Facts
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways in the lungs.
Inflamed airways are very sensitive and they tend to react to things in the environment called triggers, like – substances that are inhaled.
According to recent estimates, this condition affects more than 26 million people in the US and about 300 million individuals in the world.
This is 8.3% of children and 8.3% of adults. In addition, asthma is responsible for up to 500,000 hospitalizations and 1.5 million emergency department visits annually.
African Americans have 300 percent more chances to die from asthma than white Americans. Most people who die from this condition are over age 50. However, children occasionally die of asthma, too.
Since there is a strong correlation between asthma and the hormones progesterone and estrogen, asthma is more common among females than males.
It can begin at any age, but with the right education and management, patients can have normal, active lives.
Symptoms
- Coughing;
- Shortness of breath;
- Difficulty speaking;
- Chest tightness;
- Wheezing (a whistling sound in your chest when you breathe).
Causes
Note – A large part of keeping this condition under control and preventing ”asthma attacks” involves preventative measures, such as – avoiding known triggers.
Living In A City
A majority of the U.S. population lives in incorporated places or cities.
However, poor air quality and more exposure to indoor irritants may be the reason cities seem to have more children with this condition.
Genetics
You have a family history of any allergies – for instance, various studies concluded that if one or both of your parents have this condition, you are more likely to have it.
Too-Clean Homes
The hygiene theory attempts to explain the increased rates of asthma worldwide as a direct and unintended result of reduced exposure, especially during childhood, to non-pathogenic viruses and bacteria.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Fluctuating estrogen levels can activate proteins that produce an inflammatory response, that can bring on asthma symptoms.
Stress
Stress can make you feel short of breath and may cause your asthma symptoms to become worse.
Physical Activity
Strenuous exercise sets in motion molecular events which result in inflammation and the production of mucus in the airways.
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Overweight
Being overweight or obese may put unnecessary pressure on the lungs and in some cases trigger more inflammation in the body.
Sulfites
Sulfites in drinks and foods, like – jam, concentrated fruit juice, prawns, and various processed or pre-cooked meals may trigger this condition.
Smoking
Tobacco smoke or being around other people smoking can trigger asthma symptoms.
In addition, you have a higher risk of a child developing asthma if your mother smoked while she was pregnant with you.
Allergens
Airborne substances, including – dust mites, pollen, mold spores, animal fur (“dander”), or feathers.
Antibiotics
The condition is more common among people who were treated with antibiotics (such as – doxycycline and flucloxacillin), especially in early childhood.
Infections
Especially infections of the upper airways, such as flu and colds.
Certain Medicines
- anti-inflammatory painkillers, like – ibuprofen and diclofenac;
- aspirin – for instance, approximately 1 in 50 people with this condition are allergic to aspirin;
- vaccines – there is now some evidence that some childhood vaccines may be responsible for increased incidences of these symptoms.
Diagnosis
One test that helps healthcare professional diagnose this chronic lung disease is spirometry, a type of device which measures how well your lungs work.
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Asthma – Spiritual Meaning And Causes
When you suffer from asthma you are breathing in a lot of air but you have difficulty releasing it again. Because you release such a small amount, you may not be able to breathe in enough, so your respiratory capacity will diminish increasingly more.
You are probably a person who yearns for love but who has not yet learned to offer it. Always taking without giving it back creates an imbalance.
What do you keep for yourself and what do you refuse to offer? Do you experience any aggression or anger you do not accept?
All the life you have to offer is already within yourself.
Give others what you already have, therefore, you will create a new life for yourself. Do not be afraid to admit your current status as a helpless man and the feeling that you are insignificant, because if you do so, you will only receive support.
Become aware of what you have recently rejected or removed.
Accept and encompass life in its totality and realize that there are no “enemies” anymore – they were just a product of your conscious mind. In the end, you will be able to breathe freely again – such a wonderful feeling.
Spiritual Meaning of Asthma in Babies
When asthma occurs in children (who have an overdeveloped consciousness), they experience feelings of guilt and responsibility for everything that goes wrong in their environment.
If family members who do not get along become separated, then asthma usually disappears in children.
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Prevention
Pets
According to recent research, early exposure to animals (dogs and cats in particular) may actually protect children from developing this condition.
Air Filtration System
It can help rid your home of common asthma triggers, such as – pollen, mold, dust mites, and other allergens.
Avoid Smoke
If you smoke tobacco, get help to quit successfully. In addition, minimize exposure to all sources of smoke.
Moreover, avoid public places that permit smoking and do not allow tobacco use in your car or home.
Lower Your Stress Levels
Intense emotions and worry often worsen these symptoms, hence, take steps to relieve stress in your life. Walking in nature and daily meditation are two easy methods for preventing the condition.
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Nutrition
According to studies, people who have a regular diet with foods high in vitamin E, vitamin C, flavonoids, beta-carotene, selenium, quercetin, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids have lower rates of asthma.
One reason they help is due to their antihistamine, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also recommended to avoid the following foods:
- nuts (like walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts) are to be avoided until you are tested for a possible allergic reaction;
- dairy products as they tend to increase mucus secretion ;
- animal proteins, especially red processed meats;
- sulfites (usually found in frozen French fries, salads, and avocado dips);
- eggs;
- food additives and preservatives (particularly yellow no 5 or yellow tartrazine);
- citrus fruits;
- wheat products;
- milk chocolate;
- fish and shellfish;
- beer and wine.
Moderate Physical Exercise
It contributes to stretching the lungs and bronchial tubes, which in turn may help lower the resistance to breathing.
READ MORE: Pharyngitis – Spiritual Meaning
Healing Affirmations
”I am able to deal with my asthma.”
”My body is relaxing. I am relaxing.”
”I breathe in positive, healing energy. My lungs and throat are in perfect health.”
”My body is healthy and strong.”
”I manifest perfect strength and health.”
”I gratefully accept all the wealth, health, and happiness which the universe pours into me daily.”
Images credit – Shutterstock & Getty Images
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References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27737713 http://www.aafa.org/page/asthma-allergy-research.aspx https://www.bcm.edu/research/centers/asthma-clinical-research
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As a founder and chief author at InsightState.com, Bulgarea Candin helps readers on their spiritual journeys. His writings are designed to inspire creativity and personal growth, guiding readers on their journey to a more fulfilled and enlightened life.
DOUG
Wednesday 11th of January 2023
I would not ever call an illness or disease "mine" or "my". That first affirmation I would leave out entirely.
Charlene
Sunday 19th of April 2020
Excellent...very helpful. Thank you.