I never thought that diet pills can have substances that may cause allergic reactions, hence it will not be good for people who has allergy. Some of the contents that can cause allergic reactions are: amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, ephedrine, epinephrine, isoproterenol, metaproterenol, methamphetamine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, phenylpropanolamine, pseudoephedrine, terbutaline, or other appetite suppressants. Therefore, people who have allergy and want to take diet pills are suggested to consult their condition to physician so they can choose the best diet pills for them. Everyone will have different body reactions to diet pills, thus end result will be different from one person to other person. So, it’s always wise to do some research, e.g. by reading diet pill reviews to learn how they can get the most advantage out of diet pills and get the result that they want. The source for this information is available in the internet, magazines, newspaper, medical clinics, etc. By learning more, you will find diet pills that work and safe for your allergy condition.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Diet pills and allergy
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Natural Allergy Treatment; Just Wishful Thinking?
by Dwain Berlin
There is a growing trend towards natural allergy treatment for many people because of concerns over side effects from prescriptions. It seems that allergies are affecting a growing number of people each year similar to the growth rate of serious diseases like cancer, stroke and heart disease. Luckily there is an effective allergy treatment found in a natural botanical.
This botanical reaches into numerous areas of your body and targets whatever needs the most attention, while correcting allergies as well. There are hundreds of years of folk lore and decades of scientific research behind it, and more focused research is being done every year. Some studies are focusing on one specific nutrient called the Xanthone. There are about 200 xanthones in nature, most of which are found in wood, and over 40 found in a fruit called Mangosteen. (not related to Mango)
Get Tested For Allergies
By getting an allergy test done you'll know what to remove from your diet or what to stay away from. This is obvious but neccesary, and with a little discpline you can start your allergy treatment. There are also a lot of allergens beyond your control so the next step is to increase your allergy resistance.
A well prescribed allergy treatment will eliminate discomfort, reduce the severity and maybe even go as far as eliminate your symptoms. Unfortunately, most pills just mask your symptoms and in some cases become less effective over time. If your allergies are serious and life threatening, then you should carry an Epi-Pen with you and renew it each year.
Our North American health system is the best in the world in many respects, but lacking in other areas. Many Doctors will never admit when they don't know how to help you and resort to prescriptions because of their training. If they knew of an effective natural allergy treatment, there's no doubt they would tell you about it.
A Point To Consider
With the endless list of allergens that could cause your reaction, how effective is an allergy pill when it's just an antihistamine? It makes more sense when an allergy treatment is focused on helping your body heal itself. Especially when part of the treatment is anti-inflammitory to help with breathing, reduce swelling, hives and itching. It's even better when it's from a powerful natural source that has a compliment of nutrients working together.
The natural allergy treatment I'm reffering to is found in the Mangosteen fruit. In this delicious fruit is a specific nutrient called xanthone. It's a powerful antioxidant that controls a wide range of healing functions. It's a double bonded molucule with side chains, and each side chain addresses a different health problem.
Xanthones; Natures Hero
It's important to know why a double bonded molucule is significant, especially as an allergy treatment. Xanthones have a skeletal structure (the double bond) and side chains. Each side chain can deliver a different treatment and when active in your body will seek and destroy viruses, fungus, parasites and other nasty intruders. It will also strenthen vital organs by helping your immune system.
A double bonded molucule is re-enforced and has lasting power, not like antioxidants that expire on first contact with a free radical for instance. Because of the backbone structure, the side chains are anywhere from 10 to 50 times more effective than nutrients found in most fruits and vegetables. What's even more amazing is how it out performs concentrated extracts like co-enzyme Q10 for instance.
Natures Powerhouse Allergy Treatment
Now that Mangosteen is becoming known in DOctors offices, those who are aware are begining to prescribe Mangosteen first and pills later if a condition persists. The number of Doctors who know about this is minimal, but you can introduce it to your Doctor and help this trend grow.
Remember when Aloe Vera first came out in the late 70's? It quickly became a household name and every mother had a plant in the house for scrapes and cuts. Today you can walk into any health food store and see six or eight brands of Aloe Vera Juice on the shelf. Aloe Vera has one xanthone, Mangosteen has 43!
Xanthones Heal
Mangosteen has been used in Asian culture for hundreds of years. It has been used for numerous health problems too long to list here, but most importantly it's a powerful allergy treatment. The majority of xanthones in Mangosteen are found in the rind which is very bitter tasting by itself, so that may be why it didn't go commercial until just recently.
A special process is required to make the juice of the whole fruit taste good. Without including the rind in Mangosteen juice, it would not be an effective allergy treatment.
*** Use Mangosteen To Eliminate Allergies ***
Don't wait another moment... Start getting relief today. Discover what thousands of other people swear by Allergy Treatment
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Looking for Food Allergy Recipe Ideas
By Allen Matthews
It seems that some recipe books (that have been specifically written for people who have a food allergy), seem to offer little value for money. Its particularly annoying when they are simply rehashing regular recipes, but add the side line "get a [insert food allergy] free substitute" within the ingredients of each and every meal guide.
Still, on the Internet, there is a wealth of food allergy recipe information, allowing for some respite those of us with sweet tooth's, but a food allergy that can sometimes restrict it.
So here is your quick three step guide to searching for food allergy free recipes online:
*** Visit many of the larger reputable cooking websites. In fact a lot of the major cooking or dieting websites, will automatically, create recipes for you that make sure that certain food items are not in your meal's ingredients.
*** Always check the details. For example, when a recipe simply says to add butter, or oil, you have to be sure that the products you buy are nut free.
*** Make recipe finding part of your regular web-surfing time. Build up your own little recipe cards, for you to go to when you need to feed your sweet tooth!
Do You Still Need a Recipe Idea?
