Asthma is a chronic condition of inflammation in the bronchial tubes. A combination of swelling and excess mucus causes the tubes to become too narrow to sustain an adequate intake of air. This leads to wheezing and shortness of breath. Common triggers of asthma include allergies, chronic infection of the bronchioles, overexertion, and irritation of the bronchial tubes.

Western medicine treats asthma with prescription drugs. These drugs are designed as daily maintenance and to treat acute attacks. Unfortunately, they come with a wide array of side effects. There are five main types used.

• Beta-adrenergic Drugs – work to relax smooth muscle and widen the airways – side effects include: rapid Heartbeat (tachycardia), nervousness, restlessness, headache and muscle tremors
• Theophylline – relaxes smooth muscle – side effects include: nausea, vomiting, nervousness, restlessness, insomnia, and in severe cases, seizures
• Corticosteroids – decreases inflammation – side effects include but are not limited to: poor wound healing, decreased immunity, retarded growth in children, GI bleeding, hunger and weight gain
• Cromolyn – helps prevent inflammation – side effects are mild and include cough and hoarseness
• Anticholinergic Drugs – prevent smooth muscle contraction

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) recognize many factors that trigger asthma. These include external pathogenic factors, emotional upset, chronic illness, diet, and congenital weakness.

We use acupuncture to decrease symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing, as well as decrease the frequency and severity of attacks. We may also suggest herbs, dietary changes, and other lifestyle changes that will benefit your overall health and prevent asthma attacks.

The real question everyone has is “Does It Work?” Several studies indicate that Acupuncture does work in the treatment of asthma and prevent of asthma attacks.

1.  A ten week study in Vienna concluded that over 70% of chronic, long-term asthma patients noticed significant improvement from acupuncture.

2.  Another study done in Kaifeng City noticed an immediate effect on 98.9% of patients receiving acupuncture. An amazing 76.5% achieved what is considered “marked improvement.”

3.  A third study in Beijing noted that 56% of patients received “marked improvement” with 96% achieving effective results.

Axis Natural Medicine can customize a treatment plan to address you chronic asthma. Call or e-mail us for a free consultation. Life is easier when you can breathe!