Breathe Right Now A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Treating the Most Common Breathing Disorders

by SMOLLEY, LAURENCE A.

• ISBN13: 9780440613848
• ISBN10: 0440613841
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1999-03-09
• Publisher: Dell

Summary

There is good news for millions of Americans who suffer from respiratory disorders! Medical breakthroughs and nondrug therapies now provide quick relief and long-term help for everyone with breathing disorders--including athletes hampered by exercise-induced asthma, smokers experiencing shortness of breath, and children plagued by colds or allergies. This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information about strides in diagnosis, prevention, controls, and cures--including many remedies that didn't exist until recently. Created by a pulmonologist and a medical writer,Breathe Right Nowoffers treatment options that include a full range of mind/body and alternative therapies, and a breath of hope for an active, healthier life. Discover: Amazing New Asthma Treatments Oxygen Therapy for COPD Healing Herbs for Sinusitis and Bronchitis Acupuncture for Allergies Medications to prevent nearly 100% of asthma attacks Filters to chase away hay fever Therapies to dramatically improve emphysema Inhalers to end chronic bronchitis New breakthroughs in the treatment of cystic fibrosis . . . . and more! From the Paperback edition.

Author Biography

Laurence A.  Smolley, M.D., is a pulmonologist with the Cleveland Clinic Florida in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.<br><br>Debra Fulghum Bruce is former editor in chief of <b>Living Well Today</b> and the author or coauthor of forty books, including most recently <b>Super Aspirin Cure for Arthritis</b>.  She lives in Orlando, Florida.<br><br><br><i>From the Paperback edition.</i>

