Conditions

Overview of Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is a condition which occurs during pregnancy that affects approximately more than half of all pregnant women, but it may also be experienced by women using hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy. Usually prominent during the early hours of the morning, morning sickness can occur during any part of the day including during the night.

This condition may be experienced only as mild nausea, or it may cause actual vomiting. In only about 1% of all pregnancies, vomiting may become severe enough to cause dehydration, weight loss, alkalosis (a condition in which the pH of the blood is elevated beyond normal and results in hypoventilation as an attempt to balance the pH), and hypokalemia (a condition in which the concentration of potassium (K+) in the blood is low which may result in elevated blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, and/or muscle weakness); this severe form of morning sickness is known as hyperemesis gravidarum.

Morning sickness may be one of the earliest signs that a woman may be expecting a child and usually begins around the 6th week of pregnancy, and it seems to cease around the 12th week of pregnancy for most pregnant women which marks the end of the first trimester and the beginning of the second trimester of pregnancy. However, morning sickness may continue throughout the entire pregnancy for some women.

Alternative names of Morning Sickness

• Nausea gravidarum
• Nausea
• Vomiting of pregnancy
• Emesis gravidarum
• NVP
• Pregnancy sickness

Symptoms of Morning Sickness

Nausea during pregnancy which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting.

Causes of Morning Sickness

• Some women are sensitive to the hundredfold increase in the hormone estrogen circulating in their blood.
• Progesterone also increases which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus as well as the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines resulting in excessive amounts of stomach acids which leads to heartburn, or gastrointestinal reflux.
• Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, may be to blame for nausea and/or vomiting in pregnancy due to the placenta taking energy from the expectant mother.
• A sudden increase in the pregnancy hormone, HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), may inevitably cause nausea.
• Increases in the hormone cholecystokinin causes slowed digestion in order for more efficient nutrient absorption to take place both for the mother as well as the growing fetus.
• Perhaps as a built-in defense mechanism against harmful substances, pregnant women tend to experience an increase in sensitivity to odors, which therefore over stimulates the nausea center of the brain.

Risk Factors of Morning Sickness

• A pregnant woman may be at risk for pregnancy-related nausea if she has ever experienced any of the following prior to the current pregnancy: motion sickness, migraines, sensitivity to certain smells or tastes, sensitivity to estrogen in birth control pills, or she has experienced morning sickness during a previous pregnancy
• An expectant woman may also be at risk for morning sickness if she is pregnant with more than one fetus.

Complications of Morning Sickness

Complications that could jeopardize the pregnancy may arise as a result of more severe morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum, and include the following:

• Dehydration
• Malnutrition
• Weight loss
• Alkalosis
• Hypokalemia
• Acid reflux
• High blood pressure
• Hypoventilation
• Muscle weakness
• Cardiac arrhythmias

Tips for lessening nausea and avoiding vomiting associated with morning sickness:

• Consume foods that are high in carbs but low in fat.
• Salty foods such as pickles, pretzels, and saltines as well as foods containing ginger can help in lessening and/or preventing morning sickness.
• Avoid greasy, spicy and fatty foods which help create more stomach acid.
• Eat six small meals rather than three large meals per day.
• Have some saltines handy on your nightstand to nibble on 15 minutes before getting out of bed in the morning.
• Avoid an empty stomach which may aggravate nausea.
• Drink water and other liquids 30-45 minutes before or after meals.
• Sip water and/or ginger ale throughout the day to avoid an empty stomach and/or dehydration.
• Sucking on something hard such as candy or ice chips or ice pops may be helpful.
• Avoid known nausea triggers such as foods or smells that seem to aggravate your nausea.
• Expose yourself to as much fresh air as possible versus stale indoor air.
• Take your prenatal vitamins at night with a snack to avoid queasiness brought on by the vitamins.
• Expose yourself to the smell of freshly cut citrus fruits such as lemons.
• Accommodate food cravings (things you want) and aversions (things that aggravate your morning sickness) when possible.
• Pregnant women tend to crave or get nauseated by things typically because their bodies are telling them what they need or what they need to avoid in order to have a healthy pregnancy outcome.
• Consume fruits and vegetables with a high water concentration such as tomatoes, melons, citrus fruits, strawberries, leafy vegetables, and grapes.
• Try the BRATT diet to keep your stomach settled. The BRATT diet is simply made up of bananas, rice, applesauce, toast and tea.
• If the smell of food being cooked aggravates your nausea, have a loved one cook for you, and make sure there is plenty of ventilation such as having a fan on and/or windows open.
• Rest as often as humanly possible!
• Avoid getting overheated which exacerbates pregnancy nausea.
• Try to work in some light exercise such as walking and/or swimming, but don’t over do it.
• Avoid laying down immediately after eating. Try to allow 2-3 hours after eating to avoid stomach upset caused from acid.

Testing and diagnosis for Morning Sickness

There are no specific tests available to diagnosis morning sickness in itself due to the fact that morning sickness is merely a symptom of pregnancy. On that note, a positive pregnancy test may tell a woman the cause of the nausea and/or vomiting she has been experiencing.

However, sever morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum, or HEG, may require further testing in order to rule out other complications in the pregnancy.

Further testing may include the following:

• Amylase
• Blood calcium level
• Serum electrolytes, which can show low potassium or sodium levels in blood. Low levels can mean dehydration or acid-base imbalance.
• Hematocrit, part of a blood count, which may become high due to dehydration
• Liver enzymes and bilirubin
• Urinalysis for ketones and specific gravity. Ketones are a sign of starvation. Specific gravity can show dehydration.
• An ultrasound may also be done to check the condition of the baby and the womb.
• If a woman has abdominal pain or vomits blood, the doctor may do an endoscopy. This is a test where a small tube is passed through a woman’s mouth and throat down to her stomach. The tube has a light at the end, which helps the doctor to look for problems in the stomach.
• Serum for hepatitis testing
• Liver function tests
• Ultrasound to look at gallbladder
• Urinalysis and culture to test for bacteria
• Ultrasound to look for twins or a tumorous growth of the placenta

Treatment Options for Morning Sickness

Herbal & Home Remedies

• Drink a few teaspoons of wheat germ dissolved in warm milk every hour until the nausea subsides.
• Take 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon of honey in cold water before bed.
• Suck a piece of peeled ginger root.
• Drink red raspberry leaf tea.
• Drink peppermint or spearmint tea.
• Drink squaw vine tea.
• Drink ginger tea. Make the tea by boiling some ginger root in water then straining it. Finally, add honey to taste.
• Rear motion sickness bands on your wrists where pressure points which control nausea are located.
• Put three drops of lavender essential oil and one of peppermint in a diffuser or humidifier to scent the air.
• Place a cool lavender scented compress on your forehead and a warm lavender compress over your rib cage.
• Have a loved one massage you with a soothing chamomile massage oil.
• Snack on ginger snap cookies made with real ginger.

Pharmaceutical Remedies

Non-prescription morning sickness remedies include the following:

• Emetrol is the only non-prescription nausea medication that’s considered safe during pregnancy.
• For women whose nausea and vomiting is triggered by acid, reflux medications such as Zantac or Pepcid may work.
• According to the FDA, the combination of Doxylamine and vitamin B6 is considered safe and effective for nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy.
• Doxylamine is available as a sleeping pill under the brand name Unisom Nighttime Sleep-Aid, not Maximum Strength Unisom Sleep Gels which is an entirely different product. Vitamin B6 may be located in the vitamin section of your local grocery store or pharmacy.

Prescription Remedies

Compazine

Possible side effects:

• Abnormal muscle rigidity
• secretion of milk
• sugar in urine
• abnormalities of posture and movement
• agitation
• anemia
• appetite changes
• asthma
• blurred vision
• constipation
• convulsions
• difficulty swallowing
• discolored skin tone
• dizziness
• drooling
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• exaggerated reflexes
• fever

You should never suddenly stop taking Compazine, due to adverse effects such as a change in appetite, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and tremors. When discontinuing this drug, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Your ability to drive a car or operate heavy machinery may be impaired when taking this drug, so take extreme caution when participating in any activities that require full alertness. Take caution when outdoors due to sunlight sensitivity related to the use of Compazine. Avoid direct sunlight and use sun block and wear protective clothing including sunglasses. Also, beware that Compazine may interfere with your ability to shed extra heat, so take caution in hot weather.

Be sure your doctor is aware of any drug you are taking. Compazine may interact with the following drugs: Anti-seizure drugs such as Dilantin and Tegretol, Anticoagulants such as Coumadin, Guanethidine (Ismelin), Lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith), Narcotic painkillers such as Demerol and Tylenol
with Codeine, Central nervous system depressants such as Xanax, Valium, Seconal, and Halcion Propranolol, and Thiazide diuretics such as Dyazide

Tigan

Possible side effects:

• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Parkinson’s-like symptoms
• blood dyscrasias
• blurred vision
• coma
• convulsions
• depression of mood
• diarrhea
• disorientation
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• headache
• jaundice
• muscle cramps

Tigan is contraindicated and should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to trimethobenzamide. Stop using this drug and tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur.

Conclusion

Once more, morning sickness may range anywhere from mild nausea to severe vomiting. Before using any remedy, whether it be a herbal/home remedy or a medication, always first consult with your physician. Home remedies should be your first line of defense for morning sickness due to adverse effects related to the use of medications. If all else fails, your doctor can help you decide on the best treatment option for your morning sickness. Remember, the healthier Mom is the healthier the baby will be!

What Is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia, rather than being a specific disease, is something of a catch-all term to describe respiratory distress brought on by a number of different causes, all of which have the same end result. The lungs experience potentially hazardous levels of inflammation, usually brought on by bacterial, viral or fungal infection. In some cases, chemicals or accidentally inhaled fluids may also lead to pneumonia.

No matter what the origin may be, pneumonia is characterized by inflammation of the alveoli. The alveoli are microscopic air sacs within the sponge-like tissue of the lungs. Infections or irritants can cause these sacs to become swollen and blocked with fluid or pus. When this happens, breathing is restricted and the body becomes starved for adequate oxygen. Without treatment, pneumonia can worsen significantly, necessitating hospitalization and even causing death. Of the more than three million people who will contract pneumonia, 150,000 will die. That is why early detection, varied treatment options and ultimately, preventative care are important

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of pneumonia can progress from very mild to life threatening. It is often mistaken for the flu until the illness worsens to a serious health threat. Most commonly, you’ll have a persistent, phlegm-producing cough in which blood may be present, and shortness of breath. Many people experience chills, sweats and fever, headaches and muscle pain. In severe cases, you may even feel nausea and diarrhea set in.

Because the term “pneumonia” describes a condition that can have a variety of origins the exact combination of symptoms will vary from one case to the next. Your individual health profile is also a pivotal determining factor in how pneumonia symptoms will present themselves.

Who Gets Pneumonia?

In a given year, over 3 million people will get pneumonia with fifty percent of those infected needing hospitalization. Years ago, more than a third of those who contracted pneumonia would die from it. Thanks to the introduction of modern antibiotics, the mortality rate for pneumonia has gone down to 5%, with many people capable of receiving treatment at home.

Those at greatest risk for getting pneumonia are:

The Elderly

People over the age of 65 are at much greater risk. In the elderly population, pneumonia often exhibits much subtler symptoms than in teens and adults. Therefore, it is extremely important to see a doctor if you notice any sings of infection.

Young children

Young children with still-developing bodies may not yet have acquired the full complement of antibodies their immune systems need to fight infection. Parents should be particularly watchful for early signs if their child has a history of respiratory conditions like as asthma. As with the elderly, symptoms of pneumonia in children tend to be milder, and therefore risk being mistaken for flu.

People whose immune systems have been weakened by illness

If your immune system has been compromised by an illness, whether chronic or acute, opportunistic varieties of pneumonia can be a threat. Sources of immunological distress may include things like a recent illness, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (C.O.P.D.), cardiovascular disease, emphysema, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, extreme stress, or even prescription medicines. All of these conditions tax the immune system, leaving your immune system too depleted to resist further infection.

Individuals taking immunosuppressant medicines

Immunosuppressive drugs are prescribed for people who have had organ and tissue transplants and those with autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis, ulcerative colitis (Crohn’s disease), arthritis and multiple sclerosis. All of these are characterized by the body’s immune system attacking its own tissues or cells.

