• A bronchospasm is an episode where the bronchi in the body retract resulting in the airway being restricted. Bronchospasm symptoms range from coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest
• Bronchospasm treatment comes in the form of prescription drugs, inhalers and preventative measures
• There are two types of bronchospasms; a paradoxical bronchospasm and acute bronchospasm. The main reason people suffer from bronchospasms is a result of bronchial asthma
• A person suffering from bronchospasm symptoms should see a physician as there are hidden dangers that can lead to or be a sign of greater health problems. Below we discuss 7 different dangers of bronchospasm symptoms

1. Bronchial Asthma

A person who suffers from paradoxical bronchospasms or acute bronchospasms should be checked to see if they suffer from bronchial asthma. Bronchial asthma is the main trigger that causes bronchospasms and if left untreated can lead to permanent lung damage and even death.

2. Food allergies

People who suffer from acute bronchospasm or paradoxical bronchospasm may have severe allergies to food items. If bronchospasm symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing keep occurring after meals then it may be a sign of an allergic reaction to food.

3. Pollen allergies

When someone who suffers from allergies such as pollen is exposed to that substance the respiratory system and lungs form antibodies that are supposed to defend the body. Because they are allergic to the substance the body overreacts and produces antibodies that can harm the person causing an acute bronchospasm or a paradoxical bronchospasm.

4. Pet allergies

Pet dander is another allergy in humans that can cause bronchospasm symptoms. Again, when a person is exposed to the allergic substance the body overreacts and causes bronchospasm symptoms. When allergies are involved the best bronchospasm treatment is simple avoidance of the allergic substance. Pets should be removed from the home while the house and all items in it should be thoroughly cleaned so the dander is removed. Couches and beds should be given special attention.

5. Upper respiratory infection

Acute bronchospasm symptoms and paradoxical bronchospasm symptoms can also be a sign of greater health risks such as upper respiratory infections, bronchial asthma, and potential lung disorders. If bonchospasm symptoms linger a physician should be sought out immediately.

6. Medicinal allergies

Medicinal allergies are often the cause of a paradoxical bronchospasm. A paradoxical bronchospasm occurs when an individual takes some medication intended to ease bronchospasm symptoms there is a substance that the person is allergic to that causes bronchospasm symptoms.

7. Exercise

Exercise is a very common trigger that brings about bronchospasm symptoms. When wheezing, difficulty breathing, and coughing occur during and after exercise it is often because there is a lung disorder, bronchial asthma or bronchitis. If a person still desires to exercise pre-treatment of the lungs is often advised so that the symptoms are minimized.

Acute bronchospasm or paradoxical bronchospasm episodes are always a signal of a root cause which should be investigated thoroughly. If these symptoms are ignored they worsen and can lead to permanent lung damage and even death.

• For people who suffer from acute bronchospasm and paradoxical bronchospasm there are several natural bronchospasm treatment methods
• Acute bronchospasm and paradoxical bronchospasm symptoms often are caused by bronchial asthma, and include tightness in the chest, wheezing, and coughing
• Bronchospasm symptoms are often signs of greater health problems if they occur often. Paradoxical bronchospasm episodes are situational and are often caused by an allergic reaction
• There are a wide range of bronchospasm treatment methods that can be done without the use of prescription drugs. Below we discuss the top 10 natural remedies for bronchospasm treatment

1. Butyeko Breathing Technique

This breathing technique was developed by a Russian researcher Konstantin Pavlovich Buteyko. This bronchospasm treatment method consists of shallow breathing exercises that help the person breathe easier. It is also very effective for people who suffer from bronchial asthma. The technique is formed around the theory that short breathes raise the carbon dioxide level in the body causing the smooth airways of the lungs to dilate.

