Chest Infection Antibiotics

The public are now generally aware that antibiotics will only help with bacterial infections. Most chest infections of the upper respiratory system are caused by a virus of which there are over 150 strains.

Although antibiotics were used extensively in the past for a chest infection, they are not normally recommended as they can do more harm than good, as there is now increasing concerns with the side effects of chemical medicine. Studies have shown that antibiotics will not increase the recovery time of an illness in fact, it is known that they can have a detrimental effect on other medication which might have been prescribed, such as Warfarin the blood thinning drug or the contraceptive pill which can make the pill ineffective. Antibiotics are known to disturb the gut flora which affects the healthy populations of bacteria in the body.

The other reason that antibiotics are not now preferred is the knowledge that bacteria have the remarkable ability to mutate becoming resistant to other stronger and ever more sophisticated drugs developed to combat them.

The immune deficiency effect is the concern of modern medicine throughout the world. George Jacoby of the Harvard Medical School, quoted in Laurie Garret's book, 'The Coming Plague- Newly Emerging Diseases of the World out of Balance', Penguin Books-"Bugs are always figuring ways to get around the antibiotics we throw at them, they adapt and come roaring back again", no wonder, bacteria were around long before man inherited the earth and will always find around the antibiotic effect, and chest infections antibiotics in particular.

Chest infection antibiotics will normally only be considered if you are aged and have a temperature over 38 (100F), or any other condition such as Asthma or a long term condition of the lungs, you are a smoker with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and if your immune system is compromised as a result of Cancer treatment chemotherapy, or you have diabetes or pleurisy which is the inflammation of the lining of the lungs.

PNEUMONIA

The greatest benefit of antibiotics seemed to be for reducing the risk of pneumonia after a chest infection, particularly in the elderly. This conclusion was as a result of research by I. Peterson and colleagues of The Centre for Infectious Disease and Epidemiology, Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, University College, London. They found that the greatest benefit of administering antibiotics for pneumonia reduced the risk after a chest infection. The size of this risk increased with the age of the patients. In the over 65 groups, 403 patients per 1000 were at risk of pneumonia, if a chest infection was untreated .This was reduced to 146 per 1000 if treated with antibiotics. Just 39 patients over 65 years would need to be treated with antibiotics to prevent one case of pneumonia compared to 119 patients between the ages of 1 and 64 year.

Their studies taken from records between 1991 and 2001 concluded that antibiotics should only be prescribed in more serious cases of chest infections.

PREVENTION

Your immune system will be stronger and you will be better able to prevent viral and bacterial infections if you lead a healthier lifestyle!

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Anti Inflammatory Herbs

Herbal Remedies for Inflammation and Pain
Inflammation is a condition when a body reacts to any infection, injury or irritation, environmental changes or malignancy. Due to inflammation swelling, pain, redness or change in color of the skin is felt. But sometimes some internal inflammation can result giving rise to fever and other discomforts.

The inflammatory response involves the activation of white blood cells that start releasing some chemicals such as cytokines and prostaglandins. Inflammation in some cases may be acute and chronic; some may often relapse depending on the severity of the disease. Inflammation is mostly treated by administering varied doses of corticosteroids that are effective in reducing and suppressing inflammation. Inflammation if not treated properly can aggravate some diseases causing much more problems, as in many cases it is difficult to predict an inflammatory response.

Few anti inflammatory herbal remedies

There are many herbal therapies that have been tried through ages and have proven record in healing inflammation by treating the cause. Latest scientific researches have given the final approval to opt for these herbal therapies than the OTC drugs.

1. Turmeric is one of the common anti inflammatory herb that is widely used in Asian recipes in good amounts. It helps in reducing swelling, pain in arthritis, tendonitis, sprains and other autoimmune disorders. So addition of extra turmeric in curries is beneficial in the long run! But this treatment is time consuming and it may test one's patience.

2. Ginger is another herb which is popular for its anti inflammatory properties and is used liberally in most Asian dishes. Taking ginger tea regularly in the morning relieves a lot of inflammation.

3. Boswellin herb is very good inflammatory herb in treating fibromyalgia.

4. White willow bark is another inflammatory herb that helps in reducing pain.

5. Devil's claw works well in arthritis both in reducing inflammation and pain.

6. Licorice root is another popular anti inflammatory herb, but its prolonged use may raise the blood pressure and cause potassium loss. So person suffering from hypertension must be cautious with its use.

7. Arnica is another herb that is widely used in treating pains and bruises. It can be taken in regulated doses or the mother tincture can be applied to the affected areas to reduce inflammation.

8. St John's wort herb though used to treat depression has also some anti- inflammatory properties.

9. Flax seed poultice is also very effective in treating bronchitis and reduces swellings in gouts and rheumatoid arthritis.

