Most food allergy reactions are mild. Symptoms are easily managed at home and families may not even report them to their doctor, especially if they don’t recognize that their symptoms are a result of a food allergy. But, some food allergies cause severe reactions that can be life-threatening and definitely require a doctors care and hospitalization.

People who suffer from food allergies shouldn’t be fooled by an initial mild reaction to a food allergen. This early reaction can be followed quickly by a much more severe food allergic reaction such as anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening. People who are experiencing anaphylaxis will experience constricted lungs, severe lowering of the blood pressure and suffocation by swelling in the throat. These symptoms are all symptoms of a severe histamine reaction following exposure to a food allergen. Each year there are 150 people who die from allergic reactions and 30,000 emergency room visits.

Food allergies are unlike environmental allergies to things like pollen. While you may be able to develop de-sensitivity to environmental allergies, food allergies can’t be cured. The person must strictly avoid the food allergen and recognize and manage any reactions as quickly as possible to prevent serious consequences.

To help Americans avoid the risks posed by food allergies Congress passed the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004. The law applies to all foods that the FDA regulates and that have been labeled on or after January 1, 2006. This law mandates that the labels must clearly identify not only the ingredients by the common names but also the source of those ingredients. As a result this will help consumers to identify foods to which they have allergies so they can be more easily avoided.

There are 8 major food groups that cause allergic reactions in people. These include Milk, Eggs, Fish, Crustacean shellfish (like lobster or shrimp), tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), peanuts, wheat and soybeans. The food allergen that gets the most press are nut allergies and allergies to crustacean fish since these are the two that most frequently cause anaphylactic shock reactions leading to life-threatening reactions.

The law specified that the labels must contain the source of the common ingredient as well as the name for instance flour (wheat) or lecithin (soy). Or the labeling must include a list of sources near the list of ingredients such as: Contains Milk, peanuts, Soy.

If you, or someone you are with, experience symptoms of food allergies they should seek medical attention immediately. Most common food allergy symptoms include a scratchy, itchy throat, hives, coughing or wheezing, stomach, vomiting, swelling in the throat, difficulty breathing, skin rash, and face, tongue or lip swelling.

Once you have exhibited a food allergy you must be very careful about reading food labels. Unfortunately there is evidence to suggest that while the first or second exposure to a food allergy may result in a mild reaction subsequent exposures can escalate the severity of the reaction.

In an asthma attack, our ability to breathe in air is hampered, due to the tightening of muscles in the air passage, swelling, and thick mucus. The attacks are triggered by pollen, smoke, even food allergies (each person has its own set of asthma triggers) and are characterized by wheezing, coughing and tightness in the chest.

Many asthma sufferers have found relief in herbs and other homeopathic treatments. For example, khella (also called Bishop’s Weed) helps prevent the tightening of the air passages, and there are cases of it actually opening the airways. However, dosages have to be controlled by a homeopathic expert, especially for children. The herb is best used over a short period of time, since overextended intake can lead to loss of appetite, headaches, and difficulty sleeping.

Another asthma treatment makes use of the ancient Chinese herb, Ma Huang (also called Desert Herb). While not recommended for those who have heart disease and high blood pressure, it has been known to reduce the bronchospasms that cause difficulty in breathing. Because of the risks associated with his herb, it should be taken only with the directions of a homeopathic expert, and the approval and co-management of your regular physician or respiratory specialist. This is because Ma Huang has some contraindications, and interactions with other prescribed drugs can be dangerous. However, with the proper monitoring and in the right doses, it can help with the most severe forms of asthma attacks.

Like with many asthma medications, people who take Ma Huang can experience side effects like palpitations and restlessness, or mild nausea to actual vomiting. This is, unfortunately, a function of how medicines (whether traditional antibiotics or herbal) must contain some amount of ephredine or a similar drug that can counter or protect the body’s loss of oxygen.

Another herb that can control asthma is the Pleurisy root, a liquid extract of the plant Asclepias Tuberosa. It is an expectorant and can help decongest the patient and ease the difficulty in breathing. Doses must be closely monitored, however, because it can lead to vomiting if not properly prescribed. It is also not recommended for those who have heart problems.

Homeopathic experts can also help asthma sufferers examine diet and lifestyle for any asthma triggers, or sometimes they will prescribe vitamins and herbs, or recommend a particular diet, that can help strengthen the lungs. In other words, their approach is holistic, and does not only cure the symptoms but prevents the attacks from occurring. Many asthma sufferers can lead perfectly normal lives as long as they can create a lifestyle or routine that minimizes their risks for attacks.

About the author

Philip Nicosia is the webmaster of Resources.eu.com an online resource centre covering many topics including health and fitness.

What is IBS?

The most challenging aspect of IBS is that it can’t be definitively diagnosed using a biological or chemical test. Rather, it is a collection of varying symptoms. The primary symptoms are abdominal pain and bowel dysfunction, including gas, diarrhea or constipation, discomfort, bloating, and nausea. Most doctors diagnose IBS by ruling out other diseases and confirming symptoms. Diet, infection, and psychological stressors seem to underlie these symptoms for most patients with IBS.

What causes IBS?

Equally mysterious are the origins of IBS. Some research suggests that with IBS, the contractions of the colon that move food and waste through the intestines are abnormal, ranging from spasmodic to completely stopped. In the simplest sense, these abnormal contractions cause diarrhea and/or constipation, as well as poor digestion and malnutrition. Further, they can indirectly lead to bacterial imbalance, compromised immunity, poor metabolism, and changes in mood and hormonal activity.

Physical and mental stresses also are contributing factors, affecting contractions in the colon as well as the absorption of liquids and nutrients. People who have been exposed to psychological, physical, and/or sexual trauma in childhood appear to be at higher risk of developing IBS. Approximately 20 percent of individuals may get IBS as the result of a parasite, infection, or other inflammation of the intestine.

For those affected, the medical solutions can be disheartening. Few prescription drugs exist, and what is available can have serious side effects. For example, alosetron hydrochloride (Lotronex), a prescription medication that has been prescribed to women with IBS, can cause severe constipation and reduced blood flow to the colon. These effects have been associated with ischemic colitis, a critical condition of inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the large intestine.

Commonly used over-the-counter treatments have drawbacks as well. For example, one big mistake people with IBS make is taking too many antacids. Pain in the stomach and intestines doesn’t necessarily equate to too much acid. In fact, the opposite is often true.

A condition called hypochlorhydria, marked by insufficient levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, can cause maldigestion and symptoms of IBS. Additionally, many patients with heartburn take antacids and other medicines, which further decrease acid production and compromise the immune system. In a recent study, users of acid-suppressing medicines doubled their risk of pneumonia.

With acid suppression and chronic antibiotic usage, it’s possible for unhealthy bacteria to proliferate in the small intestine and result in a state known as small bowel bacteria overgrowth (SBBO) or dysbiosis. These problems of imbalanced bacteria can lead to decreased absorption of important nutrients and vitamins. SBBO must be remedied with antibiotics or anti-microbial herbs.

Beyond what’s found at the pharmacy, certain behaviors will usually worsen IBS, including eating large meals; taking big doses of medications; and consuming wheat, milk products, chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol. Stressors, both physical and mental, also are common aggravators.

A properly functioning digestive system is a finely tuned physiological machine that runs the tasks of digestion and nutrient absorption, immune regulation, metabolism, and certain hormonal balances. Untreated, IBS can have profound negative effects on the whole body.

Nearly 70 percent of the immune system is located in the digestive tract. At birth, the intestines are sterile, but within two years, they become home to more than 100 trillion bacteria. These bacteria play a crucial role in the maintenance of the immune system, fending off pathogens and keeping the gut in balance. IBS can throw off the bacterial balance in the intestines, compromise the immune system, and affect overall health and wellness.

Digestion – breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and expelling waste – is also compromised with IBS. When the intestines don’t digest properly, it’s hard to get sufficient nutrients, and a state of slow malnourishment is created. Sometimes, a leaky gut can result, causing undigested food to escape the small intestine, enter the blood stream, and cause allergy, inflammation, and stress in the liver.

What you can do now

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for IBS, no magic pill or prescription. But there are several things that you can do to start feeling better right away. Following are some of the best ways to help minimize flare-ups and keep your intestines as healthy as possible.

* Chew. It sounds obvious, but proper chewing is the first step toward good digestion. Gobbling down chunks of food is hard enough on healthy stomach and intestines, but it’s even harder if you have IBS. Digestion starts in the mouth, so take your time and chew completely before swallowing. Each part of the digestive tract needs time to do its work without being overwhelmed. Also, avoid overeating. Eating too much food puts tremendous physical stress on the digestive system.

* Eat right. Eat a hypoallergenic diet of whole foods and drink lots of water to keep the intestines hydrated. Eliminate-or at least reduce-refined carbohydrates and sugars. Honey and syrup appear to be better than sucrose, which is better than fructose. Excess consumption of trans fats can cause irritation and irregular contractions in the intestines. Opt for moderate servings of healthy fats found in foods such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, avocado, salmon, and chopped nuts.

* Steer clear of caffeine and coffee. Not only will caffeine shock the intestines, but as a central nervous system stimulant, it will add stress to your whole body.

* Be careful with dairy. Milk, cheese, and other dairy products are notorious for aggravating the bowels and causing diarrhea or constipation, gas, bloating, and nausea. This may be due to lactose-intolerance, or it may be a reaction to cow’s-milk proteins. Some over-over-the counter medications will help the former; abstinence will help the latter. Most plain yogurts are OK.

* Watch out for wheat and other gluten-containing starches. These too can aggravate the intestines and trigger food sensitivities and allergies. In some cases, potential IBS suffers may in fact have celiac disease, otherwise known as gluten sensitivity. The symptoms are similar, including diarrhea and discomfort, but with celiac disease, gluten can cause serious damage to the intestinal lining. In this case, abstaining from gluten is the only option. A simple blood test can help diagnose celiac disease.

* Don’t neutralize yourself. Avoid or eliminate antacids. If you’re eating right, you shouldn’t have an excess acid problem. IBS is not heartburn, so taking antacids won’t bring true relief. Also eliminate proton pump inhibitors – acid suppression drugs used to treat ulcers – and antihistamines, which reduce acid levels. These too will slow digestion and worsen IBS by creating dysbiosis.

