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ASTHMA |
| Asthma
affects more than 5% of the population of the
US, including children. It is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the
airways characterized by coughing, shortness of breath and chest
tightness. A variety of 'triggers' may initiate or worsen an asthma
attack, including viral respiratory infections, exercise and exposure to
irritants such as tobacco smoke. The physiological symptoms of asthma are
a narrowing of the airways caused by edema (fluid in the intracellular
tissue space) and the influx of inflammatory cells into the walls of the
airways. Asthma is a what is known as a 'complex' heritable disease. This means that there are a number of genes that contribute towards a person's susceptibility to a disease, and in the case of asthma, chromosomes 5, 6, 11, 14, and 12 have all been implicated. The relative roles of these genes in asthma predisposition are not clear, but one of the most promising sites for investigation is on chromosome 5. Although a gene for asthma from this site has not yet been specifically identified, it is known that this region is rich in genes coding for key molecules in the inflammatory response seen in asthma, including cytokines, growth factors, and growth factor receptors. The search for specific asthma genes is ongoing. Assisting in this international human effort are model organisms such as mice, which have similar chromosomal architecture to our chromosome 5 site on their chromosomes 11, 13 an 18. Further study of the genes in these areas (and others) of the human genome will implicate specific genes involved in asthma and perhaps also suggest related biological pathways that play a role in the pathogenesis of asthma. Natural Treatments: Most doctors use drugs, not vitamins and
minerals, to treat asthma. Those who do provide nutritional therapy
usually combine it with drugs and with avoiding exposure to substances
that can trigger an asthma attack. These are the nutrients that some
doctors recommend. MEDICAL ALERT! |
| Diseases&Treatments |
Disclaimer: This information is intended as a guide only. This information is offered to you with the understanding that it not be interpreted as medical or professional advice. All medical information needs to be carefully reviewed with your health care provider.
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