Asthma

     I had an interesting conversation this AM with a former patient and

former skeptic.  The caller was the father of the former patient and came

from a family of physicians and other “college” types.
     The father reminded me that his daughter had been suffering from
asthma.  This suffering included regular visits to the ER to cope with
recurring episodes during which the usual combination of inhalers and
oral medications failed to control her symptoms.
     After a blood test showed low levels of vitamin D she was started on

a generous dose of vitamin D, 2 – 3,000 IU he thinks.  Within a month she
no longer needed medication and has not had to visit the ER since
starting the vitamin D.  She has continued taking the vitamin D.  The father

has been converted, but not his siblings.
     In a recent issue of the Vitamin D Council newsletter, an article

regarding vitamin D and the asthma epidemic showed there is a

significant relationship between Vitamin D deficiency & asthma.  Most

children will tolerate 2,000 IU of Vitamin D, but if in doubt have a test

done.  It is now possible to order a vitamin D blood test and do it at

home.  See these two websites for more info on the do at home blood test http://www.labrix.com/ or http://www.zrt.com/.
     This is a good time to begin vitamin D supplementation as you can no
longer get vitamin D from sunlight in the Willamette valley.  Sunlight
vitamin D will not be available until late May of 2012.