* Exercise. Just like the other muscles in the body, the intestines are toned and regulated by moderate, regular exercise. Over time, doctors have observed that people who don’t exercise tend to have more sluggish bowels, which, in turn, exacerbates IBS.

* Take probiotics. This is a must for anyone with IBS. Regardless of the causes of your condition, the balance of good bacteria in your intestines is probably precarious at best. Supplementing with a combination of lactobacillus and bifidobacteria is one of the most effective aids for the digestive tract. Recent research suggests taking at least 50 to 100 billion cfu (colony forming units) daily for IBS. For intestinal recovery after a cycle of antibiotics, take 20 to 40 billions cfu daily. Refrigerated cultures are preferred over unrefrigerated pills and powders. Home-made yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, but commercial yogurts often have much lower counts.

Specific remedies

Considering again an integrated approach to treatment, related complications may be present and need to be addressed with the help of a health practitioner.

* IBS sufferers with pancreatic insufficiency should supplement with pancreatic enzymes.

* A person with insufficient bile should drink lots of water and take supplements that help the body use fat, such as milk thistle, taurine, and selenium. These support the liver and the communication between the liver and the colon, helping the body maintain proper bile levels and fat absorption rates.

* A person who has parasites or other microorganisms can benefit from anti-parasitic herbs such as black walnut, wormwood, goldenseal, and oil of oregano. Oftentimes, additional drug treatment is necessary; new medicines are now available in the United States.

* If you have yeast overgrowth, limit sugar, flour, and refined grains. Take vitamin B6 in combination with anti-fungal supplements. If conditions persist, more aggressive treatment with antifungals may be necessary.

* If you have bacterial overgrowth, support stomach acid, and avoid acid suppression therapies. If conditions persist for more than four to six weeks after beginning to use those tactics, antimicrobial herbs or antibiotics (along with probiotics) may be necessary.

* For nutrient deficiency and poor nutrition, supplement with vitamins and minerals. Generally people with IBS have low levels of B vitamins, which are absorbed at the end of the small intestine, the location of bacterial overgrowth. Supplementation with B-complex and a multivitamin is important and useful. Occasionally additional B-12 is also necessary.

Inflammation from infection, food allergies, or dysbiosis may also damage the intestinal villi, the microscopic projections in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract that absorb nutrients and carry them to the blood. L-glutamine is effective at healing and repairing the villi, but it is essential to remedy the underlying problems first. L-glutamine can be used as a source of food by unwanted bacteria and yeast. It should only be taken as a restorative after the other conditions have been treated.

Many times, psychological and stress disorders get better with an improved diet and proper treatment of an individual’s underlying causes, but for serious or stubborn issues, professional counseling and stress management are helpful in controlling IBS symptoms.

Getting through to the other side

Because IBS is a collection of different symptoms that affect individuals in varying forms and intensity, it’s nearly impossible to prescribe a blanket protocol for treatment and management of the condition. The best approach is to first start with the basics.

Begin with the dietary changes; take out common food allergens like milk and wheat, and experiment to find out what other foods may cause you trouble. Stay away from the simple sugars, which can act as a food source for unwanted bacteria. Avoid caffeine, trans fats, refined carbohydrates, acid suppressants, and large meals.

Most people should see significant improvement after following these guidelines. If you make these changes and still don’t feel better, consult a healthcare practitioner for an in-depth examination to rule out infection, parasites, inflammation, or other disease processes.

Each case of IBS is a unique collection of symptoms and causes, an imbalance in the digestive system that can be effectively corrected by the individual, sometimes with the help of a healthcare practitioner who understands diet and nutrition. Take the integrative approach, and trust your gut. IBS is signal of imbalance; improvement in your gut will help you to feel healthy from the inside, out.

Do You Have IBS?

If you go to a doctor to find out if you have IBS, the doctor will consider the Rome Criteria, which is the following checklist of typical symptoms. For a quick self-check, see the list below, but don’t consider this a replacement for a visit to your healthcare practitioner.

ROME II SYMPTOM CRITERIA FOR IBS

In the past 12 months, experiencing at least 12 weeks (not necessarily consecutive) of abdominal discomfort or pain that has two out of three of the following features:

1) Discomfort is relieved with defecation.

2) Onset is associated with a change in frequency of stool.

3) Onset is associated with a change in form appearance of stool.

Other symptoms that are not essential but support the diagnosis of IBS include the following:

* Abnormal stool frequency (more than three bowel movements a day or fewer than three bowel movements a week)

* Abnormal stool form (lumpy/hard or loose/watery stool)

* Abnormal stool passage (straining, urgency, or feeling of incomplete evacuation)

* Passage of mucus

* Bloating or feeling of abdominal distension

Symptoms in the Rome Criteria are not the only indicators of IBS.

Non-intestinal symptoms include the following:

* Nausea

* Fatigue

* Full sensation after even a small meal

* Vomiting

It is startling to know that 3 to 7 percent of children in the US suffer from ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This means it affects over 2 million children in America, that is, one in every class of 25 would have ADHD. This condition is usually diagnosed in the pre-school and early school years.

Children with these symptoms are unusually fidgety and restless. They may have problems paying attention in school, waiting in lines or taking turns. Some children may express this in their aggression. ADHD is usually diagnosed more in boys that girls, but that could be because girls tend to be quieter and less aggressive than boys. In girls it could manifest itself as talkativeness rather than aggression.

ADHD Definition

The U.S. Surgeon General has defined ADHD as a metabolic form of encephalopathy. The disease weakens the release and homeostasis of neurological chemicals, reducing the function of the limbic system. Other relevant research however points out that some part of the brain could be involved. These are the frontal lobes, their connections to the basal ganglia, the central aspects of the cerebellum and the middle or medial aspect of the frontal lobe.

ADHD into Adulthood

Four types of ADHD types have been recognized. These are the Predominantly Inattentive, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive, and Combined Type of ADHD (hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive) and ADHD Not Otherwise Specified. As a person gets older, the symptoms of ADHD could reduce, but many children diagnosed with ADHD retain this disorder into adulthood too. It is then known as Adult Attention-Deficit Disorder or AADD. In adults, it manifests itself in the need to be physically busy all time, excessive talking, interrupting others, risk taking, speaking out without regard to the consequences and even daydreaming.

Causes of ADHD

The research into the causes of ADHD has thrown up a number of issues. Primarily it seems that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in ADHD. Significantly, research has shown that many critical food deficiencies could cause the problem. These could be as varied as deficiency of essential omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidant vitamins like vitamin C, iron and even zinc.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 deficiency may lead to behavioral problems that are linked with ADHD. Some children with ADHD show other symptoms connected with Omega 3 deficiency, such as dry skin and hair, thirst and even frequent urination. A trial in supplementing Omega 3 in children with ADHD revealed some surprising results. Over a period of time, fish oil supplements were given to a group of children and a placebo to another set. The children with fish oil supplements showed remarkable improvements in attentiveness and other attributes. Academic results were much better with better scores in reading, spelling, mathematics and other skills. No such improvements were seen in children given the placebo. Thus Omega 3 rich supplements such as fish oil could be a solution to help children with ADHD. Some researchers feel babies who are breast-fed have a lower chance of developing ADHD later because it is rich in Omega 3.

Food and Environmental Allergies

Children with ADHD may also be more likely to suffer from food allergies. They could be losing vital vitamins, iron and even zinc because of their allergy to dairy products, wheat, corn, yeast, soy, citrus, eggs, chocolate, peanuts and artificial colors and preservatives. It has been seen that children with ADHD lose zinc when exposed to a food dye. In a study that eliminated these allergens in the diet of some children, the majority of the children showed lower levels of hyperactivity. Once these were added back to diet, the problems associated with ADHD once again returned.

Dietary Deficiencies

Research has also shown that iron levels are low in children suffering from ADHD. The children’s serum ferritin levels were measured to determine their iron status. It was seen that one-third of the ADHD children had a very low range of iron levels. It was noticed that the lower the iron levels, the higher the severity of the ADHD symptoms. The researchers concluded that low iron stores might explain some ADHD cases. Iron supplements could be given but proper testing is required before doing so, because excess iron stored in the body can cause several other problems.

Supplements of zinc and zinc sulphate have proved successful in small trials. But more results are awaited. However in the mean time, a good idea would be to remove additives from the diet along with all foods that the child could be allergic to. This could improve the absorption of natural zinc present in foods. Vitamin C could also be supplemented, because sometimes it is not easily absorbed from natural foods. However, once again it might be good idea to remove additives and allergy-causing foods from the diet. This would result in better Vitamin C absorption.

Drug Interactions

Most ADHD children are on some prescribed drug or the other. Should drug interactions with dietary supplements be a concern? Generally, mixing supplements at low levels with drugs does not produce side effects but it is worth checking with your doctor just in case.

Most research indicates that a balanced diet rich in omega 3, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, free from toxins, would be beneficial to children suffering from ADHD.

Related Natural Product

BrightSpark is a natural, safe and proven complex homeopathic remedy, clinically formulated to treat the symptoms of ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) without the side effects of prescription drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta and Adderall. BrightSpark has been specially formulated for children under 12 years of age to help then to relax and calm down; be less impulsive; listen more carefully; follow instructions; concentrate better; be less distractable; achieve better results at school or work. Adults and teenagers with ADD should use Focus ADDult herbal formula. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, BrightSpark is recommended for use with Focus Formula and is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

References:

1. Physiology and Behavior, 1996 9: 915-920
2. 59th annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Bellanti et al.
3. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, December 2004;158:1113-1115

About the author

Iris is a Canadian trained physician who has been involved in the nutritional world for over 15 years and has a major interest in traditional Chinese medicine. Iris currently works as a medical advisor to Mitamins, the custom made online supplements company.

Swimmer’s ear doesn’t just happen to swimmers. They are the most affected but it can happen whenever the conditions are right for bacteria to grow out of control in the outer ear. The bacteria in question are helpful in small amounts. They are present naturally on the skin of the body.

When moisture gets in the ear canal, an infection can develop because the bacteria multiply. Swimmer’s ear also occurs in the presence of cuts in the ear, various skin conditions like eczema and seborrhea and hair chemicals. But, you can take preventative measures to keep the infection from beginning.

