Allergies and Sore Throat

Allergies and Sore Throat

A sore throat is a great irritant. There can be numerous reasons for a sore throat, and allergies can be one of them. If the precise cause of an allergy is identified, it will help in devising an appropriate remedial treatment. Allergy as a cause for a sore throat It has been found out that allergy in cases of a sore throat has been linked to postnasal drip. This can occur due to exposure to an allergen and occurs when any kind of congestion in the sinus goes down to the throat. This drainage also results in coughing, swallowing, irritation in the throat, and difficulty in speaking. However, the fact to be considered here is that allergens such as pollen are seasonal. There are some also other allergens including cigarette smoke, dust mites, mold, and mildew. The symptoms of allergy that occur due to the abovementioned allergens include congestion, sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. A sore throat with fever and body aches is also a result of a cold, flu, and viral infection. Treatment of an allergy-induced sore throat Prevention of allergy is important if a sore throat or any other related symptoms are to be prevented. Limiting the exposure to irritants is the most important thing that should be done in such cases. Known irritants such as cigarette smoke should be avoided if the allergy is to be prevented. Windows should ideally be closed or a surgical mask should be worn by people who are prone to allergies when they come in contact with airborne allergens. However, sore throat allergies cannot always be prevented. It is during such times that use of medications is recommended. Over-the-counter medications such as Loratadine and Cetirizine can be taken when the symptoms of the allergy worsen. In such conditions, doctors usually recommend using a decongestant or nasal spray that helps in preventing postnasal drip, which is the usual cause of a sore throat.
5 Foods to Aid Lung Cancer Treatment at Home

5 Foods to Aid Lung Cancer Treatment at Home

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths that occur due to cancer. It is estimated that lung cancer causes more deaths than breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers combined. Based on the statistical data by the American Cancer Society, there are about 220,000 new cases of lung cancer every year. Several types of treatments are being developed and researched on to stop or at least slow down the disease progression in lung cancer patients. Apart from this, several oncologists and nutritionists also suggest that maintaining a proper diet can help in fighting the symptoms of lung cancer. There are some foods that can keep lung cancer symptoms at bay and can also be used as home remedies along with mainstream treatments. Some of the foods that can aid a lung cancer patient are mentioned below: Green tea According to several oncologists, green tea not only helps in preventing lung cancer but can also benefit to those who are living with the disease. Green tea contains theaflavin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) which can potentiate the effect of chemotherapy medications. It is important to know that bottled green tea may have very little or no EGCG as the compound doesn’t last long when bottled. Nutritionists suggest drinking green tea with a dash of lemon juice as it can enhance the absorption of the compound. Ginger Known for its hot and zesty yet sweet flavor, ginger contains a compound called 6-shogaol that can prevent the development of malignant (cancerous) cells in the lungs through apoptosis (cell suicide) of cancer cells. It can also lower the risk of metastases of the disease thereby stopping or slowing its progression. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can also help in relieving the pain caused due to the side effects of medicines that are used to treat lung cancer.
Diarrhea – Causes, Treatment, and Preventive Measures

Diarrhea – Causes, Treatment, and Preventive Measures

Occasional bowel movements that are watery and loose are not uncommon in most people. However, if this condition lasts for extended periods of more than a few weeks, it needs to be taken seriously and has to be treated accordingly. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. Statistics show that at least two billion cases of diarrhea occur annually worldwide and it has been the cause of death of nearly 1.5 million children below the age of five. What is diarrhea? Frequently passing loose, watery or soft stools, with or without accompanying stomach cramps, flatulence, bloating, and stomach pressure, which is excreted suddenly is termed as diarrhea. This condition may also be complicated when there is blood in the stools, severe pain, fever, nausea, and uncontrollable urge to pass stools. It can happen to people of any age, but children and senior citizens are at a higher risk. Complications The most serious complication of diarrhea is dehydration—loss of water and electrolytes in the body—which happens because the water passes out from the body without getting absorbed by the intestines. Drinking copious amounts of water does not always compensate for the corresponding loss. Types of diarrhea The condition is classified into the following types: Chronic: This typically lasts for more than two weeks Enteritis: It involves the inflammation of the intestine Gastroenteritis: It involves stomach flu, with nausea and vomiting Dysentery: It involves loose stools with pus, mucus, and blood Common causes of diarrhea The most common chronic causes of diarrhea and acute diarrhea include microbial attacks by viruses, bacteria, or certain microorganisms that enter the intestinal tract. Viruses: They cause various mild to moderate symptoms. These may last for 3–7 days and comprise watery, frequent stools, stomach cramps, and a mild fever. Common viruses include rotavirus (common in children), Norwalk virus, cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, and hepatitis virus.
Popular and Effective Treatments for Fibromyalgia

