Alternative Options for Treating Allergic Rhinitis

by: Stacey M Kerr MD

Here in northern California, allergies are a significant health problem leading to fatigue, sick days from work and school, and secondary infections.  Allergic rhinitis is a reaction to seasonal airborne allergens.  It affects about 7 percent of the population of North America and is a risk factor for 88 percent of asthma patients.   We have some excellent prescription medications for treating this, and there are many over-the-counter medications available also. However, BEWARE of the sedating effects of those nonprescription medications!!! Recent studies have shown that an individual on a therapeutic dose of diphenhydramine (Benedryl) is a more dangerous driver than one who is legally drunk on alcohol. 
Fortunately, there are also some effective alternative therapies for allergic rhinitis. 
Remember: no matter what method you use to treat your allergies, nasal rinsing to clear the mucus membranes of trapped allergens is essential. It only takes about 30 seconds, doesn't hurt a bit when done correctly, and makes all the difference. I recommend Nasopure®, a product developed by Dr. Hana Solomon, a pediatrician who has put together in one simple kit all you need for successful nasal rinsing. There is an excellent article about this on the Nasopure website (www.nasopure.com).   If you are regularly using your Nasopure®, and still having difficulties, you can try some of the following remedies without significant side effects.
Vitamin and mineral supplements:
*    Vitamin A - 10,000 IU/day
*    Vitamin B6 - 50-100 mg/day
*    Vitamin B5 - 50-75 mg/day
*    Vitamin C - 1,000 mg/day in 3 divided doses
*    Vitamin E - 400 IU/day
*    Zinc - 20-30 mg/day
In addition some herbs and nutrients can help:
Quercetin has anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory effects if you take it 250mg two or three times a day.
Freeze-dried stinging nettles (Urtica dioica) can relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis at a dosage of 300mg twice a day.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), also called fish oil, can help asthma patients with allergies by stabilizing the airways.  They come in capsules and the total dose of the combination should be 2-4 g/day.
Acupuncture has given many patients significant relief. The Chinese medicine paradigm is very different than Western medicine, so I can not explain the mechanism of action. But I know that it is effective!
See your doctor about allergy symptoms if you are unable to manage them on your own - the nonsedating antihistamines and anti-inflammatory nasal sprays available today are excellent in treating this significant health problem!
Stacey Marie Kerr, M.D. graduated from the University of California Davis Medical School in 1989 and is currently a board certified family physician. Dr. Kerr is a member of the California and American Academy of Family Physicians. She holds a B.S. in Education/Special Education from the University of Missouri, Columbia Missouri. She hosts a website the-doctors-inn.comthat provides personalized answers to medical questions.

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Systemic Fungal Infection

Fungal infections are broadly classified into superficial infections and systemic infections. Superficial fungal infections, which are also referred to as superficial mycoses, are the infections wherein the skin and the mucus membranes get affected on account of exposure to fungi. On the other hand, a systemic fungal infection occurs as a result of inhalation of the spores of fungi. These spores move into the bloodstream and start affecting the internal organs of the body. While superficial fungal infections can be easily diagnosed and treated, systemic infections can pose serious health risks. In fact, in absence of medical assistance, life-threatening situations could arise due to systemic infections. Those who have a compromised immune system, are definitely more susceptible to such opportunistic infections. Scroll down to find out more on causes, symptoms and treatment of systemic infections caused by fungi.

Causes and Symptoms

Candidiasis, aspergillosis and cryptococcosis are some of the common fungal infections that are caused by Candida albicans, Aspergillus and Cryptococcus respectively. If any of these fungi enter into the bloodstream, they may attack the internal organs, thereby causing distressing symptoms. Candida is a fungus that lives within the human body, but under certain circumstances, these may start multiplying and start affecting the organs. Prolonged use of antibiotics and elevated blood sugar levels may put one at an increased risk of developing this infection. The infection can affect vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and the lungs. Intestinal yeast infection can cause bloating, indigestion, diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. If the fungi travels up to the brain, one may even suffer from seizures.

