Question:

" This book not only answered all kinds of questions for me(a newly-diagnosed asthmatic), but also alleviated many of my fears. This book teaches you all about asthma and the proper use of the various medications so that you can work with your physician to control and live well with asthma. After reading this book and keeping the diary he recommends, I feel that I will be able to communicate more effectively and efficiently with my doctor, which in turn will help me get even better control of my asthma. If you or a member of your family have asthma, this book is absolutely essential.  " A Review Find out more at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0914625225/2media

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" This book not only answered all kinds of questions for me(a newly-diagnosed asthmatic), but also alleviated many of my fears. This book teaches you all about asthma and the proper use of the various medications so that you can work with your physician to control and live well with asthma. After reading this book and keeping the diary he recommends, I feel that I will be able to communicate more effectively and efficiently with my doctor, which in turn will help me get even better control of my asthma. If you or a member of your family have asthma, this book is absolutely essential.  " A Review Find out more at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0914625225/2media

Seems like you’ve been posting in newsgroups other than ASA. Newsgroups: alt.recovery.mlm

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – " This book not only answered all kinds of questions for me(a newly-diagnosed asthmatic), but also alleviated many of my fears. This book teaches you all about asthma and the proper use of the various medications so that you can work with your physician to control and live well with asthma. After reading this book and keeping the diary he recommends, I feel that I will be able to communicate more effectively and efficiently with my doctor, which in turn will help me get even better control of my asthma. If you or a member of your family have asthma, this book is absolutely essential.  " A Review Find out more at http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0914625225/2media Seems like you’ve been posting in newsgroups other than ASA. Newsgroups: alt.recovery.mlm

He sure has: Problem Organization: http://groups.google.com/ Newsgroups: alt.support.sinusitis — Steven D. Litvintchouk                   Disclaimer:  As far as I am aware, the opinions expressed herein             are not those of my employer.

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Question:

Those of you that have asthma triggered by fragranced products may be interested in visiting my web site.  I have compiled a list of 1500+ chemicals that are used in the fragrance industry.  I am in the process of gathering health and safety information on the chemicals.  There are also links to Medline abstracts of medical studies done on the health effects of fragrances.   I invite you to visit my site: http://pw1.netcom.com/~bcb56/fpin.htm Betty Bridges, RN

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Hi Betty, Your site is really looking good! I just got done looking it over, there’s alot more there than the last time I looked. Keep up the good work. I’d like to go ahead and add a link on my site now if you don’t mind. Talk to you later, John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide for the Mining Company http://asthma.miningco.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Those of you that have asthma triggered by fragranced products may be interested in visiting my web site.  I have compiled a list of 1500+ chemicals that are used in the fragrance industry.  I am in the process of gathering health and safety information on the chemicals.  There are also links to Medline abstracts of medical studies done on the health effects of fragrances. I invite you to visit my site: http://pw1.netcom.com/~bcb56/fpin.htm Betty Bridges, RN

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Question:

Jon Bell    We do not use ultrasonic nebulizers any more.  The particle size they produce is irritating to the asthmaic.  Ultrasonic neb are only used for hydration if it all.    Asthmatics….do not use an ultrasonic nebulizer.  it is not the nebulizer that you know. bill

The new very expensive hand-held one has particles in the 3-5 micron range, which is the same as the rotary-pump other ones. -j *Jennifer E. Gerbi  Grad RA Materials Science* *1-113 ESB                                   * *University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign  * *Office Phone: 217-244-0332                  * *http://www.students.uiuc.edu/~gerbi         *

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you have questions about ultrasonic devices, call Clement Clarke (U.S. or U.K) – they have been producing the Sonix 2000 for a number of years, alongside their existing range of compressor type machines. U.S.  (1) 614 478 2777 Ask for Pam Carroll or Tom Lehman U.K. 01279 414969 Ask for Respiratory Department Regards, Jon Bell

   We do not use ultrasonic nebulizers any more.  The particle size they produce is irritating to the asthmaic.  Ultrasonic neb are only used for hydration if it all.    Asthmatics….do not use an ultrasonic nebulizer.  it is not the nebulizer that you know. bill

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Hi, I’ve been using a DeVilbiss AeroSonic (ultrasonic) neb for almost 5 years now so I feel I can add something here. Firstly, they are more expensive than the regular PulmoAid type compressors. My unit cost $535 Canadian. It is very portable, weights about 2 pounds, runs off of its own internal, rechargeable battery, a cigarette lighter in your car or boat, and the standard wall socket supplying DC current. Secondly, they are virtually silent. Really. The frequencies which allow them to nebulize the med into ultra fine particles is out of the range of human hearing. So they can be used almost anywhere without any noise. (I have used mine in the library at school). No noise. Thirdly, I do not recommend them as a first purchase for a young child. The child does not need so delciate a machine when they will drop it, kick it, and maybe stumble over it a few times. Get the child a regular PulmoAid to start off with. You will be thankful of this advice when they drop the Ultrasonic twice and it doesn’t work. All that for $535 when you could have had a PulmoAid for $80. Some studies conclude that the particle size emitted by ultrasonic nebs is smaller than the larger particles produced by the regular compressors. This has always been a selling point–getting more of the drug deeper into the lungs.(Unless they tag the drug particles with radioactive tracers, this may be an exaggerated claim). In closing, for young adults and older adults who require the portablity and quietness of an ultrasonic nebulizer, consider it. Please don’t confuse an ultrasonic with a regular battery operated machine. There are compressors out there (like the Dura Neb products) that also have AC/DC and battery back ups, but they are not ultrasonic. You can tell by turning them on and listening to them. You will hear the neb hissing away. Not with an ultrasonic nebulizer. Hope this helps, Lori

