ASTMA DIAGNOOSIGA LAPS NING ALTERNATIIVSED JA TÄIENDAVAD RAVIMEETODID
Alternative and complementary therapies in children with asthma
Jekaterina Lammartson, Terje Arula
Abstract A theoretical study based on a literature review aims to describe the modern alternative and complementary therapies used in children with asthma; the prevalence, causes, and safety of using such therapies; and the reasons for not informing healthcare providers of the use of alternative and complementary therapies in children with asthma. The relevant evidence-based articles used for the thesis have been published between 2005 and 2015. The research articles provide an overview of the use of alternative and complementary therapies in children with asthma. Alternative and complementary therapies include a variety of prevention and treatment methods that are not part of standard medical practice. Alternative and complementary therapies are widely used in the treatment of asthmatic children, as there are no long-term effective methods for the prevention and treatment of asthma. The most commonly used methods include homeopathy, breathing exercises, and Chinese medicine. These methods are used by the parents who are not satisfied with the results of conventional medicine. Most often, these methods are used by the parents with higher levels of education and income, and in children of 2 years of age with severe asthma. Only a few studies have been performed on alternative and complementary therapies and the evidence regarding safety of these methods, especially when used in children, is insufficient. The reasons for not informing healthcare providers of 122
