Explore Lipovite Injections

Lipovite injections are the latest technology used to help people lose weight because they help raise the body's metabolic rate.

Lipovite injections contain three main enzymes that prevent fat from accumulating around the liver. These enzymes, called lipotropics, are also used in combination with Vitamin B6 and B Complex. The enzymes used in these injections are:

· Choline. The purpose of this enzyme is to help the liver in its function of processing waste and excreting it from the body. The choline also aids in the production of lecithin, which reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood and decreases the likelihood of gallstones.

· Inositol. A person experiencing hair loss may have a deficiency of this enzyme. It is also essential in the body because it helps fats to metabolize faster and it aids in the production of serotonin, which controls your appetite and mood.

· Methionine. Not only does this enzyme decrease feelings of tiredness, but it does prevent fatty cells from accumulating around the liver and keeping it from functioning as it should.

Vitamins B6 and B Complex play an important role in lipovite injections. Vitamin B6 plays an instrumental part in increasing the excess water eliminated through the bladder and in this manner it aids in weight loss. The B Complex vitamins give you more energy aid in the release of energy from the cells of the body.

Lipovite injections are mainly used in weight loss clinics and as part of weight loss management programs. Patients usually receive one injection per week, but they can be given more often than that as long as there are forty-eight hours between injections. Losing two pounds a week is considered a healthy weight loss, but when taking these injections you can expect to lose at least three pounds a week and still maintain a healthy loss of weight.

The only patients who would be unable to take lipovite injections are those that have an allergy to sulphur. This is because methionine is an enzyme that contains sulphur. If this is the case, there are other injections you can take for weight loss that do contain essential enzymes and vitamins that do not contain any sulphur.

When you do contact a weight loss clinic that does give lipovite injections, you will have to undergo a full physical examination, complete with blood work before you receive any treatments. This is to determine if you have any allergies and if you have any medical conditions that cause you to gain weight in spite of dieting and exercise.

The doctor will go through your entire medical history, which means you do have to allot a longer than usual period of time for your first visit. In some cases, if you live some distance away from the clinic, the doctor will teach you how to give the injections yourself and supply you with a month's supply of lipotropics. You will have to schedule a visit to the clinic on a monthly basis.

The treatment plan is specific to each patient depending on the amount of weight each one needs to lose, the amount of activity they do each day and their previous diet habits. Through a Basal Metabolic rate measurement, the doctor will be able to tell you how many calories you should consume a day, which usually means a change in your eating habits.

What Are Surgical Staples and How Are They Used?

There are several different ways of accomplishing wound closure. Adhesives, skin closure tapes, staples and sutures (for example, Covidien or Ethicon sutures) are all ways of repairing lacerations and surgical incisions. Surgical staples and clips are a faster way to close skin wounds, and are more consistent and accurate than hand suturing.

Originally, the first surgical staples were composed of stainless steel. Staple cartridges were reloadable with titanium staples. Today, surgical staplers (like Autosuture or Ethicon staplers) can be made of disposable plastic, or are made of stainless steel and are reusable. The surgical staples are made of either titanium or stainless steel and generally came in disposable cartridges.

As with any wound closure product, sometimes staples produce an inflammatory tissue reaction or an allergic reaction.

Titanium produces less of a reaction than stainless steel. However, patients with nickel allergies should consult with their physicians, as titanium staples contain a certain amount of nickel and could produce a reaction.

Bioabsorbable, synthetic staples based on polyglycolic acid are also on the market. Similar to synthetic absorbable sutures like Vicryl, an Ethicon suture, it is hoped these will cause less tissue reaction. They are also used where permanent staples would not be desirable, for instance, cystotomy repair.

Internal and external wounds can be closed using staples. Normally, a disposable stapler is used to apply skin staples and is removed with a staple remover. Depending on the tissue and the anatomical location to be stapled, the staple line may be straight, circular, or curved. Surgeons prefer using staples in bowel and lung surgery as they are less likely to leak air, blood, or bowel contents. Intestinal staplers are advantageous because they compress wound edges, closing off blood vessels during the stapling process.

Removing staples is done with a staple remover and is a simple procedure. The physician cleans the area, and gently removes each staple by applying pressure to the staple remover so that it bends the staple, straightening out the ends and backing them out of the skin. A tugging or pinching sensation is normally felt but the process is relatively painless.

Viral Hives - Some Things To Know

Viral hives, also known as viral urticaria, is caused by a viral infection. Irregularly shaped, raised red bumps with a pale center, these hives appear on the skin possibly accompanied by a viral fever. Viral hives can have a nominal amount of swelling around these raised areas. They can affect children as well as adults and elders. They can hang about a few hours or days, and can last up to four weeks. Many cases have been witnessed where it stayed for as long as 6 weeks turning into the chronic hives category. You should consult a doctor straight away if it stays for more than 24 hours. Viral hives covering a small area of the body can turn into large areas within few minutes. Taking a hives treatment can eliminate hives from spreading.

Viral hives may appear on your skin when immune system of the body senses an allergic reaction and releases histamine into your blood. To be more specific, they are generally caused by a viral infection like the flu, hepatitis, herpes, croup and so many other viral infections. When your immune system attempts to remove these viruses and releases the histamine that causes viral hives. Some eatables may also be the triggering factor in the growth of hives. Dust, pollen and other environmental factors may contribute towards the development of viral hives. Pet and animal dander, insect and bug bites, stress and anxiety are also known as the common causes of such hives.

Viral hives symptoms include red raised and swollen areas on the skin that are usually very itchy and may cause a burning or irritated sensation. They can appear on any part of your body in different sizes which can be as small as peas and as large as a plate. These hives are the result of the process when your body tries to defeat the virus inside. Unluckily, they can become tedious in the presence of swelling of the throat or tongue. If you are suffering from hives and looking for the best treatment then you are certainly not alone as there are thousands of people everyday looking for the same and 15% of Americans suffer from hives every year. There is a range of treatments for such hives depending on the cause and severity of the attack but if you want to quickly and easily diminish the symptoms of the outbreak then you will have to go for the best treatment.

Treatment Options For Eczema Sufferers

If you suffer from eczema you are not alone. Eczema is a skin condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. The intensity of eczema cases is varied form the mild and inobvious, to the extreme and dibilitating. Therefore, eczema treatment options cover a wide range of intensities and variations also. They range from simply modifying hygiene practices to the last resort use of ultraviolet light treatment. Eczema treatment options are available for all types of sufferers.

It is vital to learn the different eczema treatment options on the market today in order to make an appropriate selection. Medical research regarding eczema treatment is an ongoing process with advancements in research and technology coming forward every day. Currently eczema is not curable, but can be controlled through eczema treatment techniques, and often held in a state of remission.

A first line of defense against eczema is to modify and step up your hygiene routine. People with eczema are highly susceptible to harsh, drying soaps. Pay special care to the use of 'bargain' laundry detergents, as your clothing being saturated with irratants can aggrevate the condition. Soaps can reduce the amount of moisture in your skin, moisturizers can help replace it. Skin moisture is crucial and with dry skin comes an eczema flare-up. Hot water can also dry out your skin, so opt for a cool bath. In short, the less exposure to hot water the better.

Make heavy moisturizers a part of your daily routine. Apply moisture cream or
ointments immediately and liberally after taking your shower or bath. This is the best time to retain moisture in your skin. You can also apply hydrocortisone cream to eczema areas. This home eczema treatment routine will benefit and help keep mild cases of eczema under control.

If you have tried home eczema treatment, but your eczema flare-ups continue to be
bothersome, head to your Dermatologist. They can prescribe more potent moisturizers, creams, and ointments to apply to your skin. They can ascertain the cause of your eczema and prescribe anti-inflammatory and allergy medicines as well.

Check to see if a food allergy could be the cause of your eczema. You can then modify your intake and eliminate that food from your diet. If skin irritants are to blame for your eczema then you can remove the irritants from your environment or wear protective clothing. Sometimes experimentation is the only way to identify them. Allergy shots are also a possible eczema treatment option. It is critical to remove the source of your eczema for effective eczema treatment.

The previous eczema treatment options do not work for a minority of eczema cases.

These chronic, extreme eczema sufferers can turn to ultraviolet light eczema treatment. This type of eczema treatment is a last resort and should be discussed with a physician.

Eczema treatment options are available and will help any eczema sufferer manage their condition. Consult with your family doctor or Dermatologist for more information. They can make a diagnosis and recommend an eczema treatment plan specifically geared towards your case.

Diagnosing and Treating Allergies

Diagnosing Allergies

Some allergies are easy to identify, because there is an obvious pattern of symptoms following exposure to certain substances. For example, if a person always sneezes around cats, that points to an allergy to cats. Someone who gets a runny nose and itchy, watery eyes every spring may be allergic to pollen.

A visit to the doctor's office for a physical exam¬ination is important. When the allergy trigger is not obvious, the doctor may recommend a specialist called an allergist who will likely do a series of skin tests to identify the allergens that are causing the problem.

Treating Allergies

Avoiding the allergen is the best way to prevent an allergy attack, but this isn't always possible. Someone who is allergic to pollen, for example, can't hide in a closet during allergy season. However, there are some steps people can take to reduce their exposure to allergens. If pet dander is the trigger, it will help to limit the areas of the home that family pets are allowed to be in. If dust is the problem, regular cleaning will help to keep it from accumulating. Avoiding damp areas will help if mould is the culprit.

Medications can help ease the symptoms. Some can be bought over-the-counter; others require a prescription. Allergy medicines fall into several different categories:

o antihistamines
o decongestants

o corticosteroids

o bronchodilators

o mast cell stabilizers

o leukotriene modifiers

When medications don't provide enough relief, a doctor may recommend immunotherapy (allergy shots) to reduce sensitivity to the allergy triggers.

Not every treatment is right for all allergy sufferers, so it is very important to discuss possible treatments with your doctor.

Anaphylactic Shock

Sometimes the sensitivity to an allergen is so extreme that the body goes into anaphylactic shock (also known as anaphylaxis). This is a sudden, severe allergic reaction that affects various systems in the body. The result is:

o difficulty breathing

o swelling of the face, throat, lips, and tongue

o rapid drop in blood pressure

o nausea and vomiting

o dizziness

o unconsciousness.