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Actually, ultrasonic nebulizer for small amounts of medication have been around for years. I used one for a long time called Pulmosonic by DeVilbiss Co.  A newer one is the Medisonic that runs on rechargable batteries. An ultrasonic nebulizer makes smaller particles than the compressor type, thus deposit medication at lower levels, at least in theory. They also can run on rechargable batteries so they are very portable. The problem with ultrasonic nebs is that is takes forever to nebulize the medication, and they are more expensive. John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide for the Mining Company http://asthma.miningco.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If you are talking about for the delivery af medications to the lungs via a small volume nebulizer, there is not, to my knowledge, an ultrasonic neb that exists. However, if you are referring to a room humidifier; yes, they are berret, quieter, faster. Not necesarily more portable, and definitely not cheaper, but it will add more humidity to the air faster. Does anyone know about ultrasonic nebulizers compared to regular nebs?  I hear that they are better, faster and more portable.   I’m looking into getting one for my one yr old son.

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Hi!  I am 18 years old and I have both a regular and an ultrasonic nebulizer.  The ultrasonic neb is quieter and more portable, but it does not create as fine a mist as the regular mist, making it slightly less effective.  I can actually feel the difference between the two when experiencing an especially bad attack.  Still, the ultrasonic neb is a good idea for day trips and as a backup.        -Kelly

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If you have questions about ultrasonic devices, call Clement Clarke (U.S. or U.K) – they have been producing the Sonix 2000 for a number of years, alongside their existing range of compressor type machines. U.S.  (1) 614 478 2777 Ask for Pam Carroll or Tom Lehman U.K. 01279 414969 Ask for Respiratory Department Regards, Jon Bell

Response:

Does anyone know about ultrasonic nebulizers compared to regular nebs?  I hear that they are better, faster and more portable.   I’m looking into getting one for my one yr old son.

Response:

If you are talking about for the delivery af medications to the lungs via a small volume nebulizer, there is not, to my knowledge, an ultrasonic neb that exists. However, if you are referring to a room humidifier; yes, they are berret, quieter, faster. Not necesarily more portable, and definitely not cheaper, but it will add more humidity to the air faster. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone know about ultrasonic nebulizers compared to regular nebs?  I hear that they are better, faster and more portable.   I’m looking into getting one for my one yr old son.

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Question:

For a list of the newest approved drugs from the FDA checkout CenterWatch’s Clinical Trials Listing Services at: http://www.centerwatch.com/drugs/DRUGLIST.HTM#Section18 John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide for the Mining Company http://asthma.miningco.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would like to know if there are any new asthma medications waiting for approval by the FDA?  I would also like to know about some INFORMATIVE web pages.  Thanks in advance!

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I would like to know if there are any new asthma medications waiting for approval by the FDA?  I would also like to know about some INFORMATIVE web pages.  Thanks in advance!

Response:

I would like to know if there are any new asthma medications waiting for approval by the FDA?  I would also like to know about some INFORMATIVE web pages.  Thanks in advance!

The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) has a wonderful new Asthma Information site.  Use your favorite search engine to find it.

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Question:

And so the debate continues. This article just came out (I pulled if off either MSNBC web page or Washington Post.Com Web page) What do you all think? Relief for Asthmatics Arrives With Release of "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" an Emergency Self-Help Technique 12:17 p.m. Oct 17, 1997 Eastern NEW YORK–(BW HealthWire)–Oct. 17, 1997– Business Editors and Medical/Health Writers "The CPR of Asthma" On Oct. 7, 1997 at Medtrade in New Orleans, a medical industry trade show for medical innovations, "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic," an instructional video guide created for sufferers of asthma, was introduced to the public. Created by Andrea Weissleder, a physical therapist trained at Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, School of Physical Therapy, with 30 years of experience working with asthmatic individuals. "Breath Magic" teaches a specific breathing technique to asthmatics and their caregivers which is to be used during an attack. "Breath Magic" is essentially the CPR of asthma. The premise of the technique lies within the utilization of maximum respiratory exchange while totally controlling the inevitable PANIC response. Suffers who implement the technique have been able to arrest the progression and often abort an attack. It is an emergency care technique, not a replacement for medication. It offers the asthmatic help in crisis. Sometimes, in spite of medication, in the absence of effective medication, away from medication or medical help, while engaged in activity, asthma can persist leading to more serious respiratory compromise. The technique can be utilized anywhere easily. "It is a simple, albeit precise, method breathing which addresses the very difficult moment crisis," says Weissleder. The "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" video also teaches asthmatics and their caregivers a strategy for controlling their asthma which includes awareness training for recognizing triggers, a simple breath vigilance method and the "Breath Magic" technique. The "Breath Magic" technique has been taught to asthmatic children, adults, community and professional groups in a variety of settings. KLW Associates, Inc. is distributing the video at a price within reach of most people, less than most prescription medications. "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" is packaged with an instruction booklet and a self-help emergency card to be carried with the individual. The retail price is $24.95 plus $4.75 for shipping. For additional information and/or bio, please call Ken Weissleder at 941/346-2664. (See also: http://www.businesswire.com) Copyright 1997, Business Wire

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And so the debate continues. This article just came out (I pulled if off either MSNBC web page or Washington Post.Com Web page) What do you all think?

