Asthma Management

I was told that if Asthma is diagnosed before age three, it tends to go into remission as you get older... basically, you just deal with an attack every few years here and there, and that's it.

I have a friend who had it just like that as a kid. He’s a smoker now—which is almost unthinkable, right?—but he’s still an asthmatic. Most of his symptoms vanished since his was allergy-driven; the allergies cleared up, so while he's technically still an asthmatic, it's much milder because he stays on top of treatment and keeps it under control. Maybe for you, that counts as being cured, which is great if you aren't gasping for air anymore. But at the end of the day, it's a chronic condition.

silentbison17 said:I was told that if Asthma is diagnosed before age three, it tends to go into remission as you get older... basically, you just deal with an attack every few years here and there, and that's it.

I have a friend who had it just like that as a kid. He’s a smoker now—which is almost unthinkable, right?—but he’s still an asthmatic. Most of his symptoms vanished since his was allergy-driven; the allergies cleared up, so while he's technically still an asthmatic, it's much milder because he stays on top of treatment and keeps it under control. Maybe for you, that counts as being cured, which is great if you aren't gasping for air anymore. But at the end of the day, it's a chronic condition.

Look, I’m telling you again—I haven't needed any treatment for over 30 years. Not a single attack in three decades. Nothing is choking me. For me, that’s what actual recovery looks like.
Look, I get it—everyone loves to label things. Sure, technically speaking, asthma is a chronic condition, but honestly? I don't walk around feeling like some "chronically ill" person. It’s just my life, not my whole identity.

Jamie Rivera78 said:Look, I’m telling you again—I haven't needed any treatment for over 30 years. Not a single attack in three decades. Nothing is choking me. For me, that’s what actual recovery looks like.
Look, I get it—everyone loves to label things. Sure, technically speaking, asthma is a chronic condition, but honestly? I don't walk around feeling like some "chronically ill" person. It’s just my life, not my whole identity.

Everything you said holds up. I've dealt with gastritis my entire life. I don't call myself chronically ill either, but I have it, and one day it’ll flare up on me again... if I eat a little better and stay calm, the symptoms vanish... then suddenly, boom...

Anyway, glad you're feeling better. I really hope things turn out the same way for my daughter. 🙂

My wife dealt with severe Asthma back when we lived in Slovakia, specifically in an industrial area surrounded by factories and cement plants. Every few months, she’d end up in the hospital for weeks at a time. She was constantly tethered to her inhaler and coughing up blood regularly. Since moving to the States—specifically to Maui—she hasn't had a single symptom. She doesn't take any medication anymore; we actually tossed the inhaler out. Occasionally, she gets a slight cough when we're back in New York City during the winter months, but those minor symptoms vanish once I give her some Omega-3 capsules and Vitamin C—specifically the Solary Vitamin C with Echinacea. After that, she's perfectly healthy again. Once we head back to Maui around May, she doesn't even need the Omega-3s. She’s just completely fine.

If you want to know how to actually manage Asthma, here's my take. For those who can't make it to the coast for any reason, I suggest visiting salt rooms or even salt caves where you breathe in the saline air. You could even try home aromatherapy; just grab an aroma diffuser, put some salt and essential oils inside, and treat yourself at home. As far as herbs go, you can brew medicinal teas using plantain, mullein, or marshmallow root, among others.

Natural honey mixed with royal jelly, propolis, and flower pollen can also be a remedy for just about everything, though you should be careful with pollen if you have allergies.

The bottom line:
Asthma is essentially an autoimmune issue, much like many other conditions caused by a weakened immune system or a deficiency in vitamins and minerals. I recommend getting plenty of sun exposure for these types of issues, as it allows your body to naturally synthesize Vitamin D. It’s well known that a lack of Vitamin D is a trigger for various autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis and asthma. Spend more time in the sun, get near the ocean, eat right, and the asthma will clear up.

Hopefully, this helps someone out...