If it is not treated rapidly, it may lead to death. Anaphylaxis can happen within seconds of being exposed to a triggering substance, or it might happen up to two hours later. Among the most common causes of anaphylaxis are peanuts, seafood, and insect stings.

Anaphylaxis requires immediate treatment. People who know they have severe reactions should carry medication (epinephrine) with them at all times. The medication comes in a small syringe that may look like a pen, and it must be injected. Highly allergic people, their family members, and their friends should know how to give the injection in an emergency. This knowledge could save a life. Medical treatment is important even after the shot is given, because a single injection is not always enough.

What You Should Know About the Medications For Asthma

When someone is diagnosed with asthma it is customary for the doctor and patient to put an action plan into place to eliminate triggers, prescribe treatment and ultimately control asthma symptoms. Being able to control asthma will prevent chronic symptoms of asthma such as coughing and wheezing, reduce the occurrence and frequency of attacks and maintain normal activity levels in daily life. Because there is no cure for asthma and in some instances of asthma there is no identified cause, medication is necessary to treat, prevent and control the symptoms of the disease. The type of medication is determined upon the patient's age, symptoms, triggers, and what makes the asthma better. Not all medications work on every individual especially since more than a quarter of people who suffer with asthma are children. Therefore determining the right type of prescription will be a task that both the doctor and patient will have to develop together.

There are two types of medications that doctors prescribe to asthma patients, long-term control medications and quick relief or rescue medications. Long-term control medications are the most effective way to reduce inflammation in the airway. Long-term treatments are normally taken on a daily basis to prevent symptoms. Quick relief medications are used in flare up situations to quickly open up swollen airways. Asthma patients most commonly use inhalers because the medication goes directly to the lungs however; pill and liquid forms of asthma medications are available as well.

Long-term control medications include inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, long-acting beta agonists, combination inhalers, theophylline, and methylxanthines. Quick relief medications include short-acting bronchodilator inhalers, anticholinergics, and oral and intravenous corticosteroids. With extrinsic asthma, allergies are a possible trigger, which is why allergy medication is used to treat allergy-induced asthma. Allergy medications include immunotherapy allergy shots, oral and nasal spray antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroid nasal sprays. Bronchial thermoplasty is another treatment that is used in cases where asthma is severe and traditional medications are ineffective. Lastly in cases where patients have difficulty with inhalers, an asthma nebulizer should be used.

LONG-TERM CONTROL MEDICATIONS

Inhaled corticosteroids-Inhaled corticosteroids are the preferred long-term control medication for people who suffer with asthma. They are most effective at relieving airway inflammation and swelling. By reducing the inflammation in the lungs it prevents the chain reaction that causes all the symptoms of an asthma attack. Taking inhaled corticosteroids daily can greatly reduce the severity of asthma, frequency and occurrence of asthma attacks. Inhaled corticosteroids are generally safe and are not habit forming. They have a lower risk of side effects than oral corticosteroids in pill or liquid form. Examples of inhaled corticosteroids include Flovent Diskus, Flovent HFA, Pulmicort Flexhaler, Asmanex, Aerobid, Qvar, Vancenase, Beclovent, Nasacort, and Atolone.

Leukotriene modifiers- Leukotriene modifiers inhibit leukotriene, a chemical that promotes the body's inflammatory response. By blocking these chemicals, leukotriene inhibitors reduce inflammation within the airways. Therefore eliminating the chain reaction, which causes asthma symptoms. Some side effects linked to leukotriene inhibitors include agitation, aggression, hallucinations, depression and suicidal thinking. Examples of leukotriene inhibitors include Singulair, Accolate, Zyflo, and Zyflo CR.

Long-acting beta agonists-Long-acting beta agonists are chemically related to adrenaline and are used to open up the airways. They keep the airways open for 12 hours or longer. However, long-acting beta agonists should not be used along. They should be used in combination with a low dose inhaled corticosteroid. Side effects include rapid heartbeat and shakiness Examples of inhaled medications include Serevent, and Foradil,

Combination inhalers-Combination inhalers include an inhaled steroid with a long-acting bronchodilator. Examples of combination inhalers include Advair Diskus and Symbicort.

Methylxanthines- Methylxanthines is a group of controller medications that is chemically related to caffeine and opens up the airways. Methylxanthines work as long-acting bronchodilators. Theophylline and aminophylline are examples of methylxanthines.

QUICK RELIEF MEDICATIONS

Short-acting beta agonists- Also known as short-acting bronchodilator inhalers, this medication is used for quick relief of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breathe. These medications dilate the airways to lessen the asthma symptoms. Examples of short acting beta agonists include Albuterol, Levalbuterol, and pirbuterol.

Anticholinergics- Anticholinergics open up the airways by blocking the neurotransmitter acetylcholine within the central and peripheral nervous system. This is similar to the action of beta-agonists however; anticholinergics take slightly longer to take effect but last longer overall. In some instances anticholinergics and beta-agonists will be used together to produce a greater effect. The anticholinergics used for rescue asthma medication is Ipratropium bromide (Atrovent).

Oral and Intravenous Corticosteroids-Corticosteroids should be taken for short-term use only due to the increased side effects. Corticosteroids are an effective anti-inflammatory, and side effects are temporary when taken for two weeks or less otherwise they can be permanent. Prednisone and methylprednisolone are two examples of oral corticosteroids.

ALLERGY INDUCED MEDICATION

Immunotherapy- Immunotherapy is used to alter the immune system in patients who have an elevated level of immunoglobulin E, an allergy antibody. Allergy shots are generally given once a week for a few months, and then once a month after that. Omalizumab (Xolair) is one kind of immunotherapy injection.

Allergy Medication- Allergy medications include oral and nasal sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants. They work by preventing asthma related inflammation in the airways.
Cromolyn and Ipratropium are two forms of nasal sprays used as asthma medication. Cromolyn can prevent the development of an asthma attack if taken regularly however it does not help once an attack has started.

BRONCHIAL THERMOPLASTY

Bronchial thermoplasty- When inhaled corticosteroids don't improve asthma symptoms, especially in severe cases, bronchial thermoplasty may be the next best option. Bronchial thermoplasty uses an electrode to warm the inside of the airways, which calms the smooth muscle within the lungs. This helps to inhibit inflammation in the airways, which causes asthma symptoms. Bronchial thermoplasty is not widely available since more research is needed to determine the benefits and possible side effects.

ASTHMA NEBULIZER

Asthma Nebulizer- An asthma nebulizer is also known as a breathing machine. They are generally used in cases where there is difficulty using an inhaler. Asthma nebulizers use a mask that covers the mouth and nose. It changes the medication from a liquid into a mist making it more accessible to be inhaled into the lungs. Unlike an inhaler, a nebulizer requires several minutes for treatment.

Dealing With A Cat Allergy

Anyone who suffers from allergies can undoubtedly tell you of the irritation and discomfort associated with its consequences. In order to minimize symptoms, allergy sufferers do well to identify their personal allergy triggers so that they can successfully avoid them. For cat lovers especially, a cat allergy can mean a host of problems when it comes to choosing - or keeping - a pet.

A cat allergy generally stems from a person's particular sensitivity to cat dander - the skin cells that shed through the cat's fur. This sensitivity to cat dander can range from minimal - resulting in coughing, watery eyes, sneezing, and itching - to severe - resulting in everything from swelling to shortness of breath.

Clearly, those who have a cat allergy do best to not bring any cats into their home or to enter the homes of those who have cats in residence. But there are some who do not even discover that they have a cat allergy until they've brought their new pet into the home.

First and foremost, a severe cat allergy may require you to find an alternative living arrangement for your cat. Work with your doctor to ascertain the severity of your cat allergy. In the likely case of a minimal to moderate cat allergy, however, there are ways to combat the cat allergy so that you and your furry friend can live together harmoniously.

When it comes to your home, be sure that you are providing adequate ventilation with the use of an effective quality air filter. Be sure to vacuum frequently to rid your house of as much dander as possible. Have your animal groomed at the veterinarian or another location outside the home so as not to expose yourself to cat hair shed during the grooming process.

If you are aware of your cat allergy before you purchase a cat, look into the shorter-haired cats. These cats require minimal grooming and shed far less than their long-haired counterparts. In fact, you may find that you are less allergic to the shorter-haired breeds.

As a final and ongoing solution you may want to work with your doctor in terms of allergy shots or medications. This can save you a significant amount of aggravation and discomfort going forward - keeping you comfortable in your own home as well as the homes of other cat owners.

Ultimately, determining if your cat allergy is something that should hinder you from cat ownership is up to you and your doctor to decide. Most importantly, you should not put your health at risk. But if you are able to manage both your allergy care and the care for your pet, then you and your cat can happily co-exist.

How Safe Are Allergy Shots?

Allergy shots, also known as Immunotherapy, are becoming increasingly popular. This is due to the fact that they are the only proven long term treatment for people's symptoms. An Allergy shot can help to reduce common allergy symptoms that include itchy or watery eyes, sneezing and breathing difficulties. Although the shots are generally harmless, you should take into account the benefits and risk of this treatment.

Most sufferers will try everything to avoid allergies including changing eating habits, taking vitamin supplements or oral medication. These can help to lower allergy symptoms, but are a short term solution. Immunotherapy on the other hand are more effective because they contain a small quantity of the substance that you are actually allergic to. For instance, if you are allergic to pollen, a small amount of pollen is added to the allergy shot. The amount is just small enough so that you body begins to fight the allergen. The next time you come into contact with pollen, your body will now be familiar with fighting it off.

The vast majority of people will have encouraging results from Immunotherapy, but they are not suitable for everyone. Allergy shots are not suggested for people who are suffering from respiratory problems or asthma. For safety reasons, children under the age of 5 should not be given Immunotherapy.

