Childhood Asthma
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the respiratory airways, characterised by increased mucous production and airway hyper-responsiveness resulting in decreased airflow. It is marked by recurrent episodes of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. It is a multi-factorial disease process associated with genetic, allergic, environmental, infectious, emotional and nutritional components.
The underlying pathophysiology of asthma is airway inflammation. The underlying process driving and maintaining the asthmatic inflammatory process appears to be an abnormal or inadequately regulated T-cell immune response. In asthma, the T-helper 2 cells which mediate inflammation are overactive, while the T-helper 1 cells which generally correspond to antigen/anti-body immunity are dampened. It is not yet known why asthmatics have this out-of-balance immunity, but genetics, viruses, fungi, heavy metals, nutrition, and pollution can all be contributors.
Asthma affects over 2 million Australians.
- 1 in 4 children
- 1 in 7 teenagers
- 1 in 10 adults
The prevalence of asthma in Australia is one of the highest in the world.
What are some Asthma triggers?
Triggers that irritate the airways and aggravate asthma can include:
- infections such as cold and flu
- irritants such as dust, cigarette smoke and fumes
- chemicals found in the workplace or at home
- allergies to pollen, medicines, animals, dust mites or certain foods
- emotions – laughing, or crying very hard can trigger symptoms, as well as stress
- exercise and other physical activity
How can the Naturopaths at Melbourne Natural Medicine Clinic (MNMC) help with Asthma?
After taking a thorough case history and performing any relevant tests, our Naturopaths will develop a tailor-made plan for each patient. Take a proactive approach and call MNMC today. You can make an appointment online, email us, or phone us on (03) 96862566. Our clinic in 49 Chetwynd St, North Melbourne, is open six days a week.