2. Omega Fatty Acids

Several studies have shown that people who suffer from acute bronchospasm or paradoxical bronchospasm have elevated levels of arachidonic acid in their blood. Arachidonic acid is found in foods such as egg yolks, meat, and shellfish. One obvious bronchospasm treatment is to avoid these foods, but another bonchospasm treatment is to increase the amount of omega fatty acids in the diet. Increased omega fatty acids in the diet reduce the level of arachidonic acid in the system.

3. Fruits and vegetables

maybe mom knew what she was talking about when she said to eat your fruits and vegetables. One particular study of 69,000 women showed those who ate a high intake of tomatoes, carrots and leafy vegetables had much lower rates of acute bronchospasm, paradoxical bronchospasm, and bronchial asthma.
On the other end of the spectrum the study showed those who had a low intake of fruits, vegetables, and vitamin C had much higher instances of bronchospasm symptoms.

4. Butterbur

Butterbur is an herb that is grown in Europe, Asia, and the United States. The active ingredients in butterbur are petasin and isopetasin. These two compounds are believed to reduce bronchi inflammation which lessens bronchospasm symptoms. Butterbur should be taken carefully as there are side effects such as headache, nausea, and vomiting.

5. Bromelain

Bromelain is an extract from pineapples. It is theorized that Bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties that ease the airways causing bronchospasm symptoms to subside. This bronchospasm treatment has shown positive results in clinical tests on animals.

6. Boswellia Herb

This herb inhibits leukotrienes in the lungs, which are known to cause to narrow the airways in the lungs. It has shown promising results as an effective bronchospasm treatment.

7. Weight loss

Weight loss has been shown in several studies to greatly reduce both acute bronchospasm symptoms and paradoxical bronchospasm symptoms. People who maintain a healthy weight also have a much lower rate of bronchial asthma.

8. Acupuncture

This ancient Chinese method is used by several people who attest to its ability as an effective bronchospasm treatment. Tests are inconclusive.

9. Yoga

Many times stress can trigger bronchospasm symptoms. The breathing exercises and meditation used in yoga has helped people to learn to control stress and increase air intake.

10. Asthma Diet

Many people have reported that eliminating sugar and all dairy products is an effective bronchospasm treatment that reduces symptoms.

• Bronchospasm in and of itself is not a disease, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Bronchospasm is a narrowing and contraction of the bronchi, which results in the narrowing of the airway
• Bronchospasm comes in two different forms; Paradoxical bronchospasm and acute bronchospasm
• Bronchospasm symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest. Acute bronchospasm is often associated with bronchial asthma and repeated bouts of bronchitis
• Bronchospasm treatment methods include a variety of medications that relax the airways as well as anti-inflammatory drugs, and avoidance of bronchial irritants

There is a major difference in paradoxical bronchospasm and acute bronchospasm. Paradoxical bronchospasm is brought about when a person takes medication that is supposed to relieve bronchospasm. For instance, a person may get a paradoxical bronchospasm immediately after consuming some cough medicine intended to alleviate acute bronchospasm. The most typical reason for paradoxical bronchospasm is an allergic reaction to the medication being taken with the result of bronchospam symptoms becoming temporarily worse.

Bronchospasm treatment comes in many forms and are the same methods used to treat bronchial asthma. Beta2-agonists are used to relax the airways and the muscles surrounding the walls of the bronchial tubes. The vast majority of Beta-agonist drugs are prescription medications. The most common drugs used to treat bronchospasm symptoms are Albuterol, Proventil, and Ventolin. The anti-inflammatory drug most commonly used to treat acute bronchospasm symptoms and bronchial asthma are inhaled corticosteroids cromolyn sodium.

Both paradoxical bronchospasm symptoms and acute bronchospasm symptoms can be increased by certain irritants that irritate the nose, throat, and bronchi. Dust, sprays, and especially cigarette smoke can increase the need to bronchospasm treatment because of the irritation.

Other triggers that can cause both acute bronchospasm and paradoxical bronchospasm are allergies, exercise, upper respiratory infections, and negative emotions. The most common allergies are pet dander, pollen, mold, and foods. The most common cause of acute bronchospasm and paradoxical bronchospasm is far and away bronchial asthma.