Allergy shots are an effective treatment for most individuals in helping to eliminate symptoms, but some individuals may experience harmful side effects. These side effects may include an experience of shock when the shot is initially injected, light-headedness and sometimes nausea. For this reason, all doctors are required to keep patients for at least 20 minutes after receiving Immunotherapy in order to ensure the patient's wellbeing.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reported that over a ten year period, 79,593 immunotherapy injections were conducted at the Mayo clinic and that the incidence of adverse reactions to be less than two-tenths of 1 percent. Nearly all of the reactions reported were mild and responded well to immediate medical treatment. There were no fatalities or severe problems. All allergy shots should be carried out by a qualified allergist-immunologist or other physician who is trained in this therapy.

The results show that Immunotherapy provided by a qualified physician, is an effective and safe treatment for many types of allergies. There have been cases of fatalities from an allergy shot, but these remain extremely rare. It is important to speak to your physician if you have any concerns regarding having an allergy shot or if you suffer from heart or asthma problems.

Bee Grass Pollen Allergy Symptoms: What's the Answer?

Do you have bee grass pollen allergy symptoms? Depending on where you live you might be suffering from severe allergies or not at all.

The real challenge is that there are still so many people that don't know where their allergies are coming from. If the allergies are stemming from the environment then there is no doubt that you can move, or you could try using bee pollen to relieve the symptoms.

Why Pollen Might be Good to Use to Treat Allergies

To say that pollen might be good to use to treat allergies is up for debate and has been for some time, but the fact remains that many are having success with it. The reality behind this is that people get flu shots to make them immune to the flu, but in order to do that you are being given the flu. So it is the same with pollen; you get pollen to free yourself of your allergies to pollen.

There is also a theory that claims that the only way to relieve the symptoms is by taking pollen from the region that you live in. This is because not all areas have the same climate, thus even growing flowers wild you can't get the same wildflowers in every state or country, so the pollen is different. Make sense?

What in Pollen Helps With Allergies

In order to understand how pollen helps with allergies, we need to talk about what is in it that counts. Pollen contains a lot of vitamin E, and we know that vitamin E is helpful with allergies because it's an antioxidant which helps prevent allergies or other viral ailments to get into the body.

Vitamin C is great for allergies because not only is it an antioxidant, but it stimulates white cell production which fights off bacteria and infection. People don't think of allergies as a bacterial problem, but they are. This is why moms always tell their kids to take plenty of vitamin C.

Zinc is another contributor to pollen because pollen is so rich in Zinc. Zinc is a great immune booster and it helps the body heal. Zinc is a pretty powerful mineral, and studies at the Mayo Clinic suggest that Zinc may help shorten colds and reduce the symptoms of nasal allergies.

This is a great thing to hear because so many people face spring and summer with dread, knowing that they are allergic to almost everything. Zinc can also be a substitute for those who are allergic to Goldenseal.

In conclusion, there are several theories about how to use bee pollen to get rid of allergy symptoms, but do they work?

Some say that you should take pollen that is native to your region, while others just choose to medicate. Pollen is loaded with vitamin A, C, and E which are all key in relieving allergies and colds. This is why pollen has been effective in helping so many get relief from their nasal allergy symptoms.

Visit my page on Bee Pollen Allergic Reaction, to learn if bee pollen is dangerous if you have allergic reactions.

Importance of Hand Washing

With all of the germs that have a tendency to follow us around, one of the easiest things that we can do is remember to wash our hands. Not only does washing your hands prevent the spread of germs to other people, but it also keeps you from spreading germs to yourself. You should always wash your hands before eating and especially after you have used a public restroom or your own bathroom.

When you stop to think about it, germs are everywhere. If you stop to think about how often you touch a door handle or shake someone else's hand, it can seem overwhelming to think about all of the germs that you come into contact with on a daily basis. At best, washing your hands doesn't seem like it is nearly enough to rid yourself of germs that could potentially make you or someone else you love sick. However, when you go to a fast food restaurant, you will usually see posted signs so employees reminding them that it is against the law to not wash your hands prior to handling someone else' food in the restaurant.

One industry in which washing your hands is key is the child care or educational industry. Often times, parents will bring young children in to a day care with runny noses or other little colds in which the child's hands are on their face, in their mouths, on the floor and then in another child's face. It is not uncommon, therefore, to have children who make other children sick as well as adults. This is part of the reason that all teachers in elementary schools are required to keep up-to-date on their flu shots and vaccinations. On the one hand, they don't want to catch any colds that children might be bringing into the classroom; and on the other hand, they don't want to give children any germs.

Additionally, classrooms are excellent breeding grounds for germs because throughout the course of the day, different children come into and out of the classroom in order to use the desks, pens, pencils and books. Therefore, while it may be the responsibility of the maintenance people to clean the classrooms at the end of the day, the teacher should also assume responsibility for cleaning up after the children at the end of each class period or a few times throughout the day. Simple things such as wiping the desks off with some disinfectant spray and/or employing the help of the students can make a huge difference.

Children need to be made aware from a young age how important personal hygiene is. Typically, this would be the responsibility of the child's parents. However, teachers can certainly reinforce this notion by spending a few minutes each day with the class discussing how it is important to wash your hands and use a tissue if you have to blow your nose or sneeze. Often, if a child needs to be excused to use the bathroom, the teacher will escort him or her to the bathroom and gently remind them that they need to make sure that they wash their hands with soap and warm water.

Allergy - Honey Can Cure Your Pollen Allergies For Good!

Every year, new allergy medicines are on the market with more hour relief for allergy symptoms. Of course, they will give you stronger side effects.

Moreover, all over-the-counter and prescription medicines for allergies are for masking symptoms only without addressing the root cause, so you need them every season. I heard a friend said his best season is winter, because only in winter he can be pollen allergies free. During other seasons of every year, allergy medicines make his life miserable.

I heard a remedy to cure pollen allergies.

1. Get a bottle of local honey from farmer market or local stores (not from supermarket).

2. Chop a whole lemon to small pieces and mix the lemon pieces into the honey. And then keep the lemon honey in refrigerate for a week.

3. Eat 1 or 3 spoons of honey with lemon pieces every morning on an empty stomach for several months. Do it for several seasons.

Remember that only local honey works, since only local honey contains local pollens, which make you allergy. Supermarket honey is harvested from honey farms, where only one kind of flowers is planted to feed bees.

A friend of mine tried it and it worked for him. Also, I posted this remedy in another site. A lady commented that she used it about 20 years ago, and she has enjoyed pollen allergies free for many-many-many years. She had miserable pollen allergies twice a year before. She said it worked her.

Scientifically, I think it makes sense. Since doctors use allergy shots to treat severe pollen allergy, the shots only contain tiny quantities of pollens. With slowly exposure to pollens over time, your body will get used to them and stop reacting with allergy symptoms.

Local honey contains local pollens. And the lemon changes the honey to acid, for unknown reason, which enhances the curing power of local honey.

Now matter what the principle is, it has no side effects, it is easy to do it and it is a cure for pollen allergies.

Eating The Wrong Fruit Can Kill You

Does you stomach fill with gas when you eat an apple? When you eat a banana does your mouth become itchy? Does your throat swell when you eat raw peaches? When you eat raw pineapple does your throat burn or do you break out in hives?

If you experience any of these conditions, you may suffer from Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) also known as pollen-food syndrome.

Oral Allergy Syndrome is most commonly associated with allergy to pollens such as ragweed, birch, plantain, and other grasses. The immune system mistakes the food proteins for the pollen proteins and causes an allergic reaction.

Other allergic reactions caused may be itching of the eyes or stuffiness of the nose. Or you may experience redness of the lips, tongue, gums, and palate. The most severe reactions can trigger asthma or anaphylaxis shock.

Fruits and nuts are the primary culprits for OAS but other foods can cause these symptoms as well. This disease can be especially discomforting for strict vegetarians who want to eat raw fruits and vegetables.

Generally OAS is associated with eating raw foods. So if the food is cooked, this will usually prevent an OAS reaction from occurring. This is because the proteins in these foods are temperature sensitive. Heating them usually makes them far less allergenic because they change the basic nature of the protein to one that the immune system does not recognize.

In other cases, however, the symptoms will simply migrate to the intestinal area where you'll experience gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal distress.

OAS is usually not a severe condition and in most cases the discomfort will only last for a few minutes. For others, however, the reactions can be severe and even be life threatening.

A wide range of raw fruit and vegetables can cause a reaction. Some of the more common foods known to cause OAS are bananas, strawberries, honeydew melons, watermelons, pineapples, cantaloupes, cucumber, soy, pears, apricots, and zucchini.

A typical treatment for Oral Allergy Syndrome are allergy shots which are usually given as a treatment for allergies such as cats, dogs, and pollen. These shots work by gradually building up a person's resistance to allergens until he is no longer affected by them.

The people most at risk for OAS are those with asthma or hay fever allergies. Those susceptible to OAS usually experience symptoms right away. If you experience symptoms such as your throat passages narrowing or vomiting, you should contact your physician immediately.

Yeast Allergies - Allergy Shots for the Cure

A friend of mine is going to start receiving allergy shots next Wednesday, and before that he asked me if this will help a lot if he has severe allergies. His most potent allergy is from his cat that he loves so much, and there is no way for him getting arid of it. He also read that allergy shots do nothing for cat allergies, so now he is wondering why he is getting them in the first place. He takes Zyrtec every night and that helps a little, but he is very allergic to dust, molds, pollen, foods, chemical sensitivities, etc. He also wonders if these shots will feed the yeast.

I have been receiving allergy shots for about a year and they do help me, but it is only for my environmental allergies (dust, pollen, dog, cat, horse, etc), my food allergies (corn, dairy, and yeast). Still, I have to control it with my diet. But, your mileage may vary, so I would say go ahead and try the shots for a while and see how they affect you.

I also understand what he means about not getting rid of his pet. I found out I was allergic to dogs when I had 4 of them! I kept them, but with the shots and some other changes I made, I feel so much better. By the way, the biggest change I made was to get rid of all the carpet in my house. That is not only helped my allergy to dust, but also made it much easier to keep my house clean and free of dog dander.

Do You Have Severe Allergic Reactions?

