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Question
A friend, recently recommended for me to inhale from a steamed bathroom and then immediately take four deep breaths from a freezer. She explained that this would expand my lungs. Will this be beneficial to an asthma sufferer?
Hi Susan,
I would not recommend this approach.
Cold, dry air is an inducer of bronchospasm. Second, coincidentally, I received multiple message strings from the national asthma educator organization that specifically looked at this issue. One of the considerations is the vagus nerve, located near the esophagus, is triggered by the sudden change in temperature. This is the same nerve that is triggered to cause bronchospasms from acid reflux.
Hope this helps you make a better, informed decision.
Sincerely,
Marc
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Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator
Expertise
I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.
Experience
Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.
Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.
Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)
Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist
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