Best,
Tomislav

Could Asthma be fundamentally linked to parasitic infestations? When these organisms settle within the lungs, they react to inhaled toxins and various environmental particulates—acids, solvents, gases, vapors, or even simple dust and soot. They essentially stage a rebellion when they feel threatened, triggering a rapid surge in reproduction. This proliferation chokes the bronchioles and bronchi, resulting in that suffocating sensation we recognize as an asthma attack. Simultaneously, there is a massive production of mucus; is this a byproduct of the parasites themselves, or perhaps our own body’s desperate attempt to flush these pathogens out? One might even wonder if this mucus serves as a protective shield for the parasites, allowing them to navigate the body undetected by masquerading as our own biological fluids.

I was watching this one Spanish show the other day—you know how those dramas go—and there was this little girl struggling with her Asthma. One of the characters decides to play doctor and whips up some kind of herbal remedy... basically telling them to just press it against her chest to help her breathe. They mentioned it was some famous remedy down in Colombia. It sounds a bit wild, honestly... I can't help but wonder what the actual science behind that is supposed to be.

Andrew Peterson2 said:I was watching this one Spanish show the other day—you know how those dramas go—and there was this little girl struggling with her Asthma. One of the characters decides to play doctor and whips up some kind of herbal remedy... basically telling them to just press it against her chest to help her breathe. They mentioned it was some famous remedy down in Colombia. It sounds a bit wild, honestly... I can't help but wonder what the actual science behind that is supposed to be.

Perhaps you could visit a Colombian Forum and inquire there.

rustymason82 said:I really have nothing to argue about with you. Asthma is essentially incurable. Unless, of course, you're some kind of medical phenomenon?
Given how diagnostic tools worked 30 years ago, I would actually be more inclined to wonder if you even had asthma to begin with, or if someone simply misdiagnosed you.
Unless you happen to know more than all the doctors combined? Because they are quite clear on one thing: asthma is a chronic condition that cannot be cured.

Look, I can personally vouch for this. For the last decade or so, I haven't had any symptoms of the allergic asthma I used to suffer from. My asthma itself was mild, but my pollen allergies were brutal—from childhood all the way through college. Now? I could probably go vacuuming up flower petals without a second thought. 😁

I have no explanation as to why or how this happened, and even though I haven't experienced it myself, I don't think it's impossible. It just happened; it came, and then it left. Maybe my immune system finally decided to get its act together. 🤷 I'm only posting this so people struggling with these issues know that these kinds of cases actually exist.

Should one not strive to distance oneself from the pervasive reach of synthetic compounds, particularly those that dissipate into our breathing space? One must consider the constant assault of artificial air fresheners, deodorants, perfumes, laundry softeners, aggressive detergents, hairsprays, nail polishes, various dyes, and the toxic haze of cigarette smoke—including E-cigarettes—alongside all other vapors and pollutants. Is it not true that there exist natural alternatives capable of soothing without irritating the lungs? These synthetic agents inevitably trigger inflammation, leaving the mucosal lining vulnerable to further irritation from the acids, solvents, and airborne particulates—such as pollen and dust—that they harbor. Might it be wiser to seek out botanicals known for aiding expectoration, cleansing the lungs, and eradicating parasites? Such treatments should be administered consistently, yet with caution regarding dosage, lest the sudden accumulation of dead parasites within the pulmonary system triggers a more severe asthma attack. How does one detect such an internal presence? Perhaps by increasing the consumption of white and red onions and observing the composition of one's phlegm and mucus. One may discover parasites of varying stages, from microscopic eggs and larvae hidden in the mucus to elongated organisms reaching ten centimeters in length. Once you have conducted a diligent analysis over time, will anyone truly convince you that these are merely the secretions of the body, as laboratory reports so often claim? Ultimately, you will feel the shift yourselves. As the burden of synthetic chemicals diminishes, the organism becomes more resistant to parasitic proliferation and suffers fewer asthma attacks, allowing the lungs to better tolerate natural allergens once the chronic irritation has subsided.

Hey everyone! I've been struggling with breathing issues for quite a while now. A few months back, I had two really rough days where it felt like someone was literally sitting on my chest, making it incredibly hard to inhale and especially to exhale. My doctor gave me an injection that seemed to relax my lungs, which provided some relief. After pushing myself to get more tests done, it turns out my allergen levels in my blood are over 1300—it’s supposed to be under 100. My pulmonologist mentioned that once we finish this treatment and I redo the tests, it'll likely confirm allergic asthma. Right now, I'm using Qvar twice a day and Avamys nasal spray. My doctor also prescribed Ventolin for when I need it.

