Let’s face it, asthma is not only a very complicated and dangerous condition, but it is also very expensive. From the start, you will be required to have regular check-ups and maintenance medications that you will need to purchase and take regularly while your condition is not yet under control. But even with the upgrade, you’ll still need to buy all these things in case of emergencies.
While giving up or ignoring your conventional asthma medication may not be a good idea, you’ll need to find other methods that can help ease the pain inside your body and in your pocket, too. Here are some effective methods to consider when looking for inexpensive ways to relieve your asthma:
Steam inhalation: Many asthmatics have long known that steam treatments are a good alternative to conventional medication during an attack. Inhalation of vapor can break up mucus that blocks the airways and makes breathing difficult. One way to do this would be to turn on the shower and set it to the highest possible temperature. Wait for the steam to fill the entire bathroom and start inhaling your attack.
Respiratory Treatment Contrary to popular belief that respiratory treatments are only good for prevention, respiratory treatments can also be used to control asthma during attacks. Various breathing methods teach asthmatics how to manage their condition by gaining more control over their breathing and retraining incorrect breathing methods. Breathing treatments like Buteyko, Pranayama, and Papworth introduce different techniques that are easy to master and can bring quick results for those who are interested in learning. Not to mention, you can only pay for the lessons once and can continuously reap the benefits without the need to spend on anything else.
Coffee: One of the cheapest alternatives you can have during attacks. Coffee has proven effective for many asthmatics during attacks. The main reason why coffee works is the caffeine. Caffeine is known to be effective in relaxing constricted bronchial muscles and thinning airway-clogging mucus, making it not only a good wake-up drink, but also an inexpensive alternative for asthma.
Aromatherapy: Some essential oils can help you during attacks. Diluting eucalyptus oil in hot water, for example, can provide quick relief due to its anti-inflammatory property, making it an inexpensive alternative during asthma attacks.
Licorice: Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which is responsible for most of the medicinal properties of the plants, including its ability to reduce inflammation, sore throats, and other allergy and asthma symptoms. In addition to glycyrrhizin, licorice also contains flavonoids that help deal with other diseases and can help strengthen the body’s natural immunity.
When it comes to alternative remedies, they can indeed be effective and can help you during attacks, but you’ll still need to take extra precautions. Keep an inhalation handy just in case.