…snipped It may be that these exercises are similar to some used by Buteyko to stop attacks, however the main thrust of Buteyko is to change the automatic breathing response so that we breath less continually. Then the attacks will never come. It doesn’t sound like the technique mentioned covers this at all. So I’d say its more than likely not based on Buteyko. Dave.

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Yea, I saw this on the RC-World group and said the same thing! John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide for the Mining Company http://asthma.miningco.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – And so the debate continues. This article just came out (I pulled if off either MSNBC web page or Washington Post.Com Web page) What do you all think? Relief for Asthmatics Arrives With Release of "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" an Emergency Self-Help Technique 12:17 p.m. Oct 17, 1997 Eastern NEW YORK–(BW HealthWire)–Oct. 17, 1997– Business Editors and Medical/Health Writers "The CPR of Asthma" On Oct. 7, 1997 at Medtrade in New Orleans, a medical industry trade show for medical innovations, "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic," an instructional video guide created for sufferers of asthma, was introduced to the public. Created by Andrea Weissleder, a physical therapist trained at Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, School of Physical Therapy, with 30 years of experience working with asthmatic individuals. "Breath Magic" teaches a specific breathing technique to asthmatics and their caregivers which is to be used during an attack. "Breath Magic" is essentially the CPR of asthma. The premise of the technique lies within the utilization of maximum respiratory exchange while totally controlling the inevitable PANIC response. Suffers who implement the technique have been able to arrest the progression and often abort an attack. It is an emergency care technique, not a replacement for medication. It offers the asthmatic help in crisis. Sometimes, in spite of medication, in the absence of effective medication, away from medication or medical help, while engaged in activity, asthma can persist leading to more serious respiratory compromise. The technique can be utilized anywhere easily. "It is a simple, albeit precise, method breathing which addresses the very difficult moment crisis," says Weissleder. The "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" video also teaches asthmatics and their caregivers a strategy for controlling their asthma which includes awareness training for recognizing triggers, a simple breath vigilance method and the "Breath Magic" technique. The "Breath Magic" technique has been taught to asthmatic children, adults, community and professional groups in a variety of settings. KLW Associates, Inc. is distributing the video at a price within reach of most people, less than most prescription medications. "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" is packaged with an instruction booklet and a self-help emergency card to be carried with the individual. The retail price is $24.95 plus $4.75 for shipping. For additional information and/or bio, please call Ken Weissleder at 941/346-2664. (See also: http://www.businesswire.com) Copyright 1997, Business Wire

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yea, I saw this on the RC-World group and said the same thing! John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide for the Mining Company http://asthma.miningco.com And so the debate continues. This article just came out (I pulled if off either MSNBC web page or Washington Post.Com Web page) What do you all think? Relief for Asthmatics Arrives With Release of "Asthma Attack: Breath Magic" an Emergency Self-Help Technique 12:17 p.m. Oct 17, 1997 Eastern

Hi, I’ve really no idea what one should say about any "alternative" treatments in the US to be correct and give people the right sort of warning to keep clear of frauds, but one object of Buteyko as I understand it is to normalize breathing.  Given that asthmatics often breath abnormally, I really can see anything wrong in  recommending exercises to correct breathing.

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PJ, I am researching the Buteyko breathing method, in an attempt to better my  asthma and allergies.  I wondered if you have any experience with asthma/  Buteyko.  I am a 29 year old, active man, who can complete a 12 mile hike, up  4000 vertical feet.  However, my asthma slows me down, and often prevents me  from skiing and other sports.   Do you have asthma?  Have you attempted this breathing tecnique?  Results?

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PJ, I am researching the Buteyko breathing method, in an attempt to better my  asthma and allergies.  I wondered if you have any experience with asthma/  Buteyko.  I am a 29 year old, active man, who can complete a 12 mile hike, up  4000 vertical feet.  However, my asthma slows me down, and often prevents me  from skiing and other sports.  

I have exercise-induced asthma, and tried a "reverse Butekyo" technique of breathing *more* when my EIA got worse.  It seemed to help…but pre-medicating with a reliever inhaler helped me even more.  I bring this up because you might want to try both methods, under carefully controlled conditions, before you decide. (It’s worked for me several times, so it wasn’t simply a situational effect.) Talk to your doctor; s/he might have other suggestions.   Note:  the above is not medical research or advice, but rather the call to get more medical research and advice. Scott Takacs, Ph.D. (marketing, not medicine)

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says… PJ, I am researching the Buteyko breathing method, in an attempt to better my asthma and allergies.  I wondered if you have any experience with asthma/ Buteyko.  I am a 29 year old, active man, who can complete a 12 mile hike, up 4000 vertical feet.  However, my asthma slows me down, and often prevents me from skiing and other sports.   Do you have asthma?  Have you attempted this breathing tecnique?  Results?