My question is, what does "as needed" actually mean in this context? Sometimes when I'm walking and get a bit winded, I feel like I'm running out of air. Or if I'm in a stuffy room for too long, or even just when the weather shifts—like during intense heat or heavy winds. Would Ventolin help in those moments? It's not like I'm having full-blown attacks like most asthmatics do; it's more just that sudden feeling that breathing is becoming a massive struggle.
So yeah, if anyone has dealt with something similar, I'd love to hear your advice. 🙏

I don't have asthma, but my allergies to dust and mites are brutal—constant runny nose and sneezing. Just wanted to share what worked for me! Last year, I switched over to infrared heating panels. The manufacturers promise super clean air without any dust or mites floating around. Honestly, the air feels so much fresher, those tiny dust particles aren't flying through my apartment anymore, and my sneezing has dropped significantly. Plus, my winter energy bills look just like they do in the summer. Highly recommend!

Can someone walk me through what the first appointment with a pulmonologist at a hospital actually looks like? I'm dealing with asthma, bronchitis, and allergies.

Gerald King97 said:Can someone walk me through what the first appointment with a pulmonologist at a hospital actually looks like? I'm dealing with asthma, bronchitis, and allergies.

So, you arrive, and the doctor sits down to have a conversation with you, listens to your lungs, and then almost certainly sends you straight to spirometry. If it’s your first visit, they'll likely have you get a chest X-ray as well—usually right then and there on the same day. After that, you head back to see them, and they decide on the next steps. Of course, what happens next depends entirely on the results, but I assume they'll want to run some allergy testing before finally deciding on your treatment plan...

rustymason82 said:So, you arrive, and the doctor sits down to have a conversation with you, listens to your lungs, and then almost certainly sends you straight to spirometry. If it’s your first visit, they'll likely have you get a chest X-ray as well—usually right then and there on the same day. After that, you head back to see them, and they decide on the next steps. Of course, what happens next depends entirely on the results, but I assume they'll want to run some allergy testing before finally deciding on your treatment plan...

Thanks for the info. 🙂, do they measure your height and weight?

Gerald King97 said:Thanks for the info. 🙂, do they measure your height and weight?

They'll need those measurements if they're performing plethysmography alongside the spirometry (it’s similar to spirometry, but it calculates what your lung capacity should be based on your specific height and weight)
Don't worry too much; the pulmonologist will let you know if you need to lose some weight for the sake of your heart, lungs, and spine. My doctor asks about my weight at every single checkup, though he does it in a polite, professional manner. It really just depends on which doctor you end up seeing.

Plethysmography for asthma?
I actually had that done for Raynaud. No one even bothered to ask about my height or weight.

Nicholas Davis4 said:Plethysmography for asthma?
I actually had that done for Raynaud. No one even bothered to ask about my height or weight.

Yes, they usually perform plethysmography alongside spirometry.
They really ought to ask for your weight and height before running either test, shouldn't they? After all, the computer relies on those metrics to calculate your predicted values for both the spirometry and the plethysmography.
From what I understand, they look most closely at the Rtot during plethysmography. If that value is elevated, it might indicate some minor inflammation in the lungs due to asthma, which helps them decide if your therapy needs adjusting.

Good evening.

I would truly appreciate hearing your thoughts on this matter.

Since yesterday evening, I have been struggling quite significantly with my breathing. It feels incredibly difficult to take a deep breath, and I am left with this persistent, nagging sensation that my lungs simply aren't filling up all the way with air. While I can breathe normally through my nose, I just cannot seem to fully expand my chest, which forces me to take deep breaths through my mouth; even then, I only manage to feel like my lungs are full about 70% of the time. I find myself needing to take a massive, deep breath every two minutes just to ensure I don't end up completely breathless.

I am sleeping relatively well, though, because once I lie down on my side, I can breathe somewhat normally without feeling like I'm gasping for air.

I don't have a fever, but I do experience occasional bouts of coughing that pop up here and there, perhaps a few times throughout the day.

