What to Know About Allergies and Throat Swelling

Allergies can be confusing things. There are some people, most of the people, as a matter of fact, who simply cannot tolerate certain things. Most people are allergic to something, a bug, a mold, or something else. Most of the time, allergies are not very severe.

This is because our bodies find their own ways to fight off the things that we can't handle, and we are able to deal with our allergies on our own. Most of the time, people show signs of having allergic reactions by having a stuffy head, or another small symptom. These can be easily fixed by taking allergy medicine, or having allergy shots. However, now and again people have very severe allergic reactions, and if this is the case, they have to deal with allergies and throat swelling, which can be very bad indeed.

When Does This Happen

When someone is dealing with allergies and throat swelling it means that there has been something very bad that has happened. This is a very severe form of an allergic reaction, and it can be the one that causes the most problems. It means that their body is not able to deal with whatever they are coming into contact with, and it can be a very dangerous thing.

If you or someone you know is having such symptoms, it is not something that you can simply leave alone. You have to make sure that the person who is experiencing it sees a doctor right away, because if you do not see a doctor, you are going to find that you might be in very big trouble.

If someone has allergies and throat swelling it means that their throat is closing up. IF this happens, it is not going to stop on its own, at least not in enough time to save the person from dying. This is considered a very severe reaction, and you have to be sure to get the person to emergency help right away.

If you want to know more about the possibilities of allergies and throat swelling you have to be sure that you see a doctor and discuss your concerns with him. He will let you know what kind of allergies you have and whether or not is going to happen to you.

Help I Am Allergic To Puppies

If you are allergic to dust dogs then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. You can be allergic to dander, saliva, or urine. Pet hair itself does not product allergic reactions in individual, but the dog dander that will stick to the dog hair will.

The allergy producing proteins called allergens are products in the dogs skin. When the dog licks themselves this sticky protein is deposited on the hair along with dead skin cells. When the dog hair comes into contact with dust, clothing, furniture, curtains, or you, the protein will stick to the surface of the object.

Allergy symptoms include nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and water eyes, skin rashes, headaches, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

All animals product allergens but just because you are allergic to dog allergens does not mean that you will be allergic to cat or bird allergens. If you are not allergic to dogs today is no guarantee that you will not develop allergies tomorrow. Many contact allergies develop over time. If you are susceptible to becoming allergic to dogs, then the more you are exposed to the allergens the more likely it is that you will develop symptoms.

If you are allergic to dogs then some precaution need to be taken to help control the allergy attacks.

Never allow dogs on the bed or even in the bedroom.

Use a HEPA room air cleaner in all bedrooms and in the family room. Air cleaners can make a really big difference in the severity and frequency of allergy attacks. The central heating system should have an electrostatic air filter to distribute clean air through out the house. These electrostatic air filters trap microscopic allergens.

Hard wood floors are easer to clean than carpets. If you do have carpets then invest in a quality vacuum. Most vacuums will blow the smaller particles of dust back into the air through the exhaust. You will need to get a vacuum that has some type of HEPA filter that traps microscopic particles of dust from being blown back into the air.

Leather furniture is easer to clean than cloth covered ones. Cover all cloth furniture with sheets to help prevent dog dander from being deposited on them and wash the sheets frequently. You may want to reserve a specific chair for yourself and not sharing your chair with your dog.

Wash your hands after petting or playing with your gods and avoid touching your eyes or face beforehand.

Allergy shots to hyposensitize or build up an immunity to dog allergens will work on some people but not others. The reason is unknown and more research is needed.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Typical Rashes

Rash in short: is an acute and widespread temporary reddish eruption on the skin. A rash can develop in individuals that are sensitive to a particular drug, prescription or nonprescription. The rashes are characterized by itching of an intensity that can interfere with sleep or normal activities. The rash results from the entire body reacting to the drug itself and usually develops early in treatment rather than after the drug has been taken for a period of time.

Rash is a change in the skin which affects its appearance and or texture. Most often a rash is localised to one part of the body, but other times it can have an affect on the entire body. Rashes can cause the skin to change color, become bumpy, dry, itchy, swell among other things that can result in a lot of pain. Because of the wide array of rash symptoms treatments also vary widely. A proper diagnosis should look at all of the visual and physical symptoms of the rash, and also what the possible cause of the rash was. Often times the area in which the rash exists can tell a lot about it's condition, and where it is going. Rashes are often times associated and a result of diseases. For example, measles with cause a rash, that begins a few days after the fever begins.

The most common causes of rashes today are: allergies, (ex. allerfic reaction to: foods, animeals, dyes, medicines, insect stings,etc), skin contact with an irritant, infection or reaction to a vaccine, skin diseases such as eczema or acne, autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis, cancer or other disease, pregnancy and, exposure to sun or heat.

Antibiotics - 5 Reasons to Avoid Them - Yeast Infection, MRSA, Resistance, Diarrhea, and Allergy

Have a cold? Take an antibiotic?

Ear pain? Take an antibiotic.

Acne? Take an antibiotic.

That's what people think anyway. But is this really the best course of action? Does the short-term gain outweigh the long-term consequences? And is there a short-term gain to begin with? Antibiotics don't help colds caused by a virus. Most ear infections clear just as quickly without antibiotics. True, bad acne improves with oral antibiotics, but what about the millions of teens who take them for just a few zits?

Every day doctors see problems related to the use of antibiotics. Here are five reasons doctors try to limit their use and why you should think twice yourself before taking one.

1. Yeast infection. Often patients are unaware that our body is covered with germs, both inside and out. The skin, the mouth, the vagina, the intestine - all have their own population of bacteria. For the most part, these microbes stay where they belong and do what they're supposed to. One function of the normal flora (normal population of bacteria) is to keep the bad ones at bay. There are always a few harmful bacteria around, but usually they are crowded out by the good ones. However, taking an antibiotic often kills off the population of good bacteria and allows a different microbe to take over. Most commonly, yeast is the intruder. Once the bacteria get out of the way, the few yeast that linger on the skin, in the vagina, or in the colon claim the territory as their own. The overgrowth of yeast often leads to symptoms of vaginal yeast infection or a yeast skin infection, usually in warm areas such as the armpits, groin, or under the breast.

2. Clostridium difficile colitis. Just as the overgrowth of yeast can occur and produce infection when the normal bacteria are killed off, so may harmful bacteria. Frequently the normal flora of the intestine is susceptible to an antibiotic taken for an illness. However, clostridium difficile (or c. diff.) is not killed by common antibiotics such as penicillin, sulfa drugs, or erythromycin. The few c. diff. bacteria that you may harbor in your intestine will not harm you as long as their numbers remain limited. But when overgrowth occurs, foul-smelling diarrhea occurs, sometimes accompanied by fever, dehydration, or the need for hospitalization. C. diff. colitis requires a different antibiotic to rid your body of this harmful organism.

3. Resistance. As mentioned above, certain bacteria are already resistant to antibiotics. However, the potential exists for many bacteria to become resistant to useful antibiotics. What if penicillin became ineffective for strep throat? In some cases it already is. MRSA (methicillin-resistant staph aureus) is a harmful bacteria that has emerged in recent years due to the overuse of antibiotics. If you remember your high school genetics, you may know that when bacteria (or people) multiply by the billions, a few mutations are inevitable. In the microbe population this often means that when billions of bacteria reproduce, a few of the daughter-bacteria inherit a mutation that makes them resistant to certain antibiotics. Usually these mutated bacteria, though stronger in the sense that they could live through an "attack" of penicillin, are actually weaker in other ways and die a natural but premature death. However, if the entire population of bacteria is subject to a round of antibiotics, the weaker but penicillin-resistant bacteria may live to repopulate the environment. Then the next time penicillin is used, it will not work. Doctors see antibiotic resistance everyday. It IS a real threat, and at least for now, we don't have new antibiotics on the horizon to use against these resistant bacteria.

4. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Even apart from killing off the normal flora of the body, antibiotics may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in themselves. These are chemicals after all, chemicals which the body may reject as foreign. The erythromycin class of antibiotics is especially notorious for causing gastrointestinal symptoms by stimulating the naturally occurring contractions of the gut.

5. Drug allergy. Any patient can be allergic to any medication, and antibiotics are no exception. Though often an antibiotic allergy may manifest as only a rash, true anaphylaxis may occur with the use of any antibiotic. Anaphlylaxis is a total body allergic response which may include hives, nausea, light-headedness, itching, swelling, and trouble breathing, much like a bee-sting allergy. Any time you think you are having a reaction to a medication, call your doctor. If you are having trouble breathing or feel like you might faint, call 911. This is a medical emergency.

