Asthma is a disease in which the airways (breathing passages) tend to narrow too easily and too much in response to a wide range of triggers. Asthma symptoms include wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing, shortness of breath, and sometimes cough. Asthma is a treatable health condition. Although at present there is no cure, with good management most people with asthma can lead normal, active lives. It is important to be assessed and cared for by a doctor with a good knowledge of current asthma management.

What are complementary therapies?

A complementary therapy is a therapy, including medicinal products, which is not considered to be part of current standard medical care. It is not limited to treatments and medicines but includes a range of different philosophies about how and why disease occurs. Complementary therapies are sometimes called ‘alternative therapies’.

In recent years there has been increasing use of complementary therapies for the treatment of many conditions, including asthma. There are many reasons why people might choose to use complementary therapies. For example, they may not be happy with Western medicine or may see complementary therapies as ‘safe and natural’. Some people feel that using complementary therapies gives them more control over their treatment.

Whatever the reason for using a complementary therapy for the treatment of asthma, the decision should be based on accurate information and informed, objective opinion - and made in consultation with your doctor. Overall, there is less information available about the safety and effectiveness of complementary therapies than is available about pharmaceutical treatments (medicines). However, we are learning more about complementary therapies and information is increasing and constantly being updated. Helpful resources have been listed in this brochure, as well as a summary of the available information about some therapies.

Content Updated March 2005