Organ transplant recipients

In the case of an organ transplant, the body may mistakenly react to the new organ as though it is a hostile invader. This erroneous response may cause the rejection of the transplanted organ. By blocking these reactions in the immune system, immunosuppressive drugs protect the new organ, greatly reducing the likelihood of rejection and making such preventative treatment essential to the long-term survival of a transplant recipient.

Autoimmune Disease

An autoimmune disorder is a malfunction of the immune system in which the body attacks its own tissues, or hyper-reacts to substances with which you come into contact. Chronic autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis are usually crippling and can even be fatal. Dulling the activity of the immune system serves to protect the body from dysfunctional internal responses while also reducing the discomfort. Sadly, the almost universal trade off in using such drugs is that they cause increased vulnerability to infections.

People who have recently undergone chemotherapy

Chemotherapy targets cells in the body that multiply rapidly. However, it does so indiscriminately, meaning that non-cancerous cells are also harmed. While this is clearly ideal for halting the growth of fast-growing tumors, it also reduces the number of white blood cells available in the blood stream and lymphatic system. White blood cells, also called leukocytes, serve immunological functions that range from protecting the body from bacteria, fungi and parasites, to limiting inflammation. Since all of these factors commonly precede pneumonia, the additional vulnerability caused by chemotherapy requires vigilance by both patient and physician.

Smoking and Alcohol Abuse

Smoking causes severe damage to the cilia within the nasal cavity and bronchial passages. Cilia are microscopic hairs that act as filters for the airways. They prevent dust particles and other airborne irritants from making their way into the delicate lungs. By beating in a wave-like manner, they gently move natural secretions and irritants out of the airway before they can cause harm. Smoking causes paralysis of these important filtration devices, allowing secretions to build up and block the airways. If these secretions contain bacteria or other infectious agents, they can cause pneumonia.

Alcohol can adversely affect your gag reflex, preventing your body from expelling irritants to the throat, the shared pathway of the digestive and respiratory systems. Alcohol also slows the activity of white blood cells.

Additional Risk Factors

Hospitalization in an Intensive Care Unit

Patients in intensive care units of their hospital are already in a state of acute physical and often, emotional distress that can have a negative effect on their immunity to pathogens. Moreover, should they be placed on artificial ventilation, their risk of getting pneumonia rises significantly. The breathing tube inserted through the mouth bypasses much of the upper respiratory tract where many of the respiratory system’s defense mechanisms reside. It prevents the patient from coughing and can also cause the contents of the stomach to back up and be inhaled accidentally. When these contents contain pathogens or irritate the tissue of the lungs, pneumonia can develop.

Surgery or Traumatic Injury

People who have recently had surgery or any kind of traumatic injury are at increased risk. Their lack of mobility, especially if they have to lie on their back, can make it difficult to cough end expel accumulated mucus from the lungs. Immobility can also impede the proper circulation of lymph through the body. Lymph is the body’s natural cleaning system. It cleans dead cells and pathogens from the bloodstream and tissues. When its circulation is not optimal, your resistance to infection is also reduced.

These issues, as well as the increased presence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens in hospitals may explain why pneumonia acquired during a hospital stay tends to be more severe than other kinds.

Inhaling corticosteriods for more than 24 weeks

Corticosteroids are prescribed as a treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, according to research published by Johns Hopkins in the Journal of the American Medical Association, they increase the risk of pneumonia by as much as 46%. Although the exact reason is not certain, researchers at the university speculate that inhaled corticosteroids suppress the immune system.

Exposure to Chemicals or Environmental Pollutants

Those who work in the industrial, agricultural, military or building industries may be exposed to chemicals which cause inflammation within the lungs, making it hard for your body to keep them clear. Living in areas with high levels of pollution can also increase the risk of getting pneumonia.

Ethnicity

The rate of pneumonia infection is three times higher in African Americans than in Caucasians. In Native American populations, that number jumps up to being 5-10 times that of whites. According to the Center for Disease Control, the mortality rate for Native American infants with pneumonia is double that of the general U.S. population. For this reason, many contemporary allopathic medical practitioners recommend vaccinations for those whose ethnicity places them in a higher risk category.

Causes and Types of Pneumonia

Pathogens

The term pathogen refers to any cause of disease, but most commonly refers to infectious agents. These include bacteria, viruses and fungi. Certain opportunistic infectious organisms can cause severe, even deadly, forms of pneumonia and can affect even healthy people. Examples include the avian flu virus (H1N1 influenza) and SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), tuberculosis, anthrax, and plague.

Community-acquired pneumonia

This refers to pneumonia acquired in places people frequent in their everyday lives. Places like your child’s nursery school, your gym, public transportation and your office can be hosts to two types of bacteria which cause pneumonia. The first, streptococcus pneumoniae is the most common cause of pneumonia. The other, mycoplasma pneumoniae causes the mild form of pneumonia which is usually referred to as “walking pneumonia.”

Hospital-acquired pneumonia

Pneumonia contracted during a hospital stay, called nosocomial pneumonia, is usually more serious than other varieties. Hospital-acquired pneumonia is only diagnosed if pneumonia symptoms present themselves at least 48 hours after you are admitted. One subtype within this category is post-operative pneumonia, most common in patients over 70, who have undergone chest or abdominal surgeries. Another subcategory is health-care associated pneumonia, found in people whose health requires them to go to dialysis centers or chronic care clinics where medications are administered by intravenous drip (I.V.).

Medical Tests and Diagnosis

When to Consult a Physician

Pneumonia can be life threatening. If you suspect that you may have it, it is very important to see a qualified physician before your symptoms become severe. If you have a history of respiratory conditions, it is even more essential that you seek out medical expertise right away, since the early stage symptoms can be quite mild, and easily mistaken for a cold or flu. If you are recovering from a cold or flu which suddenly becomes worse, you should see your doctor to rule out pneumonia. If you are experiencing an inexplicable fever over 102ºF, especially if it is accompanied by chills and sweating, and if you have an ongoing cough or shortness of breath, it is time to enlist professional assistance.

Elderly adults, young children, and all those in high risk populations need quick attention since their conditions can progress rapidly from mild to dangerous.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pneumonia is made based on several factors. First your physician will consider your health history, particularly whether you have a history of respiratory illnesses. Next, he or she will use a stethoscope to listen to your lungs. Crunchy or bubbly breathing sounds may indicate the presence of fluid accumulation in the lungs. If your doctor detects them, a chest x-ray may be ordered. The x-ray images can confirm with certainty whether you have pneumonia while also allowing your doctor to pinpoint the exact location of the infection. Sometimes, your doctor may also take blood and mucus samples. Analysis of your blood will tell your physician whether your white blood cell count is healthy, while mucus specimens will reveal the exact pathogen behind the infection. Knowing whether the origin of pneumonia was a specific bacterial infection or virus allows your doctor to treat you more quickly and accurately.

How is pneumonia treated?

Treatment of pneumonia is determined by matching the origin of the illness to the proper medication, or other means of healing.

Bacterial

Bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics.

Viral

If a virus caused the infection, your doctor might prescribe antiviral medication. However, it is much more common for no drugs, but plenty of rest and fluids to be the recommended.

Fungal

If your infection was caused by fungi, antifungal medications are available.

It is essential that you take medications exactly the manner your doctor has prescribed. Use the entire prescription to ensure that no remnants of the illness remain in your system.

Side Effects

Side effects from antibiotics, antiviral and antifungal drugs can include stomach upset, anemia, headaches, rashes, kidney damage and liver damage.

Alternative Treatments

Because pneumonia can be life threatening, you should seek the advice of a medical doctor before using alternative care exclusively. Alternative treatments should be complementary to medical care, rather than replacing it completely. In cases when no pharmaceutical prescription is offered, alternative remedies can offer an excellent source of added support and comfort as your body recovers. For individuals who are at a higher risk of getting pneumonia, alternative therapies like herbs and acupuncture are excellent preventative tools.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture uses precise placement of nearly invisible needles to stimulate and balance the flow of bio-electric energy through the body. Its effects bolster immunity, strengthen your lungs and clear excess mucus from your body. Acupuncture practitioners typically have a master’s degree in their art and will do a very detailed exam to determine the best way to assist you. Clinical studies continue to find evidence which supports acupuncture as effective and gentle, and its acceptance in the medical community continues to grow.

Side Effects

Rare. Acupuncture may cause minor, temporary tenderness at the site of needle insertion. Post-treatment, patients may be lightheaded.

Costs

$60-$125 per treatment

Garlic

Garlic is one of the few treatments proven in clinical studies to have an antiviral effect. Since doctors frequently do not prescribe any pharmaceutical medications for pneumonia of viral origin, garlic may be a valuable source of additional support. Herbalists also use garlic to reduce fever and support the cardiovascular system. Garlic supplements should be taken according to a manufacturer’s recommended dosage or the advice of a qualified herbalist. It is useful as a preventative agent as well as a home remedy during an active illness.

Side Effects

Garlic users may notice an odor in the sweat or breath. Garlic may have a very mild blood thinning effect, so excessive intake should be avoided in those who have very low blood pressure or clotting issues.

Cost

$7-$10

Lobelia

Lobelia is a bronchial dilator, meaning it dilates or opens the bronchial passages to ease restricted breathing. It is available in tincture form, with a recommended initial dosage of 10 drops per day.

Side effects

Lobelia is a strong emetic, meaning it can cause nausea in sensitive individuals.

Cost

$10-25

Lungwort

Lungwort is an expectorant, meaning that it clears mucus. In Chinese medicine, it is also considered an emollient, making it a potentially soothing substance. It is known for its gentleness, making it safe even for children. In widely published medical studies, it is praised for potent antibacterial action against strep, staph, and other organisms associated with tuberculosis and pneumonia. When taken in tincture form, 2-4 droppers per day are recommended.

Side effects

None

Cost

$10-25

Preventing Pneumonia

Prevention is the best avenue for avoiding the complications of pneumonia. With more and more treatment resistant strains of bacteria and viruses emerging in recent times, prevention is your most effective line of defense. Any means of strengthening your body’s natural resistance to infection are invaluable. If you have risk factors for pneumonia, like asthma, G.E.R.D., or smoking addiction, resolving those issues will also reduce your vulnerability to infection. For those in high-risk categories, such as the elderly and young children, vaccination may be recommended.

Poison ivy is notorious for causing skin irritation and rashes. When this happens, it is called allergic contact dermatitis. A person will generally experience this because poison ivy has an irritant in it that humans are sensitive to, and it is also found in other kinds of toxic plants, such as poison sumac or poison oak. The irritant that is present in these toxic plants is an oily kind of resin that is called urushiol. This is what causes rashes and irritates the skin in the process.

Though a person will certainly be bothered with the itchiness that occurs from a rash from poison ivy, there is the peace of mind that a rash from poison ivy, poison sumac or poison oak is really never very serious. There are several methods that can be done at home to relieve the symptoms of the dermatitis until it goes away on its own.

Symptoms

A person should suspect that poison ivy is to blame if any of the following symptoms are present:

• Redness
• Itching
• Swelling
• Blisters

Due to the way that a plant generally brushes against a person’s skin, the rash will probably appear to be in a straight line. However, it is possible for the rash to be more widespread if a person brushes against any kind of pet fur or clothing that happens to have urushiol coated on it.

After coming into contact with urushiol, a reaction will develop about 48 hours later, at the most. It has the potential to last upwards of two months, depending. How severe the dermatitis rash is ultimately depends on how much urushiol was involved in the contact.

In cases with more severity involved, there may be other rashes that appear a few days after a person was first exposed to the resin, and it will probably look as if though it is beginning to spread. However, this is probably not the case; it is more probable that the skin simply absorbed the resin at a stranger rate than normal.

The skin will not be affected unless it comes in direct contact with urushiol from the plant. If a person scratches the blisters and they pop, the rash will not spread from touching the fluid. However, if they are dirty fingernails with germs underneath, there is the risk of another bacterial infection.

When to See a Doctor

If any of the following instances occur, it is recommended to see a medical professional for assistance:

• The reaction is widespread or otherwise severe.
• The rash is located on a sensitive area, such as the mouth, eyes or genitals.
• The blisters are beginning to seep pus.
• A fever begins to develop of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or 37.8 degrees Celsius.
• The rash remains after several weeks.

Causes

The three main causes of developing a dermatitis rash and the itchiness that follows include poison ivy, poison oak, as well as poison sumac.