Just writing this reminds me to be careful when prescribing antibiotics to my patients. Next time your doctor orders you a round of penicillin or other antibiotic, ask how necessary the drug really is. Often they are prescribed for convenience more than necessity. If an antibiotic will only get you well a day faster, maybe you're better off doing without.

Copyright 2011 Cynthia J. Koelker, MD

Skin Whitening Injections - How They Work

You can say I was compelled to write this article because of a friend of mine. She had heard of skin lightening injections and pills and was determined to try them in her effort to get a lighter skin tone. I have promised her I will do a bit of research and let her know. I am a great advocate of natural ingredients for all my skin problems. So I was a bit surprised by her decision. In fact this procedure is quite popular in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Philippines and Malaysia. In a forum on skin care I discovered that it is becoming easily available in Singapore too. But any way here is the result of my research.

What Skin Whitening Injections Do

These injections promise a whiter skin while removing all kinds of skin blemishes like scars and pigmentation marks. They claim to improve the texture of the skin by making them more supple and moisturized. Over all they promise to give you a better and glowing skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It seems the phials solve all your skin related problems.

What Exactly Is the Procedure for Skin Whitening Injection Treatment?

These injections have glutathione as an active ingredient. Glutathione is a known antioxidant. In fact it comes as pills too and used as skin whitening pill. In fact glutathione is used to treat toxicity, acne, cancer, HIV, allergies, Alzheimer's disease, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, hepatitis, liver dysfunction. But it is more popular for its skin whitening property. Vitamin C and glutathione are combined to give an over all lighter skin tone. Usually 1.25g/5ml vitamin c is combined with 600mg glutathione powder for the injection purpose. The injection should be taken twice a week or once in 3 days. But the dose may be enhanced to 2 ampoules per session if you want enhanced or faster result.

How Long the Treatment Should Continue

Each set contains 10 ampoules. After the first set has been completed maintenance does of one or two injections per month may be continued. The treatment may be done as intravenous drip or normal injection.

Danger and Side Effects of Skin Whitening Injections

Glutathione which is the key component of this skin whitening injection causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain and in some cases the ultimate end may be fatal. And be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to Improve Children's IQ

Parents need to realize the important role they play in the overall development of their children's intelligence. Parents can positively influence every aspect of a child's life, including their I.Q. - (Intelligence Quotient). Recent research has suggested that it is possible to improve intelligence in children. The activities listed in this article focus on developing a child's mental faculties.

We will examine how the I.Q. can be influenced by several factors. Some of the factors include environment, overall health, reading, and parental influences.

One of the biggest contributors to improving a child's I.Q. is the creation of a home that is educationally stimulating. This can start as early as when the child is still in the mother's womb. It involves reading and talking to the fetus daily. After birth and as the child grows older, the reading should continue, especially at bedtime. Reading is so important. Parents need to understand that children should be encouraged to read at all times. Children should read several books a month, at least 3-4. This way their intelligence can increase with the knowledge they gain by reading a variety of subjects. Do not limit a child's reading to one subject. Allow them, within reason, to explore a variety of subjects and interests. In addition to reading, singing songs or playing music that is void of profane language and haunting rhythms and lyrics is stimulating for infants and young children.

Their environment should be conducive to progress at all times. That can be done by being in a good school, having positive and intelligent friends, participating in activities that are challenging, and a home environment where educational achievement in stressed. Children should be encouraged to exchange ideas, listen to people and give an intelligent opinion on age appropriate topics without the fear of repercussions from adults. Parents should encourage their children to talk and not be afraid to initiate productive conversation.

Children should always be involved in several activities, both physical and mental. This will help boost the blood flow to different parts of the body including the brain and nervous system. Physical activities will promote clear thinking, stimulate brain activity, and increase concentration. Continuous physical activity will also help to develop gross motor skills, which will allow the body to function properly and give children more endurance for their daily activities.

There are several games and activities, which can help improve I.Q. They include computer games, chess, checkers, backgammon or any board games - which will help children utilize mental strategies, and critical thinking skills which are needed in school. In addition children can learn how to play an instrument which is a great way to help eye and hand coordination as well as improve reading and concentration skills When parents purchase toys for their children, they should purchase those that require mental stimulation as well as physical exertion. These challenges will help improve a child's I.Q. level.

Children should start early taking I.Q. tests to see how intelligent they are. The test can also be used to see what subject areas the child needs to focus on for improvement. Parents can go online and find several free I.Q. tests that only require carefully reading the directions before administering the exam. When taking these tests, parents should make sure that the child has an area conducive to test-taking, and is quiet and peaceful with no distractions.

The following list is a summary of some additional things that can be helpful with improving a child's I.Q. level:

Note: P = Parent Focus / C = Child Focus / P-C = Parent and Child Focus

P-C Eat plenty of foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and function.

One excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids is fish - salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, halibut, and herring; flaxseeds, flaxseed oil, canola oil, soybeans, soybean oil, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin seed oil, walnuts, and walnut seed oil, to name a few.

Online Resource: University of Maryland Medical Center http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/omega-3

P Breastfeeding is important for supplying lots of vitamins and nutrients if the mother is eating a well balanced diet. Otherwise, supplements will need to be provided to assist with the diet.

P-C Eat plenty of vegetables, and fruits. Approximately 5 servings per day.

C Keep children away from lead to prevent lead poisoning. This is leading cause of mental deficiencies often found in lead-based paints.

P-C Daily exercise will promote intelligence. This promotes blood flow not only to the brain, but also to other vital organs of the body.

P Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol while pregnant. There is a direct link to lung cancer from smoking/chewing tobacco products and fetal alcohol syndrome from excessive amounts of alcohol.

C Learn to play some kind of instrument at a young age. This promotes eye-hand coordination and brain concentration.

P Read to and with your child daily and/or at bedtime. This promotes shared, quality time with your child, intellectual stimulation and reading comprehension.

C Children should read for themselves everyday other than at school. This promotes intellectual stimulation and reading comprehension.

P-C Parents should play creative and mind/physically challenging games with their children. This included the new Wii Game.

P Introduce games that have math, spelling, grammar, memorization and logic. This promotes intellectual stimulation and reading comprehension.

P-C Limit mindless, unsupervised television watching.

P-C Limit the amount of sugar and caffeinated beverages that are consumed.

P-C Make breakfast a mandatory meal for all members of the household.

P-C Eat the evening meal together as often as possible to discuss the day's events. Sharing time is important to let each other feel that they are a contributing member of the family unit. Discussion stimulates brain development.

P-C Repetition of facts is needed for some areas of skill development. For example: repeated practice/review of multiplication facts will promote learning and skill acquisition.

Increasing a child's I.Q. is possible if the parent is willing to work with that child. Parents should be patient when working with their children. The I.Q. does not increase overnight. We are all blessed with gifts from God and there may be a limit to what a person can achieve. If parents are ready to provide good nutrition; sound sleep, uninterrupted sleep; enough exercise opportunities, and additional brain boosting activities, children can and will improve their I.Q. level.

Best Testosterone Boosters: Side Effects

The best testosterone boosters that you could get are a healthy diet and exercise. Testosterone is a hormone that is created mainly by the testes of a man. Testosterones are accountable for the increase in the secondary sexual characteristics in the males. A tiny quantity of it is present inside the body of females too. The lack or excess quantity of this hormone could cause a lot of side effects in the body of a human (male or female). A lot of discussions have been carried out among healthcare professionals and scientists on the side effects of testosterone on the human body.

Almost all the best testosterone boosters cause unwanted side effects. The effects of testosterone boosters are caused due to the androgenic properties of the testosterone hormone. The use of synthetic testosterone boosters assists people who have HIV related problems, gain weight. A man who has decreased testosterone levels, experiences moodiness, diminished sex drive, and fatigue. His testicular utility would also decease with increase in his age. This thing could start happening to men from around the very young age such as 30. Also, natural testosterone boosters could reduce the ability of the testes to produce testosterone by itself. This could eventually lead to impotency. This effect is found mostly in men, to whom it could be quite harmful.

Vomiting, swelling of the legs and arms, nausea, eyes and skin becoming quite yellow, and painful and prolonged erections are just some of the very early signs of grave side effects. Using huge amounts of best testosterone boosters, or even natural testosterone boosters could cause grave allergic response such as breathing difficulties in the lungs, and swollen throat, tongue, face, or lips. In females, male like baldness, hoarseness, deep male like voice, excessive growth of hair, and irregularities in menstruation are just some of the side effects.