Table of Contents

Foreword	xvii
Rob Muzzio
Acknowledgments	xxii
Introduction: New Hope for Better Breathing	xxvii
Part 1 An Introduction to Breathing Problems
The Fire of Life: How We Breathe	3	(9)
The Normal Respiratory System	4	(6)
Disruption of Breathing	10	(1)
Knowledge Is Crucial	11	(1)
Understanding Allergy and Nasal Disorders	12	(20)
Allergy	14	(4)
Allergic Rhinitis	18	(2)
Infectious Rhinitis (The Common Cold)	20	(1)
Cold or Flu?	20	(1)
Rhinitis Caused by Medication	21	(1)
Food Allergy	21	(3)
Anaphylaxis	24	(2)
Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis	26	(1)
Oral Allergy Syndrome	26	(1)
Latex Allergy	27	(1)
Deviated Septum and Nasal Polyps	27	(1)
Sinusitis	28	(2)
Sinobronchial Syndrome	30	(1)
Ask Questions	31	(1)
Understanding Asthma and Lung Disorders	32	(29)
Cough	34	(1)
Shortness of Breath	35	(1)
Bronchitis (Acute)	36	(1)
Bronchiectasis	36	(1)
Pneumonia	37	(1)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)	38	(2)
Bronchitis (Chronic)	40	(2)
Emphysema Due to Cigarette Smoking	42	(1)
Emphysema: Inherited	43	(2)
Asthma	45	(6)
Asthma Mimics	51	(1)
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Asthma	52	(2)
Exercise-Induced Asthma	54	(1)
Occupational Asthma	54	(1)
Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS)	55	(1)
Solving the Mystery of Asthma	56	(5)
Part 2 Getting Back in Control
Taking Responsibility for Self-Care	61	(29)
Working with Your Doctor	64	(4)
Specialized Tests	68	(11)
Developing a Personal Action Plan	79	(1)
Ten Tips to Help You Breathe Right Now	80	(9)
Regain Your Life	89	(1)
Selecting Medical Treatment	90	(28)
A Stepwise Approach	93	(1)
Allergy and Nasal Problems	93	(1)
Antihistamines	94	(2)
Decongestants	96	(1)
Nasal Sprays	96	(1)
Antibiotics	97	(1)
Nasal Steroids	98	(1)
Nasal Wash	99	(1)
Drugs Affecting Mucus	99	(1)
Asthma and Other Lung Diseases	100	(2)
Corticosteroids (Steroids)	102	(2)
Mast Cell Stabilizer	104	(1)
Inhaled Beta2-agonists	105	(1)
Ipratropium Bromide	106	(1)
Theophylline	107	(2)
Immunosuppresive Therapy	109	(1)
Newer Drugs: Leukotriene Inhibitors and Antagonists	109	(1)
Oxygen Therapy	109	(2)
Immunizations	111	(2)
Surgery	113	(1)
More Tools for Better Breathing	114	(1)
Familiarity with Your Medications	115	(1)
Immunotherapy	116	(1)
Find What Works	117	(1)
Avoiding Triggers	118	(17)
Environmental Factors	120	(2)
Controlling Your Environment	122	(1)
Dust Mites	122	(3)
Cockroaches	125	(1)
Molds and Mildew	126	(1)
Animals	127	(1)
Pollen	128	(2)
Smoke and Gas	130	(2)
Chemicals	132	(1)
Weather Conditions	133	(1)
Avoidance Is Crucial	134	(1)
Achieving Optimal Fitness	135	(26)
The Active Way to Better Breathing	136	(3)
Aerobic Benefit	139	(2)
Enhanced Emotional State	141	(2)
Immune System Boost	143	(1)
The Cycle of Inactivity	143	(2)
Exercise-Induced Asthma (EIA)	145	(2)
Pretreatment Is Necessary	147	(1)
Practice Breathing	147	(2)
Increase Exercise Slowly	149	(1)
Set Specific Goals	150	(1)
Start with a Warm-up	151	(1)
Personalize Your Program	151	(5)
Finish with a Cooldown	156	(1)
Build Body Efficiency	157	(2)
Seek Instruction from a Therapist	159	(2)
Using a Nutritional Approach	161	(24)
Reading the Food Label	161	(1)
The Food Elimination Diet	162	(2)
The Benefit of Antioxidants	164	(2)
Understanding Antioxidant Food Sources	166	(5)
Plant-Based Phytochemicals	171	(1)
Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs)	172	(1)
Vitamin Supplements	173	(1)
Other Important Nutrients to Consider	173	(3)
Controlling Your Weight	176	(6)
Watch Salt Intake	182	(1)
Medication, Nutrition, and Digestion	183	(2)
Controlling Nighttime Problems	185	(24)
The Sleep Robbers	185	(2)
Normal Sleep: Time and Stages	187	(1)
Distinct Stages of Sleep	188	(1)
Sleep and Breathing Patterns	189	(2)
Circadian Rhythms and Diseases	191	(1)
Sleep-Related Asthma and Treatment	192	(3)
Snoring and Treatment	195	(4)
Signs and Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea	199	(3)
Diagnosis and Treatment of Sleep Apnea	202	(3)
Surgery	205	(1)
Getting Some Zzzzs	206	(3)
Part 3 Mind over Breath
Stress, Emotion, and Breathing	209	(19)
A Psychological Problem?	210	(1)
Chronic Disease and Depression	211	(2)
The Biology of Stress	213	(2)
Stress and Tuberculosis	215	(1)
Weakened by Stress	216	(2)
Immunologic Balance and Psychological Response	218	(5)
Stress and Allergy	223	(1)
Behavioral Interventions	224	(1)
The Role of Psychotherapy	225	(3)
Alternative Treatments: Mind-Body Healing	228	(31)
Stress and Airway Constriction	229	(1)
Relaxation Response	229	(3)
Deep Abdominal Breathing	232	(1)
Progressive Muscle Relaxation	233	(1)
Visualization, or Guided Imagery	233	(1)
Music Therapy	234	(1)
Aromatherapy	235	(1)
A Merry Heart	236	(1)
The Faith Factor	237	(2)
Ancient Disciplines for Relaxation	239	(2)
Chiropractic	241	(3)
Massage and Therapeutic Touch	244	(1)
Acupuncture	245	(1)
Biofeedback	246	(1)
Hypnosis	247	(1)
Homeopathic Medicine	248	(1)
Healing Foods and Herbs	248	(6)
Be Discerning and Safe	254	(5)
Part 4 Special Situations
Ages and Stages	259	(21)
Pregnancy	259	(5)
Young Children	264	(10)
Older Adults	274	(6)
Serious Diseases	280	(24)
AIDS	280	(2)
Tuberculosis	282	(3)
Interstitial Lung Disease	285	(1)
Lung Cancer	286	(1)
Pulmonary Hypertension	287	(4)
Part 5 Resources
Support Organizations	291	(4)
Internet Connections	295	(2)
Glossary	297	(7)
Index	304