These herbs are very commonly used and are easily available. In sudden injuries these can be applied immediately for some relief before consulting any doctor. These are cheap and if applied properly one can avoid spending on painkillers and other drugs.

Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Supplements

Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Supplements To Reduce Inflammation Of Joints

NoFlam is one of the most effective and popular anti inflammatory supplements that have provided relief to many from the unbearable joint pains of arthritis. Its exclusive anti arthritic herbal formulation not only alleviates arthritic pain but also improves the general health of the bones and joints. This supplement helps in reducing the stiffness of the joints enabling painless movement and providing nourishment to the surrounding tissues. NoFlam reduces the inflammation of the joints within a short span of time and is much effective than other non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

The herbal ingredients of this anti inflammatory supplement have long lasting healing effects. High quality herbs and ingredients are used in manufacturing NoFlam, formulated by highly qualified professionals. NoFlam has maintained definite quality standards approved by recognized organizations without compromising the health of the users. No unapproved chemicals have been used in formulating this anti inflammatory supplement, so no adverse long term or short term side effects have been reported. The manufacturers ensure absolute safety in using NoFlam to treat arthritis.

The key ingredients of NoFlam comprises of the useful herbs like Commiphora mukul, Withania somnifera, Boswellia serrata, Nyctanthes arbrotristris, Ricinus communis, Zingiber officinale, Vitex negundo mixed in definite proportions. Of these, Boswellia serrata is the most active ingredient having pain relieving and anti inflammatory properties. This herb is widely used in treating various types of joint pains and arthritis. Other ingredients also contribute a lot in reducing pain and inflammation. Vitex negundo provides nutrition and improves the health of the joint and bones.

NoFlam restricts the production of pro inflammatory cytokines, the main causative agent of arthritis. The anti inflammatory property of NoFlam reduces the formation of poly morphonuclear leucocytes near the joints, responsible for acute inflammation. Moreover, it improves the general health of the joints maintaining the biochemical reactions, viscosity and fluidity of the Synovial fluids in the joints.

NoFlam has been widely praised by the users due to its long term and permanent pain relieving effects. The use of this anti inflammatory supplement has imparted mobility to the patients crippled from arthritis. Its efficacy has also been proved in treating Rheumatoid arthritis. The proven efficacy of NoFlam has forced doctors and orthopedics to recommend this anti inflammatory supplement to patients suffering from this degenerative disease.

NoFlam can be taken without any prescription, but it is recommended to take medical advice if the patient is under some regular medication. Another attractive feature of NoFlam is that it comes with a 90 day money back guarantee assuring 100% positive results in its use.

A Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Most common types of pain are caused by inflammation. Inflammation is the response from tissues that have been injured and is actually a process that helps the body heal itself. However, inflammation can cause a great deal of pain. To relieve most types of pain caused by inflammation, it is generally recommended to take an anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen. However, taking these pain killers on a regular basis can lead to stomach pain, nausea and in some cases long term kidney or liver damage. For chronic pain sufferers, it is strongly advisable to find a natural anti-inflammatory to help with pain management.

Relieving Inflammation with Ice

Ice is is both very effective to soothe inflammation and is easy to find. Most people don't even think twice about applying ice to a sprain or bruise right after the injury occurs. If you have ever wondered why people do this, it is because ice acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and helps to soothe inflammation and reduce swelling. This helps to reduce pain and to speed up the healing process. For immediate pain relief, the ice is obviously very cold and numbs the area which helps to relieve pain right away. When using ice to relieve inflammation it is advisable to apply it until the area is numb (generally 20 minutes) and then waiting to apply it again after the area is back to normal temperature.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory Herbs

There are a number of herbs that can be taken as a herbal supplement to fight against inflammation and relieve pain. When taking these herbs as a supplement it is recommended to take them on a daily basis. The effects may not be noticed for up to 1-2 months.

Here is a look at some of the most commonly found and most effective natural anti-inflammatory herbal supplements:

• Ginger should be taken 1-2 times a day with a meal. Each capsule should contain 500 to 1,000 mg of ginger.
• Turmeric is found in mustard and curry. It works very well to relieve inflammation and is recommended for a number of chronic conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis. It can be taken three times per day in 400 to 600 mg dosages.
• White Willow Bark has been compared to aspirin and is works well to fight inflammation.
• Recommended dosage is 50mg three times a day.
• Boswellin is another natural anti-inflammatory herb that can be taken twice a day. It is especially useful for treating pain from fibromyalgia.
• Please note that the dosage amounts provided above are generally what is recommended by most health professionals. It is highly recommended to read the labels on the supplements you purchase to see the correct dosage for that particular brand.
• Natural Anti-Inflammatory Foods
• Chronic pain sufferers may notice relief of their daily pain after adding some of these natural anti-inflammatory foods to their diet:
• Foods that are high in Omega-3 such as fish, nuts and seeds (especially flax seed) have been known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Oils such as avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil may also help with pain caused by inflammation.
• The tastiest foods that have been known to help with inflammation would have to be papaya and blueberries.
• Green tea can also help with inflammation along with all of the other health benefits that it offers.