Protracted use of even this is in high doses could have grave consequences like shrinking of your testicles, or gynecomastia (growth of breasts, in men), increase or decrease in sex drive, and a large number of side effects that are less serious in nature, such as acne, decrease in production of sperm in men, male like baldness, clitoral enlargement and retention of water. Cancer and liver damage are among the other quarantine side effects that could be caused due to an increased use of this.

Cat Allergies - Treatment Options For Cat Allergies

Cats have a sensitive body constitution which makes them prone to various allergies. The most common types of allergies are flea allergy, contact allergy, inhalant allergy and food allergy. Cat allergies treatment is important in order to prevent the condition from worsening. Sometimes a cat may be allergic to specific substances such a particular kind of fabric or material. So, whenever it comes in contact with that particular material, it can cause skin itching and severe irritation. In this situation, it is important to observe and identify the allergen that is causing the problem. Once the allergen is identified, the contact removal from it will bring an end to the allergy.

Some cats are prone to acute allergy from flea bites. The best treatment approach for such cats is to take maximum precautions against the cat being exposed to fleas. The other alternatives are topical ointments that kill the flea instantly before it has the opportunity to bite the cat. In cases of severe allergy, the cat may need to be administered steroid injections in order to relieve the symptoms of allergy. If an acute case of allergy has resulted in a secondary infection caused by bacteria, a course of anti-biotic medication may be necessary to kill the infection.

Another common allergy among cats is the inhalant allergy, which can be caused by inhaling tree or plant pollens or dust mites. Unlike humans, cats do not face respiratory troubles with such allergens, but they suffer skin irritation and itching. Cat allergies treatment in such cases primarily depends on the duration of the season of the inhalant allergen. One of the successful treatment options for such condition is oral or intra-venous administration of steroids. A good thing about steroids treatment for cats is that, unlike humans, cats are much less prone to the negative side effects of steroids.

One of the general treatments for cat allergies is a thorough bathing of the cat few times a day in order to cut down the exposure to allergens. There are also a number of hypoallergenic soaps and shampoos available in the market that can be used for cats that have a high sensitivity to allergens. Bathing also tends to provide temporary comfort from skin irritation and itching. However, this is just a general treatment approach that can be used in mild cases of allergy.

A specific cat allergies treatment that is recommended for its effectiveness is administering of allergy shots to the cat once the particular allergens have been isolated. Tiny doses of antigens for the specific allergies can be administered by weekly injections with an aim to re-orient the body's immune system. Over a period of time the body's reactivity to the specific allergens will reduce with this treatment. It should be noted that allergy shots and steroids treatments must not be carried on simultaneously, except an occasion dose of steroids. If the cat is seen to respond well to the allergy shots, it is a long-term treatment that can continue to provide relief for many years until the body becomes immune against the problem-causing allergens.

Deciding If Sinus Surgery is the Right Option For You

You know what they feel like: those gripping, throbbing pains above your eyebrows, on top of your head, the aching of your teeth, blinding lights and blaring sounds. Sinus pressure! Sinus surgery should be the last measure taken in your attempts to lessen the grips of those terrible sinus headaches. Surgery cannot be undone, and while severe complications and side effects could happen, there is very little chance of getting back what is "cut out."

Before sinus surgery is even considered, there are a number of steps that have to be taken. If you are truly concerned about your health, your well being, and your family and friends, you must cherish your body and health enough to thoroughly understand what is happening to your body, what is causing your sinus suffering, and what steps you should take to get it under control.

Patience and communication are very important as you make your way through this web of physical symptoms. It may take years before you come to the end of prevention and treatments, and move into the final phase of surgery.

Gathering information

The first step is to gather as much information as you can

Talk and communicate with your family and relatives and document:

1. allergies,


2. genetic and normal physical conditions,


3. possible remedies that work.

Talk and communicate with your neighbors or local health officials

1. allergies,


2. genetic and normal physical conditions (if needed or possible)


3. possible remedies that work

Talk with your Dentist to see if it may be related to your teeth, jaw, gums, or root nerves.Download a Home Allergy Checklist sheet and complete it

1. This will help you understand if there is something in your home that may be causing your suffering: plants, animals, mold, lack of humidity, outside or inside environmental contagion, etc.

Keep a running record of the weather in your area.

1. Write down when fronts come through,


2. Excessive times of rain, snow, fog, sun, wind,


3. Jumps in temperature,


4. Humidity levels inside and out.

Keep a running record of symptoms and note:

1. what they are,


2. how long they last,


3. what the dates were,


4. what you were doing in the hours and days before they began,


5. what medicines you took and your body's response to them.

Keep a running record of OTC and prescribed drugs and note:

1. The exact name and dosage,


2. how long you took it,


3. what the dates were,


4. and your body's response to them.

Keep a running record of the pollen and mold counts in your area.

1. Check out: http://www.pollen.com/allergy-weather-forecast.asp and have emails sent to you on a regular basis,


2. Write down dates of high counts,


3. Write down dates when you start sneezing, itching, and getting congested.

Throw your records onto the computer and place the file on your desktop, or, pick up a small notebook and keep it somewhere obvious at home so that you can enter the information on a regular basis. It takes at least a year of data and seasonal shifts of weather and environment before you will have enough data to analyze and take with you to your doctor.

Decision making

The chances are you have already been to your doctor off and on about this, or you have jumped into the prevention and treatment stage. There is nothing wrong with that because you have been trying to stop your horrible sinus headaches. But now, with all of your data, it is time to get serious and set up an appointment with your primary care physician. Take your time during the appointment. Explain what you did, provide a copy of the notes, and summarize your findings. There are a number of interconnecting issues, preventions, and treatments that may be broached upon concurrently or separately. Remember, this is your well-being and your life, take the time to do it right. Your doctor may not be aware or interested in certain preventative measures or treatments. It is your right, and responsibility to yourself and family, to push forward anyways.

1. Allergy medicines may be prescribed to you based on this data. Educate yourself on the different medicines available (OTC, antihistamines, nasal sprays). This may take years as you find the best one for you, and sometimes, a combination of medications is needed. Take your time.
2. Allergy testing at a special clinic or laboratory. Blood samples and panels of skin tests will be taken. Educate yourself. Find out what your insurance covers and what you need.
3. Treatments: Chiropractic, allergy shots, medicines, food choices, etc.
4. Prevention: Getting rid of animals, installing and changing furnace and air filters regularly, installing allergy bedding, closing off your home from outside allergens and contaminates, washing thoroughly after being outside or working with certain chemicals, moving to a different climate, etc.
5. CT scan of your head and sinus cavities.
6. Referral to an ENT-Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist
7. Research, research, Research!

Urticaria Cure

Urticaria Cure: Hives, medically referred to as Urticaria, is a widespread allergic reaction presenting as inflamed, pink, itchy bumps that arise any place on the body. It is categorized as Acute Urticaria or Chronic Urticaria based upon the time frame of the breakout of hives. Chronic Urticaria, also referred to as Nettle Rash or Uredo, persists for longer than six weeks. Acute Urticaria only appears for few hours to a few weeks.

At this point in time, prevention and avoidance are the only known cures for Urticaria. Triggers, usually allergens, should be restricted. Eliminating select foods from the diet (eggs, fish, shellfish, milk, wheat, etc.) can lessen a person's histamine response. Reducing participation in various activities and trying not to enter into situations which cause anxiety can also help. Additionally, pharmaceuticals that are known to bring about the onset of hives (aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], and painkillers [codeine]) should not be taken.

Although dietary and lifestyle changes may help with Acute Urticaria because it is most likely the result of an allergic reaction, Chronic Urticaria is much harder to treat. Half of all cases of Chronic Urticaria (CU) result form an autoimmune disorder, and the remaining 50% are diagnosed as ideopathic, meaning a cause cannot be determined. For them, cure is even harder to find.

For those who have been diagnosed with Chronic Ideopathic Urticaria unique diets, such as the Histamine-Restricted Diet and the Low Salicylate Diet may also be advocated. Often a diary is kept so patients can work more closely with their doctors to discover and discard any and all catalysts.

Just as there are no cures for any of the other forms of Urticaria, there is no cure for Autoimmune Chronic Urticaria (ACU). Antihistamines, and autoimmune suppressants can be taken for treatment of ACU, and corticosteroids (Prednisone) may be used. Nothing, however, has been proven to supply lasting results.