1. Wear ear plugs when swimming. Ear plugs prevent the amount of water that is common after swimming from entering the ear canal. You will still need to dry your ears but there will be less water present deeper in the ear.

2. Place cotton balls in your ears when perming or coloring. Hair products can contain strong chemicals that irritate the outer ear. Because your ears are on the sides of your head, they collect the droplets that can roll down in the ear. A small piece of cotton in each ear catches any drips. Dry your ears well after shampooing.

3. Take care of your eczema. Skin conditions can cause you to scratch and damage the skin in your ear canal. Couple that with water and bacteria and you’ll have a problem. Keep the area conditioned so the skin is not broken and dry well after swimming, washing hair and sweating.

4. Check for any food allergies. Sometimes, allergies to foods can cause changes in your skin. For example, eating greasy foods can irritate and cause flaking of the skin and that includes your ears. Excess scratching of your ears can remove the protective layer of wax and lead to infections like swimmer’s ear.

5. Use a blow dryer. You can use the lowest setting to avoid the loud noise. Only a few minutes is needed to dry hard to reach water that may have settled down in your ear canal.

6. Dry ears well after bathing. Mostly we think of swimming as the culprit for this condition, but water can splash in the ear canal during a bath or a shower. When you dry the body, don’t forget the ears.

Swimmer’s ear doesn’t have to ruin your day. Use the above hints to help prevent the condition.

Related Natural Product

Ear-OK Drops are a natural, safe and effective topical treatment for ear infections. They contain herbal ingredients in a sweet almond oil base and are applied directly into the ear. Ear-Ok Drops help to quickly soothe and reduce inflammation, while treating the underlying cause of the infection. Use Ear-Ok to relieve pain, itching and discomfort of the ears; treat bacterial, viral and fungal ear infections; reduce inflammation and painful throbbing in the ears; soften wax plugs that have blocked the ear canal and prevent recurrence of chronic ear infections. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, Ear-OK is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

Currently Mayo Clinic has 16 further studies being done to investigate the role of fungus in an inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract. Other researchers found that certain white blood cells are reacting to the fungus and producing the kind of inflammation seen in the sinuses. Researchers have found that healthy people did not have the same reaction. This evidence was so convincing that the National Institute of Health has given Mayo Clinic at $2.5 million grant to further investigate the response of the body to fungus.

The yeast that commonly causes these infections is Candida albicans. This is a fungus that exists in small amounts in everyone’s in test and all tract it is a fungus that is responsible for vaginal yeast infections in women and sinus yeast infections. In small amounts of Candida is harmless.

However, with overgrowth caused by the use of antibiotics, altered in immune system or even pregnancy, the yeast grows out of control. With this growth the yeast forms rhizomes which invade the intestinal walls and cause leakage of the yeast into the blood system. This allows the yeast to invade other systems of the body or to even cause a systemic infection.

In large amounts the growth of the yeast can be life-threatening. Because in a normal healthy immune system yeast is kept from growing to life-threatening proportions many people can feel the effects of chronic fatigue, you’re a total bull bowel syndrome, gas, bloating, food allergies, skin rashes and allergies to mold which a medium amount of growth can bring.

Unfortunately misdiagnosis of the problem is all too common. This is because the symptoms of a systemic yeast infection are generalized and can often lead down the path to other illnesses or diseases. Yeast infections affect the immune system of the body which is what triggers the signs and symptoms which individuals experience. This general picture is what leads to misdiagnoses of yeast infections which have grown to systemic proportions.

Yeast infections may settle in the vaginal vault or may also settle commonly in a sinus tracts. Treatment for chronic sinusitis which is often caused by yeast infections is multi-factorial. It must address dietary habits as well as medications and digestive enzymes to help decrease the inflammatory response in the digestive tract which will decrease the amount of yeast chronically leaked into the body.

Mayo Clinic defines chronic sinusitis as a sinus inflammation that persists for three months or longer. It is recommended that any individual who suffers from chronic sinus infections should seek the care of in the ear, nose and throat specialist for the appropriate treatment of this disease. Many times chronic sinusitis is associated with asthma or allergies and treatment of the associated problems helps to decrease the problems of the chronic sinusitis.

Individuals should be aware that some of the new over-the-counter treatments using nasal salt water washes and mist sprays are very useful in treating the symptoms of chronic sinusitis but do not often eliminate the inflammation or the underlying cause. While these treatments will help to eliminate the causes and symptoms of allergic rhinitis the underlying infection of yeast is not treated using salt water.

Whether the pain is sudden and severe or a long-term chronic condition, the mind and entire body are affected. The most effective method of eradicating pain is finding the underlying cause. Rather than masking and suppressing pain with pharmaceutical drugs, we should empower the body to produce its own natural painkillers. Our bodies release endorphins, an intermedium used to naturally deal with pain.

The word endorphin means ‘internal morphine’. These, along with enkephalin are biochemicals produced by the brain itself to block and regulate the sensation of pain. Endorphins create a euphoric state with natural painkilling effects. Too often, people turn to conventional medicine risking dependency. These drugs produce side effects associated with ulcers, kidney failure, and bladder and liver problems.

Pain elicits several responses in the body, causing accelerated heartbeat, sweating, rising blood pressure, pupil dilation, and breathing irregularities. Anyone suffering from extended pain may experience loss of appetite, lower sex drive, constipation, restless sleep, irritability and digestive problems.

The character of the pain may provide clues to the nature and severity of the problem. Waves of pain that gain momentum, plateau and then subside are referred to as colics, such as pain in the abdominal area that has resulted from the contraction of any hollow organ (i.e. the intestines). Pain which shoots in one direction, suggests nerve involvement. Relaxation will lessen pain as demonstrated with women in childbirth labour who have learned to accept the ebb and flow of pain during contractions. Cramping pains typically indicate muscle contractions, lasting a few seconds to a few minutes. Spasms causing sudden pain, as seen in leg and foot cramps, are ordinarily the effect of the circulation being cut off due to sitting awkwardly.

When pain is chronic and the source cannot be found, food allergies should be considered. An allergic reaction to food can trigger and sustain chronic pain. Periodic allergy testing may be helpful when no other discernable cause is evident. Allergies affect the nervous and immune systems. Once the allergen is detected and eliminated, the pain is alleviated. Other culprits may be fungus, Candida, parasites, dental fillings and heavy metals.

The following will outline natural alternative approaches to pain relief:

Dietary Considerations

Eliminating animal protein from the diet is highly recommended to improve conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Limiting foods high in saturated fats including dairy, red meat, shellfish, hydrogenated oils as well as caffeine, alcohol and refined carbohydrates will lessen pain and boost the immune system.

Choose a diet high in fibre, organic poultry, cold water fish and vegetable proteins like lentils and beans. Essential fatty acids found in nuts, seeds and cold pressed oils, form prostaglandins (hormone like substances) which produce an anti-inflammatory response.

Supplements help raise the body’s threshold for pain and sensitivity. In particular, the amino acid DL-phenylalanine has proven effective in releasing the body’s own natural endorphins and reducing inflammation in patients with chronic pain.

Oxidative stress, not lactic acid, is responsible for tissue inflammation and soreness after a workout or competition. High intensity training and exhaustive exercise programs induce free radical damage in muscle tissue. Antioxidants minimize tissue oxidation caused by free radicals and support the liver, blood, joints and brain from their negative effects. Alpha lipoic acid is an excellent antioxidant. Vitamin C, E and selenium are others which work synergistically when taken together.

The minerals calcium and magnesium calm the nervous system along with all B vitamins. Leg cramps in any form are often alleviated with these nutrients. If cramps arise from poor circulation, vitamin E can be added to the diet.

MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) and Glucosamine are sulphur compounds found naturally in our cartilage, synovial fluid and joint material. Taken in supplement form these compounds, with their proven anti-inflammatory properties, relieve pain while assisting the body to build new tissue. Research has shown that for MSM to reach optimum effectiveness, 3000 mg should be consumed.

Homeopathic Treatments

Herbal and homeopathic remedies relieve pain by calming the nerves and increasing circulation to promote healing without suppressing the condition. However, all homeopathic remedies are chosen according to symptoms.

White willow bark contains natural salicylic acid, the active constituent found in aspirin, perhaps the most used medication in the world. As in traditional times of the North American Indians, willow bark is used to ease any kind of pain, sore muscles, rheumatism, headaches and fever.

Hawthorne’s primary action is to increase coronary blood flow. While currently used to treat an array of heart related illnesses, hawthorn is valuable for treatment of angina pains.

Lady’s slipper comes from the root of the orchid. People are using this herb to treat muscle spasms, headaches, nervous depression, sharp stabbing pains, and fever. Today, lady’s slipper is also combined with valerian root (a nervine herb) to further its calming effects.

Herbs commonly taken for their soothing and pain relieving aspects include St. John’s Wort, hops, feverfew, devil’s claw, chamomile, licorice root, slippery elm, alfalfa, yucca, yerba mate,capsicum, magnolia, valerian and burdock root. Combination products are available in health food stores containing one or more of these herbal remedies.

Arnica, an external homeopathic remedy, is widely used to treat sports injuries involving sprains, bruises, hematoma, dislocations and swelling in conjunction with fractures. It also helps with rheumatic muscle and joint pain and inflammation due to insect bites, boils and phlebitis.

Colocynthis and Magnesia phosphorica are common homeopathic remedies for colic pain brought on by gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. Consult a professional for specific recommendations.

Natural Therapies & Treatments

Complementary therapies and techniques may include biofeedback, acupuncture, massage therapy, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, mediation, osteopathy, exercise, and relaxation practices.

Acupuncture is routinely used to relieve the pain of headaches, tennis elbow and chronic pain where the underlying cause has yet to be discovered. By inserting very fine needles along the energy pathways or meridians, acupuncture harmonizes and enhances the bodies’ natural restorative powers. It works well with other alternative healing therapies.

Hydrotherapy eases pain generated by inflammation using applications of bathing or compresses. For management of chronic pain, various hot and cold techniques offer a convenient and simple way to treat injured tissue. Epsom salts and a variety of essential oils will assist pain relief and induce sleep.