Bronchospasm treatment and methods should be taken seriously as a sever bout of bronchospasm can lead to death. It is best to consult with an expert in the field of asthma to ensure proper bronchospasm treatment and medication can be prescribed if needed.

The patient should do their best to avoid potential triggers. A healthy diet and plenty of water consumption is also helpful form of bronchospasm treatment. Clan air ducts and the replacement of air filters in the home are also strategies that can be used to reduce bronchospasm symptoms. It is also important to keep the living quarter’s properly dusted and cleaned at all times.

For patients who experience paradoxical bronchospasm it is critical to notify your physician immediately to indicate what medications you are allergic to. Suffering from bronchospasm bouts does not have to seriously hamper your day to day living if properly treated. Talking to your physician and then pre-treating your symptoms using a bronchodilator can prevent attacks and allow you to conduct normal activities, and even intense exercise.

• Coughing up yellow mucus: what causes it? Bright yellow mucus and what that color really means
• Boosting the body’s immune system
• Homeopathic remedies for ridding the body of yellow phlegm

The topic of mucus is one of those that are incredibly distasteful and downright gross. It’s a fact of life, especially when you or your children have a cold or the flu. Mucus is actually part of your body’s defense system. It’s used to trap and remove foreign particles from our bodies. When it changes color to a yellow mucus, it’s a good indication that your body has and is fighting off a sinus infection. Your body’s own immune system is the best way to battle an infection. If you are ill, stressed or have a lowered immune system, you might need a little help. What are the causes of yellow mucus? What remedies can you use to assist your body?

A sinus infection is one of the most painful situations that can be added to having a cold or the flu. Anyone that has ever had a sinus infection knows that it is something that you do not want to repeat. If not treated, you can end up with acute sinusitis, which turns the battle into a war and requires extreme medical intervention. A sinus infection usually occurs when the nasal canals become blocked and bacteria begin to cultivate. This can occur due to outside exposures other than a cold: air pollution, allergens, etc.. Yellow mucus can also occur during times of dry air, as your sinuses are trying to rehydrate themselves. The additional symptom of coughing up yellow mucus can be disturbing and down right gross. Bright yellow mucus and yellow phlegm are signs that your body is fighting off the infection.

Common symptoms that accompany sinus infections can include:

• Headaches
• Pressure
• Post Nasal Drip
• Congestion
• Flu Like symptoms
• Fatigue
• Fever

There are many OTC products that are available, however it must be noted that they will mostly help the symptoms, not necessarily the problem. There are also many side affects as well as drug interactions from any medication that you may be taking. You must be cautious at any approach so that you do not harm the ‘cilia’ (small hair-like organelles in the nose and sinus cavity membranes).

Here are a few homeopathic approaches include:

Steam Inhalation:

Watch for steam temperature so that it doesn’t paralyze the cilia.
If medicinal herbs are used, be sure to purchase at a reputable health store. Confer with the health store specialist on the following herbs: Coltsfoot, comfrey, elecampane, ephedra, eucalyptus, fennel, fenugreek, peppermint, horseradish, licorice, lobelia, lungwort, mullein, pleurisy root, thyme, vervain and yerba santa. Many of these are expectorants and can be used alone or in combination. Steam inhalation will also help your system. Coughing up bright yellow mucus will be a sign that it is thinning.

Water:

Drinking plain room temperature water. Room temperature water will hydrate your system faster as cold water must be warmed to body temperature before hydration begins. The additional water in your body will thin the yellow phlegm.

Acupressure for the sinuses:

Also called sinus pressure points, is a safer method as it is non-invasive and doesn’t involve any other substances.

Warm compresses:

Warm, not hot compress on each side of the nose being careful not to include the area under the eyes. Another area for a compress is the lower forehead, directly over the eyebrow area. Compresses will assist in breaking up any mucus and allowing it to flow naturally.

