Asthma and Eczema

Doctors believe that the link between asthma and eczema is an inherited, genetic one. Sufferers tend to have common genes which result in the immune system reacting in an abnormal way. Both conditions can be triggered by an over-reaction to a particular allergen, such as house dust mites or cigarette smoke. The allergens over stimulate the body’s immune system, causing it to produce large quantities of an antibody called lgE. These antibodies bind themselves to the allergens and trigger the release of a number of potent chemicals. The result is an immediate reaction such as wheezing, coughing or those of eczema such as dry, peeling skin.

There is no doubt that asthma and eczema are shared care conditions – part patient, part doctor – and there is a lot you can do to relieve your own symptoms. Many sufferers are turning to alternative therapies to alleviate their symptoms but it is important to realize that conventional treatment should not be stopped suddenly and any new therapy should be discussed with your doctor. Asthma, and to a lesser extent eczema, are chronic conditions which need careful monitoring at regular intervals.

How complimentary therapies can help

Alternative therapies have been shown to help in the management of asthma and eczema but should be used alongside, rather than instead of, conventional drugs. Stress is high on the list of potential triggers, so any therapy that relaxes the body and the mind is worth trying. Eastern therapies which are based on the belief that blocked energy in our bodies’ causes illness and therefore aim to restore the flow of energy are also beneficial. Any therapy which encourages better breathing is excellent for people who suffer with asthma.

Autogenics

Autogenic training (AT) involves using mental exercises and focusing on key words designed to switch off the body’s “flight or fight” system. With your eyes closed you repeat a set of simple mental exercises which trigger feelings of warmth, relaxation and heaviness. As a result, your mind slips into a relaxed yet aware state similar to that achieved in meditation. Autogenics is usually taught in a series of 8 weekly lessons, but once you have mastered the technique you have a skill for life.

Qi Gong

Pronounced “Chee Gung”, this ancient eastern exercise can help relieve the stress that can trigger an asthma attack or eczema outbreak. The combination of movement, breathing techniques and meditation help relax the body and the mind. Qi Gong is a very gentle routine and although is doesn’t claim to get rid of asthma, it can equip the body to deal more effectively with triggers such as a surge in the pollen count or a rise in pollution on a hot day.

Qi Gong does require discipline – to gain the maximum benefit you have to practice on a regular basis, but it has been shown to have a high success rate in people with respiratory problems. It is best to find an experienced teacher to show you the basic moves, but after that you can practice them at home yourself.

Alexander technique

Many people with asthma tend to hunch their shoulders, which often makes the problem worse. The Alexander technique aims to improve your posture, teaching you how to stand and move properly, which will help clear the air ways and increase lung capacity.

Yoga

Asthma sufferers tend to have shallow, rapid breathing and yoga breathing and stretching postures can help deepen and release the breath and encourage relaxation. This, in turn, helps get rid of any tension which can trigger an attack.

Homeopathy

Based on the concept of treating “like with like”, homeopathy is a widely respected treatment for eczema, even amongst orthodox doctors. The treatment will depend on your individual symptoms and I would always recommend consulting a qualified homeopath.

Different types of eczema

There are three main types of eczema:

Atopic eczema – this is the most common type, affecting people with an inherited tendency towards allergies such as asthma and hay fever. It is characterized by dry, itchy skin and can be triggered by stress and certain environmental factors.

Allergic Contact eczema – this is caused when the skin comes into contact with something you are allergic to such as nickel, rubber, glue, certain cosmetics and some synthetic fabrics. The skin becomes red and itchy, and in some cases can blister and crust over.

Irritant Contact eczema – this is caused when the skin comes into contact with an irritating chemical such as a harsh detergent, disinfectant or solvent. The skin usually becomes dry, red, rough and itchy. Here at holistic therapies spain we deal with these conditions every week.