Check my earlier posts to this news group (using dejavu) … my teen-age daughter, active in soccer, basketball, dance, track etc used a DIY kit on Buteyko to go from an average 1-3 attacks a month + regular "wheezing" some exercize-induced problems to zero attacks and zero symptoms maintained for more than 6 months now, and under a doctor’s supervision she’s off all medications (was daily Serevent, daily Pulmicorte, as-needed Bricanyl), is more active than ever and maintaining personal best peak flows. Daughter and I read C. Owens comment "Scientifically, Buteyko CAN’T work" and chuckled. It’s made a huge impact in my daughter’s life. Steve Jackson

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Question:

Ursula, As a Respiratory Therapist, I’ve used Croup Tents for years to treat kids with croup and they do work. Something you can try at home which has worked on my kids, is when croup gets started, turn on your shower full blast and hot. Get your bathroom very steamy and stand in the bathroom with your child. This is similar to what the croup tent does. The high humidity soothes the larynx, reducing swelling. As far as treating asthma, I have to agree with your pulmonologist. The humidity might help, might not. John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide http://asthma.miningco.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do you believe in croup tents?  My pediatrician mentioned putting my 2 yr old in one to help the asthma and occasional sinusitis but her pulmonologist doesn’t believe in them. Ursula Holleman

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Do you believe in croup tents?  My pediatrician mentioned putting my 2 yr old in one to help the asthma and occasional sinusitis but her pulmonologist doesn’t believe in them.

Most docs these days do no believe in croup tents unless you are treating croup.  For asthma it doens’t seem to help but make it worse.  Most asthmatics have trouble with the humidity.  It would help with sinus problems though.  I have used it to treat my sinus problesm on occasion. The only time we have used a croup tent was went my daughter was 18 months old and hospitalized with pneumonia.  That was humidified oxygen. "listen here ye little children and remember the truth how ever so pain, will set you free." Seek to find the joy in the truth…..

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Ursula, As a Respiratory Therapist, I’ve used Croup Tents for years to treat kids with croup and they do work. Something you can try at home which has worked on my kids, is when croup gets started, turn on your shower full blast and hot. Get your bathroom very steamy and stand in the bathroom with your child. This is similar to what the croup tent does. The high humidity sooths the layrnx, reducing swelling. As far as treating asthma, I have to agree with your pulmonologist. The humidity might help, might not. John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide http://asthma.miningco.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Do you believe in croup tents?  My pediatrician mentioned putting my 2 yr old in one to help the asthma and occasional sinusitis but her pulmonologist doesn’t believe in them. Ursula Holleman

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Question:

Does anyone know what is the vitamin to take to help asthma? janeo

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I’ve heard that taking ginger pills helps out.  I just start taking them and am going to wait and see what happens. If you want to reply remove spam from my e-mail address. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Does anyone know what is the vitamin to take to help asthma? janeo

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Does anyone know what is the vitamin to take to help asthma? janeo

Eating a well-balanced diet, and staying in otherwise general good health is always a good idea.  However, there is no specific vitamin that will improve an asthmatic’s condition.  You might want to talk to your doctor about the drugs you are taking, however; as some medications block uptake  of / coprocess certain vitamins . . . and you might need to increase your intake of those vitamins. Chris Owens

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 I saw a study last year, quoted in an ohio pharmacists magazine, that reported taking vitamin c (sorry, no info about dosage) cut down on asthmatics symptoms. Anne

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Does anyone know what is the vitamin to take to help asthma?

Well, it’s a mineral, and not a vitamin, but I recommend taking magnesium. Don’t take calcium, as this will throw the ratio off and negate magnesium’s benefits. Here’s a piece on this: From The Wise Encyclopedia of Cookery, 1971: "Healthy lungs show twice as much magnesium as lime [i.e. calcium carbonate]. Magnesium is a cell-builder, particularly of the nervous system and lung tissues. Magnesium salts assist in reducing foreign matter and waste, and in carrying them out of the system, thus invigorating the excretory organs and producing pressure, without which metabolism would be impossible." Don.

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There was an article on the shielding effects of Vitamin C on exercise induced asthma, but the results were not exactly monumental. If helped only slightly and not for everyone. John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide http://asthma.miningco.com Asthma – The Mining Company – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I saw a study last year, quoted in an ohio pharmacists magazine, that reported taking vitamin c (sorry, no info about dosage) cut down on asthmatics symptoms. Anne

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Don’t take calcium, as this will throw the ratio off and negate magnesium’s benefits.

Do you really mean that? It would be short-sighted to solve the immediate problem of asthma, but set yourself up for problems later in life with osteoporosis. When this subject was last aired on this newsgroup, someone recommended taking large doses of calcium and magnesium together (I think in a 2:1 ratio) to ensure that the overall ratio is _not_ thrown off. I wish I’d kept that post, though.

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Does anyone know what is the vitamin to take to help asthma?

See: http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/library/readroom/60279.htm ‘Reply to’ address changed to foil email spammers.