Energy devices known as TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) and Electro-Acuscope are commonly used for treating acute and chronic pain. These facilitators produce various frequencies and voltages of mild electrical stimulation to conduct tissue repair and management of pain.

Massage therapy uses a variety of techniques and strokes to provide healing and pain relief. Overtime, muscle spasms become hard fibrous tissue, often involved in chronic neck and back pain. Massage methods leave the body feeling rejuvenated while easing the pain of tense muscles.

Fear and anxiety amplify pain, while quietness of mind will help control it. Soft music, relaxation tapes and meditation can alleviate stress and relax muscles. Music generates a relaxation response, soothing the mind. Research suggests music also promotes the production of endorphins, our pain killing hormones.

Pain interferes with our daily enjoyment of life. But, once the cause of it is understood, there are many alternative therapies which have proven effective in managing and reducing chronic pain symptoms. While drugs may offer an immediate solution to relieve pain, restoring the bodies’ natural pain inhibitors will provide a more long-term solution to reducing or eliminating it altogether.

About the author

Dr. Michelle Honda is a practitioner of natural and preventative medicine. In addition to earning her doctorate in holistic health sciences, she holds an advanced degree in nutrition (RNCP), is a Master Herbalist and an IIPA Certified Iridologist. She practices at Renew You Holistic Health located at 1100 Golf Links Road in the Ancaster Meadowlands. Renew You is a multi-disciplinary clinic that offers a range of healing modalities. For more information please visit www.renewyou.ca, or you may contact the clinic at 905-304-0111.

Researchers, scientists and doctors are still trying to pinpoint the exact causes(s) of fibromyalgia and some researchers do believe that there are some valid points to the theory that it can be caused or at least contributed to food allergies; especially when it comes to delayed pattern food allergy and non-specific pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia.

Triggers are often discussed when it comes to flares in conditions such as fibromyalgia where one day symptoms are mild and the next they are severe. What causes the difference in intensity of symptoms from one day to the next? One explanation would be food sensitivities to staple food substances such as eggs, coffee, meat, milk and wheat.

One fact that seems to support the food allergies theory is that interestingly enough the one earliest symptom described by those who have yet to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia and that comes out after the diagnosis is that they first became aware of something being wrong when they noticed digestive system problems. This would suggest a connection between food sensitivities or food allergies and fibromyalgia.

There are however a different set of symptoms that are also known to be connected to food allergies that are not connected in any way to the digestive system and they include aches, confusion, irritability, food poisoning symptoms, drowsiness, and lack of motivation or energy and also headaches, skin rashes, depression or mental fogginess, joint and muscle pains and weight fluctuations. These symptoms are more likely to be associated with immune mechanisms then they would be with a food delay pattern allergy.

Because there are so many different symptoms associated with fibromyalgia there may be different manifestations of food allergies with different clinical conditions for instance those with fibromyalgia often suffer associated conditions such as asthma, and irritable bowel syndrome both of which can be manifested by food allergies.

Researchers have identified the following symptoms suffered by those who have been identified as having fibromyalgia that are and have been associated with food allergies including:

Abdominal pain (irritable bowel syndrome)

Bladder issues

Cold intolerance

Dry Eyes and mouth

Numbness or tingling in hands or feet

Restless legs syndrome

Secondary to growth hormone deficiency or to psychological problems

Researchers have also made a connection to immune system mechanisms that are common to both food allergies and fibromyalgia symptoms such as irregular or improper entry of food molecules into the bloodstream, the activation of certain immune cells and immune complexes and also the release of chemicals that are active immune cells. This occurs because the human body’s immune system is set to recognize foods that are toxic and may be harmful to the body.

So there you have the arguments for and against food allergies causing fibromyalgia. You can see why a cause for fibromyalgia has not been determined yet. There are many factors involved with so many different symptoms be attributed to fibromyalgia.

FibroFree Complex is a safe, non-addictive, FDA-registered natural remedy containing 100% homeopathic ingredients selected to relieve localized muscle pain, tender ligaments, sore tendons and tender spots on the body. FibroFree Complex may be taken at the first sign of tenderness as it works quickly to soothe body aches, cramps and pains, as well as alleviate facial pain and headaches.

This remedy contains a selection of homeopathic ingredients known to relieve fatigue and promote energy levels, mood and mental clarity (reducing the feeling of �brain fog’), without side effects. FibroFree Complex is taken internally and presented in a convenient, concentrated tincture formula. It is easy to ingest and hassle–free with no artificial colors or preservatives. It is safe for all ages, including pregnant women or those who may be breastfeeding.

There many different types of eczema which are allergic (contact dermatitis), asteatotic (affects the legs, manly in the elderly), atopic (affects the face, neck, elbows and knees), discoid (round lesions that affect the trunk and leg), lichen simplex (caused by irritation of the skin), photoallergic (caused by sunlight on sensitive skin), pompholyx (affects the fingers, hands and soles of the feet), seborrhoeic (affects the face and scalp) and statis (affects the lower leg).

Eczema has been linked to food allergies, so it would be wise to consult a nutritional therapist to discover which foods trigger the eczema. Typical trigger foods for eczema are diary products, wheat, soya, nuts and eggs also other chemicals additives in foods such as histamine, salicylates, benzoates and aromatic compounds found in spices can trigger eczema symptoms. In studies, when heavy coffee drinkers stopped drinking coffee their eczema symptoms improved, so coffee may well be another food allergy for eczema sufferers. Avoiding irritants such as hot water and soap can also be beneficial to eczema sufferers. Following a vegan type diet with plenty of seeds, leafy green vegetables, whole grains would be beneficial to the eczema sufferer.

The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Eczema.

Aloe Vera gel
Borage oil
Evening primrose oil
Fish Oil
Multivitamins and multiminerals
Probiotics
St John’s Wort
Vitamin C
Vitamin E

Related Natural Product 

ClearSkin-E Eczema Cream is a natural, safe herbal treatment for relief from symptoms including red, itchy and scaly skin; inflamed areas that may weep or bleed when scratched; blistering; cracked and painful skin; and risk of infection in severe cases. Regular use of Eczema Cream will reduce redness and dry skin, relieve discomfort and itching, prevent infection, and reduce scarring. It is recommended that Eczema Cream be used together with a course of Native Remedies‘ ImmunityPlus to strengthen the immune system and help prevent further outbreaks of Eczema in the future. Eczema Cream will give relief from irritation and discomfort almost immediately. Continued use will reduce the eczema patches until they disappear or are greatly reduced, depending on severity. Thereafter, Eczema Cream can be used whenever a new outbreak occurs, as early as possible to prevent the scratching that usually exacerbates it. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, ClearSkin-E Eczema Cream is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

About the author:

Stewart Hare C.H.Ed Dip NutTh – Advice for a healthier natural life

http://www.newbeingnutrition.com

First off, there are certain things that do not cause autism, and these myths should be laid to rest immediately. Most importantly, bad parenting does not cause autism. In the past, mothers were blamed for traumatizing their children with cold parenting techniques, which was believed to lead to autism. This is simple not true. Autism is also not caused by malnutrition, although food allergies occur in my autistic children and some autistic children do benefit from taking daily vitamins.

Many autistic individuals have other health problems related to immune deficiencies. Overall, these things all seem to point to genetics. Although autism is not the parents’ fault, it is most likely that autism was found elsewhere on your family tree, and it is not uncommon for parents to raise more than one autistic child. Autism may also be linked to vaccinations, although this is still being highly studied. The benefits of vaccinations greatly outweigh the risks of them causing autism, so you should not deprive your child simply because you are fearful. Talk to you doctor if you have concerns about vaccinations.

There are many links between autism and the brain. Most people with autism have larger brains, and they are “wired” differently than a typical brain. Differences occur in many parts of the brain, so it cannot be targeted to one specific brain malfunction overall, but rather a brain malfunction in general. Autistic children also show signs of an immune deficiency. Evidence in this study is not yet strong, but research is still being done.

Nobody knows what causes autism. Therefore, we can do nothing to prevent and cure it, but rather we can simply treat the autistic people in our lives with the best of our ability. Becoming educated in autism is the key-the more you know about the disorder, the better you can aid individuals who suffer from it. Autism is a complex problem, and as researchers develop new understandings of the way it affects the body, better treatment options will become available, with the hope that someday we will be able to cure this disease.

If this does not convince you let us look at the results of some of the studies conducted in different parts of the world. The first study that linked ADHD with lower levels of essential fatty acids was conducted in 1981. A similar study conducted in 1983 found lower levels of essential fatty acids in children with ADHD.

In an independent study conducted in Oxford, researchers reported that ADHD symptoms improved in children who received essential fatty acids in their diet. In 1996, researchers at Purdue University reported that boys with low levels of omega 3 fatty acids had higher incidence of ADHD. It is postulated that consumption of a diet that is high in protein content helps in alleviating symptoms of ADHD.

A research conducted at the George Washington University reported that the hyperactive children who consumed a meal that was high in protein content performed equally well and sometimes better than non hyperactive children at school. Another research showed lower levels of iron in about thirty three percent of children suffering from ADHD. Another interesting observation was that lower levels of iron lead to higher severity of symptoms.

It has also been observed that children who are suffering from ADHD have a higher probability of suffering from food allergies. It is postulated that presence of allergens in foods leads to a poor absorption of essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin C. In a controlled study, when the researchers removed these allergens, the hyperactivity in children reduced. When these allergens were reintroduced in the diet, the children again started showing the symptoms of ADHD. Though this link has not been proven conclusively, there is no harm in trying this method.

It is prudent to consider nutrition as one of the first aspects of treatment, be it as an alternative treatment or used in conjugation with pharmaceutical drugs. To summarize, one should modify the diet in such a way that it contains a judicious mix of proteins, vegetables and complex carbohydrates. Processed foods and simple sugars should be eliminated from the diet. The diet should contain required amounts of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and mineral and at the same time it should be free from food allergens. This will ensure that the production and utilization of energy is controlled effectively by the body, thereby resulting in a better focus and calm behavior.

A proper diet coupled with other forms of ADHD treatments like medication and behavior therapy can offer the best results in alleviating this condition. It is important that the diet plan be drawn up by an expert. If you are skeptical about feeding drugs to your child, you can try out natural medicines for ADHD treatment. Nowadays, natural remedies for ADHD are also becoming popular though these have not been scientifically studied.