Popular and Effective Treatments for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease. It makes the patient suffer from extreme pain throughout the body. Individuals suffering from fibromyalgia suffer from different symptoms such as difficulty in sleeping, exhaustion, high sensitivity to pain, and headache. Fibromyalgia causes deep muscle pain and hurting tender points causing difficult breathing and inactiveness. Fatigue, stiffness in muscles, mental problems (such as low concentration and memory), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which brings stomach ache and irregular bowel movements are some other symptoms that probably indicate fibromyalgia. People with fibromyalgia sleep about 8–10 hours during the night with the need to sleep more. Adequate bed rest doesn’t prove helpful to them. If you experience symptoms of fibromyalgia, you should ensure to consult a doctor. There are several fibromyalgia treatments available. The common fibromyalgia treatments include medications, change in lifestyle habits, and natural remedies. Specialists may recommend anti-depressants to treat depression and anxiety related to fibromyalgia. Physical therapies, stress reduction, and relaxation exercises also work well to cure fibromyalgia. A single approach doesn’t fit for treatment for fibromyalgia. Medications along with alternatives give wonderful results. Popular fibromyalgia treatments available: Fibromyalgia treatments aim to reduce pain, fatigue, and ensure quality sleep. Exercises: Fibromyalgia indicates poor fitness. People with fibromyalgia are reluctant to do exercises. Practicing aerobic and conditioning exercises to get rid of pain, stress, and anxiety are effective fibromyalgia treatments. Physical therapy: Physical therapies relax the muscle tension and smoothen the body movements. Stiffness and pain due to fibromyalgia lessen with regular physical therapy sessions. Therapies result in neuroendocrine changes which allow the quick recovery of muscles. On visiting the physical therapist, they will administer the right exercises for muscle stretching as part of fibromyalgia treatments for the patient. Hydrotherapy, which includes ice or heat packs, relieves pain quickly and more effectively. Follow proper posture and sitting styles.
Several Treatment Options for Allergies

Several Treatment Options for Allergies

An allergic reaction is often a result of detection of a foreign substance that is harmful to the immune system. As a reaction to these allergens, the immune system reacts with symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and inflammation. If the allergy is mild then it can be treated with the help of over-the-counter medications and home remedies. However, if the allergy is chronic, then it requires medical intervention. In case the allergy is severe then it might need emergency medical care. The following allergy treatment options can help in reducing allergies or managing them. Nasal decongestants Sinuses, sore throats or coughing can be treated with nasal decongestants. There are pills, sprays, and liquids that are used to help with swollen and stuffy sinuses. However, these nasal decongestants should not be taken for more than 72 hours continuously. They are one of the most popular allergy treatment options. Often times, due to allergy, you might not be able to breathe and these nasal decongestants will clear the nasal track and ensure normal breathing. Saline sinus rinse The sinuses can be rinsed with saline in order to clear the way and remove the allergens. Here is a method recommended by the AAAAI for preparing the saline rinse. Take 3 tablespoons of salt without iodine and mix well with 1 tablespoon of boiled water. Next, add one tablespoon of this mixture to 8 ounces of hot water. Then dissolve this mixture in water and use as a saline. The saline gets rid of all the allergens and reduces the symptoms of allergy. You can also buy sinus rinsing devices from a pharmacy or online. If the allergy does not recede, then you are advised to see a doctor for further treatment. Immunotherapy Some allergies are not completely relieved by treatments and so the doctors might suggest allergen immunotherapy.
Top Treatment Options for Opioid Addiction

Top Treatment Options for Opioid Addiction

Opioids are commonly used to treat pain. While they are highly effective, they are addictive too. More than one-third of the people in the country suffers from one form of pain or the other. Most of them opt for opioids during their need for relief from the pain. To put it into perspective, forty percent of all adults in the country currently use opioids. More than 125,000 people have died of opioid overdose in the last three years. That is over one hundred a day! Opioids are additive and its effects tend to subside as the body gets used to it over time. People tend to overdose to compensate for the lack of its effect and get addicted. While opioids kill the pain, they also tend to kill people due to its addictive property. Do not worry, though; if you are addicted to opioids, it is not too late to get treated. This article explores some of the best opioid addiction treatment options. Let us know a bit about what exactly does opioid addiction do to your body. Effects of Opioid Addiction on the Body Opioid addiction changes your brain’s chemical composition in such a way that you are more likely to get addicted to it than not. It is a chronic medical condition and takes more than just willpower to rid yourself of its cycle. It alters the circuits in the brain responsible for your mood and reward behavior. When you cut off taking opioids as a whole, you are likely to experience several symptoms like agitation, bad mood swings, body aches, and belly pain, as well as large pupils, yawning, goose bumps, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can last for a few days or up to several weeks. It depends on the opioid you were taking and how much of it you have taken.
Effective Home Remedies to Treat Urinary Tract Infection