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I don’t know what article you are talking about..but here is my experience…  wrote this to someone else…but may it help you too. I found your Byutko article very interesting…thank you for sharing it.  I  KNOW that the doctors are going about all wrong in their approach to asthma.  I am now 100% free of asthma for the last 7 months.  After my doctor examined  me at my 6 month checkup he said I don’t have to come back as I am now asthma  free.  I then told him what I had been doing.  That I am Sleep Apnea and  asthma free due to my taking Performax an antioxidant and he just said it was  a coincidence..and also attributed it to my 40 pound weight loss.  But I  explained to him that I had used the ThermoLift to lose my weight and use the  Performax to keep my asthma away and he simply wrote the names of the products  down…did not ask me what they were…..nothing…just dismissed it as  coincidence…even after I told him if I go off these products I go right back  to 100% Sleep apnea and asthma.  So their approach of taking advantage of our  vulnerability due to our health is a very SICK way of approaching our health  and life threatning problems. You would think he would have noticed that for  the last 7 months I have not been calling him every 2 weeks to get a stronger  prescription cause the old one wasn’t working etc…  Actually this  antioxidant I use is the # 1 product used in Europe for asthma and allergy  problems and has been used for the past 4 decades..so it is not a new  product…merely one now being introduced in USA as follows: I almost feel like the pink battery bunny…I just keep going and going and  going..now on 7 months being free of asthma.   My name is Steven Blake and I too have suffered from asthma since childbirth.    I have suffered many a day of high fevers, pneumonia, not being able to breath  …complicate it with Sleep Apnea and marry that to a truck driver and it is a  living hell.  To make a long story short after spending $6000. dollars on  sleep studies and another $1,200.  on a Cpap machine for my Sleep Apnea I  still drove right through a 4 way stop.  I was really sick that day with my  asthma having turned to pneumonia and I still had to keep driving that way.  Fortunately I was able to drive home that night and my wife literally laid  hands on my chest and prayed to the Lord to restore me to health…and she  told the Lord she was believing with the same faith that the woman in Luke 8:  43-48 believed…when she said "if only I could touch the hem of his garment I  know that I would be healed."  So it is the Lord said "Daughter be of good  comfort: thy faith has made thee whole; go in peace."   So it is that my wife  prayed that the Lord would restore me to health whether it be through surgery,  new medication, new equipment, whatever he deemed to restore my health.   A week later my wife bought some ThermoLift so she could lose weight.  Since my  doctor had told me I needed to drop about 40 pounds she had me start on the  products too.  To our very pleasant surprise ThermoLift arrested my sleep  apnea and helped my asthma a little bit.  Since that worked so well we decided  to try the much talked about Peformax.  Performax is a bioflavanoid that is 50  times stronger than vitamin E and it has literally eliminated my asthma.  Dr.  Overdahl has just released me from returning every 6 months to his office for  a complete asthma checkup.  He said unless I feel bad I don’t need to return.  I had been seeing him every 6 months for the past 3 years that I moved here to  Indiana. Actually I saw or talked to him every 2 weeks prior to my taking  Peformax as I would get a sore throat, a cold in my chest which would turn to  pnemonia…and the vicious cycle would start…again …and I was spending  betwee $200 to $300 a month on medications, doctor bills, not to mention time  off of work and what this was doing to my body.  I was really worn down. But thank God all of that is now behind me as I have been asthma free for the  last 7 months.  I actually became a distributor for the products so I could  purchase it at $18.67 per bottle of 60 capsules. I know there are many different products being touted as being miracle fixes  but I can tell you that I personally have tried many products and NOTHING  worked until I tried Performax.  Both my wife and I have very good incomes  from our full time jobs and had no interest in starting a home based business.   It just evolved from the great results I have had and others with asthma and  sleep apnea and arthritis have tried it and are amazed at their results and  keep ordering it…cause it works so great for them. The money we make each month is wonderful…but the best part is truly helping  others conquer this beast named "asthma."   and sleep apnea and arthritis,  diabetes and a multitude of other diseases.  We are truly pain free with these  products and love to see the almost instantaneous results others experience on  these products.   If you would like more information please consider looking at my page at : http://member.aol.com/changestfg/steven.html Or  you may call toll free to 1-888-540-1016 leave your name, address, zipcode  and phone number and we will return your call or send the materials.  If you  would like a free video, tape, and brochures with testimonies from others…I  will gladly send them to you free of charge and without any obligation on your  part.  I can even send you a sample of these products if you would like.  Performax does NOT have side effects or interefere with any other medications  as it is considered a food product just as Vitamin E is. We have named our business Positive Health Choices.  The reason for that name  is because we truly believe that we are responsible for making positive health  choices which impact our health.  For years I have paid doctors to prescribe  all these steroids for my asthma…and I never felt good or was free of all  that congestion etc…it simply got me by.  I am now 100% free of all  congestion, mucos in my lungs, …no wheezing, no gasping, no coughing,  choking and I am no longer worried about what all these prescription steroids  are doing to my body.  We are all familiar with the saying "there are no free  lunches" and I am not willing to pay the high price for  getting along with  steroids…only to pay in the end for that "free lunch" with my health.   My hope is that you too will make "positive health choices" for yourself.  After spending $7,200 on my sleep studies and taking a look at all I have  spent on my asthma medications and doctor visits and still falling asleep at  the wheel and running a 4 way stop sign with a fully loaded truck…I knew it  was time for me to start taking responsibility for my own health.  It was at  this point Elvia and I made the choice to try an alternative method.  For us  it is using Performax, ThermoLift and the Colloidal Minerals by Changes  International.  We remain forever grateful to our Lord for not only restoring  our health, but our finances and even better…that we are helping others to  restore their health too. If they are not interested in the business aspect of  this program that is fine.  We do NOT push the business on them but we do tell  them that they too have the same option of health available to them that we  are experiencing through the use of Changes International products.  All  products are 100% money back guaranteed.  I have yet to have anyone return any  product because it did not work for them.  By the way this product can be used  with children as well as adults.  In fact my 5 year old grandson is ADD and I  will be using one of the products for that purpose.  I do not want to see him  on RITALIN cause it will turn him into a zombie and again it will be another  one of those NOT so FREE lunches… Take care and let me know if I may be of help to you.  You may call the toll  free number anytime.  1-888-540-1016   Steven & Elvia Blake Luke 8:48 "…..be of good comfort; they faith has made thee whole; go in peace."

