Overeating, asthma

An association between overeating and asthma attacks was reported by William Osler in 1880. Recent laboratory studies indicate that overeating, which causes distention of the stomach, induces respiratory changes which are compatible with broncho-constriction. (Journal of Asthma 22(4)191-193, 1985) Copyright 1985 Phylis Austin

Aspirin, asthma

Aspirin may cause asthma attacks in sensitive individuals. A single tablet of aspirin caused significant small airway obstruction in some children with chronic asthma. The attacks occurred within minutes, or as a long as two hours after taking the aspirin. (Medical Tribune, January 22, 1975) Copyright 1975 Phylis Austin

Allergic rhinitis, wheezing, street traffic

Elementary school children who live on streets with high traffic areas may suffer increased rates of asthma and/or allergic rhinitis (hay fever). (Annals of Epidemiology 4:243-247, 1994) Copyright 1994 Phylis Austin

Asthma and fluid intake

Asthmatics may benefit from the high intake of water to thin their mucus. Adequate fluid intake is particularly important on hot days or while participating in athletic events. Good hydration may decrease bronchospasm. Asthmatics who are producing dark yellow urine should increase fluid intake. (Cortlandt Forum, October 1991)
Copyright 1991 Phylis A Austin

Car air conditioners, asthma

Fungi growing in car air conditioners may induce respiratory problems such as asthma, hay fever and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. A study of almost 400 individuals revealed that about 18 percent suffered worsening of their symptoms after riding in air-conditioned cars. (Emergency Medicine 17:51-53, July 15, 1985) Copyright 1985 Phylis Austin

Bronchial asthma, food allergy

A Netherlands study reveals that food allergy may induce bronchial asthma more frequently than has been recognized in the past. (Annals of Allergy 55(2)387, August, 1985) Copyright 1985 Phylis Austin

Asthma, inhalers, bronchospasm

Asthmatics are often given medication by inhalers to relieve bronchospasm (contraction of the smooth muscles of the walls of the bronchi and bronchioles, which narrows the respiratory airways). Some asthmatics react adversely to some of the inert ingredients or propellent gases the inhalers contain, and suffer worsening of the symptoms the medication is given for. (Annals of Allergy 55:25-27, July, 1985) Copyright 1985 Phylis Austin

Asthma, preterm labor and delivery

Women who suffer asthma and utilize asthma medications during pregnancy are at increased risk of preterm labor. (Epidemiology 4(2)143-150, March 1993) Copyright 1993 Phylis Austin

Aloe, asthma

The Japanese have been using aloe vera extracts in the treatment of asthma. Asthma patients were given 5 milliliters of 20 percent extract from fresh aloe vera leaves twice a day. After 24 weeks 40 percent of the patients in the study reported significant improvement. Patients who had previously been dependent on corticosteroid medications were less likely to benefit from the aloe vera. (Alternatives 5(18)138, December 1994; Planta Medica 85:273-5, 1985) Copyright 1995 Phylis Austin

Asthma and diet

The incidence of asthma has increased significantly over the last 30 years in developed countries. The typical diet has also changed over this time period, with reductions in the consumption of green vegetables, potatoes and fresh fruit. Researchers from the Division of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Nottingham, UK, reviewed dietary effects on asthma and concluded that reduced magnesium and vitamin C consumption, and increased consumption of sodium (salt) may contribute to the development of asthma.

They feel that an unhealthy diet may contribute to asthma and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. (Clinical and Experimental Allergy 30:615-627, 2000)

Copyright 2000 Phylis A Austin