Overview

Many triggers of asthma and breathing problems are also triggers of allergies.

The physiology of the reactions we have to allergens can actually affect many parts of our bodies, from the nose, sinuses, headaches, bowel and gut problems, muscles, skin disorders and many times our sleep and our emotions and moods. 

The immune system really starts in our gastrointestinal (GI) tract so there is a major interaction between what we eat and our exercise and stress reactions with our ‘allergy’ and asthma symptoms.

Asthma however, can be a significant, even life threatening, condition.

Take the acute symptoms of asthma – wheezing and coughing – seriously. 

Sometimes those same symptoms can be signs of heart problems … so get them checked out. 

Issues to consider regarding asthma

Have a plan to change your asthma medications depending on your symptoms.

Know your asthma triggers:  seasons, foods, animals, stress, exercise.

Track your symptoms and review them with your providers.

Some common questions IMC can address

I want to keep my cats, can I do that? Depends on your goals and symptoms.

Can herbs and diet change my symptoms?  YES!

What can I do to avoid taking all those asthma inhalers?

Treatment ideas

Supplements can be helpful. Consider Omega-3 fatty acids and other ‘good oils’.

Stress management is important so you have skills to use when stress causes your symptoms to flare.

IMC providers with special interest and experience with asthma, breathing problems, and allergies

Bob Dozor, MD – Family Physician

Amy Schiff LAc, Kim Ledesma LAc – Acupuncture

Valerie Luoto – Rosen Method Bodywork

Beverly Benoit, MFT – Stress management skill building

Amy Schiff LAc, Kim Ledesma LAc – Jin Shin

Vicky Landes – Jin Shin Jyutsu