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Question:

I think it is real hard to control your mood at that level.  Depending upon how you are doing your dosage, you may find that there are times in the day when you are "peaking" in terms of your mood swing (e.g., 4-6 hrs after taking the pills).  You may want to find a place where you can be alone and not dealing with work responsibilities then.   Let everyone around you know what is going on, and how it can affect you. It’s hard maintaining your own balance, but if someone you trust looks at you and says, "go slow"  or "you are feeling sad [giddy, depressed] because of the drugs, not because of what is going on, it helps.  Make no major life decisions. That’s my advice.

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Currently taking 60MG oral prednisone per day.  Request recommendatons on how to handle the mood swings which I am experiencing.   My wife’s real challenge trying not to be lose my cool.  When driving I find my self running stop signs.           But I am breathing better since on the Prednisone.   Thank you Mike Griffin

Response:

The last time I was on long term prednisone was a few years back. I can remember my girlfriend at the time commenting about me being back on my "Bastard Pills". She’s not the girl I ended up marrying, enough said about that. I use to try to get away from everyone for at least an hour a day, just so I could get a feeling of self control back. I do some art work and I used the hour to work on some of my projects back then. It helped a lot just having the time to myself, knowing that this wasn’t the "Real" me, and that it would improve with decreasing dosage. Hope this is of help, John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide http://asthma.miningco.com Asthma – The Mining Company – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Currently taking 60MG oral prednisone per day.  Request recommendatons on how to handle the mood swings which I am experiencing.   My wife’s real challenge trying not to be lose my cool.  When driving I find my self running stop signs.         But I am breathing better since on the Prednisone. Thank you Mike Griffin

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Question:

Simple. Search the pages of the JAMA Asthma Web site : http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/search/search.htm Type in ‘exercise AND asthma’. You’ll get around 20 hits. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My 15 year old daughter has been diagnosed with Exercise Induced Asthma. I cannot find any information on this affliction, nor on cause or treatment.  I would appreciate an e-mail with any information or resources concerning this matter. or

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My 15 year old daughter has been diagnosed with Exercise Induced Asthma. I cannot find any information on this affliction, nor on cause or treatment.  I would appreciate an e-mail with any information or resources concerning this matter. or

There is a web link on EIB (exercise induced bronchospasm) at http://www.aaaai.org/patpub/resource/publicat/tips/tip01.html "EXERCISE-INDUCED ASTHMA & BRONCHOSPASM Most asthmatics have symptoms of wheezing during or following exercise. In addition, many non-asthmatic patients with allergies or a family history of allergy experience bronchospasm or constricted airways caused by exercise. Other symptoms include an accelerated heart rate, coughing and chest tightness occurring five to ten minutes after Treatment 1.Carefully select exercise activities such as walking, light jogging, leisure biking, and hiking, rather than strenuous outdoor running sports. Swimming is often recommended for asthmatics because of its 2.Drugs administered prior to exercise, such as albuterol, metaproterenol, terbutaline, cromolyn sodium, nedocromil, and theophylline are all helpful treatment options in controlling and preventing 3.Athletes should restrict exercising when they have viral infections, when pollen and air pollution levels are high, or when temperatures are extremely low. 4.It is important to do warm-up exercises and stretches before exercising. These make for a safer workout, since they slowly increase breathing levels and alleviate chest tightness." A good book on the subject is ‘Asthma & Exercise’ by Nancy Hogshead, an Olympic swimming champion with asthma. Ellis

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My 15 year old daughter has been diagnosed with Exercise Induced Asthma. I cannot find any information on this affliction, nor on cause or treatment.  I would appreciate an e-mail with any information or resources concerning this matter. or

Response:

I put some links to some EIA related sites on the front page of my web site at http://asthma.miningco.com and wrote an article on the subject last week. I’m still looking for more EIA/EIB related site to add to my list. John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide http://asthma.miningco.com Asthma – The Mining Company – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My 15 year old daughter has been diagnosed with Exercise Induced Asthma. I cannot find any information on this affliction, nor on cause or treatment.  I would appreciate an e-mail with any information or resources concerning this matter. or

Response:

Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If my understanding about peak flows is correct a PF reading only measures the large bronchio airways.  Your problem (like mine) may be that the problem occurs first in the smaller airways that the PF meter does not measure.  When I had pulminory functions testing done my 0-25% FEV was 120% of predicted (pre-bronchiodialator) but my 25-75% was ~70% predicted. I’ve always found spirometry confusing.  Different Doctors put weight on different measures. Can anyone out there explain (or point to a comprehensive Internet document) which of the following measures upper/large airways, vs lower/small airways (or just what they are): FVC FEV0.5     FEV0.5/FVC FEV1.0     FEV1.0/FVC FEV3.0     FEV3.0/FVC FEF.2-1.2 FEF25-75% FEF75-85% FEF25% FEF50% FEF75% ===== FEF25-75% = 71%

You can look at it this way: when you blow a flowvolume-loop (FV-loop) the total volume you can blow is the FVC (Forced Vital Capacity). The FEV1.0 is the volume you can blow out in 1 second, etc. (so the FEV3.0 is the volume you can blow in 3 sec.). A FV-loop has a specific form which is characteristic for the particular pulmonary desease. The Peak-flow is only the first 0.01 sec. of a FV-loop. You can devide the FV-loop in parts, that is 25% off the total exhaled volume this is indacated as the flow which you can blow with 75% lungvolume, etc. If you draw a line between say for example the 25% and 75% you get the FEF25-75% (that is the mean Forced Expiratory Flow between 25% and 75% off the flow which you can blow with that particular volume remaining in the lungs), etc. The FEF75% is the Forced Expiratory Flow at wich 25%  of the lung is filled. So how greater the %  off x in FEFx% how deeper in the lung it is. That means that the PEF only says something about the upper/large airways, and the FEF75% of the lower/small airways. The FV-loop does not say anything about the smallest airways, the so called silent-region which is about 1/4 off the volume off the lungs in healthy people. greetings, J. Gallardo.