Super Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Your joints is an engineering masterpiece designed to perfection, so much that us humans are constantly trying to copy the this intricate design. Our body has various signals to indicate the condition of our joints. When there is swelling it sends out signals which we feel as pain. Sometime things get a little serious like chronic inflammation which leads to serious conditions sometime it can go to the extent of being life threatening like cancer and heart disease.

Various factors are identified as contributing factors to inflammation. Researchers associate the degree of inflammation to factors like the amount of stress you go through, your lifestyle, the activity - rest cycle and most importantly the quality and quantity of food you put into our body. When all the above mentioned factors are present in various proportions, the cumulative effect will lead to greater chances of the disease.

As we age our body doesn't function as efficiently as it used to and we are more prone to injuries and most importantly the ability of the body to heal is also affected. Even the most strongest of us can be affected because this reduced efficiency of the body. Our body is naturally equipped to combat inflammation to certain levels beyond which the conditions goes on deteriorating. Initially body will send out the pain signal and when ignored constantly it goes to severe inflammation mode and with this imbalance other problems creep up as well.

There are things which are beyond our control but good news is that the major contributing factor is within our control, which is our diet. One of the most effective ways is to pursue natural ways to fight inflammation as opposed to other treatment options like drugs, steroids and in extreme case surgery.

Key to Controlling Inflammation

It's a no brainier that you are what you eat and the you eat will affect the way our body functions. Even though it's a known fact sometimes we fall prey to the temptation. Surprisingly it's the food which tastes really good are our worst enemies. Lets say sugary foods, fatty meat especially red meat salty foods add to this our answer to the quest for convenience - the so called processed foods which is like adding oil to fire when it comes to inflammations but also instigate other health problems, the most noted being obesity. When you are over weight, you put more stress on your joints leading to greater chances of inflammation. The key is to break this habit or craving and incorporate whole food into your diet. Below is a list of food to watch out for

Inflammatory foods

Sugary Foods

Deep Fried Foods

Dairy Foods

Alcohol

Caffeine

Now for the good list, bear in mind that this is only a guide , try to vary the combinations so that you don't get bored with the diet and don't the mistake to cut the bad foods straight out, you will crave for it later and then in give in to the temptation.

Anti-inflammatory foods

Green Tea

Ginger and turmeric (very good for inflammation

Salmon and other fatty fish like mackerel

Fruits and Vegetables - Aim for five colors

Water

Nuts

Fruit Juice

Use the above list as guide and to keep it simple , remember to keep away from FASS ( fats, alcohol, salt, sugar). Have more anti inflammatory foods and you will be pain free naturally.

Controlling Inflammation - Best solutions Revealed

Don't ignore swelling, listen to your body and most of all take corrective action.

Are you are tired of searching for a pain relief solution? Do you want to have healthy joints? Gaining freedom from pain or improving your mobility is easy if know how.

Nurturing tomorrow by caring today.

Signs of Alcoholism

Five Warning Signs of Alcoholism

Most of us now understand that alcoholism is a disease, and no one intentionally tries to catch a disease. But the cause of alcoholism is quite readably discernable - drinking alcohol. Yet most adults drink, at least occasionally, despite this knowledge.

Why take the risk? Of course there are pleasurable feelings associated with alcohol consumption. It loosens the inhibitions and makes it easier for some to meet and talk to new people. The fact that it's such a large precursor to such an insidious disease, well, most people are sure they don't drink THAT much. Little do they know that they may be on the way to a bad case of alcoholism right now. One person's social drinking is another's first stage of alcoholism. Not only is it hard to tell who alcoholism will hit and who it won't, but those who are being affected will do everything in their power to deny it to others, and often to themselves. This makes it even harder to diagnose.

But there are warning signs. If you're worried about early states of alcoholism yourself, think about these things:

1. If you're starting to be concerned about the level of your drinking, you probably should be. Even if you're not dwelling on these types of thoughts, but they just occur to you from time to time, it's an indication you may have an abuse problem.

2. People who know and care about you are starting to mention their concerns over your drinking. Perhaps they don't even mention it, but you start to notice them steering you away from drinking-related activities. A sure sign of impending or current alcoholism is having had multiple run-ins with the law for alcohol-related offenses.

