Asthma concerns. People, to varying degrees, are exposed to dust and other airborne allergens. That is why this issue needs to be discussed—especially considering that main city streets are increasingly turning into congested highways.
Moreover, large diesel trucks cross both major and minor city streets, where people live and work. Now, let’s talk about a seemingly minor, yet significant, issue for asthma sufferers and those who may develop the condition in the future.
When taking asthma seriously, one must acknowledge that the disease arises from a combination of multiple factors, one of which is dust.
Asthma concerns.
The goal is to improve patient care and education, as well as to raise public awareness about this serious condition, ensuring early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective management.
Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases, affecting 300 million people worldwide. Its prevalence continues to rise—currently, it is estimated that one in every 250 deaths is linked to asthma.
Asthma occurs much more frequently than ischemic heart disease, lung cancer, or breast cancer. Estimates suggest that by 2025, the number of asthma patients will increase by another 100 million.
Rising Asthma Rates.
The incidence of asthma across all age groups has increased in recent years. Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways that can be triggered by allergens, viruses, stress, physical exertion, and other irritants—such as dust.
It is also important to remember that even birch pollen during the flowering season can cause asthma flare-ups. When a person with asthma encounters an allergen or irritant, the smooth muscles of the bronchial walls contract, causing the bronchi to narrow.
This leads to inflammation of the bronchial mucosa, which lines the inner airway walls, resulting in swelling of the airway lining…
This is a real cause for concern!
A classic example of urban neglect toward air quality is the failure to acknowledge that dust is a powerful allergen and a significant factor in asthma development.
STREET SWEEPERS CONTRIBUTE TO ASTHMA!
It is difficult to understand the purpose of these “dust vacuums.” If streets are to be cleaned this way, it results in a cloud of dust that bystanders are forced to inhale.
I doubt anyone feels happy when they see a street sweeper approaching. The dust clouds are so dense that sometimes even the vehicle itself is barely visible.
Wouldn’t it be more reasonable to dampen dirt and debris before using rotating brushes? This is just my personal observation from Latvia, in the city of Liepāja.
Asthma Treatment.
Since asthma results from multiple factors, dust is one of the key contributors.
Asthma Treatment and Tea.
Can tea help with breathing if you have asthma? Pharmacies offer various medicinal teas that claim to improve breathing. A cup of hot tea is certainly relaxing. Let’s see what medical researchers have to say about its components.
There is some scientific evidence that caffeine in black and green tea may have a mild but positive effect on lung function. This occurs because caffeine relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi, opening the airways.
Caffeine is chemically similar to the drug “theophylline,” which was once widely used to treat asthma symptoms.
The Connection Between Caffeine and Asthma.
Some teas contain caffeine, which has been studied for its effects on the respiratory system. As mentioned earlier, caffeine can help relax the smooth muscles in the lungs and act as a bronchodilator, opening up the airways.
Although caffeine’s impact on lung function appears minor, studies have confirmed its effectiveness. Research has shown that even a small amount of caffeine can significantly improve lung function in asthma patients.
A study found that as little as 5 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight (approximately 340 mg of caffeine for a 70 kg person) had a noticeable effect on lung function tests in asthma patients.
Even though researchers considered 340 mg a “low” caffeine dose, it equates to roughly three 150 ml cups of coffee.
For comparison, the same effect can be achieved with seven cups of black tea—though that may be too much for some. Of course, personal preferences vary, and there is no need to argue about taste.
While caffeine may slightly improve short-term lung function, more evidence is needed to determine whether this minor improvement translates into a better quality of life.
Seven Teas That May Help!
If you have mild asthma symptoms or notice that your lungs become more sensitive due to minor illnesses (such as colds) or pollution, try drinking two or three cups of tea throughout the day and observe whether any of these teas help.
Remember that tea is only a supplement to conventional medications, which usually include inhalers. Herbal remedies should be purchased from pharmacies to ensure the quality of the ingredients.
1. Licorice Tea.
Licorice has long been used as a remedy for lung diseases. It thickens saliva and promotes mucus production, gently coating and soothing the airways.
This effect is particularly useful for dry, irritating coughs or when asthma symptoms seem imminent.
⚠️ Warning: Prolonged licorice use may raise blood pressure.
2. Ginger Tea.
This beverage has been used for centuries to treat asthma. Its potential benefits are believed to stem from its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is thought to help relax the smooth muscles of the lungs.
3. Eucalyptus Tea
Eucalyptus has long been believed to have a relaxing effect on muscles, which is why it is used in treating respiratory conditions. It acts as a bronchodilator and is also used in various ointments.
Some people with irritable bowel syndrome even use it to soothe the digestive tract. Similarly, eucalyptus tea may have a muscle-relaxing effect on the lungs, making breathing easier.
⚠️ Note: If you have stomach issues (such as frequent heartburn), eucalyptus tea may worsen symptoms by relaxing the muscles that prevent stomach acid from entering the lower esophagus.
4. Peppermint Tea.
According to scientists, peppermint works similarly to eucalyptus.
5. Fennel Tea.
Another herb traditionally considered an antispasmodic, fennel may help alleviate lung symptoms when consumed as tea.
6. Green Tea.
Typically contains around 27 mg of caffeine per 150 ml serving.
7. Black Tea.
Contains about 50 mg of caffeine per 150 ml serving. While it may temporarily improve lung function, the effect is short-lived.
Common Asthma Triggers
Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways triggered by allergens, viruses, stress, physical exertion, and other irritants—such as dust. Even birch pollen during the flowering season can cause asthma flare-ups.
When a person with asthma encounters an allergen or irritant, the smooth muscles of the bronchial walls contract, causing the bronchi to narrow. Inflammation then develops in the bronchial mucosa, leading to swelling of the airway lining.
Additional Reading: “Immune System”
Hopefully, this article helps you in your fight against asthma.
Have a great day!
Or rather—have a dust-free day!
Pharmacies offer various medicinal teas that claim to improve breathing???!