Response:

If my understanding about peak flows is correct a PF reading only measures the large bronchio airways.  Your problem (like mine) may be that the problem occurs first in the smaller airways that the PF meter does not measure.  When I had pulminory functions testing done my 0-25% FEV was 120% of predicted (pre-bronchiodialator) but my 25-75% was ~70% predicted. I’ve always found spirometry confusing.  Different Doctors put weight on different measures.

Basically, The VC, FEV1 measure large airway function and 1.6 Standard deviations from normal are about 80% of Predicted.  The FEF25-75 is a measure of small airways function, the 1.6 SD is about 60% of predicted.  Therefore, FEF25-75 of 65% of normal is normal! After a bronchodilator one needs a 15% improvement of VC or FEV1 to be impressed that there was a ’significant’ improvement.  One need 25% increase of FEF25-75. The ratio of FEV!/FVC is usefull to separate obstructive (ratio < 70% asthma,copd,bronchiectasis) from restrictive disorders (ratio 80%, silicosis, pulmonary fibrosis, chest wall problems, etc) The other values have little significance in the general case but may have value in unusual situations.  I wouldn’t waste alot of time looking into them more. hope that helps, HSM – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone out there explain (or point to a comprehensive Internet document) which of the following measures upper/large airways, vs lower/small airways (or just what they are): FVC FEV0.5     FEV0.5/FVC FEV1.0     FEV1.0/FVC FEV3.0     FEV3.0/FVC FEF.2-1.2 FEF25-75% FEF75-85% FEF25% FEF50% FEF75% ===== There is a lot of info on Spirometry at the following 2 sites: http://www.aarc.org/cpgs/spirupdatecpg.html AARC Clinical Practice Guideline    Spirometry, 1996 Update S 1.0 PROCEDURE: Spirometry (S): The first American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) Spirometry Clinical Practice Guideline,(1) published in 1991, was based largely on the American Thoracic Society (ATS) 1987 recommendations.(2) Since that time, the ATS has published new recommendations.(3) This updated AARC Clinical Practice Guideline not only reflects these new ATS recommendations but also contains additional recommendations on the use of bronchodilators in conjunction with spirometry. http://hna.ffh.vic.gov.au/asthma/spiro/ Commissioned by The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand                                 SPIROMETRY THE MEASUREMENT AND INTERPRETATION OF VENTILATORY FUNCTION                             IN CLINICAL PRACTICE This handbook was commissioned by The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. It carries the endorsement of:      The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand      The Australian and New Zealand Society of Respiratory Science      The National Asthma Campaign      The Australian Lung Foundation

Response:

Michael, I’ll do some research on the different results for pulmonary function tests and their meanings, it will take me about a week to 10 days to get the information and time to write this up. I work at a Cystic Fibrosis Clinic and do these tests all the time and there are a few of the result that I’m not even sure of their value. I would like to talk with the physician there to see how he weighs each of these result. I’ve been trying to think of some ideas for articles for my web page and this is a good one. Thanks Michael. I will probably post this on my web site Sept. 7. If I finish a little early I’ll be able to post some of it here. Thanks again, Michael John Rhoades, RRT Asthma Guide http://asthma.miningco.com Asthma – The Mining Company – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If my understanding about peak flows is correct a PF reading only measures the large bronchio airways.  Your problem (like mine) may be that the problem occurs first in the smaller airways that the PF meter does not measure.  When I had pulminory functions testing done my 0-25% FEV was 120% of predicted (pre-bronchiodialator) but my 25-75% was ~70% predicted. I’ve always found spirometry confusing.  Different Doctors put weight on different measures. Can anyone out there explain (or point to a comprehensive Internet document) which of the following measures upper/large airways, vs lower/small airways (or just what they are): FVC FEV0.5     FEV0.5/FVC FEV1.0     FEV1.0/FVC FEV3.0     FEV3.0/FVC FEF.2-1.2 FEF25-75% FEF75-85% FEF25% FEF50% FEF75% ===== FEF25-75% = 71%

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – If my understanding about peak flows is correct a PF reading only measures the large bronchio airways.  Your problem (like mine) may be that the problem occurs first in the smaller airways that the PF meter does not measure.  When I had pulminory functions testing done my 0-25% FEV was 120% of predicted (pre-bronchiodialator) but my 25-75% was ~70% predicted. I’ve always found spirometry confusing.  Different Doctors put weight on different measures. Can anyone out there explain (or point to a comprehensive Internet document) which of the following measures upper/large airways, vs lower/small airways (or just what they are): FVC FEV0.5     FEV0.5/FVC FEV1.0     FEV1.0/FVC FEV3.0     FEV3.0/FVC FEF.2-1.2 FEF25-75% FEF75-85% FEF25% FEF50% FEF75% =====

