffeine is the rebound effect when the drug clears the system. Too much caffeine may actually make asthma symptoms worse because of this.
In addition, habitual use of large amounts of caffeine could reduce the response to the drug when used in an emergency. Therefore, it would be wise to limit daily intake of caffeine.
To control asthma well, it is necessary to take medication, both inhaled and in pill form, as prescribed. This includes correct use of inhalers.
Carry a small notebook and write down any triggers that you encountered just before an increase in symptoms. This will help you avoid these triggers in the future.
Avoid smoke in all forms.
Avoid triggers such as pollen by staying indoors, keeping windows closed, and using air conditioning and other air filters. In the car, use the air conditioner on the recycling mode, rather than bringing outside air into the vehicle.
Exercise as your doctor recommends.
Diet is another component in the control of asthma. Some asthmatics react strongly to dairy products, shellfish, and nuts. A well balanced diet will help to maintain good overall health.
Be wary of sulfites in foods. These can trigger an asthma attack.
Use non-aspirin pain relievers. This is particularly important for an asthmatic who has sinusitis and nasal polyps. The combination of aspirin or ibuprofin with the above conditions can be lethal.
Watch intake of salt, which can make symptoms worse.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid extreme temperature changes. Some asthmatics find that attacks are triggered by very cold air or warm and humid air.
Ask your doctor whether using 50 mg of B6 daily might be recommended.
Stay away from people who have respiratory infections, including colds. If you do get a cold, rest in bed and drink plenty of fluids. Call your doctor if symptoms worsen or last longer than usual.
Any time an attack begins, use your rescue medication. Getting started on treatment right away will help you stay in control. If your breathing does not improve quickly go to the nearest emergency room.
Every year, 4.000 people die from asthma attacks, and the number of deaths is increasing. Severe attacks can usually be prevented with proper medical care and a quick response by the patient. Don't become the next asthma statistic.
By Carol Smock
Source: http://www.asthma.org.au/Publications/tabid/62/Publications/60/How-caffeine-affects-asthma.aspx
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