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About Asthma: What is Asthma?
Asthma is a common and sometimes debilitating respiratory disorder
which can affect people of all ages. About one in ten Australians
suffer from asthma at some time during their lives. Sufferers may
occasionally experience difficulty in breathing, accompanied by a
wheeze and a tight, restricted chest. Other symptoms may include
coughing, vomiting and shaking.
What is the difference between allergic and non-allergic asthma?
There are two different types of asthma: allergic and non-allergic.
In allergic asthma, symptoms are usually the result of inhaling or
consuming some kind of external substance such as pollen, dust mites,
mould, wheat or dairy produce.Non-allergic asthma can be triggered by a range of different factors,
including fatigue, physical exertion, some medications, stress or
exposure to environments which are cold and damp.
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What happens to the body during an asthma attack?
Asthma is basically a breathing problem resulting from increased
sensitivity of the airways which is provoked by a range of stimuli or
'triggers'. The bronchial spasm, or narrowing of the airways, is
recurrent and reversible.
When an asthma attack starts, the muscle layer within the airway wall
contracts and the lining of the airway swells, causing the airways to
narrow and mucous to be secreted into the airway. As a result, it is
more difficult for air to flow in and out of the lungs and breathing
becomes difficult. The 'wheezing' sound of asthma is caused by the
noise of air passing through the narrow, swollen airways. In very
severe cases, so little air is being moved in and out that almost no
sound is audible.
In addition, an irritating cough is often present. Sometimes a small
amount of thick, stringy phlegm (mucous) is produced. If the attack is
severe, the airways become very narrow and the diaphragm, which is the
main breathing muscle, has to call on the rib, neck and abdominal
muscles to help. This results in more energy being used and causes
severe breathlessness and can lead to exhaustion.
As with many conditions, asthmatics react differently to attacks. Some
may become very quiet or subdued as they concentrate on their
breathing, while others may be obviously distressed and breathless,
with a pronounced wheeze.
How can osteopathy help someone with asthma?
Osteopathy offers assistance to sufferers by working on all aspects of the breathing mechanism, including the:
. ribs
. spine
. diaphragm and other muscles of breathing
. nerve control of the chest
. blood and fluid supply to the bronchii and lungs
Osteopathy can also play an important preventative role in the care of someone who is suffering from asthma.
Does osteopathy replace conventional medical treatment?
No. Osteopaths recognise the important role of anti-inflammatory
medication, antibiotics and bronchiodilators in the treatment of
asthma, especially in acute attacks.
Osteopaths work in conjunction with other health care professionals
with the long-term aim of decreasing the patient's dependence on their
medication. Osteopaths recognise that the functions of the human body
are inherently linked and can effect each other.
With this in mind, the osteopath gently works with the body's
structure, to enhance and improve the mechanics of breathing by:
. freeing restrictions of the chest and ribs
. relaxing the respiratory muscles
. improving lymphatic drainage from the lungs and airways
. enhancing the blood supply to the chest region
Other areas of management include the formulation of an individual
exercise program, with emphasis on breathing exercises and the
avoidance of aggravating factors. The osteopath also provides advice on
diet, posture, lifestyle and first aid measures during an attack.
Why is osteopathy so special?
The holistic approach of osteopathy encompasses all functions and influences including the body, emotions, mind and spirit.
Before any treatment is begun, an osteopath always conducts a full
examination, using conventional medical tests where necessary. During
the consultation the osteopath will talk with the patient and collate a
full case history, taking note of previous accidents, illnesses,
operations, dental work and any other factors which may contribute to
reduced health.
During physical examination, the osteopath uses sensitive palpatory
skills, to gently identify where a patient's structure has been
disturbed. As part of this process, the osteopath will assess whether
osteopathic treatment is the best option, or whether the patient should
be referred to another practitioner. Sometimes a combination of
osteopathy and other treatment may be recommended. Osteopathy can also
assist in the prevention of health problems, helping people of all ages
to achieve an ultimate level of health and wellbeing.
What kind of treatment does an osteopath provide?
Osteopathic treatment involves manual techniques including soft
tissue stretching and massage, along with articulation and mobilisation
of the joints. The treatment is gentle and conducted with the patient's
assistance.
This type of treatment is designed to improve blood circulation,
lymphatic drainage and general fluid flow throughout the body, while
helping to alleviate disruptive influences on the nervous system and
improving overall body mobility.
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