Today, allergic reactions seem to be everywhere. Turn on the television and you are likely to see ads for decongestants and antihistamines meant to treat allergy symptoms. Go to the drug store and you will see pills for seasonal allergies, creams for allergic skin reactions, and even new age treatments to desensitize you from your allergies. Allergy shots are big with kids nowadays, with more families than ever taking their kids in to get immunized. And yet there are still a lot of people who do not really get what lies behind an allergic reaction. Rather than get to the root causes, they simply pop pills. It is, of course, easier, but is it really the best treatment?

Until recently, not many people understood how complex allergies could be. In some ways, an allergic reaction is a pretty simple even. Basically, you get an allergy attack when the body mistakes something that should be harmless for an intruder. It causes inflammation, fighting whatever food allergen, plant allergen, or what have you. This makes you feel sick. In spite of this seeming simplicity, however, allergic reactions are actually pretty complex. There is a lot more going on than most people know about.

For example, did you know that, even if you do not have any food allergies, the food that you eat can make you more vulnerable to an allergic reaction? Up until a few years ago, doctors did not really get how much of a role diet played in allergies. As a matter of fact, they are still learning about it! Apparently, eating a lot of fatty, processed food can make respiratory allergies worse. These foods cause inflammation, making the body more sensitive to common allergens. It is true that you can treat an allergic reaction by taking a Claritin, but in the long run, you might be better off eating better. It will do more for your health than most antihistamines.

Of course, for a severe allergic reaction, it is important to get proper treatment. If you have food allergies, you have to completely avoid those foods at all costs. If, on the other hand, you have environmental allergies, it might make sense for you to get shots. An activated carbon air filter can help too. After all, if you let the allergies get out of control, they will be a lot harder to treat. Treatment, combined with proper diet, can work wonders.

Get Ready For Allergy Season

Well its almost that time of year again. The ice begins to melt, the flowers will start to bloom and allergy sufferers will be sneezing and sniffling. You don't need to be caught off guard by the spring allergy season, and can take steps to prepare for it. According to the farmers almanac this spring should be very wet which is bad for allergy sufferers.

Check The Levels Most major newspapers and news channels on television report daily allergen figures. Keep yourself informed everyday and make a effort to stay indoors when the levels are really high. You should also remember to keep your car windows rolled up during high level days. The best natural allergy cure isn't a miracle herb but avoiding exposure in the first place.

Stock Up Make sure you have a good supply of whatever medicine or supplement you use to control your allergies. If you get allergy shots make sure that you have kept them up and schedule a doctors appointment. Do research on any natural allergy cures you might want to try and find a local naturopath who will help you and suggest some natural allergy cures if you want to try that route.

Stay Clean You have to make a strong effort to keep clean during the allergy season. When you come in from the outside take a shower if you can and wash away those allergens. If you do not have time for a quick shower you should at least change your clothes. Keep your pets clean as well, remember pets are a major source of bringing allergens into your house. Dogs love to roll around in the grass and find all sorts of ways to get allergens attached to them. Try and keep your dog inside during peak levels or at least limit their exposure.

There might not be any cure for your allergies but you can reduce the impact they have on you but first you need to become informed and know what allergens you need to avoid.

Get Rid of Your Dog's Allergies Once and For All

Is this achievable? Start by observation of any itching of your dog. There is a reason for your dog's itching. Close observation of the area can find fleas, or some irritated area. Cool water and shampoo can be all you need to do to resolve the itching before it becomes a big problem.

With the right diet, frequent exercise, continually health exams with your vet and decent cleaning of the environment of the pet, it is possible that allergies will never happen. With so many possible causes of dog allergies, it is up to the pet owner to keep-up the well-being of the pet.

What does well-being of the pet mean?

Well-being of your pet means a decent well balanced diet, frequent exercise, and routine health exams with your vet. all of their shots are up-to-date. For some breeds, continually brushing and observation of the coat and skin can also prevent dog allergies from happening.

If you detect that the pet's bed is not as clean as it should be, clean it with mild soap and let it dry completely before letting your dog to sleep on it.

Continually clean and change the bedding of your dog. Make sure to do this more often during the warmer months when the reproduction of the fleas are at their peak. Keep the pet away from places with a high pollen count and away from chemicals. The dog is almost like dealing with a small kid. Make sure that the dog can't get into things that may irritate the skin or be toxic. Puppies are just like little kids, they are likely to get into anything that is left around.

Allergens are all around us. Just check that your pet isn't in an environment where allergens are abundant. You would do this for a baby; do the same for your dog.

Questions About Hay Fever? - 7 Answers That Can Help

Each year hay fever affects over 23 million people in the United States. And that number is based only on the people who check in with a health care professional. So it is pretty clear that this is a huge health issue.

Knowing the answers to these 7 frequently asked questions can help you manage allergic rhinitis more effectively.

Is there a difference between hay fever and allergic rhinitis? No, they are terms that are often used interchangeably for the same condition. Rhinitis being the more clinical name for hay fever is the swelling of the nasal tissues in some people that is caused by exposure to airborne irritants such as mold spores as well as tree, grass, and weed pollen.

What are the symptoms for hay fever and how do they differ from a cold? This is a frequently asked question and a great one because the symptoms for the two conditions are very similar.

Sneezing, coughing, congestion, post nasal drip are common to both conditions. However, it is the duration of the symptoms that gives the best indication.

Cold symptoms tend to run their course in 5 to 10 days. Allergy symptoms can last for months. And by consulting a physician about symptoms that last more than several weeks, they are often able to determine which you have by the condition of lining of the nasal cavity.

Which kind of pollen causes the most trouble, and when does that season start? Probably the most potent of all pollen is that of ragweed. This plant usually starts to pollinate in late summer and often continues until it is killed by frost in late November or early December (depending on the climate where you live).

Will a physical move to another part of the country help? The problem with moving to another part of country to escape is that the wind can take these light-weight allergens hundreds of miles from where they originate. So trying to run away from them is not likely to work.

When does pollen season end? It depends largely on where you live and the type of pollen. Tree pollen is usually the first to emerge and can do so as early as January in warmer regions.

Grass pollen follows and last from mid spring to late summer. And finally weed pollen goes airborne in late summer and can last until early December or frost, whichever comes first.

Is medication a short or long term solution? The answer to this question really depends on the type of medication. The first type is designed to control the symptoms and generally include antihistamines that are designed to dry up the additional mucous the body makes in an attempt to flush out the allergens.

The second type of medication is designed to reduce the body's initial reaction to the allergen, which if successful, reduces the need for the medicines that control symptoms.

Then there are allergy shots. This is a slow process that meets with mixed results for different people. The idea is to gradually inject increasing amounts of the allergen into the body. The hope is that the body will become desensitized and will be less likely to overreact with symptoms.

Can an air purifier really make a difference? An air purifier with HEPA or high efficiency particle arresting filtration is one of the most consistent recommendations in the allergy management plan.

Reducing exposure to the irritant is still the best way to manage allergies, and a HEPA can remove airborne particles that are as small as.3 microns in size. A cleaner with multiple sized filters, and variable filtration speeds is one of the most effective ways to stay on track despite hay fever.

Worst Candida Symptoms - Major Complaints That Are Getting Better

What are your worst candida symptoms? My major complaints, or what led me to discover candida as a problem, were IBS (constipation and gas that wouldn't leave) and yeast infections. Through proper diet and supplements, I am now able to control it. However, that was some years ago, and while I have fallen off the wagon several times, I have moved on from "self-prescribing," to a naturopath/MD, to finally now a doctor of functional medicine.

I realize IBS was just a tip of the iceberg and these many other symptoms/conditions I have are in someway related to an imbalance of intestinal flora: lupus, fibromyalgia, headaches (used to be sinus infections 3+ times a year, but now that has been corrected and I got 1 simple one last year due to 2 weeks of raining/flooding), elevated levels of antibodies for EBV and HSV1, hypothyroidism, leg spasms, bruising, insomnia, a dark toenail fungus, and I'm sure there are more.

I had major shortness of breath, too. I am anemic and have been on iron picoliate for over a month, and that might be the cause for it. The shortness of breath has improved tremendously with also the anti-candida diet.

My friend's major symptoms are depression, IBS turned into ulcerative colitis, sleep problems, Fibromyalgia, hypothyroid, eczema, dry skin, headaches, sinus infections, bronchitis, allergies, weight gain, and tired always. Along with all of the doctors he saw, he used to think these were all unrelated, but he knows now it is candida. Then, he went to a Chinese doctor for acupuncture, muscle stimulation, strict diet, and supplements. Gradually, he is starting to feel better the last month.

Allergy Treatment Experiences

Many people are afflicted with some type of allergy to all sorts of things, such as environmental allergens, odors, fumes, food, and cigarette smoke just to name a few. If symptoms become uncomfortable and happen on a routine basis, then allergy treatment and testing may be in order. With food allergies and small children, the process of elimination is the best way to determine which food is causing the allergic reaction. Allergy testing methods such as skin testing and blood testing are effective, but some people may respond better to one than the other. Food allergies for instance show up better on blood testing, but if you know you're allergic to a certain food, wouldn't you just not eat it?

Environmental allergies are a little trickier. Consider all the possible triggers; weeds, trees, pollens, grasses, dust, dust mites, molds, pet dander, chemical fumes, and cigarette smoke are all popular offenders. Skin allergy testing is the best method to use for diagnosis of these types of allergies if severe enough to warrant this approach. Allergy treatment can then be prescribed based on the level of reaction to certain irritants. Not everyone with allergies has to seek help from a specialist. There are quite a few over-the-counter medications that are very effective in treating symptoms, but if this doesn't work, then a professional should be consulted. Many times allergies are present with other conditions such as eczema and asthma, and should be evaluated in conjunction to allergy treatment since they all go hand in hand. By treating allergies, related conditions will resolve themselves or lessen significantly as allergy treatment progresses.

Prescribed allergy treatment usually consists of immunotherapy, better known as allergy shots, which expose allergy sufferers to tiny amounts of the offending allergens in gradually increased doses that over time decrease symptoms. Of course, substances that cause severe allergic reactions, such as certain foods (shellfish, eggs, peanuts) and bee stings should be avoided completely. Avoidance is the only allergy treatment in this case, aside from using an Epi-Pen and/or Benadryl in case an accidental exposure occurs. Different allergy treatments and combinations thereof may have to be tried before significant relief occurs. Over time allergies decrease and may eventually disappear requiring less allergy treatment. There are quite a few online resources you can check out about allergy treatments like http://www.allergies.about.com, http://www.medicinenet.com, or http://www.drgreene.com where an abundance of information about allergy treatments is right at your fingertips.

