Asthma symptoms:   Shortness of breath, Chest tightness or pain, Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, An audible whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling, Coughing or wheezing that are worsened by a respiratory virus such as a cold or the flu.

Asthma attack: Acute episodes when the air passages in their lungs become narrower, and breathing becomes more difficult.

Aromatherapy: Clary Sage, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Myrrh, Rose, Peppermint, Tea Tree.

Homeopathy: For mild asthma only, while waiting for emergency attention. Ipecac – for wheezy children who cough until they vomit. Arsenicum – waking between midnight and 2 a.m. with difficulty breathing. Bryonia – for asthma that comes at the end of a cold with a hard, dry cough. Natrum sulph – asthma in damp weather, loose cough, yellow mucus. Lachesis – for asthma that comes in the spring of fall.

Vitamins/Minerals: Increase intake of Vitamin C  - discuss treatment with your doctor first because it may affect prescription medications. Also increase Vitamins A, B2, B5 and E in a dry form.

Food: Cut down salt intake. Positively affected by antioxidants, apples, fish, onions, selenium and a vegetarian diet.