1. Poison ivy is a plant that looks like weeds and is actually very common. This kind of green will usually grow as a tall, thick vine against a tree, a bush or a regular plant. There is usually a triplet of leaflets to every stem. Some might have a toothy, jagged appearance to them and some will have edges that are smoother than that. When the seasons change, the leaves might change their color to red, orange or yellow. It is possible for them to show little flowers that are green or berries that are green and white.
2. Similar to poison ivy, there may be triplets of leaflets to every stem of poison oak, which might grow on a plant or as a bush. The leaves look quite like oak leaves and might include some berries which are yellow and white.
3. Poison sumac as two different rows of leaves growing on each stem, with one at the top. It might grow as a small tree or look like a bush.

No matter what the plant, urushiol, the oily resin, is the cause of irritation in all of them. Even if the smallest amount of the resin touches the skin, it may cause a reaction. This is due to the fact that the resin does not dry and is a very sticky substance, meaning that it has no difficulty affixing itself to pet fur, tools, skin, equipment or clothing.

It is possible to get a poison ivy rash from any of the following instances:

• Direct touch. When a person directly touches the berries, the leaves, the roots or the stems of a vine, plant or a shrub, there might be a sensitive reaction.
• Resin remaining on the skin. If the resin gets on the skin by accident and is rubbed in, there may be a sensitive reaction. To illustrate, if a person walks through poison ivy leaves and touches their shoes, it is possible for the resin to get transferred to the hands, from which it may transfer elsewhere, such as the face, depending on what the person touched or rubbed after that.
• Resin on an object. If a person touches resin that was on firewood, clothing or other items, they are at risk of developing a sensitive reaction. Pets are not typically affected by the resin but a person who pets the animal while there is resin on the fur may develop a rash. It is possible for the resin to retain is allergenic state for several years, and this is especially true if it remains in a dry environment. For example, if a jacket is contaminated and put into a closet without having been washed, it might still cause a reaction if a person touches it when taking it out a year later.
• Inhaling the smoke of burned sumac, oak or ivy plants. The resin in the plants are still present in the smoke when it burns, and it has the potential risk of injuring the nasal passages and the eyes.

When a person gets a rash from poison ivy, it is not contagious in itself. This is because the blister fluid does not have the resin and it will not cause a rash to spread. Likewise, one person cannot contract a rash from an infected person unless that person has resin remaining on their clothing and the first person comes into direct contact with it.

Complications

If a person has dirty fingernails and scratches a blistering rash from poison ivy, it can cause a bacterial infection to develop. If this occurs, it may result in the blisters oozing pus. It is necessary to see a medical professional in the event that this occurs, since treatment for such an infection will normally involve antibiotics.

Preparing for an Appointment

In the event that a rash results from poison ivy, there will probably be no need to see a medical professional for any kind of treatment. However, if the rash remains after several weeks or there seems to be pus coming out from the blisters, then an infected person will benefit from a trip to the doctor. It is possible that a person may be redirected to a dermatologist, whose specialties lie with disorders of the skin, but try the primary physician first.

Appointments have a tendency to be brief due to time constraints, and there is plenty of ground to cover, so it is wise to make sure that all preparations are made beforehand. This section intends to showcase some of the best ways for a person to be fully prepared for their time spent at the doctor’s office, as well as what they can come to expect from the visit.

What Can Be Done

• Get a notepad and write down all of the symptoms that have been occurring, even if they seem to not be directly related to the reason for having scheduled the visit.
• Write down all of the information that will be handy to have, such as how much time has been spent in the outdoors, what vacations were recently taken, if a person has been landscaping, gardening or hiking.
• Write down any and all vitamins, supplements and medications that are currently being taken, and write down the typical dosage that is taken.
• Write down all desired questions.

The time spent at the appointment will be limited, so it is best to prepare some questions in advance to reserve time to cover other points. For a patient suffering from a poison ivy rash, some of these questions may be beneficial to ask:

• What is likely causing these symptoms?
• Are there any other potential reasons?
• Will there be any tests?
• How long until this rash goes away?
• Is it safe to scratch?
• Can scratching spread the rash?
• Can the blister fluid spread the rash?
• What kind of treatment is there and which comes recommended?
• Does this treatment come with any side effects?
• How can the itching be brought under control?
• How can this be prevented?

What to Expect

The doctor will probably also have a few questions to ask, as well, such as:

• When the symptoms begin to appear?
• Have any similar rashes occurred before?
• Has the outdoors been visited recently?
• What kind of treatment has already been attempted?

What to Do in the Meantime
Poison ivy rashes will go away in time. However, it can be difficult trying to deal with the itching. Some of the following steps can be done to help alleviate the problem:

• Use some over the counter corticosteroid cream during the initial days.
• Use calamine lotion.
• Take diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others) or any other oral antihistamine that will help aid sleep.
• Soak in a bath with cool water and either baking soda or some kind of colloidal oatmeal substance, like Aveeno.
• For half an hour several times each day, take a cool and wet object and compress it to the rash.

Tests and Diagnosis

More often than not, a rash from poison ivy does not require any further medical assistance. However, in the event that an appointment is made, the doctor will be able to make a diagnosis simply from looking at the rash. There is no need to perform any additional tests.

Treatments and Drugs

Most treatments for poison ivy involve methods to perform at home, with the rash giving away and disappearing within two to four weeks. During that time period, it is possible to use different remedies to help relieve the itching and other symptoms. These may include oatmeal baths, cool compresses and some anti-itch over the counter medications.

Prednisone or some other oral corticosteroid may be prescribed by a doctor in the event that many blisters appear or the rash is wide in location. Other treatments may include an oral antibiotic prescriptions in the event that the site of the rash develops some kind of bacterial infection.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

After a rash has come to fruition, some of the following remedies have been known to alleviate the swelling and the itching:

• Calamine lotion
• Low potency over the counter corticosteroid creams, including hydrocortisone, which are then applied two to four times each day.
• Diphenhydraine (Benadryl, others), or some other kind of oral histamine, which are known to help aid sleeping
• Half hour long cool and wet compresses on the site of the rash
• Tub soaks with cool water and baking soda or over the counter colloidal oatmeal substance, such as Aveeno.

Alternative Medicine

Outside of the measures that can be done at home, such as taking a bath with some oatmeal, there are other methods that people tend to seek out in order to relieve their symptoms that arise due to coming into contact with sumac, ivy or oak. Some attempted medicine includes:

• Jewelweed. Though a study found it was not effective, it was once used by Native Americans in an attempt to relieve poison ivy symptoms.
• Bovine cartilage cream, with five percent concentration. Studies have shown that if this kind of cream is used on a daily basis, the poison ivy rash can disappear in less than two weeks.
• Deodorants with aluminum ahlorohydrate. When this deodorant is used prior to going outdoors, it can effectively lead to the prevention of irritated skin when coming into contact with poison ivy resin. However, it is still a good idea to fully wash any clothes and skin in the event that contact may have been made.

Prevention

Many people remember the phrase “leaves of three, let them be,” and it is good that they remember such a thing. This is because many toxic plants, poison ivy included, have a triplet of leaflets on each of their stems, and avoiding contact with them is the best way that a person can prevent from catching an allergic reaction.

There is plenty of advice to follow with regards to avoid rashes:

• Make sure to learn and fully be able to identify what poison sumac, poison oak and poison ivy look like. Learn the characteristics of each leaf and where they are most likely to be found.
• Be careful while outside. It is possible to be exposed to poison ivy while hiking, so try to keep on pathways that are clear. Pitch the tent while camping in a clear area without poisonous plants. Do not let pets run through the woods so that they do not pick up the resin from the plants that can be touched. Give the pet a bath with long rubber gloves if it is believed he or she came into contact with resin.
• Use herbicide to destroy any poison ivy that is growing in the backyard using long rubber gloves. However, it is important to note that even a dead plant can cause a reaction on skin, so remember to wash both the hands and the gloves vigorously. Do not burn any of the plants when they are pulled out, because the resin will remain in the smoke and have the potential to injure the nostrils or the eyes.
• If anything should get contaminated or is believed to be, wash it. It is possible to protect the skin by wearing shoes, long socks, long pants and gloves, but if it is believed that these clothes have come into direct contact with the resin in poison ivy, immediately wash them with detergent, preferably in a washing machine. Carefully handle the clothes so the resin does not transfer to appliances, furniture or rugs.
• Wash any and all items that might be contaminated as well, including jewelry, garden tools, shoes and their shoelaces or outdoor gear. If immediate washing is not possible, try to seal them up in a container or a plastic bag so that they will not contaminate anything else that they might have otherwise touched. It is possible for dry cleaning to eliminate the irritant, but it is important to let the dry cleaner know ahead of time that the clothing has likely come into contact with a toxic plant so that they can take the precautions necessary to handle it.

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, known as HPV, which is a double-stranded DNA virus. HPV causes benign tumors of the epidermis, commonly referred to as warts. There are a large variety of warts that are caused by different sub-types of HPV. Cervical cancer and other wart-related cancers are also caused by HPV.

The Appearance of Warts

Typically, warts grow in cylindrical columns out of the skin. On thinner skin like the face, these columns do not fuse together and give a flat appearance. On thicker skin, the columns fuse and are packed tightly together causing the wart to be raised and giving the surface the typical mosaic pattern. Sometimes, black dots, which are blood vessels that have become thrombosed, or clotted, in the wart, can be seen.

Who is Susceptible to Warts?

Though warts Mainly occur in children and young adults, warts can occur in people of all ages. Because warts are a result of a virus, they are spread by direct contact such are merely touching a wart. Warts normally will disappear over time, but there is no specific timeline for this.

Most warts will disappear from the skin within weeks or months; however, some warts may take years to subside. The immune system plays a large role in one’s susceptibility to warts. If the immune system is compromised due to illness, warts will last longer and increase in appearance. Those who have immune-related diseases such as lymphoma, AIDS, and those who are on chemotherapy often will have lost lasting warts.

Types

An extensive variety range of wart have been identified by scientists that vary in shape, size, and site affected due to the type of HPV sub-type involved. These different wart varieties include: the common wart, the flat wart, filliform or digitate warts, plantar warts, mosaic warts, genital warts, and periungual warts. Common warts are typically found on the hands but can grow anywhere on the body.

They are raised in appearance with a rough surface. The flat wart is a small, flattened wart that is smooth in appearance.

It is flesh colored and can occur in large numbers. Flat warts most commonly occur on thin skin such as the face, neck, and hands. Filliform or digitate warts are most common on the face, near the eyelids and lips. They have a thread-like appearance. A Plantar wart is an extremely painful and hard lump that is typically found on the feet. Often there are multiple black specks, blood vessels, in the center of the plantar wart.

Mosaic warts are a tight group of plantar warts, found in clusters on the hands or soles of the feet. Genital warts are a 100% preventable sexually transmitted disease. They occur on the genitalia and there is no cure for these types of warts. Periungual warts are a less common type of wart, occurring on the nails. These types of warts are cauliflower-like in appearance and occur in clusters.

Cause

HPV is the cause of all cases of warts. There are 130 different strains of HPV. HPV Types 1, 2, and 3 are the cause for the most common varieties of warts. HPV Type 1 is the cause of plantar warts. HPV Type 2 causes other types of plantar warts, mosaic warts, filliform warts, and common warts. HPV Type 3 causes flat warts. 90% of all cases of genital warts are caused by HPV type 6. HPV types 16 and 18 cause approximately 70 % of cervical cancer cases.

Diagnosis

Typically diagnosing warts is made on appearance alone. Warts disturb the natural skin lines and are usually thickened in appearance. If the doctor suspects the wart to be a progression of skin cancer, a biopsy can be done. Many people treat cancerous legions, corns, calluses, and moles as warts, so be sure to see a doctor who can identify whether the spot is a wart.

Prevention

Keeping the immune system in balance is a way to prevent the longevity of warts. Treating warts while they are small may also help to prevent the virus from spreading any further. Sometimes, a physician may recommend a cream to apply to treated areas to help stop the reoccurrence of warts. Treating warts while they are still small may help prevent them from spreading.