Effective Home Remedies to Treat Urinary Tract Infection

A urinary tract is made up of bladder, kidneys, ureters and the urethra. An infection in any part of this tract is known as a urinary tract infection (UTI). In most cases, the infection is caused by two types of bacteria: Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Escherichia coli. However, sometimes, it can also be caused by a virus or fungi. UTI is more common in women than in men. This is primarily because the urethra, which is the tube that carries the urine out of the bladder, is shorter in women, making it more likely for the bacteria to enter and reach the bladder easily. Common symptoms of UTI In UTI, people generally experience the following: A burning sensation while urinating Frequent urination Dark colored urine with a potent odor Pelvic pain A feeling of incomplete bladder emptying In the case of any symptoms, it is imperative to consult medical help. Usually, antibiotics are used to treat the infection. But, a natural home treatment option for UTI that can also help in alleviating the agonizing symptoms. In this article, we will look at some effective home remedies to naturally treat UTI. Natural cure of UTI Consuming plenty of fluids Low fluid intake and irregular urination have been linked to increased chances of UTI. When one is adequately hydrated, the person passes sufficient urine that helps in flushing out the bacteria to prevent infections. Therefore, staying hydrated is the key to preventing the occurrence of UTI. To meet the fluid needs, it is best to drink water throughout the day. As per general recommendations, women should consume 91 ounces of water every day and men should take 125 ounces, which also includes water content from food. Increasing the Intake of Vitamin C This is another simple home treatment for UTI to speed up the recovery process.
10 Natural Ways to Treat an Enlarged Prostate

10 Natural Ways to Treat an Enlarged Prostate

The prostate is a walnut-shaped gland, which is a part of the male reproductive system, which wraps around the urethra. The main function of this gland is to add fluid that carries the sperm to the semen. The prostate has two phases of growth. It is during the first phase, during the teenage years, when its size doubles. It keeps on growing for the rest of a man’s life after 25 years of age. An enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia or the BPH, is a common problem among men. The enlarged prostrate clamps down the urethra which affects the urine flow from the bladder. If one suffers from nighttime urination (nocturia), frequent urination, urinary hesitation, weaker urine stream, urinary tract infections, or having trouble in emptying the bladder completely, they may be diagnosed with BPH. There are different types of treatments available for treating an enlarged prostate. Some popular herbal treatments for treating enlarged prostate are as follows: Saw palmetto One of the most popular herbal treatments for enlarged prostate is the use of saw palmetto. There are several studies that indicate that saw palmetto helps reduce the size of the inner lining of the prostate by inhibiting the production of testosterone. African Plum Extract or Pygeum The African plum extract has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect on the urogenital tract because of the high amount of alcohols, fatty acids, and sterols such as the beta-sitosterol. Studies show that having around 100–200 mg of pygeum extract daily or splitting it into half and consuming it twice a day helps in reducing BPH symptoms. Zishen Yutai Pill or the ZYP The ZYP is an ancient Chinese mixture of three plants dating back to the 13th century. This is one of the herbal treatments for prostate enlargement that is still being studied for its effectiveness.
Best Medications to Get Relief from Sinus Allergy

Best Medications to Get Relief from Sinus Allergy

Sinuses are small cavities in the skull, which are normally filled with air. They produce mucus that aid in keeping the nasal passages clear and free from all pollutants or allergens. These cavities are lined with thin tissues. Inflammation of these tissues is called sinusitis, which leads to swelling or blockage of the sinuses, trapping all air and mucus inside them. Sinusitis is quite common among people. When it occurs, people usually run to the medical store to find suitable medication. But if one wants to find the best sinus allergy relief medicine, it is imperative to first understand the different types of medicines available and the best way to handle a particular condition. Moving on, there are two types of sinusitis: Acute sinusitis: This lasts up to 4 weeks. Chronic sinusitis: Chronic sinusitis can last for up to several years. This type is hard to identify and treat. Sinusitis can begin as a result of a cold or an allergy. It can be caused due to a fungal or bacterial infection. It can be easily triggered in people having a weak immune system. Also, sometimes, chronic sinusitis can be a result of problems with the structure of the nasal passage that prevents the mucus from draining normally. The symptoms of both, acute and chronic sinusitis, are the same, which include the following: Congestion Pain and pressure in the face Thick discolored mucus The treatment for sinusitis includes a combination of various approaches – normally medications along with simple self-care strategies. In order to find effective relief from the symptoms, it is important to find the best sinus allergy relief medicine that suits one’s needs. Here, we will look at the various medicines available that help to alleviate the symptoms of sinus allergy. Picking the best sinus allergy relief medicine Antibiotics:
Causes and Treatments for Nerve Pain from Shingles