Any use of an alternative treatment should be combined with a consultation with your medical physician. The information supplied in this article is not to be considered or used as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.

This articles will explain things like:

• Identifying the causes of coughing up yellow mucus.
• Types of phlegm.
• Natural and homeopathic treatments.
• The importance of color and bright yellow mucus.

One of the worst symptoms of having a cold is the production of phlegm. It’s a sticky fluid secreted by the mucous membranes (excluding that from the nasal passages) and is expelled by coughing. Some people would prefer to try to treat with natural and/or homeopathic products and treatments. The question is always whether natural methods of treatment will work.

Color can be a signal as to the type of disorder you are experiencing: Clear, white or pale indicates that the infection may be viral and may not be able to be combated with antibiotics. Coughing up yellow mucus or yellow phlegm, as well as green or brown, combined with fever, chills or chest pains may indicate a severe health problem and you will want to see your medical provider. Bright yellow mucus may also be an alert to other problems. Specific to note is if the phlegm contains blood, as this can be very hazardous.

The process needed to assist in clearing is to thin the phlegm so that it can be coughed up or passed through your system. It is important to note that it is recommended that you confer with a naturopath or professional practitioner before trying home remedies. If you are pregnant, it is not advised that you adopt any herbal therapy. If you are taking any other medication, confer with an independent pharmacist that specializes in medicinal interactions. Even natural and OTC therapies can interact or interfere with existing medications; as an example turning yellow phlegm to a different color or clear, signaling a change in the illness.

According to home-remedies-for-you: “Drinking hot water or hot water, to which the juice of half a lemon has been added in addition to a spoon full of honey, provides relief from the cough. Drinking hot milk at bedtime, with half a teaspoon of turmeric mixed in it also helps soothe the throat. You can peel a couple of cloves of garlic and consume these at bedtime for quick relief. A really hot bath can help you feel better too.”

Some naturopaths recommend ancient oriental remedies such as: Pinellia Root Teapills, Qing Qi Hua Tan Wan or San She Dan Chuan Bei Ye. These can be found in any Chinese market.

Some homeopathic sites have recommended drink a lot of water. This will flush your system, help keep your body hydrated and assist in thinning the phlegm and expunging it from your system.

Goldenseal is an herb that has been used for a very long time to cure pretty much anything that ails you. It is particularly useful in treating inflammation and congestion of the lungs. Found in pill form as a tincture, this helpful plant can be procured quite easily from online health vendors. Extended or excessive doses of this herb is not recommended and has been implicated as the cause of some respiratory failures.

One of the most popular herbal teas for cold and flu symptoms:

Peppermint-Rosemary-Elder Flu Remedy
black elder flowers – 1 cup
Irish moss – 1 cup
juniper berries – 1 cup
peppermint – 1 cup
plantain – 1 cup
rosemary – 1 cup
honey – as needed

Mix all the herbs. Steep 1 teaspoon of the herb mix in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain. Reheat and sweeten with honey. Drink twice daily.

Remember that integrative, natural, OTC and prescriptions may change yellow phlegm to clear. This changes the illness condition and you should speak with your primary medical caregiver.

Any use of an alternative treatment should be combined with a consultation with your medical physician. The information supplied in this article is not to be considered or used as medical advice and is for educational purposes only.

• The ginsengs: myth, legend or really one of nature’s miracle products.
• Korean ginseng has been used for more than 5,000 years.
• There are many varieties of ginseng root, such as Siberian ginseng and American ginseng, which may be the reason scientific studies are so contradictory

Ginseng root may be touted as an ancient remedy for an incredible volume of ailments, but the jury is still out on whether it is myth, legend or a real curative herb. Talk to those that believe in the ginseng root and you will find yourself at your local natural or herb store buying out their inventory. In the search for more substantial information, one comes up a bit confused. There are several varieties of ginseng: Korean ginseng, Siberian ginseng and American ginseng., Study results on ginseng root as a flu remedy are sometimes contradictory. When researching the ginseng root as a major component to fight the flu – the results seem to indicate that it is more by popularity and historical belief than anything else.

