In a relatively short space of time, asthma has become one of the most serious health conditions around the world; it is also a worry because the increase in the number affected has happened over a short time period. Although it is treatable, that is no consolation to the millions of sufferers worldwide who have trouble breathing when they have an asthma attack. Respiratory conditions affect the daily life of everyone who suffers with them and severe attacks can even lead to death.

Initially, the asthma sufferers should carry out strict observation and a diary of when the attacks occur. The medical treatment given to patients will depend on the severity of their condition and will be one of three areas which are:

<ul> <li>Preventative medications</li> <li>Treating minor attacks</li> <li>Emergency 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; many asthmatics will only ever need this form of medication.

For sufferers with mild persistent attacks, low-dose glucocorticoids, a mastcell stabilizer or leukotriene modifiers are to be taken in addition to relievers. Oral glucocorticoids are the usual treatment for asthma patients who require strong medication when they experience serious attacks. 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. The problem is now believed to be made worse as a result primarily of atmospheric pollution which tends to be found in industrial areas and cities.

In recent years many treatments and medicines have become available to help but none should be relied upon for regular use; serious side effects can be caused by long term use of medication and the stronger the treatment, the worse the problems can be, for example:

<ul> <li>Tiredness</li> <li>Occasional dizziness</li> <li>Loss of interest in sex</li> <li>Feelings of sadness</li> <li>Damage to the liver</li> </ul> Many patients with respiratory conditions are now moving towards natural remedies which do not have these awful side-effects. The drugs used contain a catalyst which is designed to soothe and reduce the hyperactivity experienced by the body during an attack and thereby, strengthening it. By using natural medication, the side-effects are eliminated because they contain natural catalysts to soothe the body and restore it to a calm state.

Other asthma sufferers are finding that breathing techniques taught by certain yoga disciples can also help their situation and promote good health. The best way forward for sufferers is to eat a balanced nutritional diet that will help restore the immune system that has taken a great deal of punishment. The main focus however, should be on the asthma patient learning to control their own condition.