"While conventional medicine can often effectively treat
the symptoms, most chronic respiratory sufferers are told that
they simply must learn to 'live with it,'" says Dr. Hardy. "However,
extending conventional medical therapies to include integrative
approaches can be highly beneficial to many sufferers," she
adds.
Respiratory Problems In Congested Cities
Paul Steier, D.O., one of the physicians in the Integrative Medicine
Medical Group, notes that respiratory problems are particularly
prevalent in the greater Los Angeles area. "There has been
a substantial increase in all respiratory diseases in urban Southern
California," he says. Dr. Hardy and Dr. Steier offer tips
on the basics of addressing these issues holistically. "There's
no magic bullet," says Dr. Steier, "but sometimes making
some very simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
The key lies in knowing what changes can benefit you."
For example, some people are sensitive to fungi
and yeast, both of which thrive on sugar. So, says Dr. Steier,
avoiding sugar may
be helpful in improving the well-being of the individual. Another
measure that is appropriate for some individuals is diet rotation.
Sometimes the immune system can be become "hyper vigilant," identifying
even naturally occurring elements as foreign entities and attacking
them. By rotating one's diet, it is sometimes possible to identify
- and then avoid -- specific items that cause a reaction.
In addition to dietary modification, other techniques include
vitamin and herbal supplements, aromatherapy, the use of ionizers
and filters, nasal irrigation and saline nasal sprays, and more.
Source:
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center