New Delhi, December 15 (IANS). The winter season brings special challenges for asthma and respiratory patients. Cold and dry air increases swelling in the respiratory tubes, which narrows the airways and can trigger an asthma attack.
This increases problems like chest tightness, wheezing, frequent cough, shortness of breath at night and severe discomfort in the morning. The need for inhalers may also increase.
According to Ayurveda, Vata and Kapha doshas increase in cold. In Kapha dominant ‘Tamak breathing’ (asthma) the breathing tubes get blocked, while Vata imbalance causes difficulty in breathing. Therefore, it is important to keep the doshas balanced in this season.
Simple preventive measures have also been mentioned in Ayurveda, which can be included in daily routine to get relief from asthma problems. For this, always drink lukewarm water, avoid cold water or drinks completely. Take steam in the morning on an empty stomach, adding basil leaves or celery in it is even more beneficial. Regular consumption of honey and ginger reduces phlegm and does not cause difficulty in breathing. Apart from this, include hot soup, decoction and light food in the diet. Avoid curd, cold things and heavy food. Dinner should be light and taken on time.
Along with diet and medicines, changes in lifestyle also reduce the problems. Do not go out in the cold air in the morning, cover your mouth and nose with a scarf or mask. Keep distance from smoking, dust and pollution. Do not suddenly go from cold to hot place or from hot to cold place. Do light pranayam like Anulom-Vilom, but do not apply too much force.
Winter is the most sensitive time for asthma patients. Attacks can be prevented with a little caution and proper daily routine. Relief can be achieved by incorporating these simple habits into the daily routine, but be alert if the problem increases. If you become very short of breath, there are frequent interruptions in sleep or even inhaler does not provide relief, then contact the doctor.
Before adopting Ayurvedic remedies, definitely consult a doctor.
–IANS
MT/PSK