As a peanut allergic adult myself, (who is also a great cook!), I have not abandoned my sweet tooth for fear of what may be within biscuits or cakes. Instead, I have searched for recipes that allow me to make a great peanut-free cookies and cakes.
In fact, here is one of my favorite recipes. But be careful, at 83 calories per cookie, you could get a little bit too carried away!
Serves: 4 Dozen Cookies
Nutritional Value of 1 Cookie: 3.8 g Fat; 83 Calories 84 mg Salt
Ingredients:
3/4 cup Soya nut butter - Soya nut butter is a great peanut butter alternative since it contains no peanuts or tree-nuts.
1/2 cup vegetable shortening - Please note that you should always check for the type of vegetable oil that is used. If the vegetable oil isn't clearly identified, avoid it, as the manufacturer may have used peanut oil.
1 1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3 tablespoons soya milk
1 tablespoons vanilla
1 egg
1/4 cup soy flour
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup roasted, salted soya nuts (for topping)
Preheat your oven to 375 F.
Put the soya nut butter, vegetable shortening, soya milk, brown sugar, and vanilla into a mixing bowl.
Blend the ingredients until smooth, then add the egg.
Blend the egg into the ingredients.
Now add the flour, salt and baking soda, and blend those ingredients into the mixing bowl.
Drop teaspoonfuls of the mix onto ungreased baking paper, and shape as required.
Top each cookie with a few of the salted soya nuts.
Finally, bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes until mildly brown, then allow for them to cool down completely, before eating.
Read More......
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Methods To Treat Asthma In Adults And Children
by Karina Jacobsen
Asthma is a very serious condition affecting both children and adults. The effects of an Asthma attack are disabling if your doctor doesn't know about your condition, leaving you improperly cared for. Though treatments for Asthma are much more advanced than they were years ago, more than half a million people every year, are in need of in-patient care while nearly four thousand ultimately die. How your doctor or specialist chooses to treat your asthma is based on your age and how severe your Asthma is.
It's possible to pass Asthma on to a child through heredity, but more likely asthma is caused by your environment. An Asthma attacks happens when allergens infiltrate your respiratory system causing your bronchiole airway to constrict which leads to over production of mucous. It's also possible to bring on an Asthma attack by merely laughing. There are plenty of warning signs to indicate an Asthma attack is brewing.
If you have a history of Asthma or suspect you or someone you know might, watch for signs such as: Coughing (sometimes so severe it wakes you from sleep), wheezing, tightness in the chest and the feeling of not being able to catch your breath. If you experience these symptoms its imperative you seek medical attention immediately.
If you have mild or intermittent Asthma, your doctor may suggest the use of over-the-counter medication such as a bronchodilator. More severe Asthma may require the use of a prescription medication or an inhaler containing corticosteroids, as treatment. Prescription medications used to treat Asthma contain active ingredients used to decrease the inflammation in the lungs and sensitivity to allergens. A bronchodilator is prescribed and used for immediate relief of Asthma symptoms but has no long lasting effects.
It's possible your doctor will choose to use a combination of treatments to relieve your Asthma symptoms and attacks. An ever popular and effective treatment for Asthma caused by allergies in children and adults is Immunotherapy. This method works by building antibodies in the system to the allergens that set off the attacks by exposing the Asthmatic to ever increasing doses of said allergen. Eventually, the allergy is resolved and with it, hopefully, the Asthma attacks.This article in no way should be taken as medical advice.
As with any medical condition, its important to speak with your doctor for the best course of action and prevention. If you are currently under your doctors care for Asthma, and feel your symptoms are not improving, speak with him/her about alternate forms of treatment. If short term inhalers are being used often, this is a good indication your Asthma is not effectively being controlled.
Ask your doctor about physical exercise, how much is too much and if there are certain activities you should avoid or limit. Breathing should not be a chore, tell your doctor today if you suspect that you or someone you love maybe suffering from Asthma.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Learn About Allergies and The Relationship To Food
by Charles Amith
Allergies are the hypersensitive response of the body to foreign substances. These foreign substances are called antigens, which stimulate the body to produce antibodies, whose normal function is to combat antigens by destroying them or otherwise making them harmless. In allergic individuals, for poorly understood reasons, the body's antibody defense mechanism goes awry and injures the body instead of protecting it.
The most familiar allergies are hay fever and asthma, which are caused by a wide variety of inhaled pollens, dusts, and other agents. However, food can also be a cause of allergic reactions.
Food does not often cause allergic reactions. Food allergies are more common in infants than in older children and adults, probably because the infant's immature digestive tract permits more ready absorption of offending food molecules.
Manifestations of food allergies in adults are usually of the immediate kind, including hives, angioderma, eczema, gastrointestinal disorders, and general systemic reactions of the anaphylactic type. Systemic reactions occur quickly after eating.
They are most frequently caused by legumes, nuts, seafoods (especially shellfish), and berries, but carbohydrates, fats, food additives, and contamination by drugs may be implicated.
In infants and children, eczema is the prominent manifestation, and the most frequent causative agents include milk, wheat, eggs, fish, and soybean products.
Food allergies are diagnosed on the basis of the patient's allergic history together with trial eliminations of suspected foods from the patient's diet. Skin tests and tests for antibodies in serum are less significant, because the hypersensitive reaction may be provoked by the breakdown of products of the food resulting from digestion, and not by the food itself.
The management of food allergy is based mainly on the avoidance of the offending foods. An antihistamine taken before a meal may be helpful if a food to which one is allergic is to be eaten. Food allergies in children tend to lessen or disappear with age, but the anaphylactic types manifested in adults do not usually improve over time.
Friday, September 12, 2008
One day at asthma clinic
I had asthma and I experienced asthma attack several times. I didn’t like being in that situation at all. It was hard to breathe, I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t lie down.