Cryptococcosis is another serious fungal infection that is caused by inhaling a fungus called Cryptococcus. This fungus is mainly found in soil with pigeon droppings. This fungus can cause inflammation of the meninges. Under such circumstances, one is most likely to experience symptoms such as confusion, nausea, vomiting, seizures, blurred vision, headaches or drowsiness. If the lungs get affected, one may experience symptoms such as malaise, dry cough, fever and chest pain. Another fungus called Aspergillus may affect the sinuses or lungs. Invasive aspergillosis occurs when this fungi invades the lungs and thereon to other organs through the blood. It may affect people who are immunocompromised. Those diagnosed with cancer or HIV are susceptible. In severe cases, the brain or the bones may also get affected. This fungi may be inhaled through soil or house dust. If lungs or the sinuses are affected, one is most likely to experience symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, fever, cough or nosebleeds. While these symptoms are exhibited by one suffering from a fungal infection in the lungs, varied symptoms will be experienced depending on the part of the body that is affected by the fungal infection.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If doctors suspect the patient to be suffering from such a pathogenic infection, they will conduct a complete blood test, blood culture, urinalysis, X-rays, and other diagnostic procedures in order to formulate a diagnosis. The treatment will basically vary depending on the internal organ that may be affected by the fungi. If the patient is exhibiting neurological symptoms, and the doctors suspect the patient to be suffering from meningitis, they may examine cerebrospinal fluid as well. As far as the treatment is concerned, the use of anti-fungal drugs is the first step towards stopping the fungi from growing further. As mentioned earlier, aspergillosis, candidiasis and cryptococcosis, are the most common systemic diseases caused by fungi. Once the doctors are able to identify the causal fungus, they can determine the systemic fungal infection treatment option that may work for the patient. For instance, voriconazole is one of the drugs, that is used for the treatment of invasive aspergillosis. This can be taken orally, or administered intravenously. Other drugs that may be prescribed include amphotericin B, itraconazole or caspofungin. In severe cases, when a ball of fungus fibers, white blood cells and blood clots forms in the lungs, surgery may be required. Candidiasis and cryptococcosis are also treated with the help of anti-fungal drugs such as ketoconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole or amphotericin B. Drug therapy coupled with dietary changes will certainly help in alleviating the symptoms of candidiasis.

This was a brief overview of a systemic fungal infection. Fungi that infiltrate the internal organs through the bloodstream, can certainly lead to life-threatening situations. It is therefore, essential that one consults a doctor on experiencing the aforementioned systemic fungal infection symptoms immediately. A timely diagnosis and treatment will help in preventing the fungi from causing severe damage to the internal organs. The earlier this condition is diagnosed and treated, the speedier will the recovery be.
By Smita Pandit
Published: 5/23/2011

Rose Petal Tea

Rose petals have been used for their medicinal properties since centuries. They have been an integral part of Arab and Chinese cultures and their cuisine. In India rose petal and hips have been used in compiling Ayurvedic medicines. However, in today's world, it isn't safe to use just any rose petal in order to brew your tea. Almost all flowers sold in the nurseries and flower shops have been treated with pesticides and other chemicals. It's is safe to presume that the best option would be to either go in for commercially sold rose tea, or grow these plants at home. Growing rose plants at home will ensure that they are safe and healthy for consumption. However it will take time for the flowers to bloom, so you'll need to be patient. What you can be rest assured about is, rose tea is absolutely safe for consumption. It does have some side effects which appear on over consumption of this tea. Let us find out more about rose petal tea benefits and how to make it at home.

Health Benefits of Rose Tea

• Rose hips are rich sources of vitamin C, and have been used for its nutritional properties since generations. It is believed that rose hips contain 5 times more vitamin C than oranges.
• Since it's so rich in vitamin C, it would be wise to mention that this tea helps keep common cold, viral fever and flue conditions away by keeping the immune system sharp and active.
• The flower is rich in vitamin B called folate which is necessary for cell growth and reproduction in humans.
• Rose hip tea is especially beneficial for women as it helps reduce menstrual bloating and pain.
• It also helps cleanse the blood and improves the hemoglobin and iron count. Thus, being great for people with anemia and picky eaters.
• The petals and hips are excellent for curing stomach related ailments such constipation, diarrhea and ulcers.
• Another health benefit as well as a side effect of rose tea is heartburn. Many people differ as to whether the tea helps cure the heart burn or actually causes it? Well, personally, I have never experienced such a side effect. It would be best to seek a doctor's advice as to whether you should be trying this tea out or not before actually consuming it. The reason is that your doctor may be able to correlate the effect the tea may have on your pre-existent health condition.
• Rose is rich in flavonoids a type of antioxidant, and vitamin A and E. All of these are excellent for skin and eyes.
• It is an excellent anti-allergen, and creates resistance against skin allergies, rashes and food poisoning.
• It is also supposed to keep the urinary tract free of infection and helps cure minor yeast infections.