The latest research demonstrates that cyclosporine is one of the most successful drugs for the treatment of people with ACU. Dr. Malcolm Greaves (a leading researcher of CU) detected that in cases of ACU where Cyclosporine was prescribed, at least 75% of patients treated for 2-3 months experienced total or near total remission. One third of those patients remained in remission, one-third had a mild relapse and in one-third the relapse was severe following the withdrawl of Cyclosporine.1

While Western medicine has not yet found a cure for Urticaria, various homeopathic "cures" are being promoted. Detox diets, chemical free cleansers, acupuncture, anti-hive formulas and Urticaria kits all assert their ability to alleviate and or eliminate symptoms.

Summary: Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin disorder that shows up as pink-red, irritated bumps of differing size. They can and do appear any place on the body, and the duration of the outbreak can last for a few hours or a few weeks. There are numerous symptom treatments, but no known cure.

References
(1) -Malcolm Greaves. "Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria." 2003. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 3(5):363-368. http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/461843

The Liver Cleanse

Why cleanse the liver?
 

Supporting your liver may just be the missing key to your optimum health! Your body has an amazing filter--the liver. How often do you change the oil in your car? Every 3,000 miles. How often do you change the filter in your liver? Never. The liver is responsible for over 300 different things; one of them is filtering the blood. The blood comes up into the liver. The liver has two blood supplies, one comes from the lungs and heart and the other from the stomach and intestines. The blood comes in and goes through the filtering process and gets all the impurities out of the blood. It gets oxygen from the lungs, it gets nutrients from the small intestines and stomach, and the red blood cell comes out the other end of the liver and it's all clean and happy and strong and it has oxygen and nutrients. Now it's heading down to feed your body. When the liver gets plugged up the blood comes and it has the oxygen attached to it, it has the nutrients attached to it, but all the toxins have not been removed. So now it has food colorings, preservatives, nitrates, carbon dioxide, you name it, it's stuck onto the red blood cell. Now it goes down to feed your body and it gets pulled into a cell. Because a cell has respiration, it needs to get rid of carbon dioxide and bring the oxygen in, take in nutrients and push the toxins out. So it pulls this in and uses the oxygen, the foods and nutrients, and creates ATP, which is the energy to the cell. All of sudden there is a food coloring, that's a toxin; it's foreign to your body. The cell says, uh oh, someone's moving into the neighborhood and I don't like it. It literally builds a place in the cell where it puts the toxins. Over time and distance, one year, five years, whatever, that shed becomes larger than the brains of the cell. When that happens, the cell says, "The neighborhood's gone to pot." It sends a chemical message to the brain and tells the brain to come down clean up the neighborhood. The brain sends down the cells that kill foreign objects in your body. They get down there and start looking around and say, "Man, the whole neighborhood's shot." So they jump in there and take it all out. A lot of that neighborhood is you. Those are cells you need; this is the birth of an autoimmune disease (i.e.: cancer, lupus, Fibromyalgia, rheumatism, arthritis, asthma, allergies, etc).
 

The liver secretes vital digestive juices that help properly digest food and cleanse the blood. Pesticides, polluted air, water and soil are inhaled or absorbed daily. Our exposure to toxins is increased by our use of steroids, medications, smoking, over-indulgence of alcohol, poor food choices, and not drinking enough fresh clean water.   There have been over 3,000 synthetic chemicals identified in our (those of us in the USA) food chain. Many of these are cancer causing! With the prevalence of synthetic foods, nutrient deficient foods, and the environmental pollution of our air and water, our liver is working harder than ever to detoxify our body and regulate healthy metabolic activity. Our livers are also in charge of helping regulate and balance hormones, the proper functioning of our neurological system, and getting rid of the normal by-products and toxins that occur just because our body is functioning regularly (in addition to the toxins that we take in from our polluted environment).
 
Why is the liver important?
The liver is the second largest organ of our bodies. The adult liver weighs 1200-1500 grams (1.2-1.5 kg) and comprises 1/5 of the total adult body weight. It filters 1.4 liters or 3 pints of blood per minute. The liver is the only organ that can regenerate itself. It takes up a lot of space but is not there for padding. 
The liver has over 300 functions, among them are:

• The supreme organ of metabolism


• Causes all things to happen in your body the way they should happen


• Is the main organ for detoxification of pollutants and chemicals in the body


• Part of the digestive system


• Responsible for metabolism of fat, proteins, and carbs


• Creates bile


• Stores blood and energy reserves in the form of glycogen


• Stores fat soluble vitamins


• Helps maintain electrolyte and fluid balance


• Breaks down excess hormones (like estrogen)


• Stores certain unresolved emotions, mostly anger, rage, and resentment or bitterness


• Major detoxification organ through its various enzyme systems


• A blood purifier


• Transforms fat soluble toxins into water soluble substances so that they are more easily eliminated


• When the liver is in failure it is the underlying cause of basically everything that goes wrong with our bodies.

The liver does all of the above and more AND it is one of the most often ignored organs. In the 25 years Dana Clay Young (the formulator of the Be Young brand of essential oils) has been studying the human body and essential oils he has yet to find a single disease that he cannot trace back to the liver.
 
What are signs I need to cleanse my liver?
Symptoms of a mild liver dysfunction may occur even though blood tests show the liver is normal. Blood tests won't show the liver is in trouble until it is really bad.
Common symptoms due to poor liver function:

• Abdominal bloating and swelling


• Allergies (especially sudden or later in life onset)


• Anxiety, frustration, inability to function harmoniously with those around you


• Asthma


• Bad breath in the morning and tongue is coated


• Cellulite


• Chemical and environmental sensitivities


• Chronic fatigue


• Colds and flues (the liver is responsible for immune function)


• Concentration and memory problems


• Constipation


• Depression


• Difficulty losing weight


• Digestive problems


• Dizziness


• Drowsiness after eating


• Elevated cholesterol


• Fatigue


• Feeling tired after eating


• Flatulence


• Foggy brain


• Gall stones


• Gallbladder disease


• Headaches


• Heart palpitations


• High blood pressure


• Hives, rashes


• Hormonal imbalances


• Hyperglycemia (low blood sugar), also indicates a yeast or Candida problem


• If the liver has to work harder than normal you will experience an increase in body temperature.


• Immune system dysfunction or disorders


• Inability to handle fats without feeling nauseated or belching


• Indigestion


• Irritability


• Irritable bowel syndrome (where the bowel actions are irregular varying from diarrhea to constipation during a 24 hour period)


• Jaundice


• Kidney stones


• Lack of harmonious flow of vital energies in your body--one minute you're bouncing off the walls, the next you're depressed and lethargic


• Mood swings-especially involving depression and anger


• Nausea (esp. after eating fatty foods)


• Night sweats (not hot flashes, night sweats)


• Obesity


• PMS as well as excessive menstrual flow containing many clots of blood


• Poor concentration and memory


• Poor digestion


• Rapid pulse


• Weak tendons, ligaments, and muscles


• Weight gain especially around the abdomen


• And more

As you do the liver cleanse you will experience gradual improvements. You will begin to notice:

• You will see many cravings go away as you do the liver cleanse.


• You will feel calmer and have fewer emotional swings.


• You will discover you have more energy.


• It will increase your metabolism.


• Your immune system will be rebuilt.


• Make sure you have plenty of lemon and peppermint and lemon juice on hand so you don't run out because your family will want to do it too!


• Make it as ritualistic as brushing your teeth--everyone in the home should do it.


• You will see amazing changes within your body and your overall health as you embrace health instead of fighting disease.

The liver cleanse is the missing link to optimal health.
It is exciting to see how people feel like they've been freed from the shackles that they've been living in for so long when you explain to them what cleaning the liver can do. 
 
How hard is it?
Most people think they'd rather die than do another liver cleanse because other liver cleanses are so harsh. This Liver Cleanse is simple, easy, and painless. You can cleanse without hunger, headache, fatigue, boredom, or cravings. That is something that you won't find anywhere out there in the cleanses that are going on--they will require starvation or long-term fasting that is going to produce headaches, fatigue, boredom or cravings like crazy. In fact, it's almost too easy. Many people won't do it because they don't think it's hard enough.
 
What is the recipe?
Always make sure your essential oils are 100% pure, therapeutic grade, and EOBBD tested for purity before taking them internally! (Like Be Young essential oils.) Other oils can cause challenges ranging from a burned throat to a trip to the emergency room.