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There are several different types of triggers that induce the asthmatic response including food allergies, environmental allergies, chemical allergies and airborne irritants. Among the list of food allergies is the response to alcohol. And asthma can be the response.

In a study published from Perth, Australia researchers looked at alcohol as a common trigger for asthma. In that study the researchers found, from a survey of over 300 patients, asthma that was triggered from alcohol happened quickly and was usually reversible with simple therapy.

In this study wine appeared to be the most common alcoholic trigger. 92% of those people in the survey that said that alcohol triggered their asthma attacks said the response developed following wine consumption. Those people who reported an asthma attack after wine were more often women, those people who take steroids, or individuals who had reported their first attack at a younger age.

It also appeared that brandy, whiskey, and vodka were found to have no affect on an asthmatic response. The researchers theorized that the increased response to alcohol and asthma is related to allergies to the sulfites in the wine.

It is important that people who have asthma are alerted to the fact that alcohol might trigger an asthmatic response. Physicians often find that patients may not feel comfortable bringing up their thoughts about the relationship between their alcohol and asthma attacks. However, once the doctor asks the sufferer usually recognizes the relationship and is happy to talk about it.

In the American Journal of Emergency Medicine in October 2001 researchers published a review of clinical and experimental studies, which reported that pure ethanol alcohol may have a beneficial effect on asthma. They proposed that more research should be undertaken before this treatment was used consistently. There did appear to be positive effects when used in severe life-threatening asthmatic responses. This appears to be opposed to the rest of the research about alcohol and asthma but on closer examination the pure alcohol used for beneficial response has no impurities or other allergens associated with it.

Scientists and doctors have questioned whether maternal intake of alcohol will encourage a response of asthma in children once they are born. In the Journal of Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research in 2004 researchers from Shanghai, China found that there was no link between maternal alcohol intake during pregnancy and asthmatic reactions in the children.

The link between alcohol and asthma has also been thought to be linked to a decreased enzymatic activity. In study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology in 1998 researchers from Nagasaki University in Japan reported that alcohol-induced asthma may be related to an abnormality of enzyme activity.

Interestingly research has found a link between positive testing for alcohol and asthma. In a study reported in the Medicina Clinica researchers found that asthmatic inhalers can trigger a positive breath alcohol response within the first minutes. However, after 10 minutes these interferences are not noticeable.

Research has shown a positive correlation between alcohol and asthma attacks. Education about asthma is the first defense against a chronic illness that affects tens of thousands of people each year. With education, prevention and carrying your medication you will be able to enjoy the occasional alcoholic drink with friends.

BronchoSoothe Tissue Salts is a proven, safe and effective natural remedy that contains a combination of biochemic tissue salts which promotes easy, comfortable and normal breathing for bronchitis and asthma sufferers. Regular use ensures systemic balance of biochemic tissue salts in the body, optimizes health at the cellular level, relieves symptoms of disease, restores health and vitality, optimizes the therapeutic effects of other remedies by improving systemic functioning and metabolism.

Formulated by a clinical psychologist, BronchoSoothe is pharmacetuically manufactured to the highest standards. This remedy can be combined with ImmunityPlus for those suffering from respiratory illnesses such as Bronchitis.

The family of digestive disturbances amounts to more than 2 million physician outpatient visits annually and almost 40% of referrals to a gastroenterologist.

Increasing public awareness with respect to the many diseases of the digestive system enables the best possible medical outcome and quality of life for current and future patients with digestive diseases. The importance of prevention, early diagnosis, and appropriate care for diseases of the digestive system needs to be stressed.

* More than 70 million people suffer from digestive disorders that interfere with their work and their lives.
* More people can be hospitalized for digestive diseases than for any other type of illness.
* Digestive diseases can be life-threatening; colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in the United States alone.
* Digestive diseases cost the nation an estimated $91 billion annually in health care costs, lost work days and premature deaths.

Poor digestion is also often at the root of many chronic ailments, such as low energy, pain, inflammation, arthritis, and allergies.

Natural remedies and treatment options for digestive problems and disorders include diet, herbs, supplements, home remedies, alternative therapies and more.

Natural and Alternative Treatments for Digestive Problems and Improving Your Digestion

* Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita) – Abdominal pain, the most frequent and disabling symptom of IBS, improves when the intestinal smooth muscles are relaxed. Peppermint oil can reduce abdominal pain and distension of IBS, possibly by blocking the influx of calcium into muscle cells and inhibiting excess contraction of intestinal smooth muscles. It is a carminative, which means it helps eliminate intestinal gas.

* Fennel seed (Foeniculum vulgare) – Fennel is another herb that is used to relieve spasm of the gastrointestinal tract, feelings of fullness, and flatulence. In Germany, fennel seed is licensed as a standard medical tea for dyspepsia.

* Gamma-oryzanol – Gamma-oryzanol is a natural substance isolated from rice bran oil. Studies have shown that it protects the mucus lining of the gastrointestinal tract by regulating nervous system control and exerts anti-oxidant activity. Clinically, gamma-oryzanol has been found to be effective in a broad range of gastrointestinal complaints, including irritable bowel.

* Magnesium is a mineral that has been used widely for treating abdominal cramps and constipation. It is obtained naturally from the diet, and is required for many metabolic activities in the body. Absorption of magnesium is reduced by high intake of calcium, alcohol, surgery, diuretics, liver or kidney disease, and oral contraceptive use. Fatigue, fibromyalgia, migraine, premenstrual syndrome, and dysmenorrhea are conditions associated with magnesium deficiency. Women with premenstrual syndrome who were found to have low magnesium were more likely to have excess sensitivity to pain with generalized aches and pains.

* Identify and remove food intolerances – Many foods can be removed from your diet for a brief period of time, and then re-introduced sequentially to isolate your body’s reaction to the offending foods. Food sensitivities are behind many digestive disorders. For example, between 33% and 66% of sufferers report having one or more food intolerances, resulting in bloating, gas, and pain. The most common culprits are milk, dairy and grains.

* Improve gut motility – Soluble fiber increases bowel transit and stools and relieves constipation. Increase your dietary fiber intake with good sources of fiber such as Dried fruit, such as dates, figs, prunes, apples, beans, legumes and ground flaxseeds. Psyllium is a good source of soluble fiber and is readily available. Sufficient water should be taken or fiber can have the opposite effect and result in greater constipation. Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) is licensed in Germany as a standard medicinal tea to treat distension, flatulence, dyspepsia, lack of appetite, and other digestive complaints.

* Get enough water – insufficient water intake is a primary cause of constipation. Constipation then causes an imbalance in bacteria, promotes inflammation of the intestinal lining, and can even lead to the absorption of larger molecules, a condition known as Leaky Gut. Leaky Gut can further lead to inflammation, fatigue, food allergies, and arthritis.

* Restore a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut – Increase good gut bacteria – Not all bacteria is bad. There are over 400 different kinds of bacteria and yeasts in the digestive system. Of these, the bacteria Lactobacillus acidophillus and Bifidobacterium bifidum are considered good “probiotic” bacteria because they can help to maintain intestinal health and restore healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. They can decrease the amount of bacteria with gas-producing abilities and relieve symptoms such as abdominal distension and flatulence. Bifidobacterium acts as a barrier against colonization of the gastrointestinal tract by pathogenic bacteria, and lactobacillus inhibits the attachment of pathogens onto the intestinal mucus lining.

* Pancreatic enzymes help to inhibit the growth of bacteria in the small intestine. They help to improve protein digestion. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) also inhibits bacteria, and prevents the conversion of proteins to vasoactive amines.

Symptoms vary from person to person and are more common among women, but anyone can get and experience digestive problems and disorders. Many digestive problems are also associated with non-gastrointestinal conditions such as headache, low back pain, arthritis, non-cardiac chest pain, difficult urination and fibromyalgia. Anxiety, hostile feelings, sadness, depression, and sleep disturbances are also associated with IBS and other digestive problems. Sometimes stress and certain foods can worsen symptoms, although they do not cause digestive problems.

Misunderstandings about diseases and problems that affect the digestive system still exist. However, these misunderstanding and myths can be dangerous if it keeps you from correctly preventing or treating an illness.

As part of Digestive Diseases Awareness Month in May, read up on these interesting common misconceptions and Digestive Disease Myths and factual follow-ups:

Myth # 1: Crohn’s disease is contagious.

False
Crohn’s disease is not contagious. The cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown. Although diet may affect the symptoms in patients with Crohn’s disease, it is unlikely that diet is responsible for the disease.

Myth # 2: Inflammatory bowel disease is caused by psychological problems.

False
Inflammatory bowel disease is the general name for two diseases that cause inflammation in the intestines, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The cause of the disease is unknown, but researchers speculate that it may be a virus or bacteria interacting with the body’s immune system.

Myth # 3: Spicy food and stress cause stomach ulcers.

False
Truth is, almost all stomach ulcers are caused either by infection with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) or by use of pain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAID-induced ulcers can be cured with time, stomach-protective medications, antacids, and avoidance of NSAIDs. Spicy food and stress may aggravate ulcer symptoms in some people, but they do not cause ulcers.

Myth # 4: Smoking a cigarette helps relieve heartburn.

False
Actually, cigarette smoking contributes to heartburn. Heartburn occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter -a muscle between the esophagus and stomach-relaxes, allowing the acidic contents of the stomach to splash back into the esophagus. Cigarette smoking causes the LES to relax.

Myth # 5: Bowel regularity means a bowel movement every day.

False
The frequency of bowel movements among normal, healthy people varies from three a day to three a week, and perfectly healthy people may fall outside both ends of this range.

Myth # 6: Habitual use of enemas to treat constipation is harmless.

False
The truth is, habitual use of enemas is not harmless. Over time, enemas can impair the natural muscle action of the intestines, leaving them unable to function normally. An ongoing need for enemas is not normal; you should see a doctor if you find yourself relying on them or any other medication to have a bowel movement.

Myth # 7: Celiac disease is a rare childhood disease.