Allergy Prevention - Guard Yourself From Allergies

Allergies are considered as one of the most common ailments affecting young and old alike. They are characterized by an inflammation of the nasal passages caused by irritants like pollutants, chemicals, insecticides, pesticides, and other substances that contain allergens. The good news is, they can be avoided, let's take a look at some allergy prevention.

When we talk about allergies, they are usually linked to allergens or factors that cause them. You can have allergies from airborne substances, foods that you eat, and even from your surroundings. Pets like cats and dogs, down pillows, and medications can also cause allergies. In some cases, they occur when you're allergic to the products you use like cosmetics, hair sprays, and the like.

If you want to guard yourself from allergies, your best option is to prevent them in the first place. You can do this by staying from allergens, the culprits behind your allergy. Start by staying away from foods that you're allergic to. Be cautious especially when you're eating out. Make sure you know the ingredients behind ever dish you wish to order just to be on the safe side.

Another effective preventive measure is to keep your home clean at all times. Wipe away dusts by wiping your windows and furniture and vacuuming your floor regularly. Avoid using home cleaning products rich in chemicals especially those that give off strong odor. Keep your house well ventilated, keep those windows open and take away those thick curtains.

Allergy shots became very popular in combating allergies. However, they're only recommended for those with severe allergies since they are expensive with no assurance of totally eradicating your allergies. Meanwhile, you may still opt for natural treatments like eating garlic, onion and spicy foods which are proven to thin out mucus.

Decrease Your Cat Allergy Symptoms

If you start to sneeze, develop teary eyes, a runny nose and a headache every time you get near your cat you might be having an allergic reaction. Cat allergens from the saliva and dander have to be airborne in order for you to breathe them in and then have an allergic reaction. Since they are airborne, they can circulate everywhere in your house and on you. Have yourself tested so you can be sure your symptoms are coming from your cat. Allergists can perform a scratch test on your skin that can reveal 70-80 possible allergens. Allergies to a pet can begin at any age. Many people that have pet allergies may have allergies to other things like molds or pollen. Allergies also tend to run in families.

Most people do not want to give up their cat unless they absolutely have to. If the symptoms are mild, you probably will be able to keep your cat. There are ways to decrease the unpleasant symptoms of the allergy.

Start by not letting your cats sleep with you anymore. In fact, keep them out of your bedroom completely. Wash your bedclothes in a hot water temperature of 140-degrees. This will eliminate any allergens while you are trying to get your symptoms under control.

Try to keep your cat confined to one area of the house until you have been treated and feel better. This might be difficult but it may be the only solution if you have severe allergies. A room you don't use could be a good area to keep your cat in temporarily. Make sure you put toys, food and water in the room. A room with windows with wide panes may be a good idea so they can sit and look outside. Have someone without allergies take your cat outside for a while every day.

Cats should be bathed regularly to control the quantity of allergens that are released. A good micro fiber cloth will also work. You can rub down their coat to eliminate any obvious dander. There are shampoos for pets that work to reduce the airborne allergens. Always wash your hands after touching your cat. There are medications that can be taken such as antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays. Allergy desensitization shots are another treatment option. The shots make the person immune to the allergies. Small amounts of allergens are injected at first and than slowly increased. Make an appointment with a holistic healthcare practitioner if you want a more natural way to control your symptoms. Nutritional supplements and herbs may decrease an allergic response. Your cat should also eat a healthy diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Cats produce less dander if they are healthy.

If for some reason you don't respond to any of the treatments then you might have to give up your pet. Of course, you want them to have a good home. Ask family members or friends if they would take your cat. Rescue groups are also good to call to help you find a place where your pet will receive excellent care.

How Do Allergy Drops Work?

Allergies are caused due to a number of different reasons. Allergy drops can make a world of difference for someone who suffers from allergies. This article discusses how these drops work and how they will help you live your life without the fear of itchy skin, puffy eyes or even sneezing.

For allergy sufferers looking forward to an allergy-free life, injections and oral drops are the two forms of immunotherapy which are most commonly used. However, it is important to determine that the option you choose is right for your body and allergy type. The number of advantages of drops over shots has led more people to that form of treatment. In fact, many have found effective, long-lasting allergy relief with these drops.

Do Allergies Control Your Life? Here's Why You Should Consider Allergy Drops

繚 Reduced doctor visits - When compared to shots which need to be injected in a doctor's office, the drops can be applied at home thus reducing the number of visits to the doctor. Thus the inconvenience of visiting a doctor is not an issue.

繚 No painful injections - When you use allergy drops, all that needs to be done is simply put a drop under the tongue. Hence, this is a good option for children who suffer from various allergies as they do not have to deal with the pain or fear associated with injections.

繚 Easy management of allergies - It is easier to remember to take your drops on a daily basis and the option is a great alternative to the management of allergies. Allergy drops help keep symptoms at bay and also increase comfort levels.

Are Allergy Drops a Good Option for You?

This treatment technique has been endorsed by the World Health Organization, which has claimed that it is a "viable alternative" to shot therapy. The Cochrane Review has discussed this technique favorably as well.

Most allergy sufferers can use allergy drops. However, this form of allergy treatment would especially benefit anyone who cannot tolerate or do not respond well to allergy shots. Even people who do not have the time for regular doctor visits for shots can consider drops. The severity and seasonality of your allergies will influence how quickly you respond to this form of treatment. You will need to take the drops each day for three to five years at least before all the symptoms subside for good. Also known as sublingual immunotherapy or SLIT - this simple treatment technique which requires you to use a few drops of antigen under the tongue is considered safe enough for everyone. These drops are administered in gradually increasing dosages until the patient develops a tolerance to the allergy triggers or allergy causing substances. Manage your allergies with this simple treatment option after consulting your physician and live an allergy-free life.

New Treatment Guidelines for Sore Throat Infections

New guidelines for treating sore throat infections have been recommended in an effort to reduce the number of potentially unnecessary tonsillectomies administered to children each year.

The new evidence-based guidelines from the American Academy of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) are intended to provide better guidance to pediatric ear, nose and throat clinicians when determining whether tonsil removal is the appropriate treatment for patients with sore throat infections.

The guidelines also include recommendations on enhancing pre- and post-treatment care, as well as methods aimed to improve counseling and education of families considering tonsillectomy surgery for their child.

A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which both tonsils are removed from their location in the throat near the base of the tongue. Tonsillectomies are one of the most common surgical procedures conducted in the United States; with more than half a million performed annually on children younger than 15 years old.

Tonsils are most commonly removed due to frequent throat infections or sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). A tonsillectomy sometimes includes the removal of the adenoid, - a lump of tissue located above the tonsils near the back of the nose - especially in SDB patients.

According the new guidelines, children most likely to benefit from tonsillectomies are those with at least:

• Seven documented cases of severe throat infection over the course of a year.


• Five severe throat infections annually for two consecutive years.


• Three severe throat infections annually for three consecutive years.

The new guidelines describe a patient meeting the criteria for a severe sore throat infection diagnosis as one who tests positive for strep throat or has all of the following: A fever of 101 degrees Fahrenheit, swollen/tender neck glands and a white covering over the tonsils.

Typically, children with frequent throat infections are able to adequately recover without tonsil removal. However, the AAO-HNSF stresses that children with less frequent or severe infections might still benefit from a tonsillectomy if factors such as antibiotic allergy are present.

Other notable points included in the AAO-HNSF report:

• Obstructed breathing due to large tonsils can cause SDB, possibly resulting in snoring, mouth breathing, pauses in breathing or sleep apnea. A tonsillectomy might resolve growth delay, poor performance at school, bedwetting or other problems sometimes experienced by children with SDB or large tonsils.


• Children with SDB that are obese or suffering from head and neck-related syndromes might require further management following a tonsillectomy.


• Parents should be informed about pain management approaches appropriate for use on children following tonsillectomy surgery. Acceptable methods include consuming plenty of liquids and using acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Parents should also make sure to receive updates from their child as to whether they are experiencing any pain in their throat.

For more information on the best sore throat infection treatment for your child, consult your pediatric otolaryngologist.

Your Guide To The Decongestant Actifed

Actifed is an over-the-counter medicine that works to relieve symptoms from allergies and colds in two ways. The antihistamine properties work to block the body's production of the biochemical, histamine, which is triggered from allergic reactions to dust, dust mites, pollen, pet dander, trees and grasses.

Actifed also contains a decongestant which works by constricting the blood vessels, while opening up the respiratory and nasal functions. This twofold property of Actifed allows for most aspects of the common cold and allergy to be controlled for several hours at a time. The active ingredients in this drug go by the pharmaceutical names, triprolidine hydrochloride (antihistamine) and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (decongestant).

Some of the symptoms which can be relieved by Actifed include runny nose, sneezing, cough, nasal drip, sinus pressure and watery eyes. This medication is safe for ages as young as 6-years old as long as they have half of the 1 tablet dosage. For children under 6, a doctor's recommendation is urged by the manufacturer. Each dose of Actifed Cold and Allergy will work from 4 to 6 hours. The makers claim that Actifed works very rapidly to relieve all symptoms of colds and allergies.

For those who are taking MAOI inhibitors, or who have taken them in the past 14 days, Actifed is not safe. Any sedative, or hypnotics can react adversely with this medication as well. People suffering from hypertension or severe coronary artery disease are also advised against this medication. Smaller doses should be used for those who are suffering from prostrate difficulties.

For nursing mothers, the pseudoephedrine and triprolidine ingredients can harm the baby because they can be excreted into breast milk. However, the FDA gives Actifed a category B rating which means that it is not thought to be harmful to pregnant women. Like most over-the-counter medications for allergy and cold relief, Actifed may cause drowsiness.

