Asthma is a condition in which a person's airways become inflamed, narrow swell, and produce extra mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe. For some people, asthma is a minor issue, but for others, it is a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. Restoration Chiropractic has this article so you can learn more about the chiropractic approach to asthma in Prosper TX.

What causes asthma? in Prosper TX

While there is no definitive explanation as to what causes people to have asthma, it is probably due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

For those who have asthma, various irritants and substances that trigger allergies can trigger the symptoms of asthma. Although triggers vary between individuals, they may include:

• Airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander
• Respiratory infections such as the common cold
• Physical activity
• Cold air
• Air pollutants and irritants such as smoke
• Certain medications
• Stress
• Sulfites and preservatives added to some types of food and beverages
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Complications from asthma

Asthma can be a minor issue, or it can cause serious health problems, including life-threatening asthma attacks. Someone with asthma may have infrequent symptoms, have symptoms only at certain times (like when exercising), or have symptoms all of the time. Complications from asthma include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightening or pain
• Wheezing when exhaling
• Trouble sleeping
• Excessive coughing
• Permanent narrowing of the bronchial tubes
• Inability to participate in physical exercise or other activities
• Death

How is asthma treated?

Prevention and long-term control are key to stopping asthma attacks before they start. Recognizing your triggers and taking steps to avoid triggers is crucial in minimizing the effects of asthma.

Common treatments for asthma include inhalers and oral medications. If your asthma is worsened by allergies, you may also be prescribed allergy shots.

Chiropractic for asthma

In addition to medication, chiropractic has been proven through scientific research to greatly reduce the symptoms of asthma in patients of all ages.

Not only that, but many individuals who receive chiropractic treatment for asthma can reduce medications over time.

Case studies showing positive changes in asthma symptoms are becoming more and more abundant. Although chiropractic is not a treatment for any specific disease, it is designed to maximize your body's recuperative abilities.

Research supporting the treatment of asthma with chiropractic

A self-reported asthma study titled, An Impairment Rating Analysis of Asthmatic Children Under Chiropractic Care, was conducted on 81 children who received chiropractic treatment for asthma. This study intended to quantify self-reported changes in impairment experienced by the pediatric asthma subjects, before and after two months under chiropractic care.

Out of the 81 children who received treatment, there were significant decreases in asthma-related symptoms for both boys and girls. Additionally, 25 out of the 81 patients chose to reduce their dosage of asthma medication while under chiropractic care.

Based on the data obtained in the study, it was concluded that chiropractic care, for the correction of vertebral subluxation, is a safe, non-pharmacologic healthcare approach that may also be associated with significant decreases in asthma-related impairment, as well as decreased asthma attacks.

Another study proving the efficacy of chiropractic for asthma was published in Today's Chiropractic. This study titled, Asthma Study Shows Chiropractic Benefits, observed 47 patients over two years. These patients had all been medically diagnosed with persistent asthma, ranging from mild persistent in 11 cases, moderate persistent in 28 cases, and severe persistent in 8 cases.

The care rendered is consistent with specific chiropractic adjustments. The range of visits was from 14 to 44, with the average being 26 during the study period. Most patients in the study began care at a rate of 3 visits per week, with this frequency being reduced after 4 to 8 weeks under care.

The patient results were very good, with all 47 patients showing marked improvement ranging from 87 to 100 percent. Patient-observed improvement was measured by both improvements in their symptoms as well as a decrease in their usage of acute asthma attack medication. Even more impressive, all of the patients in the study reported maintaining their improvement after a two-year follow-up.

Lastly, a study conducted in 1996 by the Michigan Chiropractic Council (MCC) examined chiropractic effectiveness in correcting the cause of asthma in patients from birth to age 17. The average age of the participants was 10 years.

After 30 days of chiropractic healthcare, patients averaged only one attack, whereas before the study they were experiencing more than four attacks, said Dr. Bob Graham, who directed the study. Medications, which can be costly, were decreased by nearly 70 percent. Finally, patient satisfaction was rated 8.5 on a scale of 10.

How long does it take to see results?

Patients have reportedly experienced improvement in as little as one visit, although a treatment plan involving continued chiropractic adjustments is generally recommended. Everyone's situation is different, which is why it's necessary to receive a comprehensive chiropractic evaluation to assess your body's needs.

Conclusion

If you are suffering from asthma, chiropractic is a scientifically proven treatment method that's all-natural and maximizes your body's ability to function.

We invite you to schedule an appointment with our chiropractic office to receive a comprehensive consultation where one of our doctors can assess your situation, properly diagnose the issue, and get you started on a treatment plan to help reduce your asthma and experience long-term remission.