One of the most worrying global health trends in recent years is the number of asthma sufferers; year on year, the figure for those contracting the condition rises. Causing the airways to close up in reaction to allergens in the atmosphere, asthma is a chronic condition that can at least be treated. It is a respiratory condition that affects people on a daily basis and is serious enough to cause death if not dealt with in time.

Initially, the asthma sufferers should carry out strict observation and a diary of when the attacks occur. The severity and frequency of attacks will determine the course of treatment and these fit into three broad categories:

<ul> <li>Preventing attacks from occurring</li> <li>Relief medications</li> <li>Medical treatment for serious attacks</li> </ul> Fortunately for patients with only mild version of the condition, a Bronchodilator will be used to provide short term relief; asthmatics who only have a mild form will probably never need to use anything else.

However, patients who experience regular attacks although they may be mild, will probably use a low-dose glucocorticoid or a mastcell stabilizer which would also be used in conjunction with a standard reliever. The use of oral glucocorticoids is reserved for patients with a serious asthma condition. A standard reliever or 'Bronchodilator' will still be used in addition to any other medication they may have prescribed. It is also important that asthmatics learn what actually triggers an attack so they are able to stay clear of the triggers and possibly stop attacks completely. Medical science has now confirmed that the poorer the air quality the greater the chance that this and other respiratory problems will occur.

The medications used to help prevent and treat attacks is very effective but should only be used sparingly; prescription drugs may also cause serious side effects such as:

<ul> <li>Feelings of constant tiredness</li> <li>Occasional dizziness</li> <li>Impotence</li> <li>Feelings of sadness</li> <li>Damage to the liver</li> </ul> Increasingly patients with respiratory conditions are opting for more natural remedies that do not have side-effects. These are formulated to treat the condition and not the effects. The purpose of the medication is to settle the body's hyperactivity which is caused as a result of the attack. It also helps soothe the effects by using a catalyst. Natural medications provide natural organic catalysts to the body that restore balance in the system and thereby eliminate all the symptoms without any side effects.

Some asthma sufferers have discovered the benefits of yoga as it helps to improve their breathing and overall health. Nutritional supplements and good diet will help improve the immune response and the overall health of the patients. The main focus however, should be on the asthma patient learning to control their own condition.