One day, I visited my asthma clinic for my routine check up and following my treatment. All of sudden, one of the patients in the waiting room had asthma attack. The physician was still with other patient, both rooms were occupied. Her medical assistant came to help the patient. She tried to make patient comfortable while waiting for the doctor to come.
Fortunately, the physician finished examining her patient and with a quick action she handled that reoccurred patient with her special treatment method.
The clinic has another medical assistant for filing and keeping patient record and arranging patient appointment. It was a medium size clinic, so I knew all of the staffs. All of them went to different medical assistant schools.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Get Rid Of My Sinus Infection!
Get Rid Of My Sinus Infection!: "Ever wondered how you get a sinus infection? Ever wondered how you permanently get rid of a sinus infection?"
Read More......Monday, September 1, 2008
What is Allergy Induced Asthma?
By: Isabelle Boulay
When someone is exposed to an allergen – a substance to which their body is sensitive – they may produce ‘histamines’, which cause inflammation and irritation as they work to rid the body of the allergen. In the case of allergy induced asthma, the histamines go to work on the bronchial passages and lungs, making it difficult for the allergic person to breathe.
The incidence of allergy induced asthma has grown almost geometrically in recent years, and scientists aren’t quite sure why. They suspect that part of the reason may be the increased exposure of children to some common allergens. This seems to be borne out by population based studies – African-American and Hispanic children living in the inner city are far more likely to develop allergy induced asthma than Caucasian children in the same cities, and even those children are more likely to develop allergy induced asthma than suburban and rural children of the same socioeconomic level.
A number of reasons have been advanced for the disparity, but the most likely is simply that Black and Hispanic children are far more likely to live in the most crowded old neighborhoods of the city. Crowding is the biggest risk factor for the presence of common household pests like cockroaches and rodents, and cockroach parts and rodent droppings are two of the most common allergens in children with allergy induced asthma.
Diagnosing Allergy Induced Asthma
Doctors will diagnose asthma differently depending on the age of the patient. Children under five, for instance, may find it difficult to follow instructions for breathing capacity tests. Doctors will often use history, both the child’s and the family medical history, to help determine the possibility of asthma. Often, if asthma is suspected, the doctor will prescribe a bronchodilator. If it helps, the diagnosis is confirmed.
In older children and adults, doctors may perform a series of breathing capacity tests with a peak flow meter and a spirometer to help determine the extent of an asthma problem.
Generally, doctors don’t use allergy tests to diagnose asthma, but if there’s a reason to believe that a specific allergen is a problem, allergic dermatitis tests may be used to confirm or rule out possible allergens. Knowing that a specific substance or food is a problem can help you avoid it and reduce your risk of asthma attacks.
Treating Allergy Induced Asthma
The good news is that interventions to reduce exposure to allergens seems to be as effective a treatment for allergy induced asthma as corticosteroid inhalers. If your child has been diagnosed with allergy induced asthma, there are ways that you can help control your child’s symptoms. Besides using inhalers and nebulizers as directed by your doctor, you can also keep your home – and especially your child’s bedroom – as close to allergen free as possible. Mattress covers, pillow cases, air filters and pest control measures can reduce your child’s exposure to allergens that cause allergy induced asthma to worsen into acute stages.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Natural cure asthma alternative medicine
By: Good health
Man is exposed to many unhealthy environments due to this he has been captivated to number of diseases. He is becoming unhealthy with the stress of work and the food he intakes. He to get relaxed has found many bad ways like usage of tobacco, smoking, drinking alcohol, drug addiction and many more by which he himself inviting the diseases to his cadaver.
Asthma is a chronic disease of the airways in the lungs. The two main components of asthma are airway constriction and inflammation. Together, constriction and inflammation result in narrowing of the airways in the lungs, which results in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It's also important to remember that some days, you may not even experience any symptoms at all. But your asthma is still with you. That's why it's essential to continue treating your asthma, with daily preventative medication, even on days you feel well. One way of helping to manage your asthma is through education. In this section we have provided useful information about your asthma so you'll begin to understand how you can help treat it.
The reactions cause the airways to become narrower and irritated - making it difficult to breath and leading to symptoms of asthma. It is difficult to say for sure what causes asthma. What we do know is that:
· you are more likely to develop asthma if you have a family history of asthma, eczema or allergies
· certain environmental factors influences whether which also causes asthma
· many aspects of modern lifestyles – such as changes in housing and diet and a more hygienic environment – may have contributed to the rise in asthma over the last few decades
· smoking during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of a child developing asthma
· children whose parents smoke are more likely to develop asthma
· environmental pollution can make asthma symptoms worse and may play a part in causing some asthma
· adult onset asthma may develop after a viral infection
There is cure for asthma, as there are some excellent medicines available to help you to control your asthma so that is does not interfere with your daily life. We at our center cure this asthma with natural dietary supplements which are filled with herbal and cures the asthma with no side effects. It is important that you take your asthma medicine properly according to the advice of the doctor.
Some of the signs which makes you that asthma has to be checked as early as possible are:
· Waking at night with coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or a tightness in the chest
· Having to take time off work because of your asthma
· Finding it difficult to breathe, and breathing short shallow breaths
· Needing more and more reliever treatment
· Finding that your reliever does not seem to be working
· Having to take your reliever more frequently than every four hours
· Feeling that you cannot keep up with your usual level of activity or exercise
If your asthma is under control you are more likely to have a better quality of life and be more able to do the things you want to. So if you are in need of having a better life then you can take control your asthma by knowing what medicines to take, how much and when to take them. It is also important to avoid things that trigger your asthma and know what to do if your symptoms get worse.
