Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways. In susceptible individuals, this inflammation causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing, particularly at night or in the early morning. It is not contagious. It is a lifelong disease which can be controlled with daily medications. Asthma is increasing at such a rapid rate, some are calling it an epidemic. This common disease probably affects some 7 to 12 percent of the U.S.

Asthma is often associated with other conditions. These conditions are often considered triggers, or things that make asthma worse. It is a disease in which the airways become blocked or narrowed. These effects are usually temporary, but they cause shortness of breath, breathing trouble, and other symptoms. Asthma is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and affects one child in seven in the UK. Its prevalence differs widely from country to country, even within Europe.

Allergen induced asthma usually becomes apparent before the age of 35. Non allergic asthma usually has its onset in middle age and can be triggered or worsened by reflux disease, exercise, weather changes and illness. Allergies to animals, dust, cigarette smoke and to food are some of them and asthma sufferers should generally refrain from certain foods like pickles or ketchup. It can often be triggered by dairy products so it is best to refrain from these as well as eggs and chocolate for a couple of weeks to see if there is any improvement.
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Do you suffer from allergies? If you do, you are not alone. When it comes to allergy relief, many individuals head right to their medicine cabinets. While this approach is successful for many, what should you do if your medicine cabinet is empty and you are unable to visit your local drug store?

What many people do not realize is that there are many home remedies for allergies. Although these home remedies do work for many, they are not guaranteed to produce results. That is why you are urged to keep allergy medications on hand at all times. But, if you ever find yourself in a bind, the remedies for allergies outlined below may be able to provide you with relief.

Many allergy sufferers have great things to say concerning the use of lime. Although you may need to experiment a little bit, it is recommended that you squeeze half a lime into a cup. Added should be warm water. You may also want to add a few drops of honey for flavor, although this extra step is not required. In addition to helping with allergies, there are a number of other health benefits to consuming citrus fruits, such as lime.

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With the number of people suffering from asthma and other breathing problems increasing weekly it is important that you know just how many indoor pollutants there are in your home. Years ago people believed that just by keeping your home clean you were getting rid of anything harmful that could cause you to be ill, this is not the case today. There are many different things that can all contribute to illness and breathing problems and they are polluting the air you breath inside the cleanest homes constantly.

If you suffer from breathing difficulties or someone in your family does you might be shocked to learn just how many pollutants could be lurking in your home such as:

-Dust mites: These tiny microscopic creatures live in bed mattresses, fabric and carpets all around your home and they feed on human and pet skin, discarded food particles and any other organic products in your home. Dust mites then produce faeces which are inhaled and can be a major irritant for people who suffer from asthma and other breathing problems.

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