Causes and Treatments for Nerve Pain from Shingles

Shingle is a viral infection that affects the nerve roots of at least 1 million people each year in the USA. Though most of them recover from the attack, the pain remains for at least 50% people over the age of 60 years who have not got the treatment. The pain can last for weeks, months, years and even a lifetime. This symptom is known as PHN or postherpetic neuralgia. Here the nerves of the skin have been damaged by the virus that caused shingles in the first place. While for some, the pain remains mild, but for other people, even the slightest breeze or touch from clothing can cause excruciating pain. PHN brings with it a great deal of agony and that too at high social costs. The condition can severely disturb people’s life. However, this condition can be prevented and treated too. Doctors are also making case studies about those who are more prone to developing this unbearable condition. Information about Shingles and Postherpetic Neuralgia Varicella-zoster virus is the reason behind shingles. The same virus is responsible for causing chicken pox. People who had suffered from chickenpox or had its vaccine are not free from the virus as it never goes away. It lies latent in the nerves of the body. Though in most cases, it remains that way but in some people, especially those with weakened immune system due to some disease or treatment, the virus can come back. This is most likely to occur years and even decades after the person suffered from chickenpox. When the virus comes back, it causes shingles, which is a kind of rash that looks like a band appearing on one side of the body. Early symptoms of shingles include: Light sensitivity Headache Flu-like symptoms The next symptoms include tingling, itching, and extreme pain within the developing area of the shingles.
Causes and Natural Treatments for Chronic Diarrhea

Causes and Natural Treatments for Chronic Diarrhea

Diarrhea is an infectious disease that causes unrestrained liquid bowel movements, which may count up to 3 or even more times in a day. Diarrhea is a common disease, and it usually lasts only for a few days either on its own or through consuming over-the-counter medicines. Acute diarrhea occurs due to food intolerance, food allergy or bacterial infection. You may even develop a critical diarrheal condition known as Travelers’ Diarrhea. This occurs when you are frequently traveling and consume unhealthy food or water from various sources. If you are suffering from diarrhea, which does not get better and is persistent even after 4 weeks, it is a serious condition which is known as acute diarrhea. Chronic diarrhea is majorly anything that hinders your daily curriculum of activities. Chronic diarrhea may often lead to abdominal cramps, malnutrition, weight loss or even fever. While diarrhea may be caused due to several reasons, the main causes of chronic diarrhea have been listed below. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Irritable bowel syndrome is known to be the most common cause of chronic diarrhea and stays for at least 6 months. One interesting fact to notice is that the actual causes of IBS are not somewhat clear. IBS is known to be long lasting that may lead to changes in one’s lifestyle in a way which does not let them commit to their daily activities normally. IBS is often accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal cramps, bloating, uncontrollable bowel movements often leading to anxiety, depression or exhaustion. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Inflammatory Bowel disease is the cause of chronic diarrhea that leads to inflammation in the intestines of the patient. IBD occurs as a result of immune system working against the wellness of the body. In case of IBD, the immune system attacks the good or the friendly bacteria thus leading to inflammation.
Treatment Options for Curbing Chronic Diarrhea

Treatment Options for Curbing Chronic Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea interferes with your life very seriously. In the case of some people, it can be managed with some diet changes and prescription medications. As far as some other people are concerned, it requires a combination of different approaches to find relief. The treatment for chronic diarrhea depends on the symptoms and the intensity of the problem and choosing the right combination treatment is the key to bring relief in a fast manner. Medications as an option of treatment for chronic diarrhea Earlier, medication options for treating chronic diarrhea were limited but new medications have been introduced into the market nowadays. Diarrhea associated with irritable bowel syndrome also called IBS-D is a common problem that many people have to deal with. The major symptoms of this condition are frequent bouts of loose and watery diarrhea and chronic abdominal pain. It can be described as a highly disruptive health issues. For relieving the symptoms and treating this condition, there are a good number of medications available. Popular over-the-counter medications If you are suffering from IBS-D, Imodium is one of the most popular over-the-counter medications available. You have to take Imodium orally, and it is a very well-tolerated medication. It reduces the speed of intestinal contractions and the fluid quantity in the large intestine is also lowered to make a speedy recovery. This situation leads to a reduced urgency and the stool becomes firmer. At the same time, Imodium does not play a vital role in reducing the abdominal pain. Some of the most popular and common prescription medications as treatment for chronic diarrhea include Xifaxan and Viberzi and the offer fast and long-lasting results. Xifaxan: Xifaxan is a good antibiotic that functions in a different way compared to other antibiotics. This medication is not absorbed in the stomach and that is why the actions of Xifaxan are supposed to occur in the small intestine locally.