Excerpts

Introduction: New Hope for Better Breathing

Everyone has experienced breathing difficulties from time to time.  For some people, these symptoms subside, and they can move on with their lives.  But for millions who suffer daily with breathing disorders, such debilitating symptoms as coughing, sneezing, stuffy nose, breathlessness, and wheezing are relentless and cause poor quality of life.  Many claim that breathing problems have ruined much of their lives.  You deserve to know that with today's treatment options; it does not have to be that way.

Perhaps you are thinking, "This book will not help me.  My nose is constantly congested and just thinking about exercise causes shortness of breath." Well, we have good news! We have experienced all types of respiratory disorders, both professionally and personally.  As a pulmonologist and sleep disorders specialist, Dr.  Smolley's professional experience in treating respiratory diseases for the past sixteen years keeps him acutely aware of breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment.  Debra Fulghum Bruce has a strong genetic link in her family to allergy, sinusitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with every member in her immediate and extended family suffering from some type of respiratory symptom daily.  It is her personal challenge to find answers to help those closest to her.

Dr. Laurence Smolley

In medical school and during my internship-residency training, I enjoyed learning about all the various specialties of medicine.  I particularly treasured the time spent in the "Chest" building at the Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, where I helped care for patients with the whole gamut of respiratory diseases.  My supervising physicians were excellent role models, and I admired them very much.

However, the reason that I chose to apply for a fellowship in pulmonary diseases was because of a tragic personal experience.  One summer when I was home from college, my father died right before my eyes during a sudden attack of shortness of breath.  Clumsy resuscitative attempts did not work, and the paramedics from 911 in New York City arrived far too late.  I know my father died an early death at age fifty-nine, because he ignored the warning signs and symptoms of disease.  Perhaps if he knew more and sought treatment earlier, he would still be alive today.

The symptom of shortness of breath, along with a host of other breathing difficulties, has intrigued me over the years.  Figuring out the exact cause of the problem is essential before proper treatment can be applied.  My experience dealing with patients with respiratory diseases has shown me that those who are best informed and take an active role in their medical care generally have fewer hospitalizations and longer lifespans.

I know that the treatment choices in this book really do work.  These options have helped thousands of sufferers across the country regain the ability to breathe clearly, and, thus, improve quality of life.

Debra Fulghum Bruce

My experience with respiratory diseases is very personal and serves as motivation for writing this book.  As a child, I grew up thinking that nasal congestion, sinus drainage, and coughing on arising or during exercise were normal.  After all, no one in my family could breathe well, suffering as they did from both allergy and asthma, so these symptoms were all I knew.  Even as young as five years old, I was given a cup of strong coffee on awakening to help open clogged airways.  On school days, my mother would warn, "Don't run at recess if you have trouble breathing."

Although I was oblivious to our family history, I vaguely remember my parents talking about my paternal grandfather who had bronchiectasis, an older cousin who died of complications of asthma, an aunt who suffered with emphysema, and several relatives on my mother's side who had constant headaches from chronic sinusitis.  When I got a cold and had to stay home because of "funny whistles in my chest (bronchial asthma)," again, I figured this was "normal." You will learn in this book that these symptoms are not "normal," and there is treatment!