The basic liver cleanse recipe:
1 drop Lemon essential oil
1 drop Peppermint essential oil
1 teaspoon to 1 Tablespoon (or more) freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
Each morning as you rise before you eat or drink anything, 20 minutes before eating.
 
You can use more than one drop of oil, but when first starting try to get just one drop of each. Some people do it twice a day, depending upon the severity of their challenge. Usually only once a day--if you have a more severe challenge don't overdue it, you can put yourself in a cleansing detox. If you have some severe health challenges we recommend that you consult with a health coach (like us) or that you start slowly. The slowest way to start is to apply the essential oils to the bottom of your feet and add the lemon juice to a glass of water. Some people notice a stomachache upon starting, that means that you are dumping some toxins fast! Back off, slow down, and drink plenty of water.
 
Depending upon the severity of your condition this cleanse may need to be as long as a year or more before you start seeing some pleasing results. For every year you have seen the effects of a weakened body and congested liver you need one month of cleansing to take place. Optimal cleansing results are seen if you are decreasing the amount of toxins you are putting in your body while doing the cleansing.
 
If you have high blood pressure that increases with the use of peppermint essential oil modify the liver cleanse this way: Apply Lavender over the heart and at pulse points before consuming the liver cleanse. (What is a pulse point? Where you take your pulse on your wrists.) You can also opt to use Spearmint essential oil, it does many of the same things as Peppermint, but does not elevate blood pressure (note: as you do the liver cleanse you should see blood pressure diminish, be sure to keep an eye on it if you take medications--do NOT go off any medications without consulting your doctor!)
 
How long should I do this?
Taken upon rising for 28 days, then take 7 days off. After about the 3rd day of being off you will notice a change, allergies may be coming back, energy levels down. Yes, you do need to take the week off.
 
Some want to know why their liver isn't being "cured" because their symptoms will come back after 7 days. The problem is that we live in a toxic environment, so we have to do the liver cleanse forever.
 
Why? Because it's so subtle you'll think nothing is happening. After about the 3rd day all your symptoms will begin to return because we live in a toxic environment. The time off also allows your body to "reset" and rest. It's kind of like eating, you should always take time out every now and then to fast, it allows your body to rest and renew.
 
Why lemon juice?
Lemon juice is phenomenal. Lemon juice will cleanse 12 different things out of your blood. 
It also:

• Acts as a motor stimulant


• Alkalizes the pH level of your blood to a healthy level


• Anti-scorbutic (prevents disease and assists in removing impurities)


• Antiseptic (prevents sepsis and putrefaction of the body's tissue)


• Benefits bile formation, which is essential for optimal fat metabolism


• Calcium builds bones and makes healthy teeth and strengthens and builds the lungs


• Chelates the blood


• Contains chemicals that help prevent against the development of kidney stones


• Dissolves uric acid and other poisons


• Fixes oxygen and calcium in the liver to regulate blood carbohydrate levels and oxygen levels


• Helps dissolve and eliminate mucoid plaque from the digestive system


• Hydrogen activates the central nervous system (oxygen and hydrogen = energy)


• Iron builds the red corpuscles, cleans the blood plasma, aids in thyroid for deeper breathing


• Its calcium strengthens and builds the lungs


• Its sodium encourages tissue building


• Oxygen within the lemon juice builds vitality


• Phosphorus knits bones and stimulates brain for clearer thinking


• Potassium helps nourish the brain and nerve cells


• Potassium stimulates and builds the heart, kidneys, and adrenals


• Prevents hardening of the arteries by controlling calcium use


• Promotes peristalsis (eliminates waste from body via the digestive tract)


• Relieves symptoms of indigestion (heartburn, bloating, belching)


• Stimulates the liver


• The liver can make more enzymes out of fresh lemon juice than any other food element


• The richest source of vitamins and minerals, on land, known to man

If you have stomach ulcers, take lemon juice in small quantities and diluted in water to ease the burn. If you continue the lemon juice will provide the body with the nutrients it needs to deal with the ulcer. You may also want to take 1-2 Tablespoons of Aloe Vera Gel before taking the lemon water. Taking 500 mg of Bromelain (a digestive enzyme) has also proven to be helpful.
 
Why peppermint essential oil?
Peppermint oil releases drugs that are stored in your liver. Drugs that are stored in your liver block enzymes that are used to keep the liver functioning correctly. When the enzymes are blocked many people will experience weight gain or have allergies. When your liver begins clearing out these drugs you may experience stomach upset or heart burn, especially if you've been taking antacids for a long time. It will help clear prescription drugs and street drugs. It may help allergies, hay fever, gastritis, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, common cold, bronchitis, sinusitis, fever, and morning sickness. It energizes a sluggish body and promotes mental acuity.
 
Why lemon essential oil?
Lemon oil helps bile function from the liver to the gall bladder so it turns out bile salts that go into your intestines so that it can break down the proteins that you're going to eat that day. It helps carry the sex hormones. (Having your gall bladder removed generally lowers your libido.) It helps boost metabolism, reduces toxic build-up in fat cells, and aids liver function.
 
FAQ's
Can I take it in water?
If you want to take it in water, that's okay because water helps eliminate toxic body waste, empty stubborn fat stores from liver and hydrate cells so they are used as energy instead of fat molecules.
 
How long will a bottle last?
A bottle will last you about a month if you have a big family. Your investment is pennies on the dollar. If you go to the doctor for a flu or cold you have an office visit, a prescription(s), if you have insurance it might cost you as little as $35.00, if not then you're looking at $100.00. The liver cleanse is so much cheaper and it has no negative side affects, no time off work.

Can I do the Liver Cleanse even while I am doing chemo?
Absolutely! In fact, it's recommended! Just leave a 2-hour window between any cancer treatments and taking your liver cleanse.
 
Can I do the Liver Cleanse and still take my prescriptions?
Yes! Just leave a 2-hour window between taking a prescription and taking your liver cleanse (otherwise they'll fight with each other).
 
Do I have to take a week off? I feel so miserable when I do.
It is best if you can. Some people feel so miserable when they do that taking a break can create quite the challenge for them. If you are one of those people continue moving forward, taking a day off here and there (generally do six days on the liver cleanse and one day off). Eventually your health will improve enough that you can do 28 days on and 7 days off.
 
Do I have to use Be Young brand of Lemon and Peppermint?
There are no other essential oils on the market - that we're aware of - that will garner the same benefits. Every other essential oil line that we have researched and studied has been compromised in one way or another by:

• Being extracted with hexane, or other toxins


• Being steam distilled with chemicals in the steam to enhance the amount of oil that is extracted.


• Being extended with synthetic oils, synthetic extenders and other potentially health-compromising synthetic ingredients.


• Being extended--they're "in a base of . . ." various kinds of fatty oils (almond, sunflower, etc), thus diluting the therapeutic value of the essential oils!

If the essential oil you are using is not 100% therapeutic grade and approved for internal consumption (EOBBD guaranteed) you are risking your health--you may not notice any immediate side effects, or you may burn your throat as soon as you swallow your liver cleanse, you may even need to visit the emergency room due to complications. Don't toy with your health; make sure the essential oils you are using are good for you!

Finding Relief For Outdoor Allergies

People suffering from acute allergies often complain about the discomfort that allergic reactions cause them. With today's medical innovations, however, relief from indoor and outdoor allergies is possible through medications such as anti-histamines, anti-allergies and nasal sprays. However, caution must still be exercised when choosing the right medication for allergies. It is best to get medical advice before taking any medication, because some people may also suffer from side effects caused by these medications.

Outdoor allergens

The most common allergens are found in the air, such as pollen and molds. Pollen comes from trees, ragweeds and grass. Molds usually come from leaves on the ground as well as rotting wood. Mold build up is often found in damp areas. The body reacts to these allergens by secreting leukotriens and histamines which create the allergic symptoms such as eye itching, nasal drips, hives, stomach upset, and throat irritation.

Common Medications For Outdoor Allergies

Most prescribed medications contain anti-histamines which block the formation and dispersal of histamines in the blood. This may be in the form of pills, syrup, or nasal sprays. These medications should be taken under doctor's prescribed orders. Overmedication may result to severe side effects such as blurred vision, ear infection, headaches, respiratory infections and sore throats. If you experience any of these symptoms consult your doctor right away. There may be other medications that he can prescribe to you which will not have the same side effects.

You can also find allergy relief with allergy shots. Your family doctor can best recommend a specialist to administer some tests to find the cause of your allergy. It is usually a skin test or a blood test that will determine the cause of your allergy. After which, the doctor can give you allergy shots to prevent that are often administered over a certain period of time.