Of course you want to do whatever you can to help care for a family member or friend with asthma. You may not be sure how to help. But with a little guidance, you can help your loved one manage his or her asthma. Identify the signs of asthma and help your loved ones with asthma. See what the asthma medications are taken by your loved ones are whether they are long term or short term preventatives. Know what to do and what to medications give during the emergency. If you think your loved one are suffering with a severe attack, get medical help immediately.
How to prevent from asthma
· Be away from the animals as they have fur which are small particles due to inhaling them asthma can be attacked so keep them away of the living room.
· The air we breathe contain lots of dust and pollution which paves a way to asthma. So should try to be away from the polluted air.
· The ozone rays which are ultra violent are also one of the cause for this asthma so should be aware of using the things which keeps us away.
· Cold and viral infections are one of the triggers for asthma. So before taking the vaccinations for it they should be consulted with the doctor.
· If somebody in the family was suffering with it then some of the precautions are needed to be taken for preventing it.
· If you have got the symptom of asthma then it is better to quit the smoking for the better of your life.
· The sudden change in weather may also is one of the symptom of asthma, so you should be careful and should use the medications in a proper way.
The above said are not to be considered as the medical advise but to be taken as just information so you will be aware about asthma and take care of yourself or your loved ones to cure it in a proper way.
Let me end this with the statement-Asthma can be cured and conquered!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Yoga for Asthma
by Kevin Pederson
What is Asthma Asthma is an ancient Greek word that means panting, gasping or short-drawn breath. It is one of the most discomforting of respiratory ailments, known to affect around 5% of the worlds adult population and 10% of children. Asthmatics suffer from periodic attacks of breathlessness interspersed with bouts of complete normalcy. When normal people inhale, their air sacs fill up with air like small balloons. In exhalation they deflate expelling air. Airways are clear and open in healthy people. In asthmatics, the reverse takes place because their airways and air sacs have lost their shape and have become floppy. Their bronchi and alveoli collapse, rather than expand when air flows through them. As a result, they can inhale and exhale less.
Symptoms of Asthma
1. Dry cough
2. Difficulty in breathing
3. Shortness of breath
4. Feeling of lightness in the chest
5. Wheezing (hissing or whistling sounds during exhalation.)
6. Sometimes an attack is preceded by a running nose, irritated eyes, or an itchy throat.
Two peculiarities of asthmatics:
1. Almost all patients suffer more attacks at night, in their sleep.
2. Asthmatics have more trouble exhaling than inhaling.
Causes for Asthma Factors that precipitate an asthma attack are called triggers. They cause the air passages to get clogged and constricted, making it difficult for the patient to breathe. The inflamed bronchioles generate more mucus and also cause the muscles around them to tighten and get irritated, constricting the airways. This is called a bronchospasm.
However, asthma has a variety of causes.
1. Allergy For most it is an allergy to foods, perfumes, scents, body sprays, deodorizers, the weather, drugs or any other irritants. They vary from person to person. However, dust allergies seem to be the most common factor.
2. Combination of Factors For others, it is triggered off by a combination of allergic and non-allergic factors including stress and tension, air pollution or infections.
3. Abnormal Body Chemistry Asthma may result from the abnormal body chemistry involving the bodys enzymes or a defect in muscular action within the lungs.
4. Heredity In 75 to 100 per cent cases it has been found that when one or both parents suffer from asthma, the children have similar allergic reactions.
Yoga Therapy for Asthma Tests carried out at Yoga Therapy Centers, across the world, have shown remarkable results in curing asthma. In some cases it has also been found that attacks can actually be averted, without the aid of drugs, just through yogic practices. There is ample research evidence to substantiate the fact that Yoga Therapy makes the treatment so much more successful. Nowadays, even allopathic and homeopathic doctors have arrived at the consensus that Yoga is an excellent alternative therapy for Asthma.
Since Yoga believes that the mind is central to a diseased condition, pacifying and placating it would, in itself, help cure the disease to a great extent. The practice of yogasanas, yogic kriyas, pranayamas, relaxation and meditation calm down the whole system. This, in turn, facilitates proper assimilation of food and strengthens the lungs, digestive and circulatory system. Over a period of time, that checks attacks and even cures the condition.
This is because Yogic practices result in more anxiety reduction than drugs do. Yoga gives patients access to their own internal experience and helps them pin-point the cause of their ailment, i.e find their own triggers. This comes through increased self-awareness. Simple Yogic practices help regulate breathing patterns, as well as enhance lung functioning. Result is that most patients are able to manage their condition by simply allaying their fears and anxieties.
Yoga also has a stabilizing effect on the bodys immune system. It is now proven that the regular and consistent practice of yoga raises the bodys tolerance to infection as well as its local resistance to infections in the respiratory tract. Yogic rest and relaxation reduce the nervous systems overall activity, leading to remarkable recovery. Only Yoga offers resources like Abhyasa (regular, constant practice) and Vairagya (detachment) as means of holistic healing.
For best results, do all the practices prescribed in our sections on Yoga Asanas, Cleansing Techniques and Pranayama. Lay more emphasis on cleansing techniques like Jala Neti and Sutra Neti, Vaman Dhauti and pranayamas like Kapalbhati, Anuloma-Viloma, Ujjayi, Surbyabhedana and Bhramari. All yogaasanas prescribed are highly beneficial without exceptions or emphasis on any. However, Shavasana, should be practiced for as long as possible and whenever possible, lying down, sitting or standing
The practices work best on an empty stomach, but you should continue to sip water from time to time, to help keep your airways moist. Wear light, loose-fitting clothes and practice in a comfortable, well-ventilated, airy room or outdoors, with adequate room to lie down. If you experience any symptoms lying down, sit on a chair for a while and rest your head on a table, either on your folded arms or on one cheek. If you feel nauseous, anxious, or short of breath in any of the practices, stop immediately, get up and walk around. You are probably just hyperventilating and need to burn off some energy. Don't resume your practices right away. Rather give them a break for about a day or two.