Since this whole ordeal kicked off over the weekend, I haven't really had a smart way to figure out exactly what is going on with me.
When it first started yesterday, it felt much worse; I actually had to lean forward just to catch my breath. Now, I am able to take a deep breath and fill my lungs even while lying down.

Does what I’ve described sound like typical Asthma symptoms? I have never dealt with anything like this before, so I don't own an inhaler or any similar equipment, nor have I ever had to navigate these kinds of issues.

Is there any way I might be able to find some quick relief? Any advice at all would be most welcome.

Betty Bennett70 said:Good evening.

I would truly appreciate hearing your thoughts on this matter.

Since yesterday evening, I have been struggling quite significantly with my breathing. It feels incredibly difficult to take a deep breath, and I am left with this persistent, nagging sensation that my lungs simply aren't filling up all the way with air. While I can breathe normally through my nose, I just cannot seem to fully expand my chest, which forces me to take deep breaths through my mouth; even then, I only manage to feel like my lungs are full about 70% of the time. I find myself needing to take a massive, deep breath every two minutes just to ensure I don't end up completely breathless.

I am sleeping relatively well, though, because once I lie down on my side, I can breathe somewhat normally without feeling like I'm gasping for air.

I don't have a fever, but I do experience occasional bouts of coughing that pop up here and there, perhaps a few times throughout the day.

Since this whole ordeal kicked off over the weekend, I haven't really had a smart way to figure out exactly what is going on with me.
When it first started yesterday, it felt much worse; I actually had to lean forward just to catch my breath. Now, I am able to take a deep breath and fill my lungs even while lying down.

Does what I’ve described sound like typical Asthma symptoms? I have never dealt with anything like this before, so I don't own an inhaler or any similar equipment, nor have I ever had to navigate these kinds of issues.

Is there any way I might be able to find some quick relief? Any advice at all would be most welcome.

That sounds like a panic attack.

It might be stress, especially since you can still physically inhale. If I were describing my own panic attacks during extreme stress, it would sound exactly like that...

For anything serious, you need a doctor, not a forum. Discussing this here might just fuel hypochondria if that's your tendency, or ramp up the panic if that's what's happening. My advice would be to step away from medical threads and try breathing deeply and slowly—inhale slow, exhale twice as slow...

You could also look into breathing exercises. They're part of pulmonary rehab for both asthma and COPD patients, and they help increase capacity... plus they calm you down. Just look them up online...

And if things truly get bad, call 911... but as long as you're able to post on a forum and breathe, I assume you're okay.😁

I don't have asthma, but my mom did. A good friend of mine once had an attack without her inhaler nearby... it was critical, nothing like what you're describing.
I remember sprinting to the nearest pharmacy to beg for an inhaler... I've never moved faster in my life.😁 😉

Betty Bennett70 said:Good evening.

I would truly appreciate hearing your thoughts on this matter.

Since yesterday evening, I have been struggling quite significantly with my breathing. It feels incredibly difficult to take a deep breath, and I am left with this persistent, nagging sensation that my lungs simply aren't filling up all the way with air. While I can breathe normally through my nose, I just cannot seem to fully expand my chest, which forces me to take deep breaths through my mouth; even then, I only manage to feel like my lungs are full about 70% of the time. I find myself needing to take a massive, deep breath every two minutes just to ensure I don't end up completely breathless.

I am sleeping relatively well, though, because once I lie down on my side, I can breathe somewhat normally without feeling like I'm gasping for air.

I don't have a fever, but I do experience occasional bouts of coughing that pop up here and there, perhaps a few times throughout the day.

Since this whole ordeal kicked off over the weekend, I haven't really had a smart way to figure out exactly what is going on with me.
When it first started yesterday, it felt much worse; I actually had to lean forward just to catch my breath. Now, I am able to take a deep breath and fill my lungs even while lying down.

Does what I’ve described sound like typical Asthma symptoms? I have never dealt with anything like this before, so I don't own an inhaler or any similar equipment, nor have I ever had to navigate these kinds of issues.

Is there any way I might be able to find some quick relief? Any advice at all would be most welcome.

I know enough to tell you that it isn't asthma, because if it were, you wouldn't be able to reach full lung capacity regardless of what position you're in.