Complementary Therapy Use in Children with Asthma
Author Information
Author(s): Alison Shaw, Elizabeth A Thompson, Debbie Sharp
Primary Institution: University of Bristol
Hypothesis
Why and how do patients and parents of children with asthma use complementary therapies as part of their coping strategies?
Conclusion
Patients and parents of children with asthma use complementary therapies to gain greater control over their condition and to explore a wider range of potential causes of asthma.
Supporting Evidence
- Complementary therapies were often used alongside conventional asthma treatments.
- Participants reported that breathing techniques like the Buteyko Method helped them control their symptoms.
- Patients expressed a desire for more holistic approaches to their asthma care.
Takeaway
Some kids with asthma and their parents try different therapies to feel better and have more control over their health, even if they still use regular medicine.
Methodology
Qualitative study with 50 semi-structured interviews of 22 adults and 28 children with asthma.
Potential Biases
Participants may have been biased towards positive experiences with complementary therapies.
Limitations
The study may not represent all asthma patients, particularly those from ethnic minorities.
Participant Demographics
Majority were female, including adult patients and mothers of children with asthma, from various socio-economic backgrounds.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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