Above all, tell yourself from time to time particularly when you get irritated or upset with yourself that the way you breathe now is what is making you ill. It is conditioned behavior, which can easily be altered.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Seriousness of allergy rhinitis
By: AlexChong
What is actually allergy rhinitis? Allergy rhinitis is an allergic disease, which is caused by the sensitinogen that reacting on the mucous membranes in the nasal cavity. It consists two types that are perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis. Perennial allergic rhinitis occurs throughout the year; whereas, seasonal allergic rhinitis usually occurs during the blossoming or flowering season. In this season, plants start to release their pollen for breeding purpose. Pollen is one of the sensitinogens to the allergic rhinitis. Clinical features of allergic rhinitis are; itching in the nose, sneezing, watery nasal discharge and nasal obstruction. There are about 20 % of adults and children have seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis [Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1986;94:470-5]. Although it is prevalence in most of the countries regardless tropical or seasonal, most of the conditions are not treated adequately and the consequence is that allergic rhinitis becomes chronic. The chronic state of allergic rhinitis usually will lead to more serious complications of the upper and lower airways such as asthma, sinusitis and otitis media with effusion. Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear. Fluid is built up in the middle ear and causes temporary lose of hearing. However, if this chronic disease is not treated properly, it may lead to permanent hearing impairment.
A few medical scientists had carried out surveys to study the epidemiologic links between allergic rhinitis and other airway diseases. What they had found out were, 78% of patients who had asthma were also had allergic rhinitis [Allergy 1983;38:25-9]. They also found out that 99% of adults and 93% of adolescents, who had allergic asthma, also had allergic rhinitis [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1997;99:S138]. Besides, the other study that had been carried out for 23 years was found out that college students who previously had allergic rhinitis had three times higher the possibility to have asthma compared to those students who had not had allergic rhinitis before [Allergy Proc 1994;15:21-5].
Many researches and works had been carried out to study the epidemiologic link between allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. The results had been well documented. The earlier study showed that 53% of children, who had allergic rhinitis, also had sinusitis [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1978;61:310-4]. They proved this from the children abnormal sinus radiographs. Whereas, recent study showed that up to 70% of children, who had allergy and chronic rhinitis, had abnormal sinus radiographs [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1988;82:935-40]. 78% of the patients who had recurrent sinus infection, rhinitis allergy was coming together with their extensive sinus disease. For the children who had otitis media with effusion, 40 to 50% of them had allergic rhinitis [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1997;99:S787-97.]. This was confirmed by positive allergy skin tests or increased serum IgE antibodies to specific allergens test.
Scientist had proposed a model for the development of sinusitis and otitis media. Their proposed model assumes that the earliest cause for sinusitis is not bacterial infection but it is due to the obstruction in the nasal cavity, which hinders the normal movement of air and secretions in and out of sinuses. Virus that causes nasal inflammation is upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) type, which is called rhinovirus. Research had been carried out to study the effect of this virus to the nasal diseases. The result showed that when rhinovirus is inoculated into the nasal passage of a group people, one third of these people would develop sinus abnormities and typical sinus disease symptoms [J Allergy Clin Immunol 1992;90:474-8]. Another study also showed that 87% of healthy adult, who voluntarily went through self-diagnosed colds, had maxillary sinuses illness [Engl J Med 1994;330:25-30].
Fluid inside the sinus cavity must be drained normally to keep the nasal healthy. When nasal being infected by bacteria or virus, or exposure to allergen, dust or chemicals, thicken secretion will be developed and it has higher possibility blocks the narrowed sinus ostia (opening that connect to the sinus cavity). Accumulation of these secretions in the sinus cavity will lead to further obstruction, mucosal swelling and also thicken the sinus mucosa. This will create an anaerobic environment that further favorite the bacterial growth and lead to infection. Congested sinus ostia must be resolved if not, it will lead to recurrent acute and eventually chronic nasal disease. This model also explained why chronic sinusitis is resistant to the antimicrobials treatment alone. To treat the sinusitis properly, antihistamines and corticosteroids have to be used as a combination with the antimicrobials treatment.
A similar model had been developed by scientist to explain the occurrence of otitis media with effusion. 83% of the children had at least once occurrence of acute otitis media by the time they reach 3 years old [J Infect Dis 1989;160:83-94]. This model hypothesizes that nasal inflammation that is caused by allergens or URTIs virus will further cause inflammatory swelling and obstruction of the Eustachian tube. Obstruction of the Eustachian tube will increase negative pressure in the middle area and without improper ventilation; fluids will accumulate in the middle ear. Obstructed Eustachian tube will open occasionally with an effusion and this will suck the inner nasal secretion, which contain bacteria, virus and allergens into the middle ear cavity. Consequently, this will cause acute bacterial otitis media.
From the information above that have been gathered from various scientific publications, we know that common nasal allergy should not be left untreated. This is because it will lead to obstruction, fluid accumulation, bacterial infection and acute disease. If these diseases are not treated properly or successfully, a chronic state of inflammation, nasal congestion, and sinus infection will be developed and it can cause mucosal damage and ultimately, chronic disease. If the disease spreads to the middle ear, it will cause permanent hearing impairment
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Asthma in Children: Symptoms and Risk Factors
Asthma is the leading cause of chronic illness in children. It affects as many as 10%-12% of children in the U.S. and, for unknown reasons, is steadily increasing. It can begin at any age, but most children have their first symptoms by age 5.
What Makes a Child More Likely to Develop Asthma?