After I was married (to a man who had childhood asthma) and our third child, Ashley, was born, I was forced to begin a personal quest for answers to better breathing.  Ashley had fluid in her ears the first year of life, along with a host of skin allergies.  During the preschool years, she began to have frequent bouts of bronchitis and sinusitis.  At age seven, after a lengthy bout of the flu and bronchitis, Ashley went through allergy testing and was diagnosed with many allergies and chronic asthma.  She was not alone: our older children, Rob and Brittnye, were also diagnosed with allergies and asthma and suffered daily from symptoms of nasal congestion, coughing, or wheezing.

It was at a family reunion that I realized someone had to take immediate action to find relief for our strong genetic predisposition to breathing problems.  While sitting with a group of relatives, I will never forget how several aunts, uncles, and cousins took puffs from asthma inhalers to open swollen airways.  Conversation centered on who had tried the latest nonsedating antihistamines or who had found relief for sinus pain and pressure.  Later that evening, I felt hopeless as I surveyed our family's medicine closet.  It was filled with inhaler boxes and canisters, bottles of over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines, prescription antibiotics, and steroid nasal sprays, to mention just a few.

Today, I know there is hope.  Through regular visits with our allergist, talking with many health care professionals across the country, and doing years of research, I have realized that everyone deserves the opportunity to breathe right now.  No matter what respiratory problems you face, we will show you a wealth of available treatments that will allow you to have the highest quality of life, including exercise.  And the best way to better breathing is to educate yourself about the problem, then work as a team with your physician and your family using the proactive steps as outlined in this book.

We've Found the Answers

We wrote this book to offer new hope to those who wake up each day struggling for breath and are frustrated through the day when breathlessness occurs with minimal exertion.  Throughout this book, you will learn how some of the country's finest health care professionals treat breathing disorders with both conventional medicine and complementary methods such as biofeedback or acupuncture.  You will find accurate descriptions and explanations of the most common breathing problems and learn the latest, most effective methods for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Because almost everyone who suffers from one breathing problem is likely to have others, we have written the first book that covers most common breathing disorders.  For example, you may suffer with allergy and asthma and then develop emphysema or chronic bronchitis from smoking.  To breathe optimally, you must recognize the specific diseases and promptly seek prevention and treatment measures that are likely to be effective.

As you identify your particular problem, it is important to realize that you are not alone.  An estimated 60 million people in the United States today have allergy and asthma.  Another 20 million suffer with chronic lung disease.  These problems are very common and know no barriers of race, sex, or age.  Allergy and asthma alone account for one out of nine trips to the doctor; children also figure high in this number as breathing problems account for more than one out of every five trips to the pediatrician.

Breathing problems are nothing new to millions.  However, most people remain unaware of how these diseases which cause shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and difficulty performing the activities of daily living can be controlled.  Must those with breathing disorders simply accept the feeling of choking or strangling? Should they tolerate the limited mobility, inability to exercise, or sleepless nights that often accompany nocturnal breathlessness? The answer is no!

Allergic Triggers

Some believe that it is only children, the elderly, or smokers who suffer breathing problems, but that is not true.  Breathing problems can begin in the first year of life.  Or, some people can be disease-free until retirement age and then be faced with shortness of breath from COPD, or adult-onset asthma.  Allergies can come and go.  This means you may be allergic to a certain food such as peanuts, soy, or eggs as a young child and then during your teen years develop an allergy to pollen, mold, or that favorite down comforter.

Some triggers of allergy and asthma include pregnancy (from hormonal and blood-flow changes), viral infection such as cold or flu, exposure to something in the environment, and food.  Food allergies can be fatal.  A recent report from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimates that more than 1 million people a year suffer from a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction to food.  Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergy and involves the entire body.  When it occurs, the blood pressure plunges to dangerously low levels.  There is also swelling throughout the body.  When this occurs in the walls of the bronchial tubes, there may be a severe obstruction which slows down the exit of air from the lungs.  When this occurs in the larynx or upper airway, air may not be able to enter the lungs.