Always keep sandals on when walking around pools, taking showers at the gym or dorm, and walking along the beach. HPV thrives in moist areas. The most effective way in preventing genital warts is to practice safe sex by using condoms, remaining abstinent, or avoiding sexual contact with those affected by genital warts.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no one cure-all for warts. Treatment for warts on the body depend on the age of the individual in addition to the size, number, and location of the warts. Common warts do not necessarily need to be treated because they exhibit a high rate of spontaneous remission. If left untreated, however, the spread of common warts can occur.

There are a wide variety of treatment options for warts. Some opt to see a doctor and using physical or chemical treatment in removing the wart. Others rely on home remedies in treating warts.

Medical Treatments

The goal of medical treatments, with the exception of surgical procedures, is to cause the body to recognize the wart as a foreign body and use the immune system to destroy it. Popular medical treatments include destructive techniques and sallacylic treatment

Destructive techniques used methods such as lasers, cryotherapy, and surgical excision to remove warts. Using pulse dye lasers to remove warts is used primarily in cases where other treatments were proven ineffective. The laser techniques use light to burn away the wart tissue. The wound will be painful after laser removal for at least a few days. Usually there is no scarring associated with laser wart removal.

Often physicians will use cryotherapy, in which the wart is exposed to liquid nitrogen for one to four treatments, in the treatment of warts. These treatments are usually separated by one to two weeks. Cryotherapy can be painful so it is not recommended for young children. Often, cryotherapy leaves a large and painful blister at the site of the wart. Surgical excision uses scissors or a scalpel to remove the wart. Larger warts may require the use of a local anesthesia to numb the area. Destructive techniques often result in scarring, can be painful, and tend to be costly.

Sallacylic acid treatments can be purchased from the pharmacy or prescribed by a doctor. The acid must be placed on the wart 2 to 3 times a day, every day for a minimum of 3 weeks. Sallacylic acid works to soften the wart, breaking down the layers of the wart. Studies have found that sallacylic acid is most effective when applied to damp skin.

Most treatment of warts needs to be repeated, as the virus is very resilient can easily spread or reoccur.

Home Remedies

There are many folk and home remedies that people have found useful in the treatment of warts. While some “old wives’ tales” such as “buying a wart off” have been dismissed, others have been proven to work.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has been shown to suppress the virus and eliminate the appearance of warts. The tea tree is a bush that grows in Australian swamps and was originally used by aborigines as an antiseptic. Many scientific studies have shown tea tree oil’s ability to be used as an antimicrobial. It is important to note that tea tree oil is poisonous and cannot be swallowed.

To use tea tree oil to affectively treat warts first apply a 2 % solution of tea tree oil to the wart three to four times a day. Continue applying tea tree oil to the wart until it is no longer visible. Tea tree oil works in eliminating warts because it contains a powerful antimicrobial called terpinen-4-ol. Terpinen-4-ol attacks the HPV causing the wart, improving the immune system, and relieving the body of the wart. Try to only put tea tree oil on the wart because it can, over time, attack the healthy skin cells.

Garlic

Garlic is commonly used in cooking but has many health benefits. Used as a blood thinner and in many cultures as a way to prevent illness, garlic has many medicinal abilities. Many medical studies have shown garlic’s effectiveness in killing different kinds of bacteria and viruses, including HPV.

Slice a clove of garlic, placing the wet side of the garlic on the wart, tape the clove to the skin using medical tape. Ideally, change the garlic slice twice a day, remembering to keep garlic on the wart at all times. Continue this process until the wart is removed from the body. Typically, this will take between 5 and 10 days. Many people advise to keep garlic on the area even after the raised part of the wart is gone, claiming that any black spots that remain could cause the wart to reappear.

This has not been proven to happen, however, so you can remove the garlic after the physical wart is gone. Garlic contains a powerful antioxidant called allicin, which also works as an antimicrobial, killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. There are no real side effects with using garlic; however, many find that body odor and bad breath may occur with using garlic as a remedy for wart removal.

Banana Peel

Banana peels are one of the most common folk remedies for ridding the body of warts. Banana peels are a safe and inexpensive alternative to other over the counter medications sold at pharmacies.

First, eat a banana, as the potassium helps to boost the immune system. Then, cut a small piece of banana peel and placing the inside of the peel on the wart, tape down using medical tape. Lastly, be sure to change the banana peel daily. Many cultures view warts as a potassium deficiency. Bananas are rich in potassium so consuming a banana and placing the peel on the wart exposes the wart to potassium both on the inside and out. Bananas are considered safe to use as there are no side effects.

Vitamins

Many people use vitamin A and C to help boost the immune system to fight off the appearance of warts. Break open a liquid capsule of vitamin A and apply directly to the wart daily. Continue this until the wart is no longer visible. You can take vitamin A capsules as well, but remember that too much vitamin A can be toxic to the body. Crushing a vitamin C tablet, mixing it with water, and apply it directly to the wart has shown results in ridding the body of warts. The high acidity of vitamin C helps to destroy the HPV causing the wart.

Duct Tape

Placing a small square of duct tape on the warts has shown to significantly reduce the appearance of warts. This remedy is most effective on the hands and fingers. Simply place a small piece of duct tape over the wart and leave for at least 6 days. Typically, smaller warts are gone in six days but it may take longer to rid the body of larger warts. After 6 days if the wart is not gone, soak the wart in warm water, dry it, and place another piece of duct tape for an additional 6 days. Repeat this process until the wart has been removed.

The common cold, also known as upper respiratory tract infection, acute viral rhinopharyngitis, acute coryza, or simply cold, is the one of the most prevalent illnesses in America. It is also the number one reason that people visit their doctors. Depending on the type of virus, symptoms and duration of cold will vary. Some people are more susceptible to colds, and might even contract them several times in a given year.

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for the common cold, only relief for its symptoms. However, colds are generally mild and manageable, and often do go away by itself over a short period of time. There are also a variety of over-the-counter and prescribed medications that can help relieve the symptoms as well.

Symptoms

Colds may exhibit any or all of the following symptoms:

Runny nose

In the beginning, mucous is often clear and thin. Over the course of the cold, mucous might thicken and become yellow and greenish in color.

Sneezing

Sneezing might occur constantly throughout the first few days and lessens over the next few days.

Nasal congestion

This is also known as a “stuffy nose” caused by the build-up of mucous in the nasal passages. Congestion can cause some discomfort in breathing and sleeping at night.

Watery eyes

Watery, itchy and red eyes can all be symptoms of the cold. Beware of excessive rubbing, which might allow bacteria to enter eyes and cause an infection.
Headaches

It is also common to develop headaches or head colds. This might be a result of a natural response in which cytokines are released by your immune system to attack the virus.

Sore Throat

Colds can cause soreness or scratchiness in the throat, making it painful to swallow and talk. Sore throat is one of the early symptoms in the onset of a cold. It could worsen if drainage from the nose or the sinuses irritates the throat, causing an infection.

Low fever

Fevers accompanying colds are usually under 102 degrees and last for a short period of time. A high fever might indicate influenza (flu), which is more severe and lasts for a longer time.

Cough

The excess mucous from the cold often irritates the throat, causing a need to cough. This symptom usually exhibits later on over the course of the cold and can persist for a much longer time, even after all other symptoms disappear.

Mild Muscle Aches

There might be a slight aching sensation throughout the body. The aches should be dull and mild enough to allow for normal body movement.

Fatigue

Fevers often cause a general feeling of tiredness and sleepiness. A person with a cold will feel a great need to rest and stay in bed.

Chills

A feeling of coldness or the need to shiver might present as a symptom. Chills usually accompany fevers and could persist until body temperature returns to normal.

Conjunctivitis

Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is the infection of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelids. The eyelids might look red and swollen and feel itchy and painful. There is often a yellowish discharge that can crust over the eye.

Causes

More than 200 viruses can cause the common cold. Rhinoviruses are the most common, accounting for 10 to 40 percent of all colds. The next most common group of virus is the coronavirus, which accounts for 20% of colds. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes about 10% of all colds. Colds are mainly spread by direct physical contact.

Sneezing and coughing allow the virus to pass from one person to another. It takes about eight to twelve hours for the virus to replicate after initial contact. For the first cold symptoms to develop, it might take anywhere from ten hours to five days. The duration of a cold is typically a few days to a week. However, a cold can last up to 3 weeks, while symptoms such as coughing can last up to a month.

Risk Factors

Children are highly susceptible to colds. They are constantly in physical contact with other children, making it easier for the virus to spread. Also there is a greater tendency for children to rub their eyes and noses, allowing the virus to enter their bodies. Children are more likely to have more severe symptoms such as persistent coughing and pink eye. They are also at a greater risk for ear infections due to the worsening of cold symptoms.

Some people work in fields that put them at a higher risk for colds, such as teachers and other school personnel that work with children. Working in crowded indoor settings or with large groups of people also increases the risk of contracting the virus.

Parents are also more likely to contract colds from their children. Mothers are twice as likely to catch the cold than fathers.

Although smoking does not cause colds, it increases the risk of contracting a cold. It can also extend the duration of a cold for a few days.

The risk for contracting a cold is highest during the wintertime. One of the reasons is that people tend to be indoors more, allowing for the virus to spread quickly from one person to another. Some studies have also shown that the cold virus lives longer in cold air, making winter a likelier time for the virus to spread.

Prevention Tips

• Wash your hands with soap and water as often as possible. Regular soap works just as well as antibacterial soap. If washing is not possible, the use of hand sanitizers or antibacterial gels can also prevent colds.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze with a tissue or handkerchief. Do not use your hands. Teach children to cough or sneeze into their elbows if they do not have a tissue on hand.
• Smoke less. Smoking can lower your immune system’s ability to fight off viruses, increasing your chances of contracting a cold.
• Limit alcohol consumption. Just like smoking, alcohol also suppresses your immune system, making you more susceptible to the virus.
• Drink more water. Keep your body healthy by constantly rehydrating and drinking water.
• Sleep more. A lack of sleep might weaken your body’s defenses against viruses. Get plenty of rest and stay relaxed.
• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables contain the necessary vitamins and minerals that can help boost your immune system.

Test and Diagnosis Considerations

There are no specific tests that indicate whether you have the cold virus. Since colds are quite common and nonthreatening, tests are often done to rule out other possibilities instead.

Influenza or the flu is similar to the cold virus, but exhibits much more severe symptoms. Fever is usually much higher (over 102 degrees) and is accompanied with greater body aches and chills. A person with a cold might feel weaker than usual but can still fulfill simple everyday tasks. However, a person with the flu will feel extreme fatigue that prevents him or her from getting out of bed. A person diagnosed with the flu will need more bed rest and a longer absence from work or school.

A strep test might be administered to determine whether a sore throat is caused by the streptococcal bacteria or the cold virus. Strep throat can have serious long term effects and require antibiotics for treatment. Usually there are clear indications for strep, such as yellow and white patches in the back of the throat. There is usually a high fever of over 101 degrees, as oppose to a low fever for colds.

Allergies can also mimic colds, with excessive sneezing, runny nose or nasal congestion. Although either condition will eventually subside by itself, allergies can be treated with antihistamines for quick relief. Allergies often involve itchiness of the eyes and nose, and are not accompanied by fevers and coughs.

Sinusitis is the inflammation or infection of the sinuses. Although colds do not directly cause sinusitis, their symptoms might. An excessive build-up of fluids in the sinus cavity can lead to infection. Usually there is pain around the eyes, nose and cheekbone area. Antibiotics can be used to treat sinusitis.

Treatment Options

Herbal and Home Remedies

Although there is no cure for the cold virus, there are many herbal and home remedies that can help relieve symptoms and shorten the duration of a cold. Most of them are safe, cost-effective and worth a try.

Water and Hot Fluids

Although water does not flush the cold out of your system like many people believe, it helps keep your body hydrated. This is especially important when you have a cold, since your body might be worn out and dehydrated. Drinking water can also loosen congestion and build-up in your throat. Hot fluids such as tea help relieve symptoms such as sore throat and congestion.

Chicken Soup

Probably the most popular remedy for a cold, chicken soup might possibly have some scientific basis for relieving colds. Some studies have shown that chicken soup actually inhibits the inflammation of cells in the nasal passage, clearing up nasal congestion. Even if its effectiveness is debated, chicken soup is still a tasty and soothing remedy for those experiencing sore throat and a loss of appetite.

Saltwater

Gargling with saltwater often helps relieve soreness in the throat. Some believe that the use of salt reduce the swelling of the throat, thereby relieving the pain.