There are many risk factors for developing childhood asthma. These include:
* Presence of allergies
* Family history of asthma and/or allergies
* Frequent respiratory infections
* Low birth weight
* Exposure to tobacco smoke before and/or after birth
* Being male
* Being black
* Being raised in a low-income environment
Why Are More Children Getting Asthma?
No one really knows why more and more children are developing asthma. Some experts suggest that children are being exposed to more and more allergens such as dust, air pollution, and second-hand smoke. These factors all are triggers of asthma. Others suspect that children are not exposed to enough childhood illnesses to build up their immune system. It appears that a disorder of the immune system where the body fails to make enough protective antibodies may play a role in causing asthma.
And still others suggest that decreasing rates of breastfeeding have prevented important substances of the immune system from being passed on to babies.
How Can I Tell If My Child Has Asthma?
Signs and symptoms to look for include:
* Frequent coughing spells, which may occur during play, at night, or while laughing. It is important to know that cough may be the only symptom present.
* Less energy during play
* Rapid breathing
* Complaint of chest tightness or chest "hurting"
* Whistling sound (wheezing) when breathing in or out
* See-saw motions (retractions) in the chest from labored breathing
* Shortness of breath, loss of breath
* Tightened neck and chest muscles
* Feelings of weakness or tiredness
Keep in mind that not all children have the same asthma symptoms, and these symptoms can vary from asthma episode to the next episode in the same child. Also note that not all wheezing or coughing is caused by asthma.
In kids under 5 years of age, the most common cause of asthma-like symptoms is upper respiratory viral infections such as the common cold.
If your child has problem breathing, take him or her to the doctor immediately for an evaluation.
How Is Asthma Diagnosed In Children?
Asthma is often difficult to diagnose in infants. However, in older children the disease can often be diagnosed based on your child's medical history, symptoms, and physical exam.
* Medical history and symptom description. Your child's doctor will be interested in any history of breathing problems you or your child may have had, as well as a family history of asthma, allergies, a skin condition called eczema, or other lung disease. It is important that you describe your child's symptoms -- cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness -- in detail, including when and how often these symptoms have been occurring.
* Physical exam. During the physical examination, the doctor will listen to your child's heart and lungs.
* Tests. Many children will also have a chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests. Also called lung function tests, these tests measure the amount of air in the lungs and how fast it can be exhaled. The results help the doctor determine how severe the asthma is. Generally, children younger than 5 are unable to perform pulmonary function tests. Thus doctors rely heavily on history, symptoms and examination in making the diagnosis.
Other tests may also be ordered to help identify particular asthma triggers. These tests may include allergy skin testing, blood tests and X-rays to determine if sinus infections or gastroesophageal reflux disease (a gastrointestinal condition that causes reflux of acid stomach contents into the esophagus or even into the lungs) is complicating asthma.
WebMD Medical Reference
Friday, August 8, 2008
How Is Asthma Diagnosed In Children?
Source: WebMD
Asthma is often difficult to diagnose in infants. However, in older children the disease can often be diagnosed based on your child's medical history, symptoms, and physical exam.
- Medical history and symptom description. Your child's doctor will be interested in any history of breathing problems you or your child may have had, as well as a family history of asthma, allergies, a skin condition called eczema, or other lung disease. It is important that you describe your child's symptoms -- cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness -- in detail, including when and how often these symptoms have been occurring.
- Physical exam. During the physical examination, the doctor will listen to your child's heart and lungs.
- Tests. Many children will also have a chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests. Also called lung function tests, these tests measure the amount of air in the lungs and how fast it can be exhaled. The results help the doctor determine how severe the asthma is. Generally, children younger than 5 are unable to perform pulmonary function tests. Thus doctors rely heavily on history, symptoms and examination in making the diagnosis.
Other tests may also be ordered to help identify particular asthma triggers. These tests may include allergy skin testing, blood tests and X-rays to determine if sinus infections or gastroesophageal reflux disease (a gastrointestinal condition that causes reflux of acid stomach contents into the esophagus or even into the lungs) is complicating asthma.
Read More......Asthma & Children Fact Sheet
Source: American Lung Association
December 2007
Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways with reversible episodes of obstruction, caused by an increased reaction of the airways to various stimuli. Asthma breathing problems usually happen in "episodes” or attacks but the inflammation underlying asthma is continuous.
* Asthma is the most common chronic disorder in childhood, currently affecting an estimated 6.8 million children under 18 years; of which 4.1 million suffered from an asthma attack or episode in 2006.
* An asthma episode is a series of events that results in narrowed airways. These include: swelling of the lining, tightening of the muscle, and increased secretion of mucus in the airway. The narrowed airway is responsible for the difficulty in breathing with the familiar "wheeze".
* Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Triggers range from viral infections to allergies, to irritating gases and particles in the air. Each child reacts differently to the factors that may trigger asthma, including:
- respiratory infections, colds
- allergic reactions to allergens such as pollen, mold, animal dander, feathers, dust, food, and cockroaches
- exposure to cold air or sudden temperature change
- cigarette smoke
- excitement/stress
- exercise
* Asthma can be a life-threatening disease if not properly managed. In 2004, 3,816 deaths were attributed to asthma. However, deaths due to asthma are rare among children. The number of deaths increases with age. In 2004, 141 children under 15 died from asthma compared to 684 adults over 85.3
* Asthma is the third leading cause of hospitalization among children under the age of 15. Approximately 32.6 percent of all asthma hospital discharges in 2005 were in those under 15, however only 27.8% of the U.S. population was less than 15 years old.
* In 2005, there were approximately 679,000 emergency room visits were due to asthma in those under 15.
* Current asthma prevalence in children under 18 ranges from 5.7% in South Dakota and Idaho to 11.9% in Delaware.
* Within the last few years, mortality and hospitalizations due to asthma have decreased and asthma prevalence has stabilized, possibly indicating a better level of disease management, such as increased use of inhaled steroids.
* Asthma medications help reduce underlying inflammation in the airways and relieve or prevent airway narrowing. Control of inflammation should lead to reduction in airway sensitivity and help prevent airway obstruction.
* Two classes of medications have been used to treat asthma -- anti-inflammatory agents and bronchodilators. Anti-inflammatory drugs interrupt the development of bronchial inflammation and have a preventive action. They may also modify or terminate ongoing inflammatory reactions in the airways. These agents include inhaled corticosteroids, cromolyn sodium, and other anti-inflammatory compounds. A new class of anti-inflammatory medications known as leukotriene modifiers, which work in a different way by blocking the activity of chemicals called leukotrienes that are involved in airway inflammation have recently come on the market.
* Bronchodilators act principally to dilate the airways by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle. They include beta-adrenergic agonists, methylxanthines, and anticholinergics.
* In July of 2003, The Food and Drug Administration approved a new drug for patients with serious asthma. Xolair, is the first in a new class of therapies that are bioengineered to target IgE (the antibody behind allergic asthma) in the treatment of allergic disease.
* The annual direct health care cost of asthma is approximately $14.7 billion; indirect costs (e.g. lost productivity) add another $5 billion, for a total of $19.7 billion dollars. Prescription drugs represented the largest single direct cost, at $6.2 billion.
* Asthma is one of the leading causes of school absenteeism; in 2003, asthma accounted for an estimated 12.8 million lost school days in children with an asthma attack in the previous year.
* The American Lung Association funds a wide variety of asthma research. The American Lung Association-Asthma Clinical Research Centers (ACRC) network is an American Lung Association-sponsored research program seeking to develop large clinical trials that will provide useful information important to the direct care of people who have asthma. The network, with 20 clinical centers and a data coordinating center, is the largest of its kind. This work involves large numbers of subjects, making the focus of the network different from current federally funded and commercial research. Thus, the ACRC is playing a unique and important role in asthma research.
* Currently the ACRC is conducting the Study of Acid Reflux and Childhood Asthma (SARCA) which will determine if poorly controlled asthma improves when acid reflux is treated with a certain class of drug, proton pump inhibitors. Acid reflux is frequent in people with poorly controlled asthma and can lead to asthma attacks. To find out if you qualify for participation, visit the ACRC section on the American Lung Association website, www.lungusa.org.
Read More......
Friday, July 18, 2008
Did You Know That Natural Herbs And Vitamins Will Help With Allergy Relief?
By: Mayur
More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergic diseases. A recent nationwide survey found that more than half (54.6 percent) of all U.S citizens test positive to one or more allergens; among specific allergens, dust mite, rye, ragweed, or cockroach caused sensitization in approximately 25 percent of the population.
This article will provide tips for allergy relief. The information covered below will address the following questions:
*** Why do we develop allergies?
*** What causes allergies?
*** Allergy symptoms
*** Tips to obtain allergy relief
*** Herbs, vitamins & supplements
Allergy Cough And Its Remedy
Allergy cough is part of the allergy season that comes on the wings of every spring and then some more in the fall. If you are one of those allergy victims you must have experienced the horrible never-ending allergy cough that leaves you gasping for your breath. Cough is the most common allergy symptom for which people seek desperate medical attention and remedies.
What triggers this nasty allergy cough?
The usual seasonal allergy agents such as pollen, mold, animal dander, food products, dust and some medications can be one of the factors. The body induces a cough to clean itself from allergens and airways secretions.
Causes of allergy cough are:
* Viral infection of the upper respiratory tract
* Nasal and sinus allergy
* Esophageal problems (i.e. GERD) and/or stomach problems
* Environmental irritants
Are You Allergic? Anaphylaxis May Kill You
By Stephen Parker
An allergen is any substance that is recognized by the immune systems and is the cause of an allergic reaction. The substance most often is eaten or inhaled; some are even those caused by a scratch on the skin. Dust, pollen, and pet dander are all common allergens. Food like nuts, sea food, milk products, and fermented foods can be the cause of allergy symptoms in many people.
Giving a comprehensive list of allergens would be impossible. Neither would giving a common list be prudent because allergies are specific to persons. One person may exhibit a skin allergy where as another cat allergy. Some allergies are well known where as others are not. Perfume allergy and deodorant allergies are not so common.
Causative Factors
Common allergic reactions are due to the following causative factors. This list is not comprehensive and is based on statistical data of most occurring allergens. Airborne particles that cause hay fever are grass, weeds, birch trees, pollen, mold spores. Similarly a common list of food items that cause allergy are nuts, sesame, eggs, legumes(peas, beans, soybeans etc…), milk products, wheat, corn, and maize are a few. Insects that cause allergic reactions are bees (sting), wasps (sting) , Cockroach (calyx), Dust mite (excretion), animal hair and dander. Some drugs like penicillin, sulfonamides, salicylates (found in fruits) and local anesthetics produce adverse allergic reactions in some allergic patients.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Excellent Resources On Type Of Allergy, Allergy, Allergy Symptoms
Excellent Resources On Type Of Allergy, Allergy, Allergy Symptoms: "The sixth leading cause of chronic disease in America is Allergy, with its annual cost exceeding $18 billion."
Read More......Thursday, June 5, 2008
Air Purifier Review
by Jason Uvios
These days air purifiers are fast becoming a device that you need to have in your home to ensure living a healthy life. In their ability to purify the air of dust, pollens, animal dander, mold spores, smoke, allergens and microorganisms they are immensely beneficial in reducing symptoms of allergy and alleviating conditions of asthma.