A recent Canadian study has left a lot of questions and a few raised eyebrows. The study was conducted by researchers including Tapan Basu, Ph.D. of the Agricultural, Food, and Nutritional Sciences department of Canada’s University of Alberta. The study was funded by the ginseng pill’s manufacturer, CV Technologies of Edmonton, Alberta. The overall outcome was that the individuals taking ginseng had fewer colds and milder/shorter recuperation times. It was stated that the manufacturer did not have any involvement in the study.

There are references in literature showing interactions with ginseng. A comparative, randomized and double-blind study at the National Autonomous University of Mexico indicates that it may be “a promising dietary supplement” when assessed for an increase in quality of life.”

The ginseng root has a history that dates back 5,000 years to ancient China. Emperors and dynasties fought over the root and over the years, and areas all over China were devoted to growing this medicinal plant. Introduced to the Western world in the beginning of the 20th century, many manufacturers used the wise knowledge of China to promote ginseng. In the ’70s, it became so popular that vitamin companies began adding it to their supplements, so that they could take advantage of the renewed interest (and sales). At that time most of the ginseng was being produced in South Korea, known as Korean ginseng.

American ginseng, when taken orally, is used as an adaptogen, for increasing resistance to environmental stress.
Also used by the general public for:

A general tonic, stimulant, diuretic, digestive aid; for anemia, diabetes, insomnia, neurasthenia, gastritis, impotence, fever, hangover symptoms, stimulating immune function, swine flu, HIV/AIDS, ADHD, and for eradicating Pseudomonas infection in cystic fibrosis. Other uses include acute respiratory illness, improving stress resistance, preventing the effects of aging, improving stamina, blood and bleeding disorders, atherosclerosis, loss of appetite, vomiting, colitis, dysentery, breast cancer, fibromyalgia and disorders of pregnancy and childbirth.

After reviewing all of the above, there is little in the way of scientific evidence to prove that Korean ginseng, Siberian ginseng or American ginseng root combats any of the disorders, diseases or illnesses.

American ginseng is used in soft drinks and manufacturing processes also include American ginseng oil and extracts in soaps and cosmetics.

The ginseng root remains, to date, as one of the most popular herbs as a cold and flu remedy. Always purchase your herbal products at a quality natural health store or visit an independent pharmacy that specializes in drug and herbal interactions.

In this article you will learn:

• Standard flu vs. swine influenza
• Swine flu symptoms for both children and adults
• Treatment and practices to assist in recovery from H1N1 flu
• Swine flu vaccine

It’s currently the biggest concern: You go to work and find out three of your co-workers have been diagnosed with the swine flu. You pick up your kids from school and get a hand out flier sheet with information on potential school closure due to the flu. Worse yet, you have some symptoms and after visiting your doctor you find out you have swine flu. What do you do now? Have you considered getting the swine flu vaccine?

First, understand that swine flu symptoms vary from mild to severe. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control): “The symptoms of 2009 H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, including 2009 H1N1 and have respiratory symptoms without a fever. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.”

Well, that’s enough to make you down right scared.

Something important to note: In the standard influenza strain, those people that are considered ‘high risk’ are advised to get a swine flu vaccine. These people include: those that are 65 years and older, children younger than five years old, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions. Something different about the H1N1 virus seems to be that adults over the age of 64 seem to not be high risk. Studies show that children and people younger than 60 do not have any antibodies to combat the H1N1. About one third of those over the age of 60 do have antibodies against this virus.

It’s also important to remember that you must be diagnosed by your medical professional so that you can differentiate between the standard influenza and the swine flu symptoms.

The CDC information on emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention:

In children, include:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish or gray skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults, include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

If you ARE diagnosed to have the swine flu:

1. Stay home.

Many companies are sending emails to staff indicating that employees should not come into work if they have the flu. The CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities.