Echinacea

Echinacea is an herbal plant that was first used by Native Americans for its medicinal properties. It has grown in popularity over the recent years and is used as a remedy to fight the common cold. It is also used as a supplement to prevent the onset of colds. The herb is available in pill or liquid form, and can even be made into a tea.

Research findings seemed to yield mixed results. Side effects are often minimal, though some people have developed allergic reactions from taking the supplement. If you experience shortness or difficulty in breathing, swelling or hives, stop taking it immediately. A person with any types of immunodeficiency or is currently on immunosuppressants should avoid taking echinacea. Echinacea is inexpensive and can be easily purchased at a health store or pharmacy.

Zinc

Zinc helps our bodies maintain a healthy immune system. Some people believe that taking zinc supplements shortens the duration of a cold. The supplement can be taken in as a pill, spray or lozenge. Since different studies yield different data, the results are still inconclusive.

It is advisable to take dosages of zinc as directed on label, since overdosing can be dangerous, interfering with the absorption and metabolism of other minerals in your body. Possible side effects include upset stomach, heartburn and nausea. Although less commonly experienced, some people have also reported fever, mouth sores, fatigue and sore throat. The average cost of the supplement ranges from $3-$25.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential to healthy bones, teeth and gums, and can be found in many types of fruits and vegetables. Some studies have shown that a high dose of vitamin C can reduce the severity and duration of the common cold. Others have shown that any benefits shown from the supplement might be a result of the placebo effect, whereby a person gets better from the mere belief that it is effective.

Again, data has been largely inconclusive from the scientific community. Although not dangerous, side effects of high doses of vitamin C include headache, nausea, vomiting, intestinal cramps, fatigue, insomnia, drowsiness and diarrhea. Risk for any major conditions is very low since vitamin C is water soluble and can easily pass through the body. Supplements can also be purchased at any health store and pharmacy in the price range of $5-25, depending on the brand, dosage and quantity.

Neti Pot

The neti pot is shaped like a kettle and is used for nasal irrigation, a process that existed centuries ago. The pot is filled with saline solution, which is in then poured into the nostril to flush out mucous and other irritants in the nasal cavity.

To use pot, tilt your head to one side and insert spout into nostril. Gently pour saline solution into nostril, which will then exit through the other nostril. The neti pot provides temporary relief and helps with nasal decongestion. They are available for purchase in pharmacies and homeopathic stores and costs between $10- $20.

Pharmaceutical Treatments

Analgesics/Pain Relievers

Analgesics or pain relievers do not kill the cold virus, but target cold symptoms. The most widely used analgesic is acetaminophen, which is the main ingredient of Tylenol. It is effective in reducing fevers, headaches, and muscle soreness. However, there are possible risks of liver or kidney damage in high dosages. Ibuprofen is another common pain reliever available over-the-counter at the pharmacy.

Popular brands containing ibuprofen as the active ingredient include Advil and Motrin. Side effects are rare and include anxiety, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, insomnia, fatigue and upset stomach. Salicylate or aspirin is also widely used for reducing fever and pain. Similarly to the other analgesics, aspirin has few mild side effects including dizziness, heartburn, nausea, nervousness, and upset stomach.

All three types of pain relievers are available at pharmacies. Both brand name and generics are available and generally have the same intended effect. However, generic brands are usually much less expensive than the name brand and can cost less than half the price.

Cough Suppressants (Antitussives)

Cough suppressants or antitussives can provide relief for continuous coughing by reducing the urge to cough. Many people with the cold feel a tickling and itchy sensation in their throats, inducing them to cough. Antitussives are effective for dry coughs only. For wet coughs, expectorants are much more helpful. Cough suppressants are available in syrup form or as lozenges.

The active ingredient commonly used in cough suppressants is dextromethorphan. However, it has shown to be less effective in cough medications for children. Well-known brands containing dextromethorphan include Robitussin, NyQuil, Dimetapp, and Vicks, which can be purchased at any local pharmacy for under $10.

Possible side effects include itching/rashing, nausea, drowsiness, fever, hallucinations, vomiting, blurred vision and dilated pupils. Codeine is another ingredient used in cough suppressants. Since it is a much stronger ingredient, a prescription is required.

Expectorants

Expectorants, on the other hand, thin out the mucus that is blocking the airways to the lungs. This allows the mucous to be expectorated or coughed up and relieves the congestion in the chest cavity. To determine whether cough suppressants or expectorants should be used, figure out whether the cough is wet or dry. For wet coughs, expectorants are much more effective.

The active ingredient in most expectorants is guaifenesin, found in brands including Mucinex, Tussin, and Robitussin Chest Congestion. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant. Side effects include headache, dizziness, upset stomach, diarrhea and vomiting.

Decongestants

Decongestants relieve the swelling in the nasal passages caused by an increase in mucous, clearing up congestion. They are usually available in two forms: pill or nasal spray. Pseudoephedrine is the active ingredient in decongestant medications such as Sudafed, and is also combined with analgesics to create many cold medications.

There are few side effects, including dizziness, restlessness, increased blood pressure and heart rate and irregular heartbeat. Nasal sprays allow for quick delivery of decongestants through the nose by constricting the blood vessels and openings nasal passages for immediate relief. They contain active ingredients such as oxymetazoline hydrocholoride (as in Afrin and Vicks Sinex) and phenylephrine hydrocholoride (as in Neo Synephrine and Dristan). People with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions and thyroid problems should avoid using the sprays.

Side effects, though uncommon, include dizziness, nervousness, and sleeplessness. Most sprays are available over-the-counter for under $10. However, Nasonex requires a doctor’s prescription.

Resources

WebMd.Com
CDC.Gov
EverydayHealth.Com

Celiac disease a little understood autoimmune syndrome that affects roughly 0.5% of the world’s population. Basically, it is an intolerance to the gluten found in grains such as wheat, rye, spelt, oats, barley, and its derivatives. Gluten is what gives dough its elastic texture. It is not a vital protein for the body. For individuals with this medical issue, any ingestion of a glutinous product will lead to an autoimmune response.

The body will attack the villi in the small intestine, destroying them and lessening the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Villi are microscopic, fingerlike projections arising from the lining of the small intestine, giving it more surface area, and giving the body more time to absorb nutrients. Over time, there is scarring of the small intestine, further reducing the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals. While it can never be cured, it can be managed by simply adopting a totally gluten-free diet.

Alternative Names

• Celiac sprue
• Coeliac disease (British spelling)
• Nontropical sprue
• Gluten-sensitive enteropathy.
• Gluten intolerance

Symptoms

Symptoms of celiac disease vary greatly from person to person. This is one of the reasons that it is sometimes extremely difficult to diagnose. There is no stereotypical symptom to distinguish the syndrome. Only about 10% of those who have celiac disease present with the malabsorption symptoms that typify the disease. It seems to mimic many other disease states, often going undiagnosed for years. Some people have no symptomatology at all.

Gastrointestinal symptoms include:

• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Abdominal distention
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Bulky stools that are sticky, frothy, tan or gray and much fouler smelling than usual.

Stools are sticky in consistency due to the increased amount of fat that goes undigested and unabsorbed in the body, about 10 times more than normal. Children often have marked diarrhea and failure to thrive. Adults are more likely to have constipation and unexplained weight loss.

Other symptomology includes:

• Weakness
• Mouth sores
• Muscle cramping
• Fatigue
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Night blindness
• Weakened or discolored tooth enamel
• Edema
• Extremely dry skin and/or a rash called dermatitis herpetiformis
• Seizures
• Decreased ability to clot blood
• Easy bruising
• Nerve damage
• Anemia
• Amenorrhea
• Hair loss
• Lowered immunity.
• Mood changes such as depression, apathy, irritability or inability to focus often accompany the other symptoms.

Only when the gluten sensitivity is diagnosed and the source removed will the symptoms start to resolve themselves.

Causes & Risk Factors

The causes of this baffling disease are relatively unknown. The only predictors seem to be that it affects more females than males, more Caucasian/European than African-American, and is likely to be hereditary. Research has indicated that while anyone can have this syndrome, the risk multiplies if there is a medical history of:

• Type 1 diabetes, especially in children
• Any type of colitis but specifically microscopic colitis
• Down syndrome
• Autoimmune thyroid disease
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Grave’s disease
• Addison disease
• Sjogren’s syndrome
• Scleroderma
• Myasthenia gravis
• Autism

Advances in gene mapping have identified genes that are likely associated with celiac disease – HLA-DQ2 and DQ8.

Prevention

Research has indicated that it might be possible to prevent this disease from occurring. However, as stated above, the exact etiology of this syndrome has not been discovered. A research study in Sweden looked at early developmental factors in those who are eventually diagnosed as celiac. The study focused on the duration of breastfeeding in addition to when gluten was first introduced and in what amount. While there were not any concrete results, the study does suggest a link between those factors and development of the disease.

Maintaining a gluten-free diet is really the only way to prevent onset, especially if a first-degree relative has the syndrome. Those with autoimmune disorders may want to adopt a gluten-free diet as well as gluten might aggravate the condition. And about 50% of autistic individuals have a form of gluten intolerance and so should eliminate grains in their diets as well. Sufferers of irritable bowel syndrome have been found to have fewer episodes when adopting a gluten-free diet, so the medical community has been advocating removing the offending grains as well.

Strong evidence suggests higher-than-normal stress responses can trigger the onset of celiac disease, especially if one or more of the risk factors are already present. Stress relief exercises such as imagery, journaling, aerobic exercise, tai chi, deep breathing, anger management, therapy, massage, and aromatherapy are effective against the damage of stress and help to manage the body’s reaction to stressors. Control of as many of those factors that lead to an autoimmune response is optimal.

Testing and Diagnostic Considerations

When celiac is suspected, it is necessary to utilize many different diagnostic tests in order to correctly identify celiac disease. Laboratory analysis is part of the diagnostic puzzle to differentiate celiac disease from other autoimmune or intestinal disorders.

Gene Markers

Experts have determined there are two genes HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 associated with celiac disease. This is especially important if there is a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling or even a second-degree relative such as aunts, uncles or cousins diagnosed with the disorder. Even if the test is positive, it just determines there is a better-than-average risk of acquiring it. Approximately a third of the population will test positive for either one or both of the genes. If the test is negative, however, there is no chance at all that celiac can develop during the lifetime.

Antibody Testing

Antibodies are proteins made by the B cells in the immune system to fight off bacteria, viruses, and other infectious agents that attach to antigens or other foreign objects and either weaken it or destroy it. However, sometimes the body overproduces these antibodies in response to non-infectious agents or to its own tissues. Endomysium (EMA-IgA) and anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG-IgA) are the antibody tests of choice. It measures the immune system response with the introduction of gluten to the body. These are considered very reliable indicators.

If both of these tests are abnormally elevated, there is a greater than 90% chance of having celiac disease. Used in the past, anti-gliadin (AGA-IgA and AGA-IgG) antibody test is no longer considered a useful diagnostic test but do help to monitor response to the gluten-free diet and other treatments.

Other Blood Tests

Other blood tests measure nutrient absorption, namely iron levels and low vitamin levels. Vitamin K is of particular importance. Vitamin K is necessary to the formation of clotting factors in the liver. When the body does not absorb enough vitamin K, blood clotting is markedly reduced, leading to risk of prolonged or abnormal bleeding. The prothrombin time blood test measures how long it takes the blood to clot.

Quantitative Stool Fat Determination

One of two stool tests used for celiac testing, the fecal fat test is the measurement of fat in the stool or the percentage not absorbed by the body. Stool is collected over a 24-hour period. The normal amount of fat excreted should not exceed 7 grams of fat per 24-hour period. Excessive amounts of fat found in the stool, known as steatorrhea can occur with many other conditions, so additional stool testing should be conducted.

Stool Antibody Testing

This is a fairly new test available in only one laboratory in the United States. It measures the anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG-IgA) and anti-gliadin (AGA-IgA and AGA-IgG) antibodies in the stool.

Duodenal Biopsy

All of the above testing is important to test for gluten intolerance. A biopsy of the small intestine to establish the degree of damage to the villi, in addition to the above tests provides the conclusive evidence necessary to make the final diagnosis. Duodenal biopsy can be problematic as villous atrophy/destruction occurs in patches, so a too-small sampling will give incorrect results. In children under two years of age, the biopsy can be abnormal due to an allergy to cow’s milk, soy or viral gastroenteritis. In adults, a positive result could be indicative of HIV enteropathy or tropical sprue.