On the contrary, it may cause nervousness or excitability in children. As with most medications, Actifed also urges anyone who has a doubt about the medication's compatibility with another drug they are taking, or about a physical condition they have, should immediately consult with their doctor before using.

The white pills are a biconvex shape and include the writing, "Actifed M2A" on the scored side. The bottle comes with 100 tablets. There are also boxes of the medicine which come with 12 or 24 in each. The company Warner-Lambert Consumer Healthcare created Actifed, however, Pfizer markets the brand now. They make several liquid and gel-cap formulas for cold, allergy, and decongestants.

Allergy and Chicken Soup

Common myths about allergy and sinus disease:

Comics are always inserting chicken soup into their routines. As he lay dying of a heart attack, the mother called for chicken soup. The doctor explained that the heart was the problem. The mother answers, "But can it hurt him?"

But, as many Jewish mothers insist, is chicken soup a cure for allergy or sinus? Actually we know today that chicken soup helps allergies in several ways. It is warm and this aids the body. It contains chemicals that speed the nasal cilia. If the cilia move fast they can move out pollen and bacteria.

Got a cold? Drink Tea lemon and honey. Cough? The same. Stomach distress? The same. The way tea, lemon and honey is promoted, you would think there is no need for antibiotics. However green and black tea does contain chemicals that reduce allergy and increase the speed of the nasal and chest cilia. It is the ideal thing to take for a cold and a cough. The lemon and honey both thin thick mucus and aid cilia movement.

Father insists to his sniveling son, "Blow your nose hard." Junior blows hard, and then blows harder, and some green stuff exits the nose. So does fresh blood. Heavy nose blowing is a no-no. It is like rubbing your eye too hard and blows bacteria into healthy parts of the sinuses and the ear.

Sniffing salt water prevents a cold. Actually there is a basis for this. Done gently and with the right portion of salt, this removes

ICAM-1 from the nose. ICAM-1 is the protein in the nose that the cold virus enters the body through. If the ICAM-1 is washed out then the cold virus can't get in.

Garlic prevents a sore throat. Garlic does provide lots of antioxidants. Besides, people stay away and there is less kissing.

There is no proper evidence that Vitamin C does prevent a cold. The bigger the dose the more the stomach upset. Besides, Vitamin C leaches calcium from bones so those of the osteoporosis age should avoid it.

Singing and humming is good for allergy. True. Vibrations at a certain frequency around 14/second can get slow nasal and chest cilia to vibrate and resume good movement.

If you meditate you must go all the way and cleanse yourself by daily neti pot irrigation. This myth can be harmful. It is known that this type of irrigation can remove the natural defense products of the nose. A recent report at the American Rhinologic Society showed a high incidence of contamination in irrigation devices that have flowback. In one report, the patients with long term chronic rhinosinusitis were cured when they ceased daily irrigation. Better to use a pulsatile irrigator that doesn't have flowback and is designed to restore nasal cilia. Once the nasal cilia are restored, no further irrigation is needed.

Allergies are due to nerves. Wrong. In allergy you can show certain proteins in the allergic person that react to various products and allergic sensitivity clearly shows on blood and skin tests. But, a lot of misconceptions arise all the time. My patient was living in Augusta, Georgia and when he drove to Philadelphia to visit his girl friend, the closer he got to it, the more allergy symptoms he had. But it wasn't psychosomatic. He happened to be allergic to the pollen in that area.

You can die from an allergy. True. There have been deaths from allergy to peanuts and shellfish, as well as others.

A woman can be allergic to a man. True. Sometimes it is the dog or cat hair that he caries. A recent report showed that this woman was allergic to her husband's semen.

During allergy season I should give up lipstick. True. The perfume in lipstick can add to the allergy symptoms. However you can use unscented lipstick without increasing seasonal allergy symptoms.

During allergy season I should change my clothes when I come into the house. True. Pollen sticks to clothing and will continue your symptoms due to pollen inside the house.

I am allergic to sugar. If I avoid sugar I can avoid allergy. Wrong. Sugar is the basic product of being alive. Most foods break down to sugar and are utilized for metabolism.

Organic foods are allergy free. Wrong. If you are allergic to strawberries, you will be allergic to them whether organically raised or not.

I live in New York. If I move to Miami I will be free of allergy. Many persons have moved from New York and wrote back glowing accounts that now they no longer had their hayfever. Yet, after a year or so after settling in Miami, they filled the offices of the allergy doctors because they had become allergic to the local plants.

The best place to move to for allergy is a dry elevated area. Generally true. At the higher elevation you may not have as much pollen.

During my allergy season I need to give up mustard and salsa. True. Any hot spices will add to the histamine load and increase allergy symptoms.

During my allergy season I should live on a yacht on the ocean. True, in the ocean you are away from the pollen. See if your insurance will pay for they yacht.

Breakfast in bed is best for allergy. True. In sleep your body temperature drops and dust accumulates in your nose. The allergic person awakens and in order to correct his body temperature he may sneeze or cough. If he drinks the hot tea before he gets out of bed, he can avoid the morning cascade of sneezing and hawking and may avoid the allergy for the day.

If you cook a food you are allergic to, then you can eat it. This is true. Food proteins are highly complex. With cooking they are changed into less complex products and may not cause any symptoms at all. If you are allergic to raw apples, you can cook them in the microwave and
enjoy them.

Flowers are a leading cause of allergy. Pollen from flowering plants are often too heavy to get into the nose and as a rule are not a leading cause of seasonal allergy.

Allergy shots don't work. Although there are lots of anecdotes of persons taking "shots" for years without benefit, on the other hand many persons have been helped, and "cured." What is important is that the complications of allergy including asthma, can be reduced. There are considerably more allergy success events when attention is paid to restoring nasal cilia function. In severe allergy the nasal cilia lose speed. By using pulsatile irrigation to restore cilia speed, allergy treatments are much more effective.

Asthma, Hidden Asthma, And Allergies

During the winter months, colds, flu, sore throats, and respiratory illnesses become more prevalent, outdoor activities decline, family members are in closer contact with one another, and our homes are sealed up against the wintry elements. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) declines as indoor airborne pollutants and indoor allergens increase. The accumulation of built-up antigens (allergens) within a home, typically cause family members to suffer adverse health effects. Recent research confirms the EPA's claim that indoor air quality can be 100 times, or even in some cases, 500 times worse, than the outdoor air quality. Those persons prone to allergies and asthma suffer severely at this time of the year. Until the general public becomes aware of the dangers of polluted indoor air and then begins to demand the services, Home Indoor Allergen Control services, specializing in improving indoor air quality, will remain limited in numbers. The EPA, utilizing public service announcements, is presently promoting campaigns to educate the public on the dangers to health from poor indoor air quality.

Coinciding with the energy conservation practices initiated in the late 1970's, including better insulated home-building construction methods, asthma (and asthma related deaths) among children has continued to increase, year after year, since 1980. Asthma cannot be cured, but it can be controlled through;

• patient/parent education


• allergy injections


• medications, and


• avoidance of "triggers"

Symptoms of Allergies

Symptoms ranging from itchy skin, stuffed up nasal cavities, runny noses, head or sinus aches, bouts of sneezing, sinusitis, irritated, watery and reddish eyes, puffy, swollen or discolored eyelids, wheezing, a "tight" chest, scratchy throats, raspy voices, dry unproductive coughs, feelings of lethargy, mental fatigue and even depression are not uncommon. These symptoms may only result in temporary, or day to day, discomforts for some. Yet these discomforts, even if minimal, can now be controlled, at a low cost and without over-the-counter allergy medications, a huge revenue source for the pharmaceutical companies.

More importantly, without utilizing the benefits of home indoor allergen control, the nearly 50 to 60 million American's (one in five) who suffer from allergies are at great risk of becoming afflicted with even more permanent, life long, ill-health effects including; asthma, bronchitis, perennial rhinitis (hay fever), eczema, dermatitis, sinus infections and other serious health issues, looming in their future.

Asthma and the Differing Types of Asthma

By overlooking the need for home indoor allergen control, children, the elderly, and persons with weak immune systems (even if just temporary) are at a high risk of developing long term medical afflictions. Although 4 to 5 million children, knowingly suffer asthma attacks yearly, asthma remains one of the more common chronic diseases of childhood and is often undiagnosed amongst children. There are as many types of asthma as there are "triggers" that can cause asthma attacks, but basically asthma is classified as either "intermittent or "persistent" asthma.

What is very important for parents to realize is the possibility of your child having "hidden" asthma a condition that exists before wheezing, coughing and rapid breathing become noticeable. Since infants and toddlers cannot verbalize how, or what, they are feeling, "hidden" asthma may be very hard to diagnose, even by your family physician. Irritability in very young children can mean many different things but, like a guttural cough or rapid breathing, could also be a sign of respiratory difficulties.

So how do you know if your child has signs of developing asthma or "hidden" asthma?

Pay attention! Become knowledgeable of the symptoms and alert to the possible triggers. Although it may be difficult to notice any tell-tale signs with children under the age of 18 or 24 months, there are definitive symptoms to look for in older children. Wheezing, for one you may think...but not necessarily so, is a prime characteristic found in asthmatics, yet it's not necessarily the most common symptom. Coughing is a particularly prominent indicator and wheezing may not be readily noticeable to parents or the family physician, even through a stethoscope. Children with a history of bronchitis, pneumonia, respiratory infections, numerous and constant bouts of coughing (particularly at night or in cold weather when asthma conditions tend to worsen) should be thoroughly checked for asthma. Coughing immediately after vigorous activities such as running, or even a long-lasting spell of crying, are also signs that should be noted and may require a physician's evaluation for asthma. Family history, especially a history of allergies or asthma, genetics, the child's moods and actions, responses to foods and possible allergy triggers, must all be communicated to a physician in assisting to determine whether a child may be susceptibility to asthma.

Infants and toddlers with a past histories that include chest colds, bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic coughing or unusual breathing patterns, either shortness of breath or rapid breathing, should be tested for asthma as well as other respiratory diseases. Keep in mind, as active as toddlers and pre-schooler's tend to be, it may be very difficult to discern the limitations of physical activities. Pulmonologist's, performing lung function tests on very young children, still find it difficult to ascertain an asthma diagnosis, but these tests may still reveal airway obstructions. Asthma, brought under control, allows children to live more active lives without frequent asthma attacks.

Common Home Indoor Air Pollutants Resulting in Asthma and Allergies

Through education and knowledge, basic common sense, and recent technological innovations, the removal, reduction, and control of the following worst pollutants and allergens, will greatly improve Home Indoor Air Quality and the health of the home occupants. Of the nearly 50 - 60 million American's suffering from allergies, 20 million or so, are allergic to household dust and/or the particulates that make up household dust. Guanine, a potent and harmful allergen produced by dust mites and found in their fecal pellets and exoskeletons, is a major contributor. The most common indoor allergens include:

• Dust and Dust mite allergens


• Second-hand cigarette smoke


• Pet dander


• Cockroaches


• Molds and mildew

Education will allow homeowners to gain the knowledge of just how these allergens accumulate. By simply changing practices and habits, methods can be easily integrated into the present home lifestyle to minimize the amount of unhealthy allergens and thereby improving the quality of health for the home occupants. To a degree, housekeeping practices have evolved over the past generation or two. Kitchen areas have tested to be the most bacteria ridden parts of a home.

Our bedrooms, especially within the mattresses that we sleep upon one-third of our life, are the dirtiest and nastiest. Mattresses and the micro-climatic ecosystem within them, provide all the creature comforts that allow dust mites to live, thrive and breed while producing the antigen guanine, the worst offender and most harmful of all indoor allergens. Our grandparents can recall the days when mattresses were carried outside to have the "dust" literally beaten out of them and then placed in the sunlight for a naturally cleansing. Nowadays, aside from both parents working full-time jobs, mattress technology has evolved to the point that mattresses are too heavy or too bulky, to tote outside even if there is an area that exists where the mattress can be placed for "cleansing". Carpeting accumulates many allergens as well, however carpeting does not provide the micro-climatic ecosystem that dust mites require. Regular vacuuming assists in controlling built-up allergens in carpeting, but only if the proper vacuum is used.

Home Indoor Allergen Control Technicians

Mattress cleaning technicians, trained in the removal, reduction, and control of home indoor allergens are in an excellent position to not only offer their much needed services, but to also help educate the general public on methods of improving and sustaining healthier lives by simply improving home indoor air quality.

The above information is not intended as medical advice. If you or your family members experience any of the above symptoms, please see a medical professional. Excellent information is available from either the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI) or the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI).

Sinus Allergy Relief - What to Do When Allergy Attacks

Sinusitis is a condition where the mucous membranes connecting the sinus cavities get inflamed and block air and mucous exchange. As a result air and mucous gets trapped inside the cavities or a vacuum is created. In either case a pressure is created against the sinus walls causing great pain and distress. This inflammation is often a result of allergy caused by various allergens. Some of these allergens are dust mites, pollen, second hand smoke, and perfume. Sinus allergy relief can be found by using drugs like antihistamines, decongestants, combination medicines and corticosteroids. Allergy shots are also prescribed.

However these medications often have harmful side effects and can be costly. However relief provided by natural remedies is effective, low cost as well as free of harmful side effects. The easiest natural remedy is drinking lots of hot water drinks with apple cider vinegar or Oregon oil added to it. You can also drink basil tea and hot lemonade, they both work very well.

For effective sinus allergy relief you can irrigate your nose with warm water and salt, you can also use powerful natural decongestant solutions like grapefruit seed extract solution. Try to sleep in air conditioned rooms as sir conditioners filter out allergens. Use humidifiers as dry air increases allergic reactions and is bad for nasal passages and avoid temperature extremes. Prohibit people from smoking inside your house and dust carpets and furniture regularly. Chewing papaya tablets can relieve the pain, by regulating mucus production. Pillow covers and bed sheets should be washed frequently, light colored polyester curtains can keep the air fresh. Pet dogs should be regularly bathed.

Importance of Hand Washing

With all of the germs that have a tendency to follow us around, one of the easiest things that we can do is remember to wash our hands. Not only does washing your hands prevent the spread of germs to other people, but it also keeps you from spreading germs to yourself. You should always wash your hands before eating and especially after you have used a public restroom or your own bathroom.

When you stop to think about it, germs are everywhere. If you stop to think about how often you touch a door handle or shake someone else's hand, it can seem overwhelming to think about all of the germs that you come into contact with on a daily basis. At best, washing your hands doesn't seem like it is nearly enough to rid yourself of germs that could potentially make you or someone else you love sick. However, when you go to a fast food restaurant, you will usually see posted signs so employees reminding them that it is against the law to not wash your hands prior to handling someone else' food in the restaurant.

One industry in which washing your hands is key is the child care or educational industry. Often times, parents will bring young children in to a day care with runny noses or other little colds in which the child's hands are on their face, in their mouths, on the floor and then in another child's face. It is not uncommon, therefore, to have children who make other children sick as well as adults. This is part of the reason that all teachers in elementary schools are required to keep up-to-date on their flu shots and vaccinations. On the one hand, they don't want to catch any colds that children might be bringing into the classroom; and on the other hand, they don't want to give children any germs.

Additionally, classrooms are excellent breeding grounds for germs because throughout the course of the day, different children come into and out of the classroom in order to use the desks, pens, pencils and books. Therefore, while it may be the responsibility of the maintenance people to clean the classrooms at the end of the day, the teacher should also assume responsibility for cleaning up after the children at the end of each class period or a few times throughout the day. Simple things such as wiping the desks off with some disinfectant spray and/or employing the help of the students can make a huge difference.

Children need to be made aware from a young age how important personal hygiene is. Typically, this would be the responsibility of the child's parents. However, teachers can certainly reinforce this notion by spending a few minutes each day with the class discussing how it is important to wash your hands and use a tissue if you have to blow your nose or sneeze. Often, if a child needs to be excused to use the bathroom, the teacher will escort him or her to the bathroom and gently remind them that they need to make sure that they wash their hands with soap and warm water.

Living With Spring Hayfever

The hay fever season which ironically has nothing to do with either hay or fever is upon us.

Over 35 million Americans suffer from hay fever each year, and according to experts, this season is shaping up to be one of the worst.

We hay fever sufferers are about to be subjected to itching and watery eyes, stuffy noses, skin reactions, and other allergic reactions as high pollen counts invade the country sides and city blocks of America.

Hay fever or as I affectionately call it, "seasonal allergic rhinitis" is triggered by tree allergens such as pollens or molds.

The allergen triggers the release of histamine into the body which causes inflammation in the nose leading to the common symptoms of watery eyes, congestion, and sneezing.

So how do we allergy sufferers get through the season?

One - Make it a habit to monitor the pollen counts in your area. The National Allergy Bureau (NAB) has over 70 pollen counting stations throughout the nation. To view the pollen and mold counts for your area, go to the NAB website at http://www.aaaai.org/nab/index.cfm?p=pollen

Weather conditions, which can vary greatly, have a great impact on the pollen counts. This means you need to periodically monitor these counts. If the NAB is unreachable or inconvenient to you, be aware that some community newspapers publish the pollen and mold counts as well.

Two - control your environment by avoiding the pollens and molds that are making your spring miserable. Do this by making some of the following changes:

- Utilize your air conditioner to filter the outdoor air. In addition, change your heating and air conditioning filters every month.

- Pollen counts vary at different times of the day. Avoid peak pollen release times and limit your outdoor activity to the times when the pollen counts are at their lowest.

- Keeping windows closed at night to prevent pollens or molds from drifting into the home.

- Wash bedding in hot, not warm, water. In addition, look for detergent formulas that contain additives to remove allergens such as pollens, mildew and mold.

Three - make an appointment with an allergist. A certified allergist can assist you in identifying the exact allergens that are affecting you and provide you with a custom treatment plan (including pills, nasal sprays, herbs, acupuncture) to alleviate your symptoms.

Finally - if you're simply sick and tired of being forced to hide indoors for much of the spring season, you might want to try immunotherapy or allergy shots. Allergy shots, administered over a series of months, will help to increase your tolerance to the allergens that trigger your allergies. While not a cure, immunotherapy can help greatly in reducing your sensitivities to allergies.

Honey - Benefits Allergies but Harmful to Babies

Honey is a natural sweetener with proven bioactive antibiotic and antiseptic properties. It's best to get honey that was produced in your area if possible. Honey is made from flower nectar. The nectar turns to honey with the help of invertase, an enzyme bees mix with it. Honey contains vitamins and enzymes necessary for the proper metabolism and digestion of glucose and other sugar molecules.

Many beauticians use honey to extract blackheads. They apply a thin coat of honey to the area with blackheads then lightly pat the area repeatedly until the honey pulls the offending blackhead out of the pore. Disgusting, but it works.

Honey is twice as sweet as sugar and has very high glycemic load food so should be avoided in large amounts if you have diabetes, Candida, or other sugar issues like hypoglycemia. The flavor of the honey varies according to the flower source.

Honey is an excellent source of potassium. It also contains thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, and ascorbic acid, not to mention calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and sodium. I love the darker honey because it has a "snap" to it. The darker honey is also higher in minerals.

Honey and Babies- The National Honey Board (www.nhb.com) warns that honey may contain spores that can cause infant botulism if given to children less than one year of age. Adults and older children are routinely exposed to botulism spores in dust, soil, honey, and other uncooked foods, but are almost never affected by them. In immature infants' digestive tracts, however, the spores are able to germinate and release the botulism toxin.

Symptoms of infant botulism include constipation, lethargy, poor feeding, weak cry, droopy eyelids, and occasionally, respiratory arrest. By the age of 12 months, infants develop a digestive tract mature enough to handle the toxin.

Is Local Honey Useful for Allergies? We don't really know why direct exposure to pollens causes hay fevers whereas small doses of honey (up to two teaspoons per day) does the opposite. Some people think that the tiny doses of pollens in the honey act as a homeopathic. A homeopathic dose of something works in the body by allowing it to recognize a particular foreign body within the body (like a pollen) and get rid of it by attacking it and eliminating the harmful toxin through the kidneys, liver, bowel and skin.