3. If you're drinking socially, you may lose some inhibitions, but your personally doesn't change. When you're suffering from alcoholism, drinking brings about very specific mood changes. These can vary from person to person, but could take the form of silliness, happiness, depression, irritability, or even something more aggressive and dangerous.

4. Your behavior changes when drinking to the point where you do things you would never consider doing when sober.

5. You move from an occasional, social drinker, to a regular or repetitive one. If you're drinking an amount exceeding legal limits every time you drink, and that is starting to happen more and more often, you definitely need to take a closer look at your relationship with alcohol.

From this list, alcoholism is not as far away as you thought. Plenty of people meet more than one of these five criteria, yet don't deem themselves alcoholics. But remember, the alcoholic will deny it as long as possible. He/she may need a drink every day, meet all the criteria above, and still swear up and down that he could stop any time, but he can't, and everyone around him knows it.

If you look at the above list and see yourself described, don't run away. Here's what you need to do:

1. Alcoholism is a disease of addiction, and the best single thing you can do to start on the road to recovery is join Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The addict in you will balk, but go to a meeting. Take charge. Take your life back.

2. Go to an exploratory meeting with an addictions counselor. They will help explore the path that led your to alcoholism and make you clearly see where your addiction will eventually lead you.

3. Just stop drinking. Although, fair warning, this is difficult and doesn't work for most people. You probably need the help of counseling or AA to rid yourself of your addiction. But maybe you're not far enough along, or maybe you ARE someone with the will power to pull it off.

4. Slow your drinking. Again, this probably won't work; it doesn't in most cases. However, if you're just starting to worry about alcoholism, it's possible you can still turn from the beginning problem stages back to the moderate social drinking you used to do.

5. If none of these work for you, check yourself into a more intense "drying out" or in-house addiction treatment.

Alcoholism is a progressive disease, and if you have the early warning signals and don't do anything, your health, your family, your career; indeed your entire life will be adversely affected. Take action while you can!

Lewy Body Disease

According the the experts, Lewy Body Disease is the number two cause of dementia symptoms after Alzheimer's Disease. Yet few people have heard of Lewy Body Disease, and even doctors still seem to forget about it when testing patients for dementia. Patients with LBD often leave their doctor's office with a diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease or Alzheimer's Disease. While none of these diseases are curable at this time, there are big differences in how they are medically treated.

Medications for Parkinson's Disease can cause serious deterioration in the cognitive functioning of someone who actually has Lewy Body. Those being treated with some of the psychiatric medications used to treat Alzheimer's symptoms can develop serious Parkinson's-type symptoms if they in fact have Lewy Body Disease rather than Alzheimer's.

Symptoms of Lewy Body Disease

Most people with LBD first visit their physicians because they are experiencing symptoms that most often look like Parkinson's Disease.

Experienced doctors who know to carefully evaluate symptoms will initially look for a steady loss of short term memory, sleep problems and unusual personality and mood swings. In addition to these rather general symptoms, which are also common to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases, doctors will ask about hallucinations, frequent falls, a shuffling gait, a tendency to lean to one side when sitting or walking, difficulty finding the right word, and problems with completing tasks once started. Urinary and constipation problems, an impaired sense of direction, poor depth perception, new problems with regulating blood pressure and temperature (feeling too hot or too cold), and increased difficulty swallowing are also experienced by some Lewy Body patients.

Increasingly poor judgment, delusions and bizarre mood swings, and for many a tendency to lash out physically often accompany LBD. Lewy Body Disease most commonly appears between the ages of 50 and 85. While it is slightly more common in men than in woman, it can strike either. While the physical symptoms can be debilitating for the patient, the biggest challenge for caregivers is usually coping with the mental changes that accompany the disease.

Treatment of Lewy Body Disease

There is no cure for LBD. Treatment can be difficult because many patients have a lower tolerance for the kinds of medications that are given to help with the movement and cognitive problems associated with LBD. Because LBD patients can be so sensitive to medications routinely prescribed for Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease, which may make their symptoms worse rather than better, it is critically important that they be under the care of an experienced neurologist or neuropsychiatrist.

It is often a continuing process of making tiny changes to medications before an appropriate treatment program is identified. As the disease progresses, the doctor will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the program and to make adjustments.

Because the goal of treatment with Lewy Body Disease is to make the patient as comfortable and content as possible and at the same time to support the needs of caregivers, continuing care from a specialist who understands LBD is vital. Early diagnosis and treatment will increase a caregiver's options and enable someone with Lewy Body Disease to possibly stay comfortably at home longer.

The Eldercare Team has more information about Lewy Body Disease, Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease, as well as practical information and support for elder caregivers. Find really useful information, tips, resources and tactics to help caregivers deal with the real life issues of caring for supercheapmedonline.blogspot.com