Preventing Outdoor Allergies

There are some tips that you can do to help you find relief from outdoor allergies. Closing the windows and using air conditioner keeps the pollen away from your environment. Taking a shower before sleeping can remove pollens on your skin, giving you a more sound sleep.

Be informed about the level of pollen concentration in your area. This information is available over the Internet through weather information provider websites. Doing so will help you avoid places that can trigger an allergic reaction. If exposure can not be avoided, protect yourself by wearing clothes that cover your extremities, wearing a face mask and eyeglasses to protect your eyes.

When planning a vacation, you can also find out if the place is safe for you, by checking the level of pollen in that area before you go. Pollen is bad in the morning so it is better to avoid activities in the morning and start your day preferably in the afternoon.

Always make sure to bring your medications, wherever you are, in case you start experiencing allergy symptoms. It is better to take it as a precaution especially during the time of the year when you know you experience allergies the most.

The best way to help you find allergy relief is staying on top of your condition. Make sure you have your medications ready. Learn more about your condition over the Internet to know what to avoid. Check with your family doctor about new discoveries regarding allergies, and consult with your doctor immediately if you start having severe allergy symptoms.

Cause, Symptoms and Treatment of Mould Allergy

Mould is a naturally occurring substance as it is an integral part of the outdoor environment and it plays a large role in the breakdown of leaves, wood, and other plant debris. When it grows indoors however, it can have serious health consequences. Moulds are a type of fungus, which need moisture to grow; as such they are found in damp and poorly ventilated areas. Potential sources of moisture include leaking pipes, leaking roofs and windows, and floods. Most moulds gather their food from dead moist organic matter such as wood, paper, fabric, dust, plant soil, and cooked or raw food; however, they can also grow on the surface of damp materials such as glass. Moulds spread by releasing thousands of tiny spores into the air and these spores are a source of indoor air pollution, which lead to mould allergy.

What is mould allergy?

Mould allergy occurs when an individual is exposed to microscopic fungal spores from mould. Since these spores are small, they can evade the protective mechanisms of the nose and upper respiratory tract, and consequently the lungs.

Causes

There are different types of mould; however, only certain types cause mould allergies. These include alternaria, aspergillus, clasdosporium, penicillium, helminthosporum, epicoccum, fusarium, and phoma, to mention a few. Mould allergy occurs when an individual comes in contact with the mould spores, causing an immune response where the body thinks they are foreign invaders and develops an antibody to fight them. This causes the body to release histamines, which cause itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing and other symptoms related to mould allergy. Even after the exposure has passed, the body will still continue to produce antibodies, which will remember the mould spores (invaders) the next time contact occurs.

Symptoms of mould allergy are similar to those which occur in other upper respiratory allergies.

Common symptoms include,

- Allergic Rhinitis
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy, watery and red eyes
- Breathing difficulties
- Fatigue
- Weakness

Mould spores can deposit on the lining of the nose, consequently causing hay fever symptoms, and can also reach the lungs causing asthma or allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.

Treatment

Avoid contact with mould spores

This is the best treatment for mould allergy. To help reduce symptoms of mould allergy drastically, avoid cutting grass, digging around plants or picking leaves. If you must do any of these activities, ensure you wear a dust mask.

Medication

Antihistamines, bronchodilators and corticosteroids are used to ease the symptoms of mould allergy as there is no sure way of curing mould allergy. Corticosteroids help prevent and treat inflammation and they are the most effective allergy medications for most people, and as such are usually prescribed first. Antihistamines help with itching, sneezing and runny nose, and work by blocking histamine which is released by the immune system during an allergy reaction.

Immunotherapy

This involves administering a series of allergy shots to help eliminate some allergies. However, immunotherapy is only moderately effective against mould allergy.

Nasal Lavage

This is usually recommended to help with irritating nasal symptoms. It involves rinsing the nose with salt water and can be effective in relieving congestion.

Tips for Prevention

• Keep damp areas such as bathrooms well ventilated
• Refrigerators should be kept clean, watch out for mouldy food.
• Avoid damp and musty buildings and where HAY is stored.
• Avoid cutting grass, raking leaves and turning compost heaps.
• Keep all bathroom surfaces clean.
• Get rid of old foam pillows and mattresses.
• Do not store clothing or shoes in damp cupboards; leave wardrobe doors ajar to ventilate the clothes.
• Control indoor moisture by using a dehumidifier.
• Reduce the amount of indoor house plants and ensure those present are free of mould on leaves and in potting soil.
• Throw away or recycle old books, newspapers, clothing or bedding.

Alternative Apitherapy - The Buzz About Bee Venom

One of the most familiar - and beloved - insects is the humble honeybee. These busy little critters live in complicated hives with intense social structures, where they buzz around contentedly as they make honey for us to enjoy spreading on bread-and-butter sandwiches and on top of warm toast. Now there's another purported use for that golden food of the (bee) gods: pain relief.

Apitherapy, coming from the Latin word for bee, focuses on the medical use of various bee products to cure a myriad of health problems, raising from fibromyalgia to multiple sclerosis and even sexual dysfunction. It is also widely thought to help alleviate symptoms related to arthritis, as bee venom in particular is used as an anti-inflammatory.

In fact, BVT, or bee venom therapy, which has been used in China for centuries, is now becoming increasingly popular as a controversial form of pain relief in the United States - providing you don't have an allergy to bees. That's because it's though to promote cortisol production in the body through a protein called melitten. Cortisol, released naturally by our adrenal glands, is a natural inflammatory which reduces both inflammation and pain.

At the present time there have been no clinical trials carried out in humans to see if BVT actually works, although there have been limited positive results with rats in trials related to rheumatoid arthritis (imagine a big a honeybee must appear to a rodent!). However, there is some anecdotal evidence - especially among patients with multiple sclerosis - to support its efficacy.

The US medical establishment, however, largely considers BVT to be nothing more than quackery - and many alternative practitioners do as well. "BVT, apart from simple anecdotal evidence, has no research to support its use in osteoarthritis either, especially given the wide variety of clinically proven traditional Western and alternative therapies available," says the Alternative Therapies for Osteoarthritis website.

"Given the serious risks of anaphylaxis, including death, BVT should be avoided." It recommends that people who avoid its advice should have a bee-sting kit and EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector) close to hand if they try this therapy.

How It Works

BVT is administered in a rather straightforward fashion: the patient gets bee venom injected directly into his or her body by either using a needle, inserting the bee's stinger into their flesh, or letting a live bee sting them. A licensed doctor must administer the injections, but anyone - ranging from a bee venom therapist to your Great Uncle Freddie - can carry out the other treatments.

Usually, the patient receives anywhere from two to five stings each session, although for certain conditions people receive 20 stings at one time or more. The bees will usually be contained in a special jar, box or hive, and will be placed directly on the area that needs to be treated.

Alternatively, you can buy a box of bees yourself from an apitherapist, or bee farmer, and let them sting you. All you need is a pair of special tweezers and the guts to place a bee on your flesh and let it do its duty. Apitherapists compare this type of DIY apitherapy as being akin to diabetics administering their own insulin shots: the more you do it, the better you get at it. It is recommended to wait from three to five minutes before removing the stinger.

Other Apitherapy Products

Many other bee products are readily available, which are used for a variety of medicinal purposes. As always, it is important to check for allergies before trying any of them. People who are allergic to bees, suffer from asthma or have a compromised immune system should avoid bee products altogether...

Honey. Manuka honey in particular is thought to have many health benefits. Claims to help everything from healing leg and stomach ulcers to staving off infections. Gets its name as it is made by bees who feed uniquely off the flowers of the manuka plant. Interestingly, a similar honey is made by honeybees in Australia who feed off the jellybush plant.

Propolis. This is a tree resin which those clever bees make to seal up their hives, together with beeswax. In humans, it's not used to seal anything up - it's used because of its antibiotic properties (the propolis also helps keep infection from invading the hive). It can purportedly help shorten the duration of a cold and boost the immune system in general - and even stave off gum disease and dental cavities!

Beeswax. Glands on the underbelly of worker bees make this wax, used to build their honeycomb. Is used today to make candles and - surprisingly - as a skin softener, dating back to Roman times.

Royal Jelly. Ever wonder how this got its name? Well, probably because it's fit for royalty. Although this gelatinous substance is secreted from the glands of worker bees, it's then fed to the bee larvae. Those that thrive and have the possibility of becoming the Queen continue to get it - thus the conclusion that the jelly has magical qualities. If you ingest it, you'll also have some purported royal health benefits - Queen bees are bigger, live longer and are even more fertile than those boring old drones. So there!