More recently, scientists have found that estrogen levels trigger asthma in some women.  Women with asthma may experience a worsening of symptoms, including increased coughing and wheezing, during the week before menstruation.  These new findings were reported at the 1996 American College of Clinical Pharmacy by researcher Mary Chandler, an associate professor of pharmacy at the University of Kentucky, who followed fourteen women for three menstrual cycles.  These women kept careful records of their asthma symptoms and measured their airflows with peak expiratory flow meters (PEFRs) (more on this indispensable tool for asthma management in Chapter 4).

Determined by symptoms, and also the peak flow rate, all fourteen women in the study experienced at least a 20 percent increase in symptoms during the premenstrual phase.  Researchers found that asthma symptoms were mildest on day 13 of the cycle and strongest at day 26, when estrogen is at its lowest level.

Emotions also influence some breathing problems.  In fact, it used to be thought that asthma was a psychosomatic disease.  Now we know that stress may be a trigger.  In other words, if you don't have asthma, emotional stress cannot cause it.  However, if you do have asthma, being upset, crying, or getting angry can worsen the symptoms or even bring on an attack.

Predisposition

Although factors such as respiratory infections, air pollution, diet, and emotional makeup play key roles in precipitating problems, your genetic heritage is also important as Debra shared in her personal story.  For example, if one parent has allergies, each child has a one-in-three chance of also having allergies.  If both parents suffered from allergy, the probability that each child may also suffer is close to 100 percent.  Family history also appears to predispose you to asthma and COPD, with three-fifths of all asthma cases being hereditary.

A Holistic Approach

Obviously many risk factors play key roles in breathing disorders, including genetics, diet, illnesses, hormones, environment, and emotional makeup.  Because of this crucial mind-body interplay, you deserve to know that taking a holistic, or comprehensive, approach to better breathing can offer even greater benefit.  This book will take that approach and explain the importance of:


Understanding risk factors and learning how to reduce your risk
Getting an accurate diagnosis using the latest diagnostic tools
Developing a management plan with your doctor and family
Knowing which medications are best to treat and prevent your particular symptoms
Understanding and avoiding the triggers of your breathing disorder
Exercising to maximize aerobic fitness by conditioning the heart and other muscles
Preventing exercise-induced breathing problems
Reducing stress
Eating nutritional foods to maximize immune defenses against infections
Using healing foods filled with phytochemicals, antioxidants, and flavonoids
Maintaining a normal weight
Obtaining restful sleep, even with nocturnal breathing problems


A Comprehensive Guide

No matter what problem you have, the goal should be to reach the stage at which the disorder can be controlled.  Once this is accomplished, returning to normal activity and exercise is possible.  There will be improved sleep and a greater sense of well-being.  Although we outline a broad spectrum of treatments throughout the book, we continually emphasize the importance of preventive measures to avoid acute attacks and control chronic problems.

While this book is not meant to be an exhaustive medical reference on respiratory diseases, it is a comprehensive guide book to help you breathe better.  To gain further insight about your particular problem, call the support groups listed and check the web sites offered on the Internet.  If you have any questions about your breathing disorder, we encourage you to write these down and ask your health care professional.

In short, the main ingredient in the treatment and prevention of breathing disorders is you--if you begin a comprehensive program to eliminate risk factors, boost your immune power, and stay healthy despite your chronic condition.  In other words, you can change things in your life so that the chances of your problems worsening are greatly reduced.  You can begin to live your life again and move from patient to person--to happier times at home and improved quality times at work and play--without the constant fear of shortness of breath.

Let's get started.


From the Paperback edition.

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Excerpted from Breathe Right Now by Laurence A. Smolley
All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.