Treatment Options

Celiac disease cannot be cured, but it can be managed, mainly through a change in diet. It is the only way to reverse the damaging effects of the disease on the gastrointestinal system. Removing all forms of gluten in the diet will heal the body.

Gluten is found in wheat, rye, spelt, oats, barley and its derivatives. These grains are found in bread, cookies, cakes, noodles, pancakes, and waffles, along with many other foods.

They are also used as thickening agents in soups and gravies and as coatings for chicken, fish, french fries, etc. Gluten is hidden in a lot of processed foods, so it is essential that food labels are vigorously scanned.

Breads, other baked goods, and pasta are available for those who are gluten intolerant in health food stores and even in some mainstream grocery stores. However, these tend to be much more expensive. Other sources of gluten include cosmetics, household products, and medications. Care also needs to be taken in restaurants as well, erring on the side of caution when ordering fried dishes, desserts, or meals that come with gravy or pasta.

This major lifestyle change is demanding and challenging at first. Symptoms of withdrawal often occur when gluten is first removed from the diet. It can take awhile for gluten to be completely out of the system and depends how long gluten was consumed prior to its removal. As the body heals, the withdrawal symptoms dissipate. Incorporating vitamins, drinking a lot of water, stress relief management, and exercise can ease these symptoms.

Since celiac disease is a much more common autoimmune disease than originally thought, there are many books and websites devoted exclusively dealing with gluten issues such as how to order in restaurants. Gluten-free cookbooks are readily available too. Almost any favorite food that contains gluten can be reasonably approximated with the right ingredients. And many foods nowadays are tagged with the “gluten-free” label, making it easier to shop for the correct foods.

Follow-up Care

Those newly diagnosed with celiac disease should be tested at least twice during the first year to make sure the gluten-free diet is successful in restoring health. Testing for antibodies with the anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG-IgA) antibody test is sufficient, as a negative result indicates the dietary measures are effective. After that first year, yearly testing is all that is considered necessary by the medical community.

Long-term Outcome

Avoidance of gluten-containing foods is considered to be the best remedy for management of the disease. The body typically will revert back to absorbing all of the nutrients, carbohydrates, and fats as it is supposed to. However, there can be long-term effects even with successful treatment. Cancers of the gastrointestinal tract occur at a much higher rate for celiacs. For those cases that were undiagnosed for many years, malabsorption of vital nutrients can be a real problem in later life. Bone density loss is one such problem.

Osteoporosis and osteomalacia (“soft bones”) results from the inability to absorb vitamin D and calcium. This is why it is so important to diagnose and treat this syndrome as early as possible.

Colitis refers to several different maladies that adversely affect the colon and an individuals ability to absorb adequate nutrition and effectively eliminate waste. Colitis may refer to one, or more, irritable bowel diseases. In some cases, a diagnosis refers to a temporary infliction, while others are only the beginning of a lifelong struggle to stay healthy. Thus, its important to understand the health options available for the most effective cures and remedies for colitis.

What’s in the Name “Colitis”?

Although the symptoms may be similar, one diagnosis of colitis may not be the same as another. Therefore, it’s extremely important to listen to the doctor, ask questions, and understand what is going on inside the body, in order to make the appropriate treatment decisions for a particular type of colitis.

Colitis is usually the result of some other health problem. When the symptoms get too severe a diagnosis is made. Generally, the doctor will want to determine type and initial cause of the colitis and the extent of the treatment necessary, in order to get the symptoms under control. A patient may have:

• ulcerative colitis (ulcers)
• Pseudomembranous colitis (antibiotic)
• collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis (microscopic)
• Ischemic colitis (injuries)

Only a careful examination by a physician can determine a correct colitis diagnosis. However, its important to understand that colitis may not be a temporary condition. Flare ups can occur at any time, because colitis is often a result of chronic conditions. When the main health problem becomes more active, the bowel becomes inflamed.

Will the Real Colitis Please Stand Up?

Actually, colitis is not a diagnosis to be taken lightly. In this case, ignorance is not bliss. It’s important to become educated in treatment options, what may cause flare-ups, and how to get the symptoms under control, before they get out of control.

For example, ulcerative colitis is pretty much as nasty as it sounds. Something has irritated the colon, to the point of creating one or more ulcers. Unfortunately, the first symptom may be diarrhea, or bloody diarrhea, because the colon doesn’t have the nerve endings that let a person know when he/she should be in a lot of pain.

Although the symptoms may be the same, Pseudomembranous colitis is generally caused by antibiotics that the patient is taking for a totally different problem. It sounds weird. But, after understanding how the colon works, it makes sense.

The colon is loaded with bacteria that is necessary to break down food, send it through the body as nutrition, or make sure it gets œflushed as waste. Unfortunately, antibiotics often target more than the intended illness. Sometimes, it kills the necessary bacteria, and lets bad bacteria run rampant, causing colitis.

C-Difficile

C-Difficile is a classic example. Patients or health care workers in hospitals or rest-homes are probably the group most susceptible to this type of colitis. Oddly enough, the only way to get rid of antibiotic caused colitis is more antibiotics. But, since its so resistant to medication, the new prescription of antibiotics is very strong. If the colitis doesn’t respond, hospitalization may be necessary.

Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are definitively diagnosed with the help of a microscope. Oftentimes, the doctor will refer to these types of colitis together, because one often leads to the other.

Ischemic colitis manifests as bloody diarrhea, after the colon has been injured in some way. Pain in the lower left abdomen is common. Although it sounds scary, in most cases the colon will heal within a few days, and the symptoms resolve naturally.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Colitis

Regardless of the specific colitis diagnosis, many of the symptoms are the same. Colitis can manifest itself in one or more different ways. However, don’t try self -diagnosing or assuming anything. Should any of the symptoms last more than a day, two at the most, it’s extremely important to consult with a physician. If you have one or more of the following symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical care:

• Diarrhea
• Bloody Diarrhea
• Abdominal Pain, usually in the Lower Left Quadrant
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unintentional Weight Loss
• Low-Grade Fever
• Rectal Pain
• Rectal Bleeding

What Causes Colitis?

Presented with one or more of these symptoms, some people may rush to the doctor in a panic. After all, one of these problems is not pleasant. Combining two or more of the maladies, and it can be pretty scary. However, it’s important to stay calm and understand what causes colitis to occur.

For example, ulcerative colitis is usually the result of a compromised immune system. Unfortunately, it’s also linked to heredity. In other words, if “Aunt Jane” has ulcerative colitis and her niece has some of the same symptoms, the doctor will want to run tests to confirm/deny a similar diagnosis.

On the other hand, pseudomembranous colitis is directly attributed to antibiotic treatments. Although the medication is intended to target a particular illness, it can also adversely affect the colon. Without the necessary bacteria to adequately control the digestive process, the colon basically gets out of whack. Then, colitis runs rampant, because it’s already resistant to antibiotics.

Collangenous Colitis

Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis are usually another malady caused by a pre-existing condition. It’s simply not fair! People already suffering from diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and other health problems that affect the immune system may also fall prey to colitis.

In fact, Ischemic colitis may actually be a symptom of a much bigger health problem like colon cancer, a circulatory system malfunction, or a hernia that is cutting off the blood supply to the colon.

Understanding the symptoms and causes of different types of colitis aid in helping the doctor make a proper diagnosis, and enable him/her to recommend the proper treatment for healing, or at least controlling, colitis.

Who Is at Risk for Colitis?

Thousands, if not millions, of people suffer from one type of colitis or another. While for some it’s a temporary condition, others live with a chronic disease. Especially when a family member has already been diagnosed with this devastating bowel disorder, individuals want to know if they are at risk of developing this ongoing health problem.

Ulcerative colitis (ulcers)-individuals that develop ulcers in their colons may also have a relative with the same disease. Although the reason is unclear, the irritable bowel disease (IBS) tends to run in families

The other major risk for this particular form of colitis is a compromised immune system. Individuals with other chronic illnesses that make them susceptible to getting sick easily are more likely to develop sores in their colons.

Pseudomembranous colitis (antibiotic) – patients recently on a course of antibiotics for another illness are susceptible to this type of colitis. The antibiotics have also destroyed the good bacteria needed by the colon for functioning properly.

Collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis (microscopic) – medication may also be responsible for this type of bowel disorder. Certain types of over-the-counter medications can adversely affect colon function. For example, aspirin may be prescribed to help prevent aches and pains, or even heart attacks, but it can also be pretty hard on the digestive system. In addition, drugs like Zantac, for controlling heartburn or the symptoms of a hiatal hernia can also leave the colon susceptible to microscopic invasions.

Ischemic colitis (injuries) – people with circulatory problems may also be at risk for this major digestive disorder. Age, heart disease, and other illnesses can adversely affect the proper blood flow throughout the body. If interrupted for two long, the lack of blood flow to the colon can cause irritable bowel disease and also result in the death of colon tissue.

Is Colitis Preventable?

For individuals with colitis hereditary factors, or after experiencing an episode of the disease, the natural question to ask is whether colitis is preventable. No one wants to discuss an irritable bowel disorder; and, oftentimes, a sufferer feels like the only person on the planet suffering from such a nasty illness.

But, if more people were willing to talk about it, maybe a means of preventing the disorder would be forthcoming. Fortunately, there are some prevention tips that might keep symptoms at bay.

In an effort to prevent colitis:

• Eat well
• Exercise
• Don’t get run down
• Avoid overmedicating
• Stay as healthy as possible

Eating will doesn’t mean consuming a lot of food. It means eating a diet rich in all the nutrients required by the body. In doing so, the consumption of fiber will also increase. Most individuals don’t get enough of this vital element to adequately sustain a healthy colon. But, a healthy colon is less likely to develop any type of colitis.

Although it may seem unrelated, exercise is also essential to a healthy digestive system. Good circulation throughout the body, especially with increasing age, will also be beneficial in preventing Ischemic colitis.

Also, get plenty of rest. Give the body a chance to regenerate. An exhausted body is less likely to fight off disease, if it comes knocking. People that are run down will be more susceptible to a compromised immune system.

Pseudomembranous colitis is known to manifest itself after a patient has been/is on antibiotics for some other illness. Therefore, its important not to overmedicate. Some people tend to go to the doctor for every sniffle, ache, or pain. In fact, they insist the doctor give them something œnow to affect a cure or control the symptoms. Unfortunately, this is not always the best idea. In reality, the more a person is on antibiotics, the more resistant the medication becomes to illness.

Another problem is not taking medications properly. If a doctor prescribes an antibiotic, dont quit in the middle, when the symptoms abate. Too often, the illness or infection will come back with a vengeance, and more medication will be necessary to get it under control. As a result, the colon is left to further attack on the necessary bacteria in the colon. In addition, people are too quick to down an aspirin regularly, not knowing that it can irritate the bowel and cause disorder.

In short, the best prevention tip is to stay as healthy as possible. If a visit to the doctor is necessary, or preexisting conditions need to be managed, follow the expert advice given to maintain the body as well as possible. As Mama used to say, œAn ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.

Testing and Diagnosis of Colitis

‘Unfortunately, there is no way to sugarcoat it. The testing and diagnosis of colitis may seem worse, at the time, than the disease itself. If irritable bowel disease exists, the only way to confirm the illness, and prescribe the right treatment, is to get a look at the bowel, possibly take biopsies, and see what is going amuck in the digestive system.

Probably the most common diagnostic test for colitis is a colonoscopy or endoscopy. The doctor will literally stick a small camera up inside the colon to have a look around. The same device also has a means to take a biopsy, if necessary, for further testing.

Since x-rays of internal organs are difficult to see, the patient may also be required to down some goop that will be visible during an x-ray. Radioactive die may also be injected into the blood stream, so the digestive tract is visible in a CT scan.

Unfortunately for every test of the colon, the organ must be free of all waste, so a clean out is ordered for the night before. In short, the patient drinks about a half gallon of medication mixed with water that is necessary to induce massive diarrhea. Once the elimination runs totally clear of any waste, the individual must not consume anything other than clear liquids prescribe by the doctor, until the next day, after the doctor takes a look at the walls of the colon.