False
Celiac disease affects children and adults. At least 1 in 1,000 people and, in some populations, 1 in 200 people have celiac disease. Most often, celiac disease first causes symptoms during childhood, usually diarrhea, growth failure, and failure to thrive. But the disease can also first cause symptoms in adults. These symptoms may be vague and therefore attributed to other conditions. Symptoms can include bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, skin rash, anemia, and thinning of the bones (osteoporosis). Celiac disease may cause such nonspecific symptoms for several years before being correctly diagnosed and treated.

People with celiac disease should not eat any foods containing gluten, a protein in wheat, rye, barley, and possibly oats, regardless of whether or not they have symptoms. In these people, gluten destroys part of the lining of the small intestine, which interferes with the absorption of nutrients. The damage can occur from even a small amount of gluten, and not everyone has symptoms of damage.

Myth # 8: Diverticulosis is an uncommon and serious problem.

False
Actually, the majority over age 60 have diverticulosis, but only a small percentage have symptoms or complications. Diverticulosis is a condition in which little sacs – or out-pouchings – called diverticula, develop in the wall of the colon. These tend to appear and increase in number with age. Most people do not have symptoms and would not know that they had diverticula unless x-ray or intestinal examination were done. Less than 10% of people with diverticulosis ever develop complications such as infection (diverticulitis), bleeding, or perforation of the colon.

Myth # 9: Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the least common ailments of the bowel (intestines).

False
Actually, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common ailments of the bowel (intestines) and affects an estimated 15%. Some of the symptoms of IBS are nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, abdominal distention diarrhea and constipation.

Digestion is a natural process; therefore, you should treat all digestive problems and disorders naturally and effectively.

Gastronic Dr. is a natural, safe, effective and powerful herbal formula to help relieve and prevent flare-ups stomach disorders such as IBS, Crohn’s Disease, Gastritis, Acid Reflux (GERD), Ulcerative Colitis and Diverticulosis.

Use this remedy to prevent the flare ups of these conditions; tone the entire digestive system, soothe the stomach lining and maintain healthy digestive and bowel functioning; fight against harmful free radicals in your body and promote healthy absorption of nutrients. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, Gastronic Dr. is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

Sources: Gut, published April 24, 2006; Truestar Health Inc.; Cathy Wong, N.D from About.com Your Guide to Alternative Medicine; Foundation for Digestive Health and Nutrition Digestive Health Education; MedicineNet.com

There are four conditions that can be confused with diarrhea including incontinence of stool rectal urgency, incomplete evacuation and having a bowel movement immediately after a meal.

True diarrhea is defined as a frequency increase in bowel movement with consistency or looseness of stools. When you have diarrhea you have more bowel movements than you normally do. Typically an abnormal amount of bowel movements would be a number greater than 5 bowel movements in one day.

The consistency of stools when one has diarrhea are liquid or watery and abnormal in shape.

Diarrhea is the body’s way to eliminate undesirable substances from the body and may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, stomach pain, thirst, fever, nausea, and dehydration. Diarrhea and vomiting can cause fluid loss and lead quickly to dehydration, which can be dangerous in very young infants and in the elderly.

There can be many different causes for diarrhea including bacteria in food or water, food allergies, having a virus, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, taking too many laxatives, consumption of large amounts of caffeine and also some medications such as tetracycline, clyndamycin and also penicillin can cause diarrhea.

If you have eaten spoiled food you should take homeopathic Arsenicum to control the bowel discharge without interferring in the elimination of toxins from the body.

Drinking blackberry tea can be helpful in cases of mild diarrhea.

If you are unsure of the cause of diarrhea it is a wise thing to take wild oregano oil because it is an antibacterial, an anti parasitic and an anti viral so no matter what the cause for your diarrhea you’ve got it covered.

Ginger tea will stop the cramping often associated with diarrhea.

You want to drink lots of fluids when you have diarrhea in order to avoid dehydration. It is good to drink carrot juice or gingerale.

Charcoal is also used to relieve ailments such as indigestion, diarrhea, intestinal bloating, vomiting and nausea. Charcoal helps to detoxify both the liver and the kidneys.

If diarrhea is present in infants or the elderly it is important to improve the condition as soon as possible. Seek medical advice if diarrhea persists to avoid dehydration.

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Related Natural Product

Advosis accurately addresses several causes of diarrhea-related illness without dietary manipulation. Ingredients such as bentonite clay, probiotics, nutritional yeasts, activated charcoal, and soluble fibers, help to resolve diarrhea‘s symptoms by assisting in the elimination of toxins, while promoting a natural balance of flora in the digestive tract. Advosis also helps to add bulk and reduce the fluidity of stools with its inclusion of blond psyllium seed and husk. By reducing diarrheal duration and improving the current health of your digestive tract, Advosis can be a welcome component to any protocol that has been designed for diarrhea treatment, regardless of its severity.

There are differences between anxiety attacks and panic attacks that involve the length and intensity of the symptoms.

People who suffer from anxiety attacks find that the symptoms come on more slowly than with panic attacks and the symptoms in anxiety attacks last longer than those in people suffering from panic attacks.

Research from the Mayo Clinic believe that between 10 and 20% of US citizens will have a panic attack at some point in their lives.

A panic attack happens with the natural flight or fight reaction kicks in at the wrong time. This is an involuntary physiological response that happens when the body is preparing to deal with an emergency or dangerous situation.

When stress causes an increase in adrenaline it will cause the body to increase metabolism to quickly produce energy. The muscles become more tense, heart beat and breathing accelerate and the blood composition actually changes slightly.

At times outside of a dangerous situation these symptoms can be frightening and distressing. A person experiencing these symptoms can find that thinking clearly is nearly impossible.

Panic attacks are usually intense, happen quickly and usually stop within 20 to 30 minutes. Anxiety attacks will be less intense but will last longer periods of time. They can happen at any time of the day, even the night during sleep. The attacks are unpredictable and can happen several times a day or just once every couple of weeks.

There are triggers that can cause a panic attack or other physical symptoms that will then trigger a panic attack. Iron deficiency and panic attacks is one of those triggers. Peoples attacks can be triggered by hypoglycemia and food allergies as well. Caffeine can also bring on an attack especially in an over-indulgence of the drug.

Certain types of anxiety disorders can run in families and be hereditary. In some cases these are linked to a heart abnormality known as Mitral Valve Prolapse more common in women than men.

When considering ways to cope with anxiety and panic attacks people must also consider not only coping mechanisms during the attack but also considering other physical situations that may trigger a panic attack.

For instance, low calcium and magnesium levels can trigger panic attacks or anxiety attacks. Iron deficiency and panic attacks have also been linked to panic attacks. A multivitamin with a mineral complex will help the individual meet their vitamin needs as well as for potassium and selenium, important for brain functioning.

Iron deficiency and panic attacks are linked in the literature and case studies. In fact panic attacks are affected by nutrition more than was previously thought. Today researchers know that anxiety disorders are affected by nutritional intake and the health of persons body. One of the actions that people who suffer from anxiety disorders can do to help their disorders is to watch their nutritional basis.

MindSoothe is a specially formulated herbal remedy that has been successfully used in the treatment of Depression, Insomnia, OCD, SAD, Panic Disorder, and Anxiety. Being natural, with no artificial preservatives, MindSoothe is safe for adults and children (also see MindSootheJr. for children), is non-addictive and has NO SIDE EFFECTS.

It has become the formula of choice by thousands of satisfied customers around the world for treating depression, insomnia, anxiety, ODD and more. MindSoothe is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards and was formulated by a Clinical Psychologist.

Homeopathy & blood pressure treatment is often prescribed through a homeopathic practitioner. This is a professional who has received special training and education in the use of homeopathic techniques and substances to effect a holistic positive change in a persons health.

The goals of treatment for homeopathy & blood pressure is to decrease the need to little or no medication by making lifestyle changes in the persons life in the way of exercise, weight loss, nutritional support and supplements that replace nutritional deficiencies and support general health. All of these things combined are able to lower blood pressure and give your body the support it needs to perform at optimal levels.

The use of homeopathy & blood pressure treatments are aimed at a more natural approach to treatment instead of using standard Western medicine. In the past 200 years over 50% of the medications brought onto the market for general public use have been recalled after negative side effects overwhelmed whatever positive effects the drugs were supposed to have.

Homeopathic practitioners have found that using natural changes in their patients lifestyle as well support the general health of the patient will often give the patients body the provisions it needs to attain and maintain health.

*Homeopathic physicians also will teach their patients the true art of relaxation, which may include the use of meditation, deep breathing, hypnosis or yoga. Research has found that the use of these homeopathic techniques help patients to control their blood pressure with less medication than would otherwise be used.

If you chose to use homeopathic substances then you must inform your regular doctor and consult your pharmacist. These substances, although natural, are also drugs. Even most of traditional medicine began as natural substances but were remanufactured in the lab to cut costs and increase production. For instance, digoxin a commonly used heart medication has its roots in Foxglove, a common garden flower.

Consulting and informing your doctor will give him the opportunity to use medications that wont interact or interfere with the substances you plan to use with the homeopathic physician. However, as knowledgeable as your doctor is, his first education and training is in the art of diagnosis and treatment. On the other hand, pharmacists spend years learning about how drugs work in your body and how they interact in your body. This knowledge makes them an invaluable asset in the continued treatment, control and support of your blood pressure and health.

These painful sores can also be found on the soft palate and the tonsil areas.  There are many causes for canker sores in the mouth, and most are preventable.

An injury such as biting the inside of the cheek can turn into a painful canker sore.  An immune system that attacks healthy cells in the mouth instead of viruses and bacteria can also cause these types of mouth ulcers.

If you are deficient in vitamins or minerals such as zinc, folic acid, iron or B12 you may develop canker sores.

Food allergies or certain foods which are highly acidic can cause canker sores in the mouth.  These include:

* Chocolate
* Acidic foods, oranges or pineapple
* Strawberries
* Eggs
* Cheese
* Nuts
* Coffee

Emotional stress and hormonal changes also cause canker sores, as well as some toothpastes and mouth rinses. Intestinal disorders, Chrohn’s disease and other inflammatory bowel diseases may also cause this mouth disorder.

Cures for these painful sores include eating three kiwis each day, drinking unpasteurized goat’s milk, or using Aloe Vera juice as a mouth rinse.  Sound too exotic?  If so, here are a few more remedies that you are more likely to find in your kitchen cupboard.

