Expert: Neal Okerson - 5/9/2005

Question
Thanks Neal:
I do have a peak flow meter, and his is generally in the range of 140 to 160. I am told that this is below his average. Is that true, and if so, what can I do to improve it? Whether they be excersizes, traditional or alternative medicines? Thanks for you help.
MP

-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
Hi Neal:
My son is now almost nine. He is allergic to tree nuts ( walnuts, pistachios). He has been mildly astmatic most of his life. He carries albuterol puffs with him, but doesnt take it often.

My question is that he just runs out of breath very very quickly. This has had adverse effects when he plays sports. Are there herbal remedies that I can try to give him to alleviate this situation?

MP

Answer -
You might try tracking his condition with a peak flowmeter (available at most pharmacies for a small amount of money) to compare how his sports performance with the peak flow readings. I am not familiar with any herbal remedies that will help significantly. Sometimes caffeine will help a little.

Neal  

Answer
Sorry for the slow response,
I am afraid that question would be answered best by his physician. The management of his asthma will determine how well he functions. A pulmonary specialists can adjust his medications to help him be at his best. There are a lot of factors including a physical exam to take into consideration.

Neal