The respiratory system helps us to breathe and any malfunction can lead to breathing difficulty and extreme discomfort resulting in various Respiratory Diseases. The proper functioning of any system of the whole body is necessary for the overall growth & development of the body.
The Various Functions of The Respiratory System Are
- It helps with olfaction.
- It regulates the temperature of the air according to the body’s temperature. Additionally, it humidifies it as per the requirement of the body.
- It transports oxygen to the various cells in the body.
- It removes the waste gases from the body during exhalation.
- It provides protection to the airways from harmful substances, irritants, and allergens.
Respiratory diseases or breathing disorders can disturb your life to an extent where it can be difficult for you to breathe! The various types have similar symptoms, but their underlying mechanism is different. The signs are alike, but the next section of the article will differentiate respiratory ailments from each other.
The Different Types of Respiratory Diseases Are
Asthma
In asthma, the airways become narrow and swelling occurs in the passage. Due to this, extra mucus is produced which makes it really difficult for a person to breathe. A person with chronic asthma may also have asthma attacks which may turn out to be fatal.
Symptoms of Asthma
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain & tightness
- Wheezing cough
- Trouble sleeping due to shortness of breath & coughing
- Cough attacks, cold, and phlegm production
Triggers of Asthma
- Viral Infections
- Dust, pollen, pet dander, fur, and feather allergies
- Smoke, fumes, pollution
- Medicines
- Stress
- Weather changes
- Mould, damp
- Exercise or strenuous/mild physical activity
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is caused due to inflammation of the lining of bronchial tubes which opens into the lungs. People with bronchitis often cough up mucus which makes it really difficult for a person to breathe healthily. Bronchitis is like asthma the only difference is in asthma the upper airways are affected and in bronchitis, the lower tract is compromised.
Symptoms of Bronchitis
- Constant cough
- Sputum production may be colorless, yellowish to gray, or green.
- Shortness of breath
- Fever and chills
- Chest discomfort
Causes of Bronchitis
- Viral infections
- Cigarette smoking
- Air pollution
- Dust
- Toxic gases in the workplace
Rhinitis
It is a condition in which a reaction occurs because of allergens or irritants. As a result, inflammation takes place which affects the eyes, ears, and throat. Whenever the season changes, there occur changes in the environment which makes the person susceptible to seasonal allergies.
Symptoms of Rhinitis
- Sneezing
- Stuffy and runny nose
- Itchy nose, ears, and throat
- Breathing through mouth
- Tiredness
- Recurrent ear infections
Causes of Rhinitis
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Dampness and mold
- Cockroach dendrite
- Animal dander
- Fumes and odor
- Seasonal change
- Hormonal change
- Foods or spices
- Cosmetics
Sinusitis
Sinuses are the air pockets present behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes. When some kind of infection happens, these cavities are filled with fluid. They result in improper breathing and extreme headache.
Symptoms of Sinusitis
- Runny & stuffy nose
- Facial pain/pressure
- Headache
- Mucus dripping in throat
- Sore throat and cough
- Bad breath
- Improper breathing
Causes of Sinusitis
- Cold or viral infection
- Seasonal change & allergies
- Smoking and exposure to smoke fumes
- Nasal polyps in the lining of the nose
- Weak immune system
Laryngitis
The larynx has vocal cords. The cords are two folds of the mucous membranes. Normally, vocal cords open and close simultaneously to produce voice through movement and vibration. But in laryngitis, the vocal cords due to inflammation distort the passage of air which leads to disruption in voice.
In most cases, laryngitis is temporary which is called acute laryngitis, but when it lasts longer than three weeks, then it is chronic laryngitis.
Symptoms of Laryngitis
- Hoarseness in voice
- Weak or lost voice
- Sore throat
- Cold and Cough
- constant tickling or throat irritation
- Dry throat
Causes of Laryngitis
- Viral or bacterial infections
- Vocal strain or overusing of voice
- Allergens like fumes, smoke, pollution, dust, pollen
- Acid reflux
- Excessive intake of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco
- Vocal cord paralysis
- Vocal cord injury
Ayurvedic Treatment for Respiratory Diseases
Ayurveda is a holistic science that deals with a disorder to remove the root cause of the disease. The Ayurvedic treatment involves a purely natural approach which gives no side effects and long-term results.
The below-listed herbs are suggested by the experts of Dr. Sharda Ayurveda and are beneficial in the Ayurvedic Treatment for Asthma. The experts from this clinic are well-experienced and educated. Know with this article, which are the three most common herbs known to perfectly manage the symptoms of numerous respiratory diseases or correct the breathing disorders naturally.
The 3 Best Herbs For Healing The Respiratory System
Tulsi
This herb is found in almost every Indian household. It is a holy plant that has both medicinal and spiritual properties. It has various properties like antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and anti-allergic.
According to Ayurveda, this holy basil helps reduce the symptoms due to the imbalance of Kapha Dosha and Vata Dosha. It is the best herb that is used in Ayurvedic treatment for chronic laryngitis.
It helps with cough and cold symptoms. Consuming leaves of tulsi has a calming effect and also helps in the reduction of stress. Further, it acts as an immunity booster.
Mode of consumption
- Make tulsi tea to find relief from the symptoms of asthma.
- Add 1 tsp of honey in tulsi juice and take it.
- The leaves can also be infused in water and the leaves can also be kept in the mouth for refreshing breath.
Ginger
It is commonly found in the kitchen and is greatly useful in sinusitis treatment with Ayurveda methodology. The main bioactive compound found in ginger is gingerol. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Ginger helps in clearing phlegm from the lungs, manages cough/cold, and reduces breathing difficulty. It has a rejuvenating effect on the body, and mind and promotes calmness in the entire body.
It helps in decreasing elevated Vata Dosha and Kapha Dosha. Moreover, ginger can be used either raw or in dried form.
Mode of consumption:
- Ginger tea can be consumed by adding lemon & honey to it.
- For asthma attacks, use ginger powder or a mixture of crushed raw ginger and 2-3 garlic cloves.
- The ginger powder can be used by mixing it with warm water or milk.
Turmeric
Ayurvedic Treatment for Rhinitis is done successfully with the consumption of this herb. Curcumin is a chemical compound found in turmeric, which helps in reducing hay fever, sneezing runny nose, congestion, and itching.
It has a long list of incredible healing properties such as antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory, & also contains various antioxidants.
As per Ayurvedic medicines, turmeric is used in almost all respiratory conditions. It is known to boost immunity and balance the equilibrium of imbalance Doshas.
Mode of consumption:
- Turmeric milk is the best way to include turmeric in the diet.
- As it is a key ingredient in the kitchen, almost all cooked food contains this herb.
- A pinch of turmeric can be used in warm water. This solution can be used to gargle to treat the congestion.
These herbs are best for healing respiratory diseases. Add them to your diet and manage your discomforting conditions. You still need an expert who can guide and supervise you throughout the treatment. Consult the Ayurvedic practitioner who will help you heal, so that you can live a disease-free life!
