Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are chronic bronchitis and asthma the same?
Though symptoms are similar, bronchial asthma and bronchitis are different diseases divided by their causative factors. Asthma can develop as a result of genetic factors- that is, if your parents had asthma, you are likely to get it too. The respiratory infections you contracted as a child can also trigger episodes of asthma. Environmental factors like dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, air pollution, certain insects, stress, and cols can cascade asthma attacks.
On the other hand, chronic bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchi and can occur as a symptom of asthma. A viral or bacterial infection could cause chronic bronchitis. Also, asthma comes in episodes while chronic bronchitis symptoms are seen persistently over months or even years.
2. How does Yoga help in managing chronic bronchitis?
Yoga has several breathing exercises that help increase the airflow to the lungs. Pranayama is the most popular one among them. They enhance the functioning of airways and the lungs and enable proper air movement. These help the patient relax and dilate the bronchial tree. Yoga postures such as Savasana, Shalabhasana, Bhujangasana, and Paschimottanasana are known to increase chest volume, vital capacity, and blood circulation to respiratory organs.
3. What dietary changes can I make to cope with chronic bronchitis?
Always consume hot or warm foods,
Avoid cold and dry food items,
Preferred tastes are pungent, astringent, and salty
Choose mildly oily food over dry, light food,
The use of spices like ginger, turmeric, and black pepper is encouraged,
Leafy vegetables and pulses are to be included in the daily diet,
Excess use of potatoes, cauliflower, tomato, coconut oil, fermented foods, fizzy beverages, sweets, rice flour, milk, and dairy products is not encouraged.