Bee Pollen. High in protein and certain vitamins and minerals which are not found in our everyday diets, bee pollen is said to help improve memory, stamina, athletic and sexual performance and concentration. No scientific evidence can back this up, however. What cannot be disputed is that bee pollen can be expensive and cause contact dermatitis.

Safety First

Even if you have tested negative for allergies, you should always have a bee-sting allergy kit and EpiPen on hand before beginning any bee venom treatment. You should also have the people who will be administering the treatment tested as well, in case a rogue bee gets to work on someone other than the patient. In rare cases bee venom can cause a person to go into anaphylactic shock, which can cause respiratory problems and even death.

Even some people with no bee allergy should avoid any type of BVT whatsoever, such as pregnant women, people with tuberculosis or other infections, diabetics and those with heart conditions. Before beginning BVT, you should always check with your primary health care provider, and be allergy-tested as well. Only use a qualified practitioner, and investigate other options first. Remember, once stung, twice shy...

Dog Allergy Remedies

What is the first thing most doctors recommend for treatment of dog allergies? The unthinkable-they want you to give up your best friend. Anyone with a pet can understand just how devastating this could be. Many people love their dog or cat more than almost anyone else. I know I would never consider giving up my fur baby, and I suffer from horrible allergies. There are many other dog allergy remedies you can try so that you never have to consider giving up your beloved pet.

Dog Allergy Symptoms

When people are allergic to their dog or cat, it is their immune system overreacting to pet dander, saliva or urine. When the body comes into contact with one of these allergens, it overreacts causing an immune system response which triggers many unwanted symptoms. Dog allergy symptoms can include red or itchy eyes, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, stuffy nose, posts nasal drip or a skin rash. The severity of the symptoms will depend on the severity of your body's reaction.

Remedies for Dog Allergies

The best way to treat a dog or cat allergy-aside from giving up your pet-is to make changes in your home environment. Your doctor or allergy specialist may recommend keeping your cat or dog outside as an alternative to giving them up. Another option would be to keep your dog or cat in one room or area of the house. These still may not be options you want to consider. Other changes you could make would include installing an air filter in your house to try and catch as many airborne particles as possible. You could also be sure to frequently wash your dog's bed or a favorite blanket. Trying cleanup as much dog hair as possible. Basically, the natural allergy treatment would be to clean much more frequently. Better yet, have a family member who does not suffer from dog allergies clean the area for you, as it could stir up any settled dander or allergens which would aggravate your allergies.

Allergy medications are another alternative to having to give up your pet. Allergy OTC (over the counter) options include antihistamines, and decongestants, eye drops, Claritin and nasal sprays. Most of these medications provide symptomatic the allergy relief. Allergy shots are the only allergy remedy option that tries to reduce allergies over the long term. Allergy shots try to build up your body's tolerance to allergens, making your immune response much smaller in the future.

Why Do I Get Toothaches If I Have Sinusitis?

A sinus infection can cause your teeth to ache - especially in the upper teeth, which are close to the sinuses. This is fairly common. If you have a persistent toothache, it is always better to see your dentist first for an exam. If your dentist rules out a dental cause for your toothache, your symptoms may be caused by a sinus infection or other underlying medical condition.

So, why do my teeth ache?
Toothaches caused by sinus infection can occur when the maxillary molars, the roots of the upper back teeth, extend into the maxillary sinus cavity. To see if this is the case, your dentist can take a periapical x-ray that shows the sinus area above the tooth roots.

How will I know if my toothache is caused by a sinus infection?
The first thing most dentists perform is a percussion test. The dentist gently taps on the tops of the teeth to see which teeth hurt. In most cases, when there is a dental problem, only one tooth will hurt when tapped. All your teeth will hurt if it is a sinus problem.

When you have sinusitis, your nasal passages or sinuses fill up with liquid and cause the sinus cavity to appear white and murky in a periapical x-ray. A normal sinus looks black in an x-ray.

What do I need to do to treat the infection?
In most cases, prescribing antibiotics for 10 - 14 days will eliminate the infection. If the pain does not resolve after the round of antibiotics, you should see an experienced ear, nose and throat physician to determine why the problem persists.

My teeth still ache. What is happening?
Your condition may be chronic and a repeating sinus infection toothache is one of the symptoms.

What should I do for the pain?
There are some home techniques that can be helpful with the pain you are experiencing. Nasal sea salt sprays and washes can be bought from most pharmacies. Using these sprays or washes several times a day will keep your nasal tissues moist and this will allow the sinus to easily drain into the nose. Relieving the pressure in the nasal passages will also help relieve the pain in your teeth.

What can I do to treat my chronic sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis can be bacterial or non infectious. Both have different medical treatment options. Many people with non infectious cases respond to topical or oral steroids or nasal wash systems.

Depending on the severity of your infection, there are different treatment options your doctor may consider. Generally, antibiotics will be involved for bacterial cases. In worst case scenarios, sinus surgery can be done.

Chronic sinusitis can be difficult to treat because treatment may require the coordinated efforts of several specialists to treat all of the aspects of the disease. If antibiotic treatment fails, allergy testing, desensitization, and/or surgery may be recommended as the effective means for treating chronic sinusitis. A vast majority of people who undergo surgery have fewer symptoms and a better quality of life.

Tight Chest, Runny Eyes, Itchy Nose? You Could Have a Cat Allergy!

Can It Be Cured? In A Word, NO! But It Can Be Endured Learn More Below Instantly!

You walk into a room and there it confronts you. The feline nightmare: Instantly panic strikes, your breathing is hampered and anxiety hits you as your eyes start to water. You've been hit by a cat allergy!

These symptoms are by no means alone they have companions that cover a multitude of sins including sinus pain, hives, runny nose maybe even itching. All these come in groups and take you unaware and suddenly.

Don't worry there are no cats present in this article just some solid advice on what to do if you suffer from cat allergy, what causes the majority of cases and a possible(?) cure.
What causes these awful reactions anyway?

For a long time it was thought that the fur of animals was the irritant, it is not! It is a substance called a protein. Now without getting all technical this is present in Dander and Saliva. They can be airborne and microscopic. This is why they attack the lungs and nasal passages, they are breathed in.

What is an allergy?

This is where the body over reacts to a foreign body on this occasion the Dander. Part of the bodies defence is to produce Histamines these help it fight what it thinks are diseases. When the body goes into overdrive and produces too much Histamine an allergic reaction occurs.

Can I catch An Allergy?

No, not strictly catch. What does happen is that, even if you have not suffered before, your body has to produce enough of these Histamine antibodies to cause the reaction. This can take years to do or if the hit is big enough a few hours.

Are There Any Other Symptoms Than Those Mentioned Before?
I have included a list of the most common reactions for you:

Throat Symptoms

Itching,
Hoarseness,
Need to clear the throat often.

Eye Symptoms

Redness,
Itching,
Swelling,
Watering

Skin Symptoms

Itchy rash,
Hives

Ear Symptoms

Itching,
Plugging,
Popping

There are more serious symptoms that involve the lungs

Coughing,
Wheezing,
Frequent coughing,
Tightness of the chest,
Bronchitis,
Shortness of breath

These are by no means all the symptoms but the most frequent and common. Remember if you suspect an allergy no matter how mild always seek proper medical assistance.
Is there anything that can be done?

In the extreme circumstances the rehousing of the cat is the only real option. In nearly all other cases there is the possibility that something called Immunotherapy. Put simply this is where you slowly increase the exposure to the problem until such time as the symptoms stop. That is each time your body reacts the reaction gets less as you are more use to the irritant than previous times of exposure. Thus increasing your tolerance to the allergens. Due to the fact that this method treats the cause but does not hide the symptoms it is one of the most effective treatments there is.

If the cat needs to be rehoused then please rehouse it. Do not simply put an indoor cat outdoors. This is just not right. An indoor cat will be terrified outdoors as it has no experience of the big outdoor world and at the end of the day it was not the cats fault you had an allergic reaction was it?

Conclusion.

Hopefully this has explained a few things in relation to cat allergies to you and painted a clearer picture about the causes, the symptoms, and a possible cure? As with all things medical if you are in doubt please go and seek proper, professional help regarding the condition. This article is only intended to inform of the problem of cat allergies and give a possible help to those that suffer from it.

