Howitt44

Emphysema isn't hereditary normally. Although there is a type of emphysema that is, but it shows up pretty early in life, I think. My father had emphysema, but he smoked 3 packs a day and continued to do so even after he was diagnosed. He was also an alcoholic which caused heart problems. That concerned me when I was diagnosed with asthma also. But I have been to two specialists and they have convinced me that it is asthma. I had the blood test to rule out hereditary emphysema also. I have read your other posts and I know how you feel about inhaled steroids. I am one that uses naturals when at all possible. But this could be serious. You have to get your inflammation under control in order for your asthma to be in control. I know of a few naturals that help with inflammation but none to the degree to get the root of the lung inflammation. I have even talked to a ND and asked him if there was anything like Advair that I could take. He basically said no. It sounds like you had a reaction to Advair. You mentioned a rash. It sounds like you have a good doctor. Talk to her and tell her you are worried about the inflammation, and if you have to take something for a year or so just to get it under control it would be worth it. In the meantime you can do it naturally as best you know how. It means losing weight, eating anti-inflammatory foods, getting on the right vitamins and supplements. it won't be easy. Have you ever heard of the book "Reversiing Asthma" by Richard Feinstein. It is loaded with information on how to control asthma naturally. The author tells about his own personal situation of uncontrolled asthma since childhood. Being in and out of the hospital. But with diet, nutrition, exercises, breathing techniques, etc. he was able to get off of medication. I'm not saying this will work for everyone, but it did for him. I personally don't like the idea of inhaling a steroid everyday. But my lung function improved a lot after being on Advair for about 6 months. Maybe someday I can get off of it. Inflammation is a problem for all of us. It not only affects the lungs but can cause heart disease , arthritis and tons of other diseases. I am almost to the point where I think inflammation is at the root of most of our diseases in the western world. I read an article in Time magazine about a year ago and it discussed that very thing. Right now, at 48 years old, Advair is the only prescribed medication I am on and I feel lucky. Some people are on at least 5 by the time they hit 50! My goal is to not be on more than one. I really sympathize with you, I know you want to be healthy and have healthy lungs. I believe you can better your health. But it will take hard work and discipline. I tell myself that every day and strive for that. But it is soooo hard. I will pray for you and hope you can find a solution you can live with and still be healthy.
Cindy