In my naturopathic practice in Toronto I have encountered and treated many cases of asthma. The stories told by each of my clients have a resounding similarity. In each case they have reported having years of allergies before the onset of the asthma. These allergies can range from hay fever symptoms on a yearly basis to sensitivities to certain foods or food groups. As a Naturopathic Doctor, I cannot help but wonder if the allergies were addressed earlier, would any of these cases of asthma have ever appeared at my clinic's door step. The importance of treating any type of illness/disease at an early age is crucial. And more importantly, it is to address the underlying cause of the illness and not to use drugs such as anti-histamines and corticosteriods as crutches for the rest of our lives.

Asthma is a very serious condition that can ultimately lead to death, as oxygen is blocked by the constriction of the airways. During an asthma attack, the smooth muscles of the airways contract, along with the release of large amounts of mucous by the cells that line the muscle wall.

The cause of an asthma attack can vary from environmental allergens such as animal dander, dust, pollen to someone experiencing a lot of stress.

"There is a general trend of increased deaths and hospitalizations from asthma recorded in all the industrialized countries of the world, Canada included. In Canada, approximately 20 children and 500 adults die each year from asthma."

– statistics taken from the Canadian Lung Association

Journey To Cure's Naturopathic Recommendations:

* Do not stop your asthma medications without the prior evaluation of your doctor.
* Always rinse your mouth out and gargle after the use of asthma medications taken via a puffer to prevent oral thrush.
* Invest in a good air filter.
* Avoid eating phlegm/mucous forming foods: foods with high sugar content and dairy products.
* Exercise (helps strengthen the body and build self-esteem especially for younger asthmatics) Please consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.

Asthma can be treated with good results. The approach we take at Journey To Cure Naturopathic Clinic is individualized to each person. We help our clients to slowly wean off of their medications with a step by step approach. We will analyze your diet and make individualized recommendations.