Treating Colitis

Of course, the treatment of colitis depends on the type and severity of the disease. In many cases, the doctor will prescribe medications to keep the symptoms at bay, until the colon has a chance to heal. A special diet may also be necessary to keep from irritating the bowel again. In a worst case scenario, surgery to remove a section of the colon may be required to facilitate healing and keep the symptoms from causing other potentially life-threatening health problems.

Home Remedies for Colitis

Persons with chronic colitis will have to learn to live with disease. On good days, it might even be hard to remember that colitis is going to always be a concern. However, on the bad days, when a flare up makes life totally miserable, its good to know several home remedies for getting the symptoms back under control. When colitis rears its ugly head, some home remedies include:

• Bland foods
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Tea, water, soda
• Rest

During a flare-up, its best to eat bland foods. Of course, eating at this point is a matter of survival, not desire. Starchy foods seem to work best. White rice is one of the easier foods to digest. Toast, crackers, potatoes, and plain pasta are some other good ideas.

Its important to stay away from the foods that will only aggravate the colon. Greasy or spicy foods are not a good idea. Dairy products usually exacerbate diarrhea. However, some hard cheeses are tolerable.

Tea, water and clear sodas seem to be okay. However, if the diarrhea lasts more than a day, its a good idea to have a favorite flavor of Gatorade available. It helps replace the electrolytes that get out of whack, when the bowels won’t allow retention of any nutrients.

In Summary

Understanding the disease and the most effective cures and remedies for colitis is vital, especially for those people dealing with reoccurring flare-ups. However, this information is no substitute for seeking the proper diagnosis and treatment of colitis. Anyone suspecting they might have colitis, or experiencing a flare-up that is not responding to home remedies within a day or two, should see his/her doctor as soon as possible.

Resources

National Institute of Health

Cdc.Gov

MayoClinic.Com

GERD: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), gastric reflux disease, or simply acid reflux disease. It is caused by the chronic backwash or reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. Most people experience acid reflux occasionally, but if reflux happens more than twice weekly or disrupts the patient’s daily life, doctors generally diagnose GERD.

Symptoms

The most commonly reported symptom of GERD is heartburn, also termed acid indigestion. Heartburn can range from an uncomfortable warmth to a painful burning sensation in the chest or upper central abdomen. It sometimes spreads all the way up to the throat. Heartburn results when stomach acid and juices flow upward from the stomach into the esophagus, irritating the esophageal lining. A sour taste of stomach acid or bile in the mouth may accompany heartburn. Regurgitation of half-digested stomach contents may occur. Heartburn should not be confused with steady and severe chest pain, which can be a symptom of heart disease or another problem.

Sufferers of GERD may report the sensation of a lump of the throat. This symptom is termed globus pharyngeus. It occurs when the inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscle attached to the esophagus near the voice box tightens in order to prevent stomach from backwashing into the voice box and mouth.

Another symptom of GERD is difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia. The chronic irritation of acid reflux can result in severe esophageal inflammation and injury, creating narrowed sections of esophagus called strictures. These strictures physically interfere with swallowing and may block food on its way to the stomach.

GERD can also cause other injuries to the esophagus, such as ulcers, esophageal cancer, and a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus. In Barrett’s esophagus, the cells at the lower end of the esophageal lining are altered. This cell alteration is associated with a higher risk of esophageal cancer.

Other symptoms are not as commonly associated with GERD, but may still be caused by it. They include sore throat, dry cough, and laryngitis. Asthma, tooth enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity, sinusitis, and damaged teeth may also be related to GERD.

Causes

The lower esophageal muscle (LES) is a round band of muscle between the bottom of the esophagus and entrance to the stomach. It serves as a valve for the stomach. When swallowing occurs, the LES relaxes, allowing food and liquids to enter. Then it tightens, closing the stomach again. When the LES fails to close properly after swallowing, or otherwise weakens and does not hold the stomach properly closed, stomach acid and contents can backwash up into the the esophagus. Chronic malfunction of the LES and subsequent acid reflux results in GERD.

Risk Factors

One direct cause of LES malfunction is a hiatal hernia. In a hiatal hernia, the top portion of the stomach herniates, or protrudes, through the diaphragm muscle and into the upper abdomen. This places additional pressure on the LES and makes it difficult for it to stay fully closed. Obesity, pregnancy, overeating, and chronic coughing may also play excessive pressure on the LES and result in its malfunction.

Smoking is a major risk factor for GERD. Smoking weakens the LES, making it less able to function properly. Smoking also reduces the mouth’s production of saliva, which otherwise helps dissolve stomach acid, thereby decreasing the body’s protection against acid reflux.

Other possible causes of GERD are less understood. A growing number of alternative health practictioners believe that the LES tends to malfunction when there is too little acid present in the stomach. This view is discussed further in the alternative treatments section.

Prevention Tips

There are a number of lifestyle modifications that can help prevent heartburn.

Avoid trigger foods. These are different for every individual. Fried or greasy foods, alcohol, sugary foods, chocolate, peppermint, coffee, garlic, and onions are some foods that may weaken the LES and cause acid reflux. Highly acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits may not cause reflux, but can worsen any heartburn irritation already present.

If overweight, lose weight. Excess weight puts extra pressure on the abdomen, pushes the stomach upward and can cause acid to reflux into the esophagus.

Do not wear clothing that puts pressure on the abdomen. Clothing that fits tightly on the waist, such as tight belts or waistbands, puts extra pressure on the LES and may contribute to reflux.

Eat at least three hours before lying down. Lying down contributes to pressure on the LES and allows refluxed acid to travel further up the esophagus.

Sleep with the head of the bed elevated. Placing six to nine inch blocks under the head portion of the bed allows gravity to minimize acid reflux. If the bed cannot be raised, it is possible to place a wedge (available from drugstores and medical supply stores) between the mattress and box spring. This raises the body from the waist up.

Don’t overeat. Eating small meals several times a day puts less pressure on the LES and may prevent acid reflux.

Testing and Diagnosis

Many doctors diagnosis GERD based only on symptoms reported by the patient and response to prescribed medication. However, a number of tests can help determine if reflux is actually occurring. Any patient with doubts about their symptoms should request testing from their doctor.

Esophageal pH monitoring

Esophageal pH monitoring is considered the most accurate diagnostic test for GERD. It involves inserting a pH sensor or sensors into the esophagus of a patient and monitoring acid levels for 24 to 48 hours. During this time, the patient carries out his or her daily routine. The test shows if and when acid reflux is occurring.

In older versions of this test, the sensor or sensors were attached to a catheter extending through the throat and out of the nostrils and attached to a small monitor worn outside the body. However, wireless pH monitoring is now possible through use of the Bravo pH capsule. The capsule must be placed on the esophagus during an endoscopy, but it is then completely invisible and generally not felt at all by the patient. The capsule spontaneously detaches and passes harmlessly through the digestive system within several days.

Endoscopy

In endoscopy, a doctor inserts a very thin and flexible tube with a tiny light and camera, called an endoscope, through the mouth and down the esophagus of the patient. The patient’s mouth and throat are generally numbed with a topical anaesthetic beforehand to minimize discomfort. Sedation and general anaesthesia are also options before the procedure. Doctors may observe the state of the esophagus, LES, and stomach, including any signs of acid reflux. A tissue sample may be collected from the esophagus for further analysis.

Endoscopy is useful for revealing signs and damage caused by GERD. However, it cannot observe acid reflux while it is occurring, unlike esophageal pH monitoring.

Esophageal manometry

Esophageal manometry, also known as esophageal impedance or an esophageal motility test, involves inserting a small catheter through the nose, down the esophagus and through the LES into the stomach. The catheter is then slowly pulled back out. The patient will be asked to take deep breaths and swallow several times. On the way out, the catheter records pressure changes and other data which is used to assess the functioning of the esophagus and LES. There is minimal discomfort to the patient during the procedure, which lasts about 45 minutes. This test is useful to help determine if a malfunctioning LES is contributing to acid reflux.

Barium swallow X-ray

This test involves a patient swallowing a liquid solution containing barium sulfate. The barium sulfate covers the surfaces of the digestive tract and acts as a radiocontrast agent, showing up white on X-rays. Doctors can observe the shape of the esophagus, LES, stomach and upper intestine, to see if there is a hiatal hernia or if the LES appears to be functional. They may also assess any visible damage from acid reflux.

Due to its use of radiation and the availability of more accurate tests, a barium swallow X-ray may not be the top choice for diagnosing GERD, but it remains an option.

Treatment options

Pharmaceuticals

There are a number of pharmaceutical options for the treatment of GERD symptoms. They involve either the neutralization of stomach acid or the blocking of stomach acid production. As with any pharmaceutical treatment, unwanted and harmful side effects are possible, particularly with prolonged use of drugs. Also, pharmaceutical treatments for GERD only treat the symptoms of acid reflux. They do not treat the cause of the acid reflux itself, which is malfunction of the LES.

Antacids

Antacids are composed of bases or basic salts which neutralize acid in the stomach. They are usually taken as chewable tablets upon onset of heartburn. When antacids are digested they buffer the acids in the stomach by raising the pH, offering quick relief from reflux discomfort. Some popular brands include Pepto-Bismol, Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Tums, and Rolaids, all available over the counter and relatively inexpensive.

Antacids provide only symptomatic relief for the pain associated with acid reflux. They do not treat the cause of acid reflux. Overuse of antacids can have adverse side effects, from the mild, such as constipation and diarrhea, to the severe, including milk-alkali syndrome, kidney stones, and kidney failure. Most doctors recommend that antacids only be used for occasional acid reflux. They generally recommend stronger medications for the chronically recurring reflux associated with GERD.

Acid blocking drugs

Acid blocking drugs reduce or block the stomach’s production of acid. They are very commonly prescribed for GERD and fall into two main groups.

H2 receptor antagonists

This acid blocking drug prevents histamine from acting on the acid-secreting cells in the stomach. Normally, histamine stimulates the production of stomach acid. Therefore, H2 receptor antagonists reduce the stomach’s production of acid. Brand names include Tagamet, Pepcid AC, and Zantac. They are available in relatively low over the counter doses and higher prescription doses. They are moderately expensive.

These drugs are recommended by doctors for mild to moderate GERD. They can be taken before a meal to prevent acid indigestion before it occurs, and are effective in reducing acid production for 6-10 hours. However, they do not treat the cause of acid reflux, which is generally a malfunctioning LES. They only minimize the discomfort and damage associated with acid reflux by reducing the acidity of refluxed stomach juices.

H2 receptor antagonists are believed to be well-tolerated by the body in general. They may be taken as often as twice a day. Still, there are possible adverse effects, including hypotension, headache, tiredness, dizziness, confusion, diarrhea, constipation, and rash. There are also possible long term side effects associated with the reduction of stomach acid, such as poor absorption of nutrients and subsequent deficiencies.

Proton pump inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors are drugs which block the proton pump, an enzyme system, from acting in the acid-secreting cells of the stomach. The normal action of the proton pump is the last step in stomach acid production. Therefore, the blocking of the proton pump effectively shuts down the acid production of a particular cell. Proton pump inhibitors are much more powerful than H2 receptor antagonists, and can block total stomach acid production up to 99%. The prolonged blocking of stomach acid production allows time for esophageal damage from acid reflux to heal.

Due to their much greater strength, proton pump inhibitors have surpassed H2 receptor antagonists in popularity and become some of the most widely prescribed drugs in the world. Brand names include Nexium, Prevacid, and Prilosec. They are available in over the counter and prescription forms and are generally expensive.

Proton pump inhibitors may be taken as often as twice daily and are thought to be well tolerated. However, possible side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and dizziness, rash, itch, flatulence, constipation, anxiety, and depression. In addition, long term suppression of stomach acid can result in nutrient deficiencies and other serious health problems.

Prokinetic agents

These drugs promote quicker emptying of the stomach and can help tighten the LES. They work by increasing the rate of contraction of the small intestine, speeding the process of digestion. They include the drug Reglan. However, they can frequently cause side effects including nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, and anxiety. They are sometimes prescribed for GERD in combination with H2 receptor antagonists. This combination of treatments can be expensive. They are rarely prescribed alone and are considered less safe and effective than proton pump inhibitors for the long term treatment of GERD.

Surgery

If lifestyle modifications and medications do not resolve severe GERD, doctors may recommend surgery to tighten the LES.