These days there are literally hundreds of models of air purifiers available from different manufacturers. And as the saying goes, the more the choices that harder it is to choose. The best option would be to go through a few reviews before you settle for a particular model. That way you will be able to get the best purifier that suits your needs and inputs from experts who know what actually makes a good air purifier. There are quite a few reviews available on the internet going through which will help you in taking a decision.
Only trust those reviews that list both the pros and the cons of each of the models. They shouldn't be promoting one purifier while trashing the others. In such a case, the reviews have to be biased.
Read more ...........
Air Purifier: Breathe Fresh Air
By: Barney Garcia -
Air purifier, as the name suggests, cleans the air, which we breathe in. We all are aware of the ever-increasing amount of pollution around us and its adverse affects our health. An air purifier reduces the amount of dirt and germs in the air around us and gives us better quality of life.
Functioning of an Air Purifier
The air may contain various substances that cause irritation to your internal or external organs. The examples of ailments caused by impure air are: asthma, bronchitis, and irritation in eyes, nose or skin. The main job of the air purifier is to remove all the harmful and allergy-causing substances from the air. These are present in the air in the form of dust particles, unsafe smoke from vehicles or other sources and pollen from plants etc.
Kinds of Air Purifiers
Different air purifiers use different systems for air purification. They may use either charcoal absorbents or mechanical filters. The other variants include electronic purifier and Ultra Violet Air Purifier. Ionic Filtration is yet another technique but its use is controversial, as some people believe that it emits negative ions. Buy the air purifier that has HEPA filters, as the concerned authorities certify these filters.
Read more ....
3 Steps To Managing Skin Allergies
By: David Kane
An effective approach to managing skin allergies has three components. Firstly you must understand the condition, then you must discover if anything is triggering your skin reaction, and thirdly you must look after your skin.
Many people think that allergies only affect the respiratory or digestive systems, but they can also affect your largest organ- your skin. As with other allergies the immune system overreacts to the presence of certain substances and releases inflammation-producing chemicals. Do some research and talk to your doctor. You can be confident of controlling your skin condition better if you are sure you understand what causes it.
The second component in managing a skin allergy is identifying then eliminating the allergens and irritants that start the itching/scratching cycle. There are over three thousand known triggers for skin allergies. Many are natural, but there are plenty of man-made ones too.
Read more ..........
Monday, March 3, 2008
Find An Effective Natural Allergy Treatment
Sometimes over-the-counter allergy medicines just don't do the trick. If you don't have a health plan with prescription coverage, medicine for relief of allergy symptoms can make a major dent in your wallet. This allergy season think about supplementing your usual medicines with a natural allergy treatment.
Some research has been done in this field that has led to some experts recommending a variety of supplements for allergy sufferers. Keep in mind, though, that this research is still in its infancy so what might work for some people might not work for you. As anyone who suffers from allergies knows, a little relief can be a big deal.
Flavonoid Supplements
Flavonoids are naturally occurring compounds found in vegetables, berries and fruits. One flavonoid, Quercetin, found in onions and apples, has been shown to inhibit histamine release. Histamines cause allergy symptoms like swollen nasal passages, congestion, sneezing and watery eyes. More research needs to be done on this natural allergy treatment. Flavonoids also reduce risk of heart disease, stroke and cataracts.
Butterbur
Some medical studies have shown that an extract from the butterbur plant is an effective natural allergy treatment. This shrub is found in Europe and parts of Asia and North America. The extract seems to have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy properties but does not block antihistamines. Most studies seem to support the claim that butterbur will help allergy sufferers, but not all studies have come to this conclusion. Talk to your health care professional about the correct dosage of butterbur to use.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle has a long history as being used a natural health remedy. The plant is found in the United States, in mountainous regions and roadsides. A preliminary medical trial has shown that capsules made from freeze-dried nettle leaves did reduce sneezing and itching in people with hay fever. This natural allergy treatment may cause minor gastrointestinal upset in some people. Certain medicines may interact with nettle supplements.
The use of one or more natural allergy treatment has become more and more popular over the years. They can be used alone or in combination with more traditional allergy medicines. The most important thing to do is discuss these alternative supplements with your physician. They will help you determine the best dosages and whether or not there are special circumstances, like pregnancy or drug interactions, that would make taking a natural allergy treatment risky.
Finally The Answers Peanut Allergy Sufferers Are Looking For
By: Stacey Moore
The fact that the incidence of peanut allergy has doubled in the past five years may be why more and more people must read The Peanut Allergy Answer Book, 2nd Edition, written by award-winning allergist Dr. Michael C. Young. Peanut allergies continue to increase, so the impact of this medical problem, particularly in young children, is enormous.
Since the 2001 publication of The Peanut Allergy Answer Book, there has been groundbreaking research published in the field of peanut allergy and anaphylaxis in medical literature. This research includes new diagnostic tests, new vaccines and therapies, and new information on the history of peanut allergy. There has also been a great increase in public awareness of the societal impact of peanut allergy, in schools and other childcare facilities, in restaurants and in the food and restaurant industry. Read more .............
Fighting Allergens On The Home Front
By: Wade Gibson
While asthma and allergies are nothing to sneeze at, there could be good news for the families of the 8.9 million American children currently diagnosed with asthma and the millions more who suffer from allergies. They may all be able to breathe easier by fighting dirt and dander at home. Here are hints on how:
• Wash bedding regularly in hot water.
• Avoid feather pillows.
• Put a dust mite cover on your child's mattress and pillows.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom and wash furry pets often.
• Replace heat and air-conditioning filters monthly.
• Use an exhaust fan when cooking.
• Keep curtains and blinds dust free.
• Defeat dust and dangerous allergens with a total filtration system vacuum cleaner.
Read more ...................
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