How to Make Rose Petal Tea

Brewing you own rose petal tea at home is very easy. All you need is some fresh rose petals and hips. Here is what you will need to do:

• Take ½ a cup of fresh rose petals and ½ cup of rose hips. Remember to wash them with salt water so as to remove all germs, pollen and dust. Keep the rose petals and hips soaked in salt water for 15 minutes, the salt will disinfect the contents.
• Now wash the petals and hips in running water.
• Try to cut the rose hips into half so that the insides are exposed. This will helps more nutrients to dissolve in the water
• Take a pan filled with water and heat it. Now, add the petals and hips
• Let the tea simmer until the petals fade in color, and the water has become amber colored.
• Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
• Filter the waste and retain the water. Mix honey as per your requirement, and drink.

The rose petal tea is not everyone's cup of tea. Not everyone who drinks it enjoys the strong and strange taste. None the less, for those who do enjoy it, there is a word of warning. Try to keep the intake to a 3 cups a week. That should suffice all your health requirements. If in case the tea does not suit you, desist from its consumption.
By Rohini Mohan
Published: 5/23/2011

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treatment

The human ear can be divided into three parts: the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. All these parts work together and helps us in hearing and balancing our body. The Eustachian tube is a part of middle ear which connects the upper part of the throat or nasopharynx to the middle ear. It is nearly 3.75 cm in length in adults, and comparatively smaller in infants and children. The Eustachian tube is usually closed, and opens at the time of yawning, sneezing, chewing, etc. It maintains or equalizes the air pressure between both the sides of the ear drum, drains the fluid build up in the middle ear, and also protects our ears from loud music. But there are many reasons which may result in Eustachian tube dysfunction and cause pain, fluid buildup, ringing of the ears, etc. To get rid of these problems we will discuss Eustachian tube dysfunction treatment in the following paragraphs.

Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treatments

Before going to the Eustachian tube dysfunction treatments you need to understand what is a Eustachian tube dysfunction? Eustachian tube, as we know, is usually closed and opens either to equalize the balance of air, or drain out the fluid from the middle ear. But due to some reason this tube either gets blocked or remains open for a prolonged time. This condition is known as Eustachian tube dysfunction. There are three types of Eustachian tube dysfunction: blockage or obstruction, patulous Eustachian tube and palatal myoclonus.

• Blockage or Obstruction: Enlarged adenoids, colds, allergies, sinus problems, deviated septum, reflux of stomach acid and neurological problems are some of the causes of blocked Eustachian tube. These causes may result in fluid build up, pain, fullness, or infection. In severe cases, it may also cause hearing loss.
• Patulous Eustachian tube: In this condition, the Eustachian tube is open for a long period of time. The causes are still not confirmed but it is observed after weight loss and during pregnancy. In patulous Eustachian tube condition the person will hear his own breathing and will observe some other symptoms like voice reverberation, vertigo and hearing loss.
• Palatal Myoclonus: This is a very rare condition in which the palate muscles twitch and make a clicking sound as the tube opens and closes. The cause for this condition is unknown.

Usually this dysfunction is mild and does not harm much. It persists for some days, and then subsides on its own as the causes subside. But in some cases when the person faces a lot of pain and discomfort he/she may need some treatment. Following are some treatment options and remedies which will help you to get rid of this condition.

• This is a very simple way to open up your blocked tube. Just breath in and then close you mouth and pinch you nose so that the air doesn't pass through your nose and mouth. Now try to exhale without letting the mouth and nose open. This will force the Eustachian tube to open and release the air. This will give you relief from pain and from other discomfort.
• Decongestant spray drops are helpful in resolving the problem of nasal congestion, which in turn will reduce swelling and will open up the tube.
• In case of allergies, such as hay fever, the doctor may prescribe antihistamine tablets and sprays to get relief from the nasal congestion and inflammation which will open the tube.
• The easiest way to open Eustachian tube is to chew on a gum. This will make the muscles active and will open the tube. Yawning can also help opening the close tube.
• Garlic can be a good home remedy for blocked Eustachian tube. Take 2 to 3 cloves in ¼ teaspoon of edible oil. Boil them and strain them after cooling. Mix it with the oil, and then use it as an ear drop. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties will reduce the pain as well as the infection.
• Bezold is used in nasal sprays. This is very effective in closing the Eustachian tubes in case of patulous dysfunction.