There is a lot of info on Spirometry at the following 2 sites: http://www.aarc.org/cpgs/spirupdatecpg.html AARC Clinical Practice Guideline    Spirometry, 1996 Update S 1.0 PROCEDURE: Spirometry (S): The first American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC)  Spirometry Clinical Practice Guideline,(1) published in 1991, was based  largely on the American Thoracic Society (ATS) 1987 recommendations.(2)  Since that time, the ATS has published new recommendations.(3) This  updated AARC Clinical Practice Guideline not only reflects these new ATS recommendations but also contains additional recommendations on the use of bronchodilators in conjunction with spirometry. http://hna.ffh.vic.gov.au/asthma/spiro/ Commissioned by The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand                                  SPIROMETRY  THE MEASUREMENT AND INTERPRETATION OF VENTILATORY FUNCTION                              IN CLINICAL PRACTICE This handbook was commissioned by The Thoracic Society of Australia  and New Zealand. It carries the endorsement of:       The Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand       The Australian and New Zealand Society of Respiratory Science       The National Asthma Campaign       The Australian Lung Foundation

Response:

hi, i have been on azmacort for 3 years with much success.  my md explained to me when i first was given the medication, that this is a long term healing medication.  it took about 2 weeks until i began to notice the wheezing becoming less and less, particularly at night.  there is no noticeable taste or sensation from the spray, so you are not unusual thinking that it may not be functioning.  i use 3 puffs three times a day and i always start a new inhaler on the first of the month and discard it on the last day of the month.  there is usually a few emergency puffs left, but i found that this is a good way to track usage.  hang in there, it is really a good med and i am sure you will begin to feel the difference shortly.. sheila —

Response:

Hi all, I am a newbie to this group and have a question (or two).  I was given Azmacort today to help control my RAD which seems as I get nearer to menopause has gotten worse.  My first question is this; how do you tell if this is working or not?  What I mean is that I am used to using Proventil which I can taste and feel when I use it.  This, well if it is working has not taste or feel whatsoever.  I am not sure if it is coming out or not.  Also, how long after starting on it does one usually start to see an improvement?

You should do a test spray before starting to use a new canister to prove it is working. Azmacort is a steroid inhaler, it should start taking effect in a few hours but may take a couple of weeks to reach full effectiveness. You can tell it is working by improvement in peak flow numbers and reduction of symptoms.   My second question is this; today at the doctor I was wheezing up a storm and slightly out of breath but my PF was 500 which is excellent for me.  Can a person be suffering an asthma attack and have a normal PF reading?

You can get an erroneously high peak flow reading by spitting into it like a blow gun; this can also happens if the peak flow meter sticks for some reason, like maybe it needs cleaning. It may be time to try another Peak Flow Meter, or use a Spirometer, which is more accurate.   And third (ok I lied it is 3 questions), sometimes I get short of breath and I am not wheezing at all.  I just feel like I can’t get a deep breath.  Again, my PF readings are ok. Could this still be asthma?  I am also keeping in mind that I am under a lot of stress and am a very nervous person to begin with and that my SOB could be "all in my head" so to speak. Allegra

Hyperventilation syndrome or panic disorder can cause a feeling of being short of breath. The peak flow meter is used to help distinguish between asthma and panic disorder. Note that bronchodilators can make the panic disorder worse. For more info see http://www.ama-assn.org/special/asthma/library/readroom/oc4154.htm "Arch Fam Med  Vol. 6, pp. 20-23, January 1997 Asthma and Panic Disorder Karen B. Schmaling, PhD; Jon Bell, MD Objective: To compare asthma attacks with panic attacks and identify discriminating symptoms." Ellis

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi all, I am a newbie to this group and have a question (or two).  I was given Azmacort today to help control my RAD which seems as I get nearer to menopause has gotten worse.  My first question is this; how do you tell if this is working or not?  What I mean is that I am used to using Proventil which I can taste and feel when I use it.  This, well if it is working has not taste or feel whatsoever.  I am not sure if it is coming out or not.  Also, how long after starting on it does one usually start to see an improvement?  My second question is this; today at the doctor I was wheezing up a storm and slightly out of breath but my PF was 500 which is excellent for me.  Can a person be suffering an asthma attack and have a normal PF reading?  And third (ok I lied it is 3 questions), sometimes I get short of breath and I am not wheezing at all.  I just feel like I can’t get a deep breath.  Again, my PF readings are ok. Could this still be asthma?  I am also keeping in mind that I am under a lot of stress and am a very nervous person to begin with and that my SOB could be "all in my head" so to speak. Thanks to all, Allegra

As to question 1 you should have less need for Proventil within 2 weeks if Azmacort is working. As for questions 2 and 3 I’m still trying to figure out that myself!

Response:

Hi all, I am a newbie to this group and have a question (or two).  I was given Azmacort today to help control my RAD which seems as I get nearer to menopause has gotten worse.  My first question is this; how do you tell if this is working or not?  What I mean is that I am used to using Proventil which I can taste and feel when I use it.  This, well if it is working has not taste or feel whatsoever.  I am not sure if it is coming out or not.  Also, how long after starting on it does one usually start to see an improvement?  My second question is this; today at the doctor I was wheezing up a storm and slightly out of breath but my PF was 500 which is excellent for me.  Can a person be suffering an asthma attack and have a normal PF reading?  And third (ok I lied it is 3 questions), sometimes I get short of breath and I am not wheezing at all.  I just feel like I can’t get a deep breath.  Again, my PF readings are ok. Could this still be asthma?  I am also keeping in mind that I am under a lot of stress and am a very nervous person to begin with and that my SOB could be "all in my head" so to speak. Thanks to all, Allegra

Response: