Product Description
Asthma is a familiar and growing disease today, but its story goes back to the ancient world, as we know from accounts in ancient texts from China, India, Greece and Rome. It was treated with acupuncture and Ayurveda.

As Western medicine developed, the nature of asthma became clearer, and its basis in the lungs recognized. But cultural perceptions of the disease shifted too. By the 18th century, with recognition that the disease was centred on the lungs, the idea of environmental triggers such as dust and smoke first became recognized. And with that, asthma also became identified as a disease of artisans. Things changed again in the 19th century, as medical understanding grew with the advent of the stethoscope and new techniques such as percussion of the chest. New treatments included the promotion of mountain spas, for asthma now rose in social status, and became associated with the upper classes and the literati. For Marcel Proust and Charles Dickens, asthma shaped their lives and their creativity.

From early in the 20th century, the idea of asthma as an allergic disease became established, and the search for environmental causes was on. Hay fever was closely linked, and pharmaceutical companies began to make antihistamines, anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators. Asthma sufferers were warned to beware of pets, simplify their furnishings, and take holidays by the sea far from pollens. But a newly emerging concept was that attacks could be triggered by stress and psychological factors. With musicians such as Schoenberg and Berg as celebrity sufferers, the idea of asthma as an élite disease persisted.

In recent years, attitudes have changed again, as incidences of asthma grew dramatically across the world, especially among the young. The disease has now become closely linked to modern lifestyles and the many products of civilization. The battle against house-dust mites began, and whole new lines of anti-allergenic products and foods were launched - asthma has proved highly lucrative over the years. But the disease has remained fashionable, even becoming the theme of several pop songs.

Asthma: the biography is part of the Oxford series, Biographies of Diseases, edited by William and Helen Bynum. In each individual volume an expert historian of medicine tells the story of a particular disease or condition throughout history - not only in terms of growing medical understanding of its nature and cure, but also shifting social and cultural attitudes, and changes in the meaning of the name of the disease itself. ... Read more

Product Description
All about Asthma: Stop Suffering and Start Living is an astute examination of a disease that persists despite the best efforts of medical science. Dr. Polk, an expert with over 40 years of experience treating asthma and allergic diseases, discusses important new techniques and equipment for identifying asthma and cost-effective medicines for prevention and treatment. He notes that drug companies are also evaluating new chemicals and devices for prevention and treatment of episodes of asthma. According to the author, specialists are broadening their horizons by paying closer attention to inflammation of the lungs as a prime target for asthma management. All about Asthma will be an invaluable resource that will help patients and their families understand and control this disease.Amazon.com Review
Of all the body's unconscious functions--those that occurwhether we think about them or not--breathing is the one we're mostaware of, the one we feel we have the most control over. That's whyasthma, which makes breathing increasingly difficult by trapping airin the lungs, is one of the most terrifying diseases. And it'sincreasingly deadly, claiming more than 5,000 lives a year. Irwin Polkbelieves that the rise in deaths comes, in part, from an overuse ofdrugs to manage the disease and an underuse of breathing exercises tohelp release trapped air. All About Asthma lives up to itstitle: it explains how air gets trapped in lungs, why it happens(allergies, environmental pollutants, exercise, stress), and all thestrategies known to alleviate it, including breathing exercises. ... Read more

Product Description
This easy-to-read guide provides specific information that teens can use to better monitor and manage their illness and improve their quality of life while living with asthma. What happens in the body during an attack, what specific triggers might make asthma worse, medications that can help, and symptoms that signal asthma is getting worse are all covered. Teens will not only find factual information to take a proactive role in the management of their illness, but they will also enjoy reading interviews with other teens who have asthma and finding out how they feel about taking medication, what it feels like to have an asthma attack, and how they deal with inquiries from their friends. ... Read more

Product Description
This easy-to-read guide will help people with asthma stay out of the emergency room, out of the hospital and as active as everyone else. It is an ideal guide for parents, patients and anyone who needs a quick asthma reference book. Accurate, clear, and illustrated with line drawings and charts, One Minute Asthma covers the basics of asthma and the medicines used to treat it. Readers will learn how to recognize symptoms, monitor the progress of an episode and communicate clearly with health professionals. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Dr. Plaut, "You're the Best"!!
I just pulled out my current "One Minute Asthma" (eighth edition) to help a coworker get a handle on a health problem. Over the past ten years plus, Dr. Plaut's "little book" is the one I use first to encourage people to take control of their asthma, and asthma-related problems.I showed the person four simple pages on "Your Immune System" through "Sinus Trouble" and we had a great discussion about a few of the tips that may dramatically improve her life. Dr. Plaut's four clear and concise pages gave so much information!!

I have used Dr. Plaut's books for many years now ...Discovering his asthma management method was the beginning of getting my life back!!Anyone looking to understand asthma and to improve their own success managing it should definitely read this book, discuss it with their own doctor, craft a management plan together, and get back out there to enjoy life!
Dr. Plaut ..You're the best!! Nancy Courtney

Great resource for asthma basics
We use this booklet in some of our community and school-based asthma management programs.It's a great resource and is easy to read for families and older children.As a certified asthma educator this is a book I can recommend.

Dr. Plaut is a pioneer in the treatment of asthma & patient edcation
This is the best single book on asthma treatment for patients, their families and professionals.The 8th edition is up to date and consistent with NHLBI guidelines for the management of asthma.
Dr. Plaut has created a template for patients to work effectively with their health care providers.He provides a positive and empowering approach that is responsible and effective. Indeed, this book is "what you need to know."

Excellent, easy-to-understand primer for people with asthma
I have been recommending this book to patients for over 10 years.

People with asthma need to know about the disease so that they can learn how to manage it, and how to live normal lives. This book is the best one available for patients today. It is well-written, comprehensive, and contains a great deal of information presented in easy-to-understand, non-technical language.

Dr Plaut has released the 8th edition of his book. While the earlier editions are still useful (much of theirinformation has not gone out of date), this new edition reflects the current treatment guidelines and offers numerous tips to help patients get control of their asthma.

Highly recommended. If you have asthma, this is the one book you should have. If you are a health care professional, this is the one book you should be handing out to your asthma patients as required reading!

Amazing Resource
Our 2 year old child was struggling with Asthma. We learned more from this guide than from our doctor, emergency room, and specialist visits. We followed all the advice and our kid is 5 now and does not take any medications. Definitely get this resource. ... Read more

Product Description
Addressing every key component of occupational asthma-including disease mechanisms, clinical diagnosis, treatment, and categories of causative agents-this Third Edition supplies an expert survey of the most influential advances and research in the field.Supplying new and expanded chapters on genetics, environmental monitoring, pathophysiology, skin and pulmonary interactions, and the surveillance and prevention of occupational asthma, this guide will stand alone as the most up-to-date source on the topic. ... Read more

Product Description
Imagine having respected doctors right at your fingertips to answer some of your most important medical questions. With The Patient's Book of Natural Healing, you can. Inside, two renowned natural health physicians give you up-to-date, accurate information on natural treatments for today's most common medical conditions. For each condition, you'll get to sit in on a consultation between Dr. Jonathan Wright and a patient who has come seeking advice. The illuminating and often lively exchanges between doctor and patient bring to life questions and concerns you and your loved ones may have. By the conclusion of each office visit, you'll have a more complete understanding of the reasons behind the natural treatment Dr. Wright prescribes. Then, in separate commentary, Dr. Alan Gaby follows up with a detailed, balanced analysis of the scientific evidence behind the treatments discussed.

"Destined to become a classic resource for all who seek effective, non-toxic solutions to their health problems. The collective wisdom of Drs. Gaby and Wright illuminates every page. I recommend this book to everyone."—Christiane Northup, M.D., author of the bestselling Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom and editor of the monthly newsletter Health Wisdom for Women

"This collaboration by Drs. Jonathan Wright and Alan Gaby should be in the hands of every physician who wishes to practice good medicine and every patient who wishes to receive such."—Julian Whitaker, M.D., director of Whitaker Wellness Medical Institute, Inc., and author of Dr. Whitaker's Guide to Natural Healing

"It's like having a personal office visit with two of the most respected natural health physicians."—Robert Anderson, M.D., former president of the American Holistic Medical Association
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Natural healing for diseases
The Patient`s Book of Natural Healing covers a range of diseases that plague the western society today.Diseases that can be successfully treated with nutrition.Dr.Wright presents each case in a clinic setting,in aneasy,conversational style with the patient. Dr. Gaby follows up byproviding a commentary on the key nutrients that needto be supplementedand why and citesscientific research to back his comments.For thosethat have enjoyed Dr.Wright`s previous book of nutritional therapy,this onecontinous in the same vein. ... Read more

Product Description
This revolutionary book teaches readers how to take control of their asthma safely and effectively without any side effects. The approach encompasses the Buteyko Breathing Method as well as guidance on diet, sleep, physical activity, and other lifestyle changes that can provide a natural alternative to Asthma medications.

The author was a chronic asthmatic who applied the Buteyko Breathing Method to free himself from his asthma condition. In this book, he details the Buteyko Breathing Method and provides guidance on diet, sleep, physical activity, and other lifestyle changes that can provide a natural alternative to Asthma medications.

The Buteyko Breathing Method is considered by many to be the single most effective self-help treatment for asthma and can be used by adults and children. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

OK BOOK
This book is ok.I believe that many people hyperventilate and the book could be of some help to these people.It has some good ideas that may be useful to some people.His references are challenged by other authorities.There is too much repitition in the book.

Buteyko breathing method works
I have had asthma all of my life. I am controlling it with an antihistamine and an inhalers for my lungs and nose. I have readthe book Asthma-Free Naturally and am praticing the exercises.The ones I have tried appear to be working, especially the one to open the nasal airway making it easier to breath thru the nose. I have not been doing them long enough to notice any great effect on my asthma I highly recommend the book for children.As an orthodontist I have found that maloccusion (crooked teeth) is primarily due to poor oral posture.Allergies can promote mouth breathing and an open mouth posture at rest which results an adverse growth pattern of the face and crooked teeth. The exercises to promote breathing thru the nose to maintain a closed mouth posture may help promote a good facial appearance and prevent crooked teeth.

Give This a Try if You Have Asthma
My wife and two of my five kids have had bouts with asthma, typically allergy or exercise induced.

I found this book very helpful and insightful. Most treatments for asthma treat the symptoms, not the cause. This book gets at the cause. We have been impressed with the simplicity of this. Some of the suggestions have immediate benefit. The drawback is that to fully do this program, you will need a willingness to devote several minutes a day for several weeks. But if you compare that to a life of dependence on medicinal approaches, it is a small price to pay.

At minimum, it's worth a try and may be life changing if you are an asthma sufferer.

Asthma breathing book
Complicated writing and difficult instructions to follow with no results realized from all the effort.

Brilliantly helpful book
Although counter intuitive, that reducing your tidal breath will help increase your blood oxygen levels, it is brilliant in how it does work. I participated in one of Patrick McKeown's seminars, and is has changed my life and also of all my friends that also attended. By following his specific suggestions, my asthma is vastly improved and I have been able to decrease the medicines to low maintenance levels and more importantly my energy is also coming back.

There is so much emphasis on doing deep large breath breathing these days, and that is the WORST thing you can do if you have any respiratory issues. By retraining and watching your breath on an ongoing basis, and only breathing though your nose even when exercising,you will notice the difference in just two weeks and continue to improve as long as you continue the work.Patrick also suggests using paper tape to keep your mouth closed and prevent from over breathing while you are asleep and results in much more restful sleep and waking up alert, strange as it sounds it works also. The program is self reinforcing as you feel better able to breathe and less drug dependent.... compared to becoming more drug dependent and less functional over time as the asthma process progresses.

He teaches you how to get into an exercise program and to build your breath and stamina slowly and safely. Which exercise is the most helpful to asthmatics and why. He teaches a simple measurement of your breath capacity, your CP, and gives you an easy to determine marker to monitor self progress over the weeks and months.

Read the book, check out his websites, watch the You Tube videos, and go to a seminar or find practitioner in your area if possible, but learn this technique! ... Read more

Product Description
Winning the War Against Asthma and Allergies is an absolute must for any health care practitioners interested in alternative therapies for the treatment of asthma and allergies. This book details an innovative and proven breakthrough treatment method, Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Technique, (NAET) for the long term elimination of allergies that lead to asthma. Coverage includes: complimentary adjunctive therapies that enhance the benefits of NAET, enzyme therapy in the elimination of astham symptoms and drugs, emergency tips, directory of NAET practitioners and enzyme therapists, and updated NAET diets. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Naet didn't work for me
After reading this book (very dry read, hard to finish), I had NAET over the course of several years with 3 different practitioners. I figured when it didn't work with the first one that it was their technique at fault, not the method.After thousands of dollars, not covered by insurance, and absolutely zero results I gave it up. I had chronic back tension which I hadn't had before but no allergy relief. I did try Bowen work, which is a similar idea of opening the energy channels which doesn't involve the spine. After 10 sessions I could grow flowers again and have them in my house, after sneezing for 3 years solid. Another 10 sessions greatly reduced my asthma to managable levels. I didn't have further improvement, but by then I'd moved to another area and I think my Bowen worker had a different technique. I don't recommend this book.

patient of ellen cutler
We all know that close friends, relatives or colleagues who have something to gain write the 5 stars critics. They are really objective.
This book is a 0 star and should be taken off the market. I can't believe it is still being sold. It is misleading.It taps into the thousands of people vulnerability who are so desperate to find a cure for themselves or their young children they are ready to try anything.
I was one of these people.I bought the book, read it, sounded promising so I made an appointment to see Dc Cutler.I was her patient for some time but got no relief. I spend quite a bit of money on the products she wanted me to take but nothing changed!
Ellen Cutler isa charlatan in my opinion. She actually laid me to believe her treatment cured me from my egg white allergy. I believed her at first but the following week, I had a conversation with her assistant while getting another treatmentshe said Mrs., "you were NEVER ALLERGIC to egg white. WOW! I could not believe it. I still gave a chance to Mrs. Cutler treatment for a few more weeks. But no results, no change. It was clear I was wasting my time and my money. So I stop seeing her.
Now several years later although still allergic to egg yolk, cat and dog, I am feeling better as far as my asthma goes because I finally got out of a 30 years abusive marriage.

Open your mind
....

To anyone who is reading this review, seeking hope for allergy CURING: ignore the negative comments and judge for yourself. ....

NAET is incredible, it is totally new, and something you will find yourself questioning when you read about it (because it is so different to the status quo medical approach). But let me tell you from personal experience: IT WORKS!

I have eliminated car sickness with NAET, and am currently working on my severe pollen fever. I'm seeing big results! If I can cure my pollen fever, don't you think you can cure YOUR allergies?

At least study it, and even find a practitioner ... and try it instead of point-blank giving up an opportunity to end your suffering. Those who dismiss this new approach to allergies without even trying it (!!!) have no one to blame but themselves for their unresolved allergies.

....

GOOD LUCK!

....

Client of Ellen Cutler
Ellen Cutler's work is visionary.It works whereas nothing else seems to - After being chronically ill for years and searching, full time, for a medical and/or alternative practitioner who could help me, finding and being treated by Ellen Cutler is like finding a needle in a haystack.I ameternally grateful that I have found her located so close to where I live. She is a kind and compassionate soul.

I see that another reviewer hasjudged her work without experiencing it which is what prompted me to postthis review.That reviewer has done his or herself a disservice to judgeEllen Cutler's work without first hand experience.

Secondly, anotherreviewer was looking for a practitioner. Here you can connect to a nationwide list ofpractitioners and veterinarians.

I believe this technique has thepotential to become the foundation for the practice of medicine and that byuse of this technique in children, they never have to develop chronicillnesses by correctingimbalances at their onset of symptoms.

EllenCutler's technique is fascinating, as is she.

Winning the War Against Asthma review
Excellent coverage for persons trying to identify the various triggers for asthma and allergies. This is also a primer for persons wanting to explore the NAET system of allergy elimination of Dr. Devi Nambudripad. Coversusage of plant enzyme therapy as well. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (1)

Don't waste your money
I really hoped this book would help me with my son's asthma. There was no information in it that I didn't know already from researching on the internet. Read the Bible instead. ... Read more

Product Description
From the foremost authority on children's health--a vital guide for parents whose children suffer from allergies and asthma

Asthma and allergies are the most common chronic childhood diseases. Asthma affects nearly 5 million American children, while allergies affect about 50 million. This comprehensive book is an invaluable resource for parents who want answers and information about their children's allergies and asthma. This user-friendly volume is filled with up-to-the-minute advice from pediatricians on how to
 ¸  Identify allergies and asthma
 ¸  Prevent attacks
 ¸  Minimize triggers and avoid allergens
 ¸  Understand medications and choose them wisely
 ¸  Explain allergies to young children
 ¸  Help children of all ages manage symptoms

As with all AAP Guides, the layout and writing style make information easy to find, with real-life case studies, sidebars, and tables to help parents raise healthy, active children. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Pediatrician Recommended
I just attended a lecture given by my pediatrician's office and this book was recommended as a guide by the doctor facilitating the lecture. I haven't read the book yet but it was referred to quite a bit during the lecture and I do plan on purchasing it as it sounds like a good reference.

Guide You to Your Pediatrician�s Waiting Room
Just because mainstream pediatricians can't cure allergies or asthma does not mean that they are incurable.Nowhere in this book is any understanding about why people get allergies and asthma in the first place, aside from a genetic tendency.What brings out this tendency in your child?Apparently, the American Academy of Pediatrics doesn't know.This book is dedicated to keeping allergy medicine in the dark ages of throwing drugs at the symptoms without much attempt to understand their cause.Environmental approaches to allergy and asthma are almost entirely ignored, or contradicted in another part of the book.

The lies in this book about the dangers of allergy and asthma pharmaceutical medications are criminal.The lies about complementary (natural, alternative) medicine are just as criminal.Though the forward of the book promises to review alternative treatments and therapies, natural medicine in its entirety is given only two pages in the entire book, labeled as "not scientifically proven" (a blatant lie for many types of natural medicine) or vaguely implied to be somehow dangerous or threatening, which is immensely exaggerated and generally unfounded.Only pediatricians who push toxic protocals are actually threatened by natural medicine, whom they view as competition when laypeople wise up to the vast failings of pharmaceutical-based medicine, especially when it comes to allergies, asthma, and other chronic illnesses.The party line is hammered home in this book as you are reminded time and again to seek your pediatrician's advice, especially when it comes to alternative modalities he or she may know nothing about, may view as threatening competition, or may be brainwashed into lying about.You must not make any choices on your own if there's a pediatrician to be consulted!

It is curious that nobody even claims authorship of any specific part of this book-typical for propaganda.There is a list of "contributors and reviewers," with no reference to who did what, or with what part.This book's aim is to get your child into the pediatrician's office frequently, and to get and keep your child on medications, some of which are extremely toxic.Steroidal medications are some of the most toxic pharmaceuticals available today, and the thought of poisoning an infant with such things, without even considering natural options, is simply heartbreaking.It almost goes without saying that iatrogenic causes of allergy and asthma are not even mentioned anywhere in this book, though it does admit that allergies to antibiotics do occur.

"Guide to Your Child's Allergies and Asthma" inadvertently demonstrates just how little the American Pediatric experts in allopathic biomedicine really understand about allergies and asthma.The results are frustrating: loading children up on toxic meds indefinitely, treating the symptoms without "wasting time" trying to understand the cause, and a drastic, all-around failure to relieve the suffering of children.Preventing the onset of allergies in the first place doesn't even seem to be an option, aside from the advice to breast-feed your babies-just what natural health professionals have said all along!Perhaps the infant formula companies haven't been keeping up on their membership dues?

If you would like to think like a mainstream, conservative MD does about allergies and asthma, and view allergies from the narrowest possible definition; if you prefer to ignore all the progress made in modern times and in other cultures around allergy theory and treatment (such as by Theron Randolph, MD, whose books I highly recommend, or Doris Rapp, MD-a pediatrician, or Dr. Firshein's "Reversing Asthma" book which details the hazards of asthma medications and a variety of alternatives, or Bob Flaws' book "Curing Hayfever Naturally with Chinese Medicine" for example); if you can stomach the case studies of children's suffering which is hardly alleviated by the poisonous chemicals they ingest, inhale, and absorb through their skin; if you can sort through the shocking and baffling combination of sound advice, half-truths, misinformation, blatant lies, and cover-ups of the truth; if you can fathom the bizarre claims that global pollution is improving and that allergies and asthma may inadvertently result from people being too healthy because of modern accomplishments in allopathic medicine, then this is the book for you.Otherwise, there are other books on allergies, asthma, and pediatrics that are much more accurate, vastly more insightful, and far closer to the truth.

Very Informative
After finding out my daughter was diagnosed with Asthma I read this book.It was very informative and it clearly described Asthma.It was very helpful in explaining different treatments, medications, and steps to taketo limit Asthma attacks.I have a much better understanding of Asthma andhow to control it. ... Read more

Product Description

Asthma, Health, and Society

A Public Health Perspective

Edited by Andrew Harver, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte

Harry Kotses, Ohio University, Athens

 Asthma, Health, and Society is a comprehensive, current resource on this complex disease—its scope, human costs, and management—from a combined social ecology/public health perspective. This important and unique book proposes a concerted, multifaceted response and sets out the foundation for shaping this response, comprising individual and large-scale assessment, education, advocacy, and multiple forms of intervention. In clear, authoritative detail enhanced by figures, graphs, and references, contributors explain where universal standards need to be set, alliances need to be built (such as among agencies and institutions in a community), and what is currently known about:

•  Pathophysiology, epidemiology, and social impact of asthma.
• Genetic and environmental factors; protective factors and risk markers.
• Effects in women, minorities, children, teens, and elders.
• Medical management, self-management, and home monitoring.
• Evidence-based interventions at the family, school, and community levels.
• Screening guidelines, compliance issues, and more.

In the absence of a cure or clear-cut causes, Asthma, Health, and Society offers the most robust compilation of practical knowledge on its subject to benefit the range of public health and asthma professionals, researchers, teachers, and students

Product Description
Parents of children with asthma and adult patients will learn what to do in every asthma situation, how to get the best effect from their asthma medicines, how to track asthma with a diary and when to call for help. Includes special tips on managing asthma at school and while traveling, real-life asthma stories and detailed information on the use of inhalers, peak flow monitoring and home treatment plans. Also contains a resource section, medical bibliography, glossary and index. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Really Helpful
I have found Dr. Tom Plaut's Asthma Guide for People of All Ages a crucial resource as we learn about our daughter's asthma.Dr. Plaut explains asthma physiology, medications, and devices very clearly.The tone is friendly and positive.The patient stories are like a support group, giving a window into other people's experiences.Some of the stories made me count my blessings!Others illuminated issues I hadn't really thought about, but that were in fact affecting my family.

These features alone would make the Asthma Guide for People of All Ages a good buy, but Dr. Plaut's book goes beyond physiology, treatments, and personal and family impact to address two important areas many people are likely to be struggling with, and which are valuable no matter what treatment you use.It explains how to understand and respond to your individual condition; and it encourages you to take an active role in your own care.

Some doctors take a one-size-fits-all stance--"this is how I like to treat asthma," in the words of one Procrustean family practitioner we consulted.In contrast, Dr. Plaut's approach provides information and reasoning to help you to understand your particular situation.It also teaches the skills you need to identify your own personal best state, to spot your own triggers and symptoms, and to know when you need to take action to prevent further trouble.

Again, too many physicians expect the patient to blindly do whatever the doctor says.This gets my goat.Dr. Plaut's book stresses the importance of working together with an experienced physician instead of just carrying out instructions.He shows how this enables the individual or family in the trenches to handle asthma care calmly and competently in a range of situations.

Family members are encouraged to work cooperatively instead of hierarchically with one another, as well as with their physician. Dr. Plaut recognizes the common pattern where, when a child has asthma, one parent takes on the job of being the asthma authority/caregiver, and he explains why this is not a sustainable long-term plan.

In harmony with the overall emphasis on shared knowledge and responsibility, there are also chapters on dealing with asthma at school or on family vacations--where the knowledge and responsibility of people outside the immediate family become important.The school chapter has very interesting and enlightening sections on applicable laws and common indoor air pollutants--as well as on how a typical teenager might behave during an asthma episode in school!

I recommend Dr. Tom Plaut's Asthma Guide for People of All Ages to anyone interested in learning how to be an active, empowered partner in their own asthma care or that of a family member.

I love it!!
My son's pediatrician recommended that I read this book.Having been recently diagnosed with asthma, we were exhausted from running from doctor to doctor (for 6 years) with no answers about his "cough".We were told to do everything from "ignore it", or just give "cough medicine" so we wouldn't have to listen to it anymore.Before I read this book, I felt very out of control with regard to my son's asthma.I cried after every doctor visit because I was so utterly overwhelmed by the technical lingo and all of the different medications and when/why I was giving them.Once I started reading this book, I cannot believe how much sense everything made.I knew what questions to ask, what terminology to use and more importantly, I felt in control.My son's pediatrician even commented to me how I was asking all the right questions, and how much of a difference he could see in me!I am not as stressed when my son was experiencing a "flare-up" and I even now understand WHY I am giving each medicine and what it does to help him.
I would HIGHLY recommend reading this book for anyone who wants to know more about asthma.

Comprehensive and Helpful
Dr. Plaut's book is informative, easy to read, and helpful.His direct, no-nonsense approach to treating asthma is reassuring, particularly after being newly diagnosed with asthma.His book has enhanced our ability to communicate with our son's doctors about his symptoms, prescribed medications, and signs of improvement.We are grateful for this comprehensive resource.

What a BLESSING!!!
This is a tremedous book for anyone that thinks they might have asthma or if they actually have been diagnosed with asthma. My 22 month old was recently diagnosed with asthma and even though I'm a college graduate I was having some trouble making sense of all the medications and reading the signs when he was having trouble since he's too young for a peak flow meter. This book covers it all in great deal and teaches you how to really manage your asthma whether you can use a peak flow meter or not. A wonderful book and worth far more than the list price. The author is actually an asthma specialist and indicated you can get the information in this book from your doctor, but it would take 10 hours. It would be difficult for you to remember and you would probably not want to pay for it! I think that is a good description of this book! It goes along exactly with what my doctor has been saying, only presents it in an organized manner along with some forms in the back to keep a daily diary and treatment plan. EXCELLENT!!!

Great guide for asthmatics
I have read a number of books and articles on asthma. This is by far the most comprehensive, up to date and it is easy to understand, too. I checked a copy from my library but it is so good that I am going to purchase it for my personal reference library as well as my child's school nurse. This book even has short section explaining cough-variant asthma, which is what both me and my son have...this is a little known type of asthma which in my case was mis-diagnosed for 35 years. ... Read more

Product Description
Review of all aspects of asthma from definition and classification through diagnosis and treatment. The role of bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-leukotrienes, and anti-IGE therapy in treatment is discussed, along with complete drug-dosing information. Detailed treatment algorithms based on NIH guidelines are presented. A separate chapter on combination therapy and its importance is included. ... Read more

Product Description
Steadily increasing numbers of Americans have been diagnosed with asthma in recent years, attracting the attention of biomedical researchers, including those searching for a genetic link to the disease. The high rate of asthma among African American children has made race significant to this search for genetic predisposition. One of the primary sites for this research today is Barbados. The Caribbean nation is considered optimal because of its predominantly black population. At the same time, the government of Barbados has promoted the country for such research in an attempt to take part in the biomedical future.

In Biomedical Ambiguity, Ian Whitmarsh describes how he followed a team of genetic researchers to Barbados, where he did fieldwork among not only the researchers but also government officials, medical professionals, and the families being tested. Whitmarsh reveals how state officials and medical professionals make the international biomedical research part of state care, bundling together categories of disease populations, biological race, and asthma. He points to state and industry perceptions of mothers as medical caretakers in genetic research that proves to be inextricable from contested practices around nation, race, and family. The reader's attention is drawn to the ambiguity in these practices, as researchers turn the plurality of ethnic identities and illness meanings into a science of asthma and race at the same time that medical practitioners and families make the opaque science significant to patient experience. Whitmarsh shows that the contradictions introduced by this "misunderstanding" paradoxically enable the research to move forward. ... Read more

Product Description
Four blood types, four battle plans to fight allergies.

Bestselling author Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo delivers unique, individualized battle plans for preventing and defeating environmental and food allergies, chronic sinus infections, asthma, and related allergy conditions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

allergies
Very good book on health- my brilliant primary M.D. recommended it.Following this author's diet I lost weight and my stomach is feeling much better.It takes time to get rid of allergies, but I am on the right path.

FINALLY - real help for allergies!
I have enjoyed tremendous benefits from Dr. D'Adamo's work!I started to eat under his blood type plans for weight loss but the benefits specific to my other health issues have been AMAZING!I have been an allergy sufferer for 40 years and have not had great results no matter what meds I was given.I am down to one med for asthma and have enjoyed trmemndous results with this book.

i want to believe it, but...
...i've had some issues with it personally.this theory was introduced to me by a health care provider, and my profile as a blood type a seemed to fit me well.during a recent pregnancy, i was plagued with terrible allergies, and my options were limited in terms of medications.i clung to this book and followed it as best i could.for the first few days my allergies improved, so i tried following it to a tee. suddenly, the allergies came back, and i knew that i was eating something that was making them worse. i gave up and returned to a regular diet.after my pregnancy i was tested for allergies, and in addition to my environmental allergies, i am allergic to soy and peanuts, two of the foods that were "highly beneficial" to me.in addition, i had sensitivities to a plethora of other foods on my "blood type a" food list.i may be unique in experiencing this, so i don't want to throw anyone off if this works for you, i just want to let you know about my experience.good luck to you!

Allergies - very helpful input!
While a lot of the material in this book is necessarily duplicated from other books published by D'Adamo in case the reader starts with this book, the real medical assistance offered has been very helpful to me - teaching me to manage my allergies proactively!

EXCELLENT....I feel so much better!
I cannot believe what a difference this book has made in my life.I did not realize how tired I was until I began following the guidance of this book in avoiding certain foods and including others in my diet.Within a week I was feeling better.I had no idea how tired and sluggish I had been--I have so much more energy now, particularly in the evenings when I was usually tired after coming home from work.I highly recommend that you try this book.It's easy to read and well worth the time and money. ... Read more

Product Description
For Over 15 million people in the US alone, asthma and allergies have become an unwelcome but unavoidable part of everyday life. Allergens or irritants can include all different types of food, animal dander, dust mites, mold and fungus spores, pollen, perfumes, chemicals and medicine. Food Solutions: Asthma and Allergies is designed to help the reader take a proactive role in recognizing what causes asthmatic and allergic reactions and reducing their severity through the implementation of a healthy diet and nutrition plan. The book provides a clear understanding of the allergic response; the symptoms and how to contain them; useful aids to treatment such as anti-histamines and other drugs, inhalers and relievers; orthodox and complementary treatments; and the relationship between food and allergies. Next, the book shares 80 simple recipes using common ingredients for delicious, easy-to-prepare dishes that make it easy to follow the dietary advice and still enjoy e!xciting food. ... Read more