I have allergies and eat honey every day, but I don't really know how effective this is, but it's cheaper than allergy shots. The more local the honey, the better. Getting it local insures that the honey will have those pollens in it that you are allergic to. We get ours at the local outdoor Farmer's Market.

Soy Allergy

We have come to know that soybean are a great addition to our diet because it provides a variety of benefits and this is the reason why many of us have made an effort to adopt it to our diets on regular basis. Unfortunately soy could cause allergies to some one and it can be painful and so we must try to learn how soy allergy manifests itself to recognize, treat and prevent it when possible.

Soy Allergy Signs and Symptoms

It has been observed that soy allergy affects mostly infants and they also usually grow out of it by the age of 3 or 4. Rarely this type of allergy affects adults. Common symptoms of soy allergies are eczema and acne like rashes on the skin, nasal congestion, asthma, swelling, canker sores, fever blisters, hay fever, low blood pressure, itching, breathing problems, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea and in some severe cases anaphylaxis.

Treating Soy Allergy

Depending on the reaction you may need to rush to an emergency room if your respiratory passages are closing up and you may not be able to breathe well or you can consult a doctor for the mild reactions who will prescribe you drugs to administer orally and some creams to apply locally on the skin rashes.

Preventing Soy Allergy

One of the only ways to prevent soy allergy is to ensure it is not present in any of your food items by reading carefully the labels on it. Today soy is being integrated in a variety of food items because of its various benefits and even in many beverages, therefore you need to be extra careful and even pay attention to the food intake while you are in restaurants and fast food centers.

Helpful Tips

Soy allergy is not very common however; it can occur at any time, keep an open mind and always be concerned for the symptoms that can save your life from having a soy allergy attack. Learn about your body and how it reacts to certain things as well as learn to read the signs and symptoms that it is sending you when it is not comfortable with a product you ate.

To determine soy allergies you are required to conduct a variety of tests with the assistance of the doctor and in severe cases you may also require carrying first aid allergy shots that you can administer for an unpredicted attack.

The Role Of Vitamin B12 As A Nutrient - Usages, Doses, Benefits

We cannot stress enough how important Vitamin B12 is to your nutrition. It cannot be made in the body of plants or animals. Instead, it is made in the stomach by most bacteria residing there. B12 (extrinsic factor) is the most powerful of the B vitamins, and the only one that needs to bind to another compound (intrinsic factor) before absorption.

There are two types: Cyanocobalamin (with cyanide) and Hydroxy-cobolamin (without cyanide). Vitamin B12 is added to cereals, multivitamins, energy drinks and energy shots. It is also added to baby formulas and vitamins from birth on into adulthood. Babies usually have more B12 than the mother at birth. It must be emphasized that any B12, whether in energy drink or foods, takes 8 hours to be absorbed orally. So we could take B12 supplements before bedtime and have energy in the morning or 8 hours before increase energy is needed. If it is given by injection, it will be available in the body after 1 hour.

Absorption will be enhanced in the intestine by calcium and magnesium, which help to remove the acid from the stomach. It takes 3-5 days to correct anemia. Therefore, the immediate energy from energy drinks comes from sugar (if added), caffeine and niacin that is also added. Niacin gives a warm tingling feeling and causes the face to look blushed. The key principle of B12 is to break down fats (ingested and stored) for energy, forming 16-18 ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in direct contrast to carbohydrates which form 38 molecules of ATP, and 50% is stored as fat in our bodies. The other 50% of glucose is stored as glycogen, which causes water retention in the body.

Dr. George Whipple at John Hopkins University discovered the vitamin when he fed anemic dogs with liver.

In the past, unwashed vegetables had B12 content with the bacteria present there. Dietary sources of B12 are liver, raw eggs, and unwashed vegetables (with bacteria) or legumes, which has bacteria in the nodules, fishes: salmon, sardines, etc., which contain bacteria from the sea, muscle meat, cheeses and cottage cheese. Vitamin B12 comes as tablets, in a spray or oral liquid, through injections, or by lozenge. The highest dose is sublingual. An injection may have more side effects in the lung, heart, skin and lowers potassium in body. This occurs because potassium is taken up in the cells, when anemia is corrected.

Although B12 is water soluble, the body stores this vitamin in the liver. It takes about 3 months to become deficient. Therefore it does not have to be taken more often like the other water-soluble vitamins. Its key word is ENERGY. Energy in the body is making and breaking ATP chemical bonds. 1/4th of the world's supply of synthetic B12 is made in France and 3/4th made in China. The goal of B12 therapy is to maintain the brain's electrical activity in alpha rhythms at 8-12cycles per second, which is not thinking too fast or too slow. This type of thinking develops at adolescence when the brain is creative and there is increased serotonin and elevated moods. Additional Serotonin comes from Vitamin B6, Fish oils, and Tryptophan. This brain rhythm cycle is decreased, by low blood glucose, low body temperature, low adreno-glucocorticoid hormones, like hydrocortisone, etc., and high carbon dioxide (e.g eating high carbohydrates), opening eyes too long and focusing on objects.

Pharmacology

B12 increase fat metabolism to form fatty acids which forms acetic acid, then citric acid in the Krebs cycle (aerobic cycle, increased by exercise), and later carbon dioxide and water. Fats form phospholipids (phosphate bonds) to maintain the integrity nervous system by forming a strong cover for the nerves in the brain, spine and muscles. If deficient in the muscles, there will be an unsteadiness of the ankle and feet. To complete this process it makes one amino acid (methionine) from protein. In the brains of the elderly B12 is proven

to decrease brain shrinkage and propensity toward Alzheimer's disease. In the general population B12 decreases allergic reactions in the body by increasing suppressor-T cells, (the cells that fight allergens) and it decreases fatigue.

B12 aids DNA and nucleic acid production because it has one of the ingredients when B12 acts as a coenzyme, which is deoxy-adenosyl which enhances DNA synthesis and cellular metabolism for energy and growth. B12 also increases the neuro-chemical: SAMe,( S-adenosyl methionine) from homocysteine which is used by the body to convert B12 to folic acid, therefore if B12 is decreased, folic acid will be decreased as well. When folic acid is decreased, anemia results. SAMe is sold as a nutrient.

B12 stimulates the bone marrow to form red blood cells, which transport more oxygen to the brain and body. Adequate red blood cells prevent anemia. An anemic person and a person with liver disease will appear pale or almost yellow. Anyone with pernicious anemia, where the red blood cells remain large and do not divide into smaller cells, may have gastrointestinal cancer. B12 helps maintain the lining the gastrointestinal tract. B12 also stimulates the bone marrow to form white blood cells to fight infection, and platelets to prevent bleeding. It is a coenzyme for amino acids from proteins. B12 as hydroxycobalomin, cyanide in cyanide poisoning.

B12 is responsible for the chemical reaction to convert folic acid to the active form in the body. Folic acid can correct anemia, but not damage to the nerves.

Structure

The chemical structure of Vitamin B12 contains Cobalt or Cobalamin and a corrin ring. The corrin ring is related to porphyrin in Chlorophyll in plants and heme in our blood. B12 is red from the cobalt.

Allergy has to be checked for Cobalamin and cyanide before B12

B12 can be made in a synthetic form with activated charcoal and bacteria, with cyanide forming from the charcoal that could damage the eyes. To repeat, it is not found naturally in plants and animals. It is also made biologically in our small intestines from bacteria (the same bacteria that can cause infections).

Through metabolism B12 is changed to simple compounds in the liver, which is excreted through the bile and kidney. It has a half-life of 6 days (the time for half the dose to leave the body).

Physiology

It is recommended that vegetarians eat fortified breakfast and foods with Vitamin B12. There are certain proteins needed to make enzymes; e.g protease from pancreas to form pepsin, which frees the B12 bound to protein from the saliva. This occurs in the stomach. The action of neurotransmitters, including 5-hydroxytryptamine from tryptophan which forms serotonin, is diminished when B12 level is low. This is because the nerves degenerate and the neurotransmitters become ineffective. Both a good supply of neurotransmitters and good nerve structure are needed.

Conditions that need Consideration

Any disease of the gastrointestinal tract will lower B12 levels and the B12 injection is the preferred route of administration. Pesticides used on foods lower serotonin and nerve action will be lower. Drinking alcohol results in decreased absorption of B12, folic acid and other vitamins. Taking antibiotics decreases bacteria in intestines, therefore the amount of Vitamin B12 made is decreased. Regarding antiviral therapy with AZT, Combivir, Retrovir, etc., depresses the brain and reflexes; they may cause anemia. Antacids, H2-blocker ( Tagamet, Pepcid, etc.) and Proton pump inhibitors ( Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix, etc.) decrease the acid content of the stomach. H2 and proton are the terms for Hydrogen, which comes from hydrochloric acid in the stomach, necessary for the synthesis of B12 in the body.

Similar effects occurs with Antidiabetics: Metformin taken more than 5years decrease absorption by30%. Smokers should know that nicotine increases cyanide that could additively damage vision. Nitrous Oxide during anesthesia or Nitrous oxide decreass the response to nerve stimulation of B12.

B12 converts to Folic acid, therefore adding too much Folic Acid along with B12 supplements will increase nerve damage from excess folic acid. An increase of Potassium supplements in anemia will decrease the absorption of B12. Once the anemia is corrected more potassium will be needed to replace the amount taken up by the new red blood cells. Some anti cancer drugs prevent the formation of folic acid and also decrease the formation of cells in the bone marrow during B12 stimulation. Therefore Folic acid supplement is required with some cancer drugs.

Specific Doses for Infants Through Adult

Oral Daily Vitamin B12 is recommended, the doses are as follows: for infants 1 mcg, for 2 year olds, 2mcg, 4 year -olds, 4mcg, 8 year olds to adult, 5mcg, for males and females, more for pregnant women, women who are lactating and anemic women. The elderly have less acid in the stomach. With decreased acid, or with antacids, 80%-100% could be lost in the gut before absorption. The normal population loses 30-60% of B12 in gut before absorption. Therefore to get 1.5mcg in the body, we need 50mcg in the intestines. The liver stores 50% of the B12 stored in the body, 2-5mg in adults.