2. Segregate yourself as much as possible in your home environment.

3. Special Medication.

The CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with 2009 H1N1 flu virus. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. During the current pandemic, the priority use for influenza antiviral drugs is to treat severe influenza illness (for example hospitalized patients) and people who are sick who have a condition that places them at high risk for serious flu-related complications.

4. Use the standard prevention sense to help protect your family and friends from exposure.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.

5. In addition to medication, make sure your keep your immune system boosted by eating properly and good fluid intake.

Check to make sure that any high quality vitamins and supplements will not have adverse interactions with your medication.

6. Keeping everything clean.

Make sure everything you touch, including your food implements and laundry are cleaned with warm soapy water. They don’t have to be cleaned separately.

7. Seek additional medical help if your symptoms persist or get worse.

The CDC is keeping their website constantly updated with new information on: Swine flu, swine flu vaccine, swine flu symptoms and swine flu outbreak state-by-state.

]]> http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/what-to-do-if-you-have-been-diagnosed-with-swine-flu/feed/ 1 http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/symptoms-of-acute-bronchitis/ http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/symptoms-of-acute-bronchitis/#comments Tue, 12 May 2009 16:14:37 +0000 admin http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/?p=3846
• Acute bronchitis comes on quickly, and will normally resolve without any treatment within a few weeks
• Chronic bronchitis occurs frequently and can last a month or longer each time
• Treatment for bronchitis will depend on many different factors
• Radical Fighters, Ester C 500mg and Echinacea/Goldenseal w/Org. Alcohol help your body keep away infections.


Bronchitis is a medical condition that can be characterized as either acute bronchitis or chronic bronchitis, depending on the type you have and your symptoms. Bronchitis occurs because the tubes in your lungs which carry the air in become irritated and swell up from inflammation. This swelling and irritation will cause mucus to form in your lungs, you will develop a cough, and this can cause difficulty breathing, especially during any exertion. Acute bronchitis comes on quickly, and it is usually caused by an upper respiratory infection. Usually the acute form of this condition does not require any antibiotics, and only rarely requires any treatment at all. Normally rest, plenty of fluids to thin out the mucus, and a balanced diet will help you get rid of the bronchitis on your own within a few weeks. If you are very young, elderly, or you suffer from an immune system which is weak, this condition can cause serious complications.

Chronic bronchitis is when the bronchitis does not go away within a few weeks, and can last for a month or longer and frequently comes back. If you experience coughing and excess mucus for most of the month and this happens at least three or four times a year, your doctor may diagnose you with chronic bronchitis. People who smoke heavily often suffer from the chronic form of bronchitis. The acute form of this condition is normally caused because of a viral infection, but occasionally the culprit is a bacterial infection.

The symptoms that can occur if you are suffering from acute bronchitis can vary widely, depending on the severity of the bronchitis and your overall general medical condition. Because many of the symptoms of bronchitis can also be caused by pneumonia, it is important to see your doctor any time breathing becomes difficult or you experience a rapid heartbeat. With bronchitis you ill have a cough, and it will usually start out dry but produce mucus within a few days. The color of the mucus can be green, yellow, clear, or even pink tinged or smeared if the coughing is producing blood. You may also notice that you are running a fever that is low. If you develop a fever that is higher than one hundred and one degrees, contact your doctor because this can indicate a more serious condition such as pneumonia. You will usually feel tired and lethargic, you may loose your voice or become hoarse, and you may notice wheezing noises from your chest when you breathe. Another symptom you may notice is a pain or tightness in your chest, and this can become much worse during exertion or when you start coughing. At times with bronchitis the coughing may become uncontrollable, and may even result in vomiting due to the muscle spasms and lack of oxygen during the coughing fit if it becomes severe enough.

Treatment of bronchitis will depend on the type. If you have this condition because of an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus and you are normally healthy, your doctor will generally tell you to get plenty of rest and drink a lot of fluids. You will generally recover on your own within a few weeks. If the bronchitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be needed. In both cases your doctor may prescribe medications to help you bring up the mucus by thinning it out. A cough suppressant is normally not used, because the cough is needed to clear the mucus from your lungs. If you have a dry cough that is not productive, a cough suppressant with an opiate may be prescribed to control your cough.

