cover image Breathing Easy

Breathing Easy

Genell Subak-Sharpe. Doubleday Books, $17.95 (250pp) ISBN 978-0-385-23440-5

The author of Overcoming Breast Cancer presents the treatment program for asthmatics of the renowned National Jewish Center for Immunology and Respiratory Medicine in Denver. In clear, concise prose she describes how the lungs function and the nature of asthma. The sensitive and informative book emphasizes that the disease is incurable but can be controlled, enabling the patient to lead as unrestricted a life as possible; case studies of patients are provided. Subak-Sharpe explains the need to identify and remove ""triggering factors'' or allergens, such as animal dander, molds, dust, certain foods and drugs; the pernicious effects of smoking on asthma; the importance of exercise and how to choose an appropriate regimen; and how weather and pollution affect asthma. She maintains that ``asthma is not a disease with psychological causes,'' although ``very often, mental outlook and emotional factors determine how well a patient will be able to control his or her asthma.'' Psychological effects of asthma, sex and asthma, specific drug treatments and breathing techniques are also discussed. Illustrated. (February)