Product Description
Dr. Richard Firshein first developed and implemented his Breath of Life Program at a public elementary school in the Bronx that had one of the highest rates of asthma in the country. Nearly 100 percent of the asthmatic students experienced a dramatic drop in reliance on medication, emergency room visits, and school absences due to asthma attacks. Using his expertise in integrative medicine, Dr. Firshein has created a program that combines traditional medical practices with alternative approaches such as nutritional supplementation, diet, and breathing and visualization exercises to form a vital resource for any parent of an asthmatic child. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Clear, comprehensive, effective
This book has been written for parents and those who are responsible for the health of children suffering with asthma.By outlining a proven 7-step program in detail, Dr. Firshein, who is a well-known authority in the field of Preventive Medicine, gives the reader a great program for systematically healing a child with asthma and giving him or her life tools and knowledge to recognize and deal with any future recurrences.It is a highly effective program that the author encourages parents to share with their child's health provider so that the child may have the best care possible. I personally know of children that have been on this program and it has given them and their parents a whole new lease on life, bringing hope and new found health for the whole family. ... Read more

Product Description

Pediatric Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reflects the rapid progress in one of the most intriguing fields of medicine. The book offers state-of-the-art information on basic immunology, fetal-neonatal immunology, genetic and environmental predisposing factors, epidemiology and natural history of atopic diseases, and allergy diagnosis. Extensive coverage is devoted to skin conditions and food allergy, asthma, rhinitis, specific immunotherapy, eye disorders, sinusitis and secretory otitis media, drug allergies, and anaphylaxis. Fascinating chapters explore such topics as autoimmune diseases, primary immunodeficiencies, pediatric HIV infection, malnutrition and the immune system. Finally, a chapter on prevention of the atopic march indicates how effective early intervention may greatly decrease the upsurge in atopy. Easy to understand and easy to use, Pediatric Allergy, Asthma and Immunology is essential reading for medical students, practicing physicians, allergists, immunologists, and researchers.

Customer Reviews (1)

Terrific!
This book is incredible! Huge amount of information presented in a manner that allows ready consumption. ... Read more

Product Description
While drugs have proved lifesaving for many people, the long-term answer for asthma sufferers is learning how to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Dietary changes, exercise, environmental controls, supplements, and herbs can alleviate your asthma symptom safely and effectively, without the side effects of conventional drugs.

Jonathan M. Berkowitz, M.D., is an asthmatic as well as a physician. He went through his own frustrating experience with conventional drugs treatment for his asthma and was able to return to health by adopting the lifestyle changes he now shares with you. In Asthma: Relax-You're Not Going to Die, you'll learn:

* How eating fruits and vegetable can alleviate asthma symptoms.
* Why asthma sufferers should embrace exercise, not fear it.
* The ways your home environment may be making your asthma worse and how you can fix it.
* The important vitamins, minerals, and herbs for asthma relief.
* How emotional stress contributes to asthma and ways to eliminate it.

By adopting a healthier lifestyle, asthmatics can reduce, even eliminate, their dependence on steroids and othe drugs. Dr. Berkowitz's message is one of hope: You're not going to die of asthma-you can, in fact, live a long, healthy, and productive life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

don't relax, be cognizant of your problems
For years off and on, I've tried to ignore my asthma and denie that it was much of a problem until it came back full blown with a vengence.If you are thinking of getting this book, you doing the right thing.You are thinking about your illness instead of getting into a state of denial about it.

This book is full of useful advice and focuses on moving away from being dependent on medications.Keep in mind however that there is no magic bullet for getting rid of asthma without medication.Asthma is such a whimsical disease and can occur at any place at any time without warning.Do not try to just treat your asthma with herbs and vitamin supplements alone.As stated in this book, you must find a good doctor (preferably a lung or allergy specialist).You must be aware when you are being over or under medicated, so don't just be passive and ask your doctor why he/she is prescribing you the medication(s).

Read and study this book and follow the advice given... eat right, exercise, talk to your doctor and be mindful of your breathing problems.You may not be able to get yourself completely off of all medications by following the advice given.Asthma differs in severity from person to person.You can however minimize your dependency on medications and the harmful long term effects of this dreadful disease by following this book.

One of the best asthma books I have read
I have read every book I can find about asthma and, without a doubt, "Asthma-Relax, You're Not Going To Die", is my favorite. It presents a sensible, balanced view that encourages cooperation with your physician while also encouraging you to take responsibility for your health. No quackery or quick fixes in this book...just sensible, healthy advice that you can use for a lifetime.

Another plus is that the book does not present asthma as a death sentence. It really alleviated my fears about dying from asthma. The book showed how it is possible to live a long and healthy life with asthma under control.

A BIG thank you to the author.

A terrific book for asthma sufferers!
Everyone with asthma should read this book. It contains practical information on how to alleviate your symptoms with diet, exercise, and cleaning up toxins in your environment. Herbs and other alternative therapies are covered as well. Sound advice on drug therapies is also included. It's information you can put to use immediately to get control of your asthma. ... Read more