Following last editions article on asthma and pain killers,
I have had a lot of requests to print more information on
asthma. This is not surprising I suppose when you consider
the high percentage of people, in particular children that
suffer from this condition these days. Allergy is a common
asthma trigger. If you are not aware that you suffer from
any allergies and you do suffer from asthma it may be worthwhile
asking for a general allergen test which is available at Prodia
laboratory in Denpasar, or you might consider contacting a
naturopath about muscle testing for allergens. Dr. Frederique
Nault is qualified naturopath and uses the unique NAET muscle
testing system to detect allergies. You can book an appointment
with Dr. Nault by calling her office on 766259.
Some common allergens are:
House Dust Mite: If you are allergic to dust mite, you should
consider ways to reduce them in your home.
• Encase mattress and pillows in mite-proof covers.
(You will need to order these from overseas)
• Wash bedclothes weekly in hot water (over 55°).
• Shake and air pillows and quilts in the sun weekly.
• Remove soft furry toys and soft furnishings, if possible.
Soft toys can be placed in a plastic bag in the freezer overnight
to kill dust mites.
• Helpful suggestions for cleaning:
- wear a mask
- dust with a damp or electrostatic cloth
- use a wet or electrostatic mop rather than vacuum
- consider ducted or well-filtered vacuum-cleaning systems
Pollens: If you are allergic to pollen, it is difficult to
avoid it but try these measures.
• Find out about grasses and trees in your area which
have wind-borne pollens and avoid them.
• Keep windows and doors closed on windy days.
• Avoid mowing the lawn, or wear a mask and eye protection.
• Have native plants which have little pollen in your
garden.
•Ask your doctor about antihistamines.
Pets: Anyone affected by allergens from animals, especially
cats or birds should
• avoid close contact
• keep pets out of the bedrooms, preferably out of the
house.
Moulds: If mould spores trigger your asthma
• Air the house well
• Keep air-conditioning units clean; evaporative coolers
are not recommended
• Indoor plants may need to be removed
•Avoid disturbing rotting vegetation such as mulches
and composts, especially in hot, humid weather
•Be cautious about going outdoors on warm, windy days,
and avoid or take protective measures during grass-cutting
or rice harvest if you live near paddies
• Avoid houses with alang-alang (grass) or bamboo
matting roofs or walls.
Cockroaches:
• Cockroach dirt is one of the strongest allergens for
asthmatics. Make sure that all cupboards are kept clean and
regularly tidied to avoid cockroach infestation.
If you are prone to allergen induced asthma, make sure that
you always keep your puffer (bronchodilator such as Ventolin),
and a good fast acting antihistamine (such as Claratine) in
your bag.
“Kim Patra is a qualified Registered Nurse and Midwife
that has been living and working in Bali for almost twenty
years. She now runs her own private practice and medical referral
service from her Kuta office. Kim is happy to discuss any
health concerns with you and she may be contacted via e-mail
at info@chcbali.com”.