Nissen fundoplication tightens the LES by wrapping the stomach around the base of the esophagus. Surgery may be open (through a long abdominal incision) or, more frequently, laparoscopic (done by instruments inserted through several tiny abdominal incisions). The surgery has a reported 90% effectiveness rate in eliminating reflux symptoms. However, like any surgery, it has a risk of complications, including gas bloat syndrome, dumping syndrome, trouble swallowing, excessive scarring, and recurrence of symptoms. It can also be expensive and may not be covered by insurance.

Other surgical procedures include the EndoCinch endoluminal gastroplication, which uses stitches in the stomach to create barriers against acid reflux, and the Stretta system, which uses electrode energy to create scar tissue which strengthens the LES. Both procedures are still in experimental stages.

Alternative treatments

Some alternative health practitioners believe that GERD results from too little stomach acid. They propose that a chronic lack of sufficient acid secretion in the stomach may cause the LES to loosen and promote acid reflux. They conclude that conventional pharmaceutical treatments for GERD, which neutralize, reduce, or block stomach acid, actually worsen the root cause of acid reflux and create drug dependence as well as long term health problems.

Some alternative treatments for GERD increase stomach acidity and may keep the LES from opening and allowing reflux to occur.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A spoonful of apple cider vinegar, a highly acidic natural substance, is an inexpensive home remedy for indigestion that increases stomach acidity and may relieve GERD symptoms. Lemon juice may be taken in a similar way.

Digestive Bitters

Digestive bitters include bitter herbs such as gentian root, dandelion, and goldenseal. Bitters have traditionally been used to stimulate the appetite and may increase production of stomach acid and digestive juices. Tinctures of digestive bitters are available in health food stores and are relatively inexpensive. 5-10 drops in a little water–just enough to create a strong taste of bitterness–may be taken 5-10 minutes before eating.

Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl) with Pepsin

Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl), derived from beets, it is a natural substance very similar in content to stomach acid. It usually combined with an enzyme called Pepsin and marketed in health food stores as a digestive aid. It is relatively inexpensive. 1-2 tablets may be taken immediately before a meal to increase stomach acid and may prevent reflux from occurring. They should only be taken just before eating due to the strong increase in stomach acid they create. They should not be taken by anyone using anti-inflammatory medication, including aspirin and ibuprofen. This is due to these drugs’ risk of damaging the stomach lining, which supplemental acid could aggravate.

Other alternative treatments include herbs that may ease GERD symptoms by soothing esophageal irritation, such as slippery elm, chamomile, licorice, and marshmallow. They may be taken in teas and lozenges, or added to foods and drinks as powders.

Acupuncture has been shown to relieve the discomfort of GERD symptoms for some patients. Meditation, relaxation, and reducing stress also reportedly reduce GERD symptoms.

Resources

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The thyroid gland, located at the back of the neck below the Adam’s apple, is a gland that produces thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate our body’s metabolism, as well as helping to regulate energy usage, the use of hormones and vitamins, and the growth and maturation of body tissues. Thyroid disease either creates an overabundance of thyroid hormones, called hyperthyroidism, or too little thyroid hormones, called hypothyroidism. Both of these conditions create unpleasant symptoms, but can be effectively managed after proper diagnosis.

Causes of Thyroid Problems

The “hypothalamus”a part of the brain located just above the brain stem”releases thyrotropin-relasing hormone, or TRH. TRH then travels to the pituitary gland, which is an endocrine gland located at the bottom of the hypothalamus. In response to the presence of TRH, the pituitary gland releases thyroid-stimulating hormone, or TSH, into the blood. The TSH then goes to the thyroid gland, resulting in the thyroid producing two thyroid hormones called L-thyroxine and triiodothyronine. In order to produce these thyroid hormones, dietary iodine must be available to the brain.

The pituitary gland regulates the production of thyroid hormone by sensing how much hormone is in the blood and adjusting the production of hormones as needed. When there is too much thyroid hormone in the blood, the pituitary gland senses this and reduces the amount of TRH and TSH produced until the level of thyroid hormones in the blood returns to normal.

When there is too little thyroid hormone in the blood, the pituitary gland senses this and increases the amount of TRH and TSH produced until the level of thyroid hormones in the blood reaches a normal level. If there is a defect in this thyroid hormone regulatory process, for any reason, hypo- or hyperthyroidism may result.

Causes of Hyperthyroidism

Grave’s Disease: an autoimmune disorder resulting in antibodies stimulating the thyroid and causing too much thyroxine to be released. Antibodies, usually used to protect against viruses, bacteria and foreign substances, attack the thyroid and sometimes the tissues behind the eyes and the skin in the lower legs over the shins. A genetic predisposition appears to be a causal factor of Grave’s Disease.

• Hyper functioning thyroid nodules: the presence noncancerous lumps that form when a part of the thyroid gland walls itself off from the rest of the gland”also called an adenoma”that produce excess thyroxine, thus causing hyperthyroidism. The cause of these adenomas that produce excess thyroxine is unknown.
• Thyroiditis: the inflammation of the thyroid gland, causing excess thyroid hormones to leak into the bloodstream. Some types of thyroiditis cause thyroid gland pain, while others are painless and sometimes occur after pregnancy.
• Autoimmune disease (Hashimoto thyroiditis): an autoimmune disorder resulting in antibodies that attack tissues, affecting the thyroid’s ability to produce hormones.
• Treatment for hyperthyroidism: radioactive iodine or anti-thyroid medications used to treat hyperthyroidism can sometimes result in permanent hypothyroidism.
• Radiation therapy: used to treat cancers of the head and neck, radiation therapy can affect the thyroid gland and lead to hypothyroidism
• Thyroid surgery: the process of removing a large portion or all of the thyroid, resulting in the halting hormone production
• Medications: some, such as lithium, contribute to hypothyroidism
• Congenital disease: birth defect where the thyroid gland did not develop normally in utero
• Pituitary disorder: the failure of the pituitary gland to produce enough TSH, often due to a noncancerous tumor
• Pregnancy: during or after pregnancy some women produce antibodies to their own thyroid gland, resulting in hypothyroidism and putting the pregnancy at risk
• Iodine deficiency: essential for the production of thyroid hormones, the amount of dietary iodine in the body is sometimes too low to assist in the production of thyroid hormones

Symptoms

Many of the symptoms of hyper- and hypothyroidism are uncomfortable and mild. Therefore, thyroid problems are easily overlooked by individuals until they gain in intensity. Symptoms often develop slowly, but as the illness continues untreated the symptoms increase. It is important to know the signs of thyroid problems so medical advice and treatment can be received as soon as possible.

• Sudden weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat (more than 100 beats per minute), irregular heartbeat, or pounding heart
• Increased appetite
• Nervousness, anxiety, irritability
• Tremor, usually in hands and fingers
• Sweating
• Change in menstrual patterns
• Increased sensitivity to heat
• Changes in bowel patterns, especially more frequent occurrence
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter), which shows as swelling at the base of the neck
• Fatigue and muscle weakness
• Difficulty sleeping

Additional Symptoms Include:

• Fatigue
• Sluggishness
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Constipation
• Pale, dry skin
• Puffy face
• Hoarse voice
• Elevated cholesterol level
• Unexplained weight gain
• Muscle aches, tenderness, stiffness
• Pain, stiffness, swelling in joints
• Muscle weakness
• Heavier than normal menstrual periods
• Brittle fingernails and hair
• Depression

Close attention to symptoms common of thyroid problems is essential in diagnosing such problems. While hypothyroidism generally occurs in middle-aged and older women, it is possible for infants and children to develop hypothyroidism as well. The following should be watched for in case of hypothyroidism in infant or children:

• Jaundice: yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
• Frequent choking
• Large, protruding tongue
• Puffy face
• Constipation
• Poor muscle tone
• Excessive sleepiness
• Poor growth
• Delayed permanent teeth
• Delayed puberty
• Poor cognitive development

In addition to the various causes of hypothyroidism, there are certain factors that put people at risk of developing the thyroid disorder. These risk factors include:

• A family history of autoimmune disorders
• Having undergone radioactive iodine treatment or taken anti-thyroid medications
• Having undergone radiation treatment to the neck or upper chest
• Having had thyroid surgery

Testing for Thyroid Disease

If concerned about thyroid problems, a medical doctor should be consulted. A comprehensive exam, including a physical exam, medical history, and blood test, can accurately determine if a thyroid disease is present. The blood test is used to determine the level of thyroid hormones in the blood. A low level of thyroxine and a high level of thyroid-stimulating hormone indicates hypothyroidism; while high levels of thyroxine and a low level of thyroid-stimulating hormone indicates hyperthyroidism.

If blood tests indicate hyperthyroidism, the medical doctor may request one of the following additional tests to determine the cause of the overactive thyroid:

Radioactive iodine uptake test: a small oral dose of radioactive iodine is taken, which collects in your thyroid gland, and is checked after 2, 6 or 24 hours to determine how much iodine the thyroid gland has absorbed. If a high amount of radioiodine has been absorbed, the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroxine and the cause of the hyperthyroidism is most likely Graves disease or hyper functioning nodules. If the amount of radioiodine absorbed is low, the cause of the hyperthyroidism is likely thyroiditis.

Thyroid scan: radioactive isotope is injected into the side of the elbow or hand, and a special camera produces an image of the thyroid on a computer screen.

It is extremely important that these additional tests be done in order to determine the cause of the hyperthyroidism, and to ensure the proper treatment of the disease.

Thyroid Disease Treatment

Thyroid disease is a serious medical problem that has no cure or ways to prevent it from occurring. However, the good news is that thyroid disease can be effectively managed with the proper treatment.

Hyperthyroidism Treatment

Radioactive Iodine

Taken orally, radioactive iodine is absorbed by the thyroid gland causing it to shrink and symptoms of hyperthyroidism to subside. Side effects include slowing thyroid activity to the point where medication may be needed every day to replace thyroxine.

Anti-thyroid Medications

Medications that gradually reduce symptoms of hyperthyroidism by preventing thyroid gland from producing excess hormones. Side effects include liver damage.

Beta Blockers

Drugs common for treatment of high blood pressure that do not reduce thyroid levels, and which reduce rapid heart rates and prevent palpitations. May be prescribed until thyroid levels are in the normal range.

Surgery

Removal of most of the thyroid gland. This is used only in rare cases and when anti-thyroid medications cannot be tolerated. Side effects include damage to the vocal cords and parathyroid glands, the need for lifelong treatment to supply body with normal amounts of thyroid hormones, and the need for medication to keep blood-calcium levels normal.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is the prescription of an oral medication that is a synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine. This treatment is usually lifelong, though the symptoms of hypothyroidism will begin to alleviate after only a few weeks. This treatment requires a blood test 2 -3 months after beginning oral medication in order to determine TSH levels.

There are virtually no side effects associated with the proper dosage of this medication, though some supplements, medications and foods may interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. The doctor should be made aware of a high soy or fiber diet, as well as medications taken such as iron supplements, Cholestyramine, Aluminum hydroxide (found in antacids), and calcium supplements.

At Home Remedies

There are various at-home remedies believed to assist in the treatment of thyroid disease. However, it is important to note that these herbal and home remedies are not monitored by the FDA and their efficacy cannot be guaranteed. Before choosing these alternatives as treatment, a medical doctor and/or naturopath should be consulted.

• Kelp seaweed: antioxidant containing iodine, which helps in the functioning of the thyroid
• Bladderwack: high in iodine and therefore beneficial for hypothyroidism
• Vitamin B Complex: improves cellular oxygenation and energy, and assists with digestion, immunity and thyroid functioning
• Primrose Oil: essential fatty acid, important for thyroid functioning
• Irish Moss: nourishes the thyroid
• Siberian Ginseng: helps adrenal and thymus glands, which supports thyroid health
• Black walnut: rich in organic iodine and manganese that nourishes and strengthens thyroid function
• Vitamin A rich foods: yellow vegetables, eggs, carrots, and dark green vegetables help in thyroid functioning

In addition to the at-home natural remedies listed above, there are various nutritional supplements available in pill form at organic and naturopathic stores, as well as online. These range in price from $10 – $50 depending on the brand purchased, the store or online retailer purchased from, and the size of the bottle purchased.

As with all issues relating to health, diet and exercise are important factors in the well being of our bodies. Whether pharmaceutical, surgical or at-home remedies are used as treatment for thyroid disorder, a healthy diet and exercise plan can help to increase not only the health of the thyroid, but of the body as whole.