If the Eustachian tube problems do not subside in 2 days, then you need to consult an ENT specialist. The last option to treat this condition is surgery in which Eustachian tube is closed or opened surgically. But it is done in very rare cases, as the other treatment options given above are effective in curing any type of dysfunction in the Eustachian tube.
By Niharika Arya
Published: 5/23/2011

Over the Counter Treatment for Shingles

Shingles is a skin problem that is typically caused by the infection of herpes zoster virus. People who have had a history of chicken pox are the ones who actually develop this infection. This is because the reason behind the onset of chickenpox and shingles is no different. The virus that triggers chickenpox symptoms is the one that strikes again to cause shingles, and is typically marked by the development of an itchy rash, usually in the chest and the upper back area. The blisters forming a band like pattern is the characteristic feature of a shingles rash. The affected area typically causes radiating pain that generally lasts till the duration of the viral infection. The infection generally goes within a month's time, but how does one make the pain more manageable during this time is often a cause for concern for all shingles' patients. The answer to this question is discussed below.

Treatment for Shingles: Over the Counter

Medications that are categorized as over-the-counter do not need a doctor's prescription to be able to purchase them from a drug store. So which are the options when it comes to over the counter treatment for shingles disease.

Painkillers
Over the counter painkillers for shingles are non steriodal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Now NSAIDS not only help to reduce the swelling but also provide relief from the pain. Also, many a times, the painful symptoms of shingles respond quite well to these NSAIDS. So when it to comes to combating the aches and pains of shingles, going for OTC NSAIDS can definitely serve the purpose. Although NSAIDS may not completely block the pain, it can substantially reduce the severity of the pain. In order to ease the inflammation and pain, NSAIDS like ibuprofen and naproxen are helpful to treat shingles. Medications like acetaminophen (for children) or aspirin aren't effective enough to reduce inflammation, but are very much capable of bringing down shingles pain. When it comes to dosage, opting for lower or regular strength tablets is recommended. Extra strength tablets may harm the lining of the stomach and lead to the formation of ulcers.

Topical Creams
As aforementioned, the site of the rash not only causes pain but also appears inflamed. So, topical over the counter treatment for shingles to reduce swelling involves the use of hydrocortisone creams. Apart from relieving inflammation, hydrocortisone creams are also effective to alleviate the itchy sensation. Therefore, if the relentless itchiness of shingles rash is bothering you a lot, it's time you got hold of a hydrocortisone cream. It is one of the best anti-itch treatment for this skin problem. Application of creams that contain 1% hydrocortisone are found to be extremely effective to get relief from the itchy skin. One can apply cortaid cream or calamine lotion (Caladryl) for shingles rash. Basically, hydrocortisone is a topical corticosteroid that displays anti-inflammatory properties, hence usage of these creams works to decrease the skin inflammation.

Anti Histamines
When the shingles rash develops, the body releases histamines (chemicals) as a response to a viral infection. The production of histamine is yet another reason why the skin becomes itchy. Studies show that decreasing the amount of histamine being produced during the infection can go a long way in alleviating the itchy feeling. This can be achieved by anti-histamines, medications that restrict histamine production. Histamines cause severe itching, and so when the itchiness does not subside with the aforementioned anti-itch creams, one can use antihistamines like Benadryl and Zyrtec orally or topically, to soothe the itchiness.

Unfortunately, antiviral drugs do not come in the list of over the counter treatment for shingles. These are prescription medications, that in most cases, work as they target the underlying cause. A point to note is that over the counter shingles treatment merely relieves the symptoms. They do not help in any way to kill the virus, hence provide temporary relief. There have been cases wherein painkillers proved ineffective in subsiding the symptoms. So, in such a scenario, one has to immediately contact a doctor and opt for oral anti-viral drugs.
By Nicks J
Published: 5/23/2011