Rinse your mouth with baking soda or warm salt water.  Put a dab of horseradish on the sore, eat raw tomatoes or drink tomato juice.  You may also want to mix cinnamon and water and then gargle the mixture.

Onions become your friend when you have canker sores.  Apply a bit of raw onion to the sore or place an ice cube on the ulcer site.  Apply a dab of cinnamon to your canker sore to help it heal faster.

The remedy my grandmother used with me was Alum – and it always worked. It will sting somewhat, but I’ve found nothing faster at clearing up canker sores. To effectively use alum (Ammonium Alum), which can be found at most pharmacies, simply wet a clean finger tip, dip it in the powder and apply a small amount directly to the sore(s). Do this several times a day and you’ll soon find your mouth free and clear from those painful mouth ulcers.

You can also make a salt water/baking soda mixture to rinse your mouth with by combining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of warm water.  You also may make a paste of baking soda and apply to each sore.  Dabbing a bit of milk of magnesia on your sore several times a day will help ease the pain and make healing go faster.

Several more exotic home cures will send you to your local health food store.  Buy carob honey or raw tehina and dab it on the sore or buy ingredients to make barley tea.  Plum juice is said to reduce the pain of canker sores, as does carob juice.

Soak coriander leaves in warm water, and then strain the mixture and use as a mouth rinse.  Another effective mouth rinse is made by pouring two cups of boiling water on two tablespoons of Marjoram.  Let it sit for ten minutes and use as a gargle.  Coriander leaves can be used in the same way.

One preventive measure for stopping canker sores from forming is to not use any toothpaste or mouthwash which contains sodium laurel sulfate.  Canker sores are uncomfortable and painful and tend to grow quickly.

Without using any remedies or medical treatment, they can take a week to 10 days to clear up on their own. Use one of the above remedies as soon as you realize you have a canker sore forming.

Related Natural Product

Help fight painful canker sores and get soothing relief with Monoplex. Now nutritional scientists, in partnership with nature have created an all-natural formula to help fight these awful outbreaks, soothe the tenderness, and promote your natural healing powers. It’s called Monoplex. In clinical studies on the individual ingredients, it was demonstrated that canker sores can be significantly reduced in the first month. Further studies have found that after three months of supplementation, canker sores may not appear for up to 1 year following the supplement regimen.

Many oils can be used to treat many ailments and conditions of your growing children. However, care must be taken in treating children with oils, although there are many numbers of safe ones. If used in original concentration, oils may work adversely and cause skin burn and irritation.

Most common dosage for any aromatic oil would be one-third to one-half the adult dose, or a 1-percent dilution (five or six drops of oil per ounce of carrier oil), and don’t forget that citruses may irritate the skin.

Chamomile, Melissa and fennel are usually used as massage oil, or taken as herb tea. These oils are known to soothe a variety of tummy-aches-and the problems that can lead to stomachaches, such as frayed nerves, anxiety and over excitability. More common problems like colic, gas pains, and nausea and food allergies are also treated by oils.

A chamomile, fennel and Melissa herb tea with licorice helps stop crying and fussing in infants with colic. Essential oils relieve muscle spasms caused when babies swallow air as they eat. Herbal gripe water is still being used all over the world to get rid of colic pains. A carminative water mix contains fennel, chamomile, caraway, coriander and bitter orange peel, all known to kill bacteria and relieve flatulence.

Most digestive problems are reduced by a simple tummy massage using one of the oils. Tummy-Rub Oil can be formulated as follows:

* 2 drops Roman chamomile
* 1 drop fennel
* 2 drops dill
* 1 drop Melissa
* 1 ounce base oil

Mix together and massage the tummy gently.

A suggested treatment for children before bedtime is a warm lavender and chamomile oil bath. Most children just love taking baths, particularly if they have their own personal blends. Popular fragrances include orange, grapefruit and tangerine – all antidepressants and relaxants.

Nature’s gentle but powerful relaxant teas such as Melissa, lavender and chamomile have the property to calm a nervous, over-stimulated, over-excited child, make headaches go away and gently induce sleep.

Placing a cool compress of lavender on the forehead will give much needed relief from a headache, sleeplessness or over-exertion. Frankincense used as a vaporizer or as massage oil is safe and effective for respiratory congestion or infection.

Other safe oils for children include mandarin, marjoram, neroli, jasmine and pettigrain. Tea of yarrow, catnip, peppermint and elder flower are known to reduce the symptoms of measles, chicken pox or mumps; ginger with a touch of lemon juice is also effective.

The soreness of mumps is lessened by syrups and gargles made from teas of thyme, rosemary or sage. Antiviral oils made from Melissa and bergamot has proven effective against the mumps and chicken-pox viruses. For teething pain in toddlers and young children, give chamomile tea and rub the gums with a little diluted clove oil on your finger.

The following formula may be used for swollen tonsils, mumps and other lymphatic swelling in the neck area:

Neck Wrap

* 2 cups warm water
* 8 drops lavender oil

Mix the water with the oil. While the water is still warm, soak a soft cloth, preferably flannel, in the water and wring it out. Wrap the cloth around the neck. Cover with a towel to hold in the heat. Remove before it gets cold. Repeat as many times as you wish.

Oils are universal in nature, as they are known to work in every condition, in all times of the year. Oils prove very handy in times of distress and need; a few drops of essential oil are all needed to reduce the symptoms in children.

About the author

Lily Smith is the owner of http://www.Net-Buy-E.com for more information on Aromatherapy

Common triggers that have been identified are reactions to food or other allergy producing substances, bright lights, loud noises, stress that is either physical or emotional in nature, changes in your patterns of sleep, exposure to tobacco smoke or being a smoker yourself, fasting, consuming alcoholic beverages, and hormonal fluctuations. Some individuals have even reported that when they have a tension headache that often triggers a migraine headache to start.

Exploring these triggers:

Food or other allergy producing substances – If you happen to have a particular food as a trigger for your migraines…the reaction is cumulative; in other words…if you eat a large portion of the food item that is a trigger for you then the corresponding reaction is going to be huge too. The food as a trigger concept is not in agreement by most researchers so whether or not a particular food is a trigger for you is determined on an individual basis.

It is probably wise if you are experiencing a food trigger for migraines that you have a food allergy skin test conducted so that you can determine if what you are experiencing is a case of food allergies with headache being one of the allergic reaction symptoms.

One more noteworthy mention regarding food and migraines is that there have been some cases where migraine suffers have noticed that if they eat at a Chinese restaurant where MSG is included in the cuisine served that they experience a migraine afterwards. Excluding all other triggers, it may be possible for the individual to be allergic to MSG and have that allergic reaction result in a headache that could trigger a migraine attack.

We do know that headaches are a symptom of allergic reactions including reactions of an allergic reaction to food and chemicals in food such as MSG. We also know that tension headaches can trigger a migraine so the connection is possible between the ingestion of MSG and the onset of a migraine. Like any other triggers the possibilities of food being a trigger needs to be explored on an individual basis between the doctor and the patient.

Bright lights and loud noises – Most of those who suffer from migraines will include sensitivity to bright lights and loud noises as a symptom of the migraine and not as a trigger. Migraines are a neurological event and as such science has many areas that are unknown. The exact cause for migraines is still largely unknown although cases have been studied on an individual basis and between doctor and patient what works best regarding things to avoid (triggers) serves the purpose.

If avoiding a noisy atmosphere such as a crowded, noisy bar helps you to avoid migraines, who is to argue? Avoiding bright lights may not be as easy to accomplish because we can control the lighting in personal spaces like at home or perhaps in a separate work environment like an office but if you work in a cubicle that you share with 20 other employees you are not likely to be able to control the lighting choice.

Stress – Physical and emotional stress can be identified using a journal or by making use of psychological counseling. Counseling is also a good avenue for exploring how to deal with these stresses. Stress induced migraines are quite common because there is an obvious link between our emotional state and our physical state.

Tobacco smoke and alcoholic consumption – These are both lifestyle choices and decisions about participating in smoking or drinking needs to be based on individual decision making processes. Certainly health concerns often force us to re-evaluate these lifestyle choices.

The unfortunate situation arises when an individual is forced to be exposed to and inhale second-hand tobacco smoke especially if that turns out to be a trigger for migraines. Avoiding second-hand smoke is not always possible if the one suffering from migraines is a child. This is where parental responsibility should kick in.

Asthma has many different triggers or mechanisms that will start an asthma attack. Triggers include chemicals, cleaning supplies, perfumes, emotional stress, environmental allergies, barometric pressure changes, cold weather, food allergies, pets, mold, smoke and pests such as cockroaches and rats.

Most of the solutions to asthmatic attacks include medications, steroids and long term medical treatments. One immediate natural relief for asthma is to avoid the triggers such as avoiding pets, chemicals, environmental allergens and emotional stress. Some triggers are unavoidable such as barometric pressure changes and cold weather or pest droppings in buildings that require your presence.

Other triggers such as emotional stressors can be treated with natural remedies such as stress reducers. Other people turn to herbs and organic foods that have potential positive effects on the prevention of an attack.

Another treatment that provides immediate natural relief for asthma is to work toward prevention by improving the immune system and decreasing the constrictions of the bronchioles and alveoli (air sacs) in the lungs. Families use aerosolized hydrogen peroxide in a humidifier to increase the amount of oxygen that a sufferer is able to metabolize.

Adding hydrogen peroxide to the humidifier has been shown to have a positive effect on increasing the amount of oxygen that is able to be used. Adding the hydrogen peroxide will vaporize the product but will also bleach out the wall and curtains near the vaporizer. With the consent of your doctor and appropriate methodology the hydrogen peroxide can be added to the machines that deliver your bronchodilator.

This is a method that helps to eliminate some of the attacks and improve the immune system but it doesnt address the underlying cause of the asthma. Other methods of decreasing emotional stress will also give immediate natural relief for an asthma attack caused by stress. One method is the use of Reiki or a Japanese technique used for stress reduction and relaxation that promotes healing.

Reiki is based on the idea of an unseen life force of energy that supposedly flows through us and what causes life. If the life flow is low then we are supposedly more likely at that time to get sick and feel stress. If the Reiki is high we are more capable, happy and healthy. Reiki can provide immediate natural relief for asthma that treats the whole person body, emotions, mind and spirit.