To help you avoid catching any type of infection, you can take natural supplements. Products like Radical Fighters, Ester C 500mgand Echinacea/Goldenseal w/Org. Alcohol give your immune system the boost it needs to keep you healthy.

]]> http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/symptoms-of-acute-bronchitis/feed/ 0 http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/viral-pneumonia-prevention-and-treatment/ http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/viral-pneumonia-prevention-and-treatment/#comments Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:18:36 +0000 profnutralegacy http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/?p=2164
• Viral pneumonia is usually not a serious threat to your health
• Rest and plenty of fluids are the standard treatments for viral pneumonia
• Any respiratory can be considered serious to certain areas of the population, including the young, the elderly, and anyone whose immune system health is weak
• Take One Multiple, Echinacea/Goldenseal w/Org. Alcohol and Astragalus Organic boost overall health.

Viral pneumonia is a respiratory infection that can strike all ages. When this illness occurs, the lungs become inflamed and may fill up with mucous or fluid. This condition can strike only certain parts of your lungs or it can have an effect on all the areas of your lungs. Pneumonia can occur because of a bacteria, virus, or fungus that gets into the lungs and causes an infection. With viral pneumonia the cause is a virus. Most people can fight this medical illness with no hospitalization or medications, simply by resting and drinking plenty of fluids. For some people, viral pneumonia can become very serious, and even life threatening at times. Usually this is because of an immature or weakened immune system. This can include infants and small children, the elderly, anyone who has recently had surgery, and anyone who has a weakened immune system due to disease or drugs, such as those with HIV or anyone who has had transplant surgery and takes immunosuppressive drugs. For these populations this condition may require hospitalization, intravenous fluids, and medications to help your body fight the virus more effectively.

The symptoms of pneumonia include a fever that is normally low grade, but that can be high if the virus is well spread and abundant in your body, or if your immune system is young or weakened. Another symptom is coughing, which may start out light but get heavier as the illness progresses. Small amounts of mucous will be coughed up, and this mucous can be a yellow or greenish color and be very thick. You will feel tired all the time, and may even feel too weak to get out of bed. You can also experience muscle aches. Some people will have chills as well, and other generalized signs of infection. When a virus causes the pneumonia at first the symptoms do not seem severe, so you may not seek medical help for a week or two. In severe cases, this illness can cause severe complications which can lead to death if not promptly treated.

Preventing viral pneumonia and any other respiratory infection means washing your hands frequently. Stay away from anyone who shows a sign of an infection, especially one affecting their respiratory system. This includes symptoms like sneezing, coughing, a stuffy nose, and wheezing. Visit your doctor if you have a cold or other viral infection that gets worse, or causes any serious symptoms besides the usual discomfort and inconvenience. Get the yearly flu shot and the pneumonococcal vaccine to help keep your risks of viral pneumonia oranother respiratory infection. Do not smoke, and if you do then quit. Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of regular exercise. These steps will help you prevent this infection and keep you healthy. Seek immediate medical attention from your doctor or the closest Emergency Room if you start having severe pain in your chest, if you are short of breath or can not seem to catch your breath even though you are resting and not exerting yourself. If you feel very weak, start coughing up fresh or old blood, or have problems with severe nausea and vomiting, you should also get medical attention right away.

If you have been told you have viral pneumonia or another respiratory infection, rest and drinking a lot of fluids are an important part of the treatment. Fluids are needed so you can stay hydrated and the rest will allow your body to fight off the virus more effectively. Non-prescription medications for cold and flu symptoms can help manage the symptoms, and allow your body to fight off the virus and recover much faster.

To keep your immune system working properly, you can take natural supplements. Products like Take One Multiple, Echinacea/Goldenseal w/Org. Alcohol and Astragalus Organic not only boost your immune system but overall health.