Using prevention and stress reduction will help decrease the need for medications are immediate natural relief for asthma attacks.

BioVent is a natural, safe and proven remedy that is a unique combination of herbal and homeopathic ingredients to assist with the management of chronic asthma, support of bronchial and respiratory health for easy breathing, and the control and prevention of asthma attacks.

Used daily, it can improve respiratory functioning and health, reduce the incidence and severity of asthma attacks and strengthen the immune system. May be combined with BronchoSoothe.  BioVent was formulated by a clinical psychologist and is pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards.

Some doctors believe that there is an imbalance in the body which is why you have eczema. In some cases, the body is producing too many or too few hormones. One example is when you have low thyroid function. When this happens, you will also have poor blood circulation and your skin will now develop the symptoms of eczema such as blistering, itching, oozing and swelling.

Eating also causes some people to have eczema. In fact, some patients have complained of certain food allergies before the flare-ups occur.

We all know that if we sustain an infection, the immune system will not work properly and your body will shut down. When this happens, we are also vulnerable to this skin disorder. A casing point is the growth of Candida albicans which is a yeast type infection.

Aside from ingesting something that may soon make you give you eczema, it is also possible that you either inhaled it or this was absorbed by your skin. This can happen if something overloaded your kidney and liver.

Believe it or not, stress has also been known to cause eczema because the body produces cortisol, a hormone that affects the intestinal tract by destroying friendly bacteria. As a result, your digestive system becomes impaired. You will feel pain in your stomach and when it happens more often, you may soon develop ulcers. This will soon affect other systems in the body and then make you vulnerable to eczema.

Eczema is also hereditary. This means if someone in your family like your parents or grandparents had this before, there is the possibility that you will also have it.

So now what? Well, knowing what caused eczema will make it easier for doctors to figure out how to help you. If the trigger factors were determined, you will be advised to stay away from it so that after you have undergone treatment, you will not encounter flare-ups.

Should eczema be stress related, you will be advised to stay away from activities that make it come back. You could talk to your boss and tell them about your condition. This will allow him or her to lessen your workload and give this to someone else rather than seeing you in such terrible shape.

Sadly, there is nothing you can do if it is genetic. The only thing doctors can do is tell you what to do when it happens and how to prevent it from recurring. Proper hygiene is probably the best advice because with the help of moisturizers, you will be able to keep your skin healthy.

There are also supplements you can take to help fight against eczema and you can get this over the counter at the drug store.

Based on the different causes mentioned, you can say that doctors have not really pinpointed the exact cause of eczema. Yes there is speculation that certain abnormalities may have caused this but this is different for each person who has even been diagnosed with it.

The only good news is that there is eczema treatment available. Before you try anything, it is best to get yourself diagnosed rather than self-medicating because you could only make matters worse.

The doctor might prescribe daily medication and rescue medication to control your episodes and allow you to live an active life. The task of preventative measures is up to you and your family. If you learn some key asthma self-help items you can keep your asthma under control.

Asthma is triggered or is worsened by many things in your environment. It is your responsibility to learn your triggers and learn how to avoid them. There are so many things you can do that require little energy and less change to your lifestyle and that can also make a huge difference in the management of your asthma.

Here are the top 10 ways you can make a positive impact on the treatment of your disease.

1.The most important step in asthma management is to continue to follow your doctors recommendations and prescriptions. If you feel better that isnt a reason to stop the treatment. If you have a concern about the medication you are taking or you feel you would do better with another medication then you should speak with your doctor first before discontinuing the meds you are on.

2.If your doctor prescribes peak flow values in your asthma management program follow the schedule and graph or record those values. If your doctor doesnt suggest peak flow values ask to do them. This will give you a better perspective about your condition and more information for the doctor to follow when you have an episode.

3.Smoke is a very common trigger. If you smoke quit. If you have a wood burning stove in the house do your best to find and use another heating source. Clean the walls of the house with a mild solution of vinegar and water to get rid of the residue on the walls.

4.Include dust removal in your asthma management program. Dust is another common trigger and can carry mites and other allergens. Shop for a vacuum cleaner that has the least amount of dust pumped back into the air. Remove all dust catchers in the home if you can. This includes carpets and draperies. If you cant remove them then vacuum very frequently.

5.Dust mites are another asthma trigger and you should work to decrease the possibility of their presence in your home in your asthma management program. Avoid using stuffed decorations like stuffed animals in a childs room or lots of pillows on an adults bed. Dont use down feather comforters and pillows that also harbor dust mites. Cover your mattress in a plastic cover.

6.Asthma management goes beyond the house environment. Cold is another trigger for many asthmatics. When you go outside cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to warm the air before it reaches your lungs. Try to breath through your nose which is a natural heater and humidifier.

7.Pet dander is another asthma trigger and important in your asthma management program. If you cant part with your pet then dont allow them in your bedroom which is where you spend at least six hours each day. Brush them frequently, including cats, and if they will tolerate the vacuum cleaner run the hose portion over them once weekly.

8.Be aware of what you eat and drink if you have food allergies. Although food allergies have a different reaction they can also trigger asthmatic episodes. Be sure you read the ingredients in processed and prepared foods for hidden ingredients or preservatives to which you react. If you can, try eating as much raw, whole food as possible.

9.Monitor the outdoor air quality daily. You can usually find this number on the news channels or their websites. During the springtime when pollens are numerous keep the windows in house shut and the air conditioner on. It might be more expensive and the spring air might feel better but youll have less episodes and youll feel healthier.

10.In your asthma management program include the mold count and keep it down. It is a common allergen and asthma trigger. You may be thinking black mold growing under the floorboards of the house as the mold to be concerned about. Actually, mold that is more subtle and insidious can also be a problem for asthmatics. Keep the shower clean. Showering in a molded shower only releases the spores when the hot water hits it. Dry your wet laundry immediately which means the wet towels from the kids in the summer dont sit in the laundry basket for 24 hours waiting to be washed. Hang them outside for a couple of hours to dry them before putting them in the basket to be washed. Remove houseplants in your home as mold grows in the soil. Or replace the top layer of soil every month if you cant bear to part with your favorite plant.

Take these suggestions into consideration when you are developing you asthma management program. You can use a method of elimination to help you keep the items that might be more important to you such as your pets and plants.

Your asthma management program is important to the control of your asthma. Design it well and youll be happier and healthier.

We have all suffered a headache at some time or another. Over the last several years, new research has shown that there are basically two types of headaches: mechanical and vascular.

Mechanical headaches come about because of joint and muscle dysfunction in the neck. There are seven vertebrae in your neck, making up many different joints. There are also numerous muscles and ligaments in the same area. These anatomical structures are full of nerves that transmit pain into the spinal cord and then up to a part of your brain called the trigeminocervical area. This area of your brain receives pain signals from your neck and the head itself. Thus, whether the source of pain is your head or your neck, your brain doesn’t distinguish between the two, and you get a “headache.”

Chiropractors, as well as other healthcare practitioners, have known for years that when a joint or muscle becomes restricted, it becomes inflamed and sends a message of pain to the brain. Causes of joint restriction can be poor posture, extended use of the computer, stress and lack of exercise. Stress increases muscle tension and restriction of blood flow to the head.

According to an article in the Journal of the Neuromusculoskeleta l System, the frequency of headaches in both the short and long term was greatly reduced in subjects treated with spinal manipulation — more so than those who received Motrin. There have been over 10 studies in the last 20 years that clearly indicate that spinal manipulation is very effective in relieving headaches. Other studies have shown similar results with massage and acupuncture.

Vascular headaches are generally a result of too much vasoconstriction, or narrowing of the arteries, followed by a rapid vasodilation, or widening of the vessels. It is believed that the vasodilation is what actually causes the headache. This imbalance in blood constriction and dilation can be due to food or chemical allergies. There have been numerous studies that clearly identify the relationship of food allergies to headaches.

Unfortunately, most allopathic allergists do not recognize food allergies as a major contributor to headaches. Part of the problem is that if an allergenic food is consumed, the proteins from the food circulate throughout the body and gut and signal to the immune system to release white blood cells to react to the food. This is a very slow process and can take hours. On the other hand, some allergens, such as animal hair, molds or even bee stings, use a part of the immune system that is fast-acting and will employ different white blood cells to react to the allergen. Allergists routinely perform skin scratch tests to detect the sort of allergy that has a rapid rather than delayed response.

Tests that can detect food allergies:

* Blood testing: This works by looking at your blood for antibodies to certain foods. If, for example, the test shows antibodies to green pepper, this would indicate that your body has recently been reacting to that food. This test is fairly accurate, but expensive.
* Food elimination diet: All suspected foods are completely eliminated from the diet for two months. The foods are slowly reintroduced one at a time to see which one causes symptoms to occur. This is a fairly accurate method but takes a long time, and compliance is very low.
* Applied Kinesiology: This is a form of muscle testing where someone pushes down on the arm of the person suspected of having allergies. If the patient tastes or holds the offending food, the arm will go weak. The theory behind muscle testing is that the body can sense different energies in foods and substances. If the object is something the body doesn’t like, it creates a general weakness throughout the body. This is a painless, inexpensive and fairly accurate method.
* Pulse test: Take your pulse for one minute. Repeat two more times to establish an accurate baseline. Next, place the suspected food allergen on your tongue for thirty seconds, then take your pulse again for one minute. If you have a sensitivity to that food, your pulse will increase by at least 3 – 4 beats. This response is called an autonomic response. When you taste something, the body is designed to react to it immediately. An example is if you are thirsty and drink water. You no longer have thirst, but the water has not actually entered your blood or circulatory system. It is a purely neurological response and can change a heart rate, as well.

If you are looking for ways to help get rid of your headaches, and you suspect food allergies, try taking quercetin, 500 mg a day. Evening primrose oil, two grams per day and magnesium, 500 mg a day are also very helpful.

Thomas Edison said, “The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet, and in the causes and prevention of disease.” This couldn’t be truer when it comes to headaches.

David Ramaley, N.D., D.C., D.A.C.N.B. practices naturopathy and chiropractic care in Seattle: 206-306-7797 or www.seattlenaturalh ealth.com.