]]> http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/viral-pneumonia-prevention-and-treatment/feed/ 1 http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/6-best-natural-remedies-for-cold-flu-and-asthma/ http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/6-best-natural-remedies-for-cold-flu-and-asthma/#comments Tue, 10 Feb 2009 16:55:22 +0000 profnutralegacy http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/?p=2087
• Garlic can kill harmful bacteria and viruses and even eliminate fungi
• Onion soup is also used to fight flues, common colds
• Steam is one of the bronchitis natural remedies
• Cayenne pepper is an effective cold and flu fighter
• Warm mustard plaster loosens chest congestion
• Chicken soup is a traditional remedy for cold symptoms
• Garlic-Parsley, Astragalus Organic and Sambucus Immune Support/AF are natural supplemental remedies.

1. Garlic

Garlic is one of the best remedies for the common colds, the flu, and asthma all three. Garlic is a terrific antimicrobial, so it kills off harmful bacteria and viruses, and will even eliminate fungi. This herb and seasoning has been used for hundreds of years for many conditions, and garlic is also known to bolster your immune system, making your body more efficient at fighting off invaders as well. Garlic should be included in foods regularly, and you can also chew on a raw clove if you do not mind the garlic breath or strong taste and odor. This natural remedy will definitely clear your sinuses and relieve symptoms.

2. Onion

One of the most common and effective natural remedies for flu is an onion. One method is to mix equal parts of honey and onion juice, and take a couple of teaspoons every four to six hours. Onion soup is also used to fight flues, common colds and asthma at times. The heat of the soup and the nutrition can help relieve symptoms while shortening the duration. Onion tea can also be made by slicing one small onion and boiling in water until cooked. Strain out the onion and drink the tea. The taste is not great, so you may need to add sweeteners, but this natural flu remedy can help you get better sooner.

3. Steam

Whether you suffer from a cold, a flu, or asthma, the benefits of steam have been proven. Steam is one of the natural remedies for asthma that does not include the use of synthetic drugs, and actually works. Steam can loosen congestion in your sinuses and in your lungs, and will relax your airways. Steam is also one of bronchitis natural remedies because the heat relaxes the lungs and the steam makes it easier to bring up any mucous. Steam does not just alleviate the symptoms, but attacks the cause of the problem in asthma.

4. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods are great natural remedies for cold, flu and asthma conditions. Eating food high in spices, especially cayenne pepper, has several benefits if you are suffering from one of these conditions. The spiciness of the food will help relieve congestion and make you breath easier. The heat from the peppers will relax you, including your lungs, and this makes it easier to bring up phlegm and to breath normally. These foods have another benefit, they are very flavorful. This may help you eat more, so your body gets the nutrition needed, because they allow you to smell and taste again.

5. Warm Mustard Plaster

A warm mustard plaster is one of many natural flu remedies that has been used for hundreds of years. Mustard is made into a paste using warm water, and then this paste is applied to a clean linen cloth. The cloth is folded over and this plaster is placed on the skin of the chest over the lungs. Make sure that the mustard paste does not touch the skin or irritation will occur. Leave this plaster on your chest for ten minutes, and then remove. This treatment can be used every few hours to loosen chest congestion and tightness, and will make it easier to breathe whether you suffer from the cold, a flu, or asthma.

6. Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is one of the most common natural remedies for cold symptoms. Chicken soup has heat, steam, protein from the chicken, fresh vegetables, and plenty of taste. This home remedy works, and scientific studies have shown this fact. Use plenty of water and fresh vegetables, and for added benefits throw in lots of garlic, onion, and peppers. This historic traditional remedy for colds and flues can be very effective at getting you back on your feet. Homemade is a much better option than canned, and this variety has more benefits as well.

These natural remedies can also be found in natural supplements. Products like Garlic-Parsley, Sambucus Immune Support/AF and Astragalus Organic can help you feel better faster.

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