The Most Common Doctor-Prescribed Treatments for Urinary Tract Infections

When a urinary tract infection gets out of control and home remedies, like cranberry juice and drinking fluids don't seem to help, doctors use their own form of treatment to kill the infection. There are several antibiotics that seem to help and doctors will often recommend continued use of cranberry juice, cranberry supplements and water.

Doctors can prescribe preventative treatments of bladder infections in the form of a single antibiotic taken at the onset of symptoms or after intercourse. These antibiotics are generally in the form of Nitrofurantoin (Macrodantin) or Bactrim (trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole). They can be used to treat ongoing bladder infections but are not considered very strong antibiotics.

Antibiotics become the primary line of treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections. There are several antibiotics that can be used for simple bladder infections.

繚 You can use a penicillin-based antibiotic known as amoxicillin (Trimox, Amoxil). This antibiotic has a lot of resistant bacteria related to it so it shouldn't be used in complicated or recurrent urinary tract infections.

繚 Macrodantin, also called Furadantin, is the brand name for nitrofurantoin. It is an antibiotic in a class by itself, has very few allergies associated with it and it works well on Gram-negative bacteria, the most common cause of bladder infections.

繚 Bactrim, which carries the generic name of sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, is an excellent antibiotic for both for prevention and or treatment of urinary tract infections. It carries a high risk of allergic reactions in some people so you have to know if you are allergic to "sulfa drugs" before you take the antibiotic. It is taken twice a day for up to ten days, depending on the severity of the bladder infection.

繚 Cipro (ciprofloxacin) and Levaquin (levofloxacin) are both quinolone antibiotics that work extremely well for urinary tract infections, including kidney infections and bladder infections. There is little chance of allergic reactions and it can be given by IV or orally. Sometimes only a few days' worth of this type of antibiotic is enough to treat a simple bladder infection.

There is controversy over whether a person should take a single dose of an antibiotic for the treatment of an infection or whether they should take a full course of seven to ten days. The truth is that simple bladder infections will clear with a single course of antibiotic, especially if you use a quinolone type of antibiotic; however, sometimes it just kills off the less harmful bacteria, leading to resistant bacteria taking hold and being more difficult to treat. Other doctors recommend a three day course of antibiotics along with the drinking of plenty of fluids. Still others go the entire week or ten days, making sure the bladder infection is gone before stopping the antibiotic. You should discuss the situation with your doctor to decide how long a treatment course should be, given your symptoms and how many previous bladder infections you have had in the recent past.

Pain medication can be given to block the infection. This includes the topical anesthetic called pyridium, which numbs the inside of the bladder and makes you feel better much more quickly than if you didn't take the anesthetic. The downside of the anesthetic is that it turns your urine bright orange and the orange color can stain your underwear if you are not careful with wiping.

The Side Effects Of Vitamin B12

This article discusses vitamin B12 and most of the reported side effects of taking B12. It also outlines some of the medical conditions that taking B12 may exacerbate.

Background

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin needed for normal cell activity. It is a part of a group of cobalt containing B complex vitamins, which are also known as cobalamins. Like other B vitamins, vitamin B12is important for metabolism. It also helps in the formation of red blood cells and in maintaining the central nervous system. It is found in most foods which come from animal products including liver, fish, shell fish, meat and dairy products.

Side Effects

The good news is that vitamin B 12 is usually non-toxic, even when taken in large doses. However, people have experienced some adverse effects, even though these side effects are quite rare. Generally, when vitamin B12 supplements are taken orally then there is little chance of side effects occurring. Some people choose to take vitamin B12 administered with an injection. This type of ingestion as been associated with the following side effects:

o mild diarrhoea

o anxiety and panic attacks

o heart palpitations

o insomnia

o breathing problems

o chest pain

o skin rash, hives or itchy swollen skin

Some health professionals believe that patients develop these reactions not because of the B12, but because of the preservatives that are part of the injection formula. Currently, most injections contain preservatives. To be on the safe side, it is probably better to take B12 orally.

Medical Conditions

Other side effects may be experienced by people who have an allergy or a sensitive to cobalamin and cobalt. If this is the case, then it is advisable to avoid vitamin B12 supplementation altogether and instead seek to eat the foods that contain naturally occurring B12. In addition B12 should be avoided by people suffering from Leber's disease, a hereditary disease in which the optic nerve wastes away. Ingesting vitamin B12 can actually speed up the atrophy of the optic nerve resulting in rapid loss of central vision.

There is also evidence to suggest that patients who have undergone heart surgery and received coronary stents may have an increased risk of the artery narrowing again when they take vitamin B12. A small risk, but one to bear in mind.

On a positive note, pregnant and breastfeeding women can take vitamin B12 quite confidently when it is taken orally in amounts not exceeding the recommended daily allowance (2.6 mcg/day if pregnant and 2.8 mcg/day if breastfeeding)

As can be seen, vitamin B12 is a relatively safe vitamin with very few adverse side effects even when taken in large doses. More problems than not arise from B12 deficiency than they do from ingestion of the vitamin itself.

Ways to Avoid Ragweed Allergy Symptoms

Anyone who has a sensitivity towards pollen is suffering from allergic reaction. Soon after inhaling, you may notice the development of ragweed allergy symptoms. There are around seventeen varieties of the ragweed plant.

Ragweed pollens start to circulate in the air from these plants. This circulation continues until ragweed plants are killed by frost somewhere during the later phase of fall. Ragweed plants are commonly found in almost all parts of the US.

In people who are sensitive to ragweed, their immune system overreacts as they come in contact with the pollens.

As this happens, it causes asthma and allergy symptoms. Some of these symptoms caused by ragweed allergy are sneezing, wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing, stuffy or runny nose, itchy eyes, itchy throat, itchy nose and coughing. Also, people who have severe allergies may have symptoms like chronic sinusitis, trouble sleeping, asthma attacks and headaches.

You may take a few precautions to avoid these symptoms if you are allergic to ragweed pollens. It is better to avoid foods that may cause ragweed allergies such as bananas, honey and chamomile tea. They can contain pollen. Cucumbers, zucchini and sunflower seeds should also be avoided. Your symptoms may become intensified if you have these foods in ragweed season. The ragweed season usually begins in August and extends up to October.

Also, it is better not to stay in areas where ragweed plants are in the vicinity. These weeds are normally found in rural areas as pollens may get carried away easily in the vacant fields. Having a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in the air conditioner will also help to reduce pollens in the air.

Antihistamines and nasal corticosteroidsare are the best medications that you can take to reduce the intensity of these symptoms. However, medicines do not work for everyone. So, if your symptoms seem to be uncontrollable, you may approach your doctor and seek advice if you can take immunotherapy or allergy shots.

Symptoms of ragweed allergy can cause a person to feel very weak and fatigued. Exercising regularly and eating healthy helps a great deal to make sure that your immune system works efficiently and is able to resist such allergies.

As the ragweed season begins around August, doctors also suggest that people with sensitivity towards pollens should start taking precautions, medication and other treatments at least a few weeks before the season begins.

Hence, people who experience ragweed allergy symptoms can avoid the discomfort caused by these symptoms only if they are careful and strictly take note of their doctor's advice.

Zyrtec

Active Ingredient: Centrizine

Common Brand Name(s): Zyrtec

Zyrtec is mainly used to treat symptoms of allergies like sneezing, runny nose, itching, tearing and redness of eyes and hives. Zyrtec works as an antihistamine by blocking actions of naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body.

What is Zyrtec used for?

o Zyrtec is used as an antigistamine which blocks the actions of the naturally produced acids in the body. Zyrtec has comparatively lesser side effects than other antihistamines.

o Zyrtec is mainly used to treat allergic ailments such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, tearing and redness of eyes, and hives.

o Apart from the above uses, Zyrtec may be used for some other purposes.

How Do I Use Zyrtec?

o You must follow doctor's direction for use of Zyrtec. If you have any doubt about use of Zyrtec you must consult your doctor, nurse or a pharmacist. They will be able to guide you the correct way of using Zyrtec.

o Take Zyrtec with adequate quantity of water.

o You can take Zyrtec before meals.

o You should chew the chewable tablets thoroughly, if taking chewable tablets.

o If you are taking Zyrtec in liquid form, use measuring spoon, cup or dropper to ensure correct in take of medicine.

o You can take Zyrtec with or without food.

How should I Store Zyrtec?

You can store Zyrtec at normal room temperature. However, you must ensure that the storing place is free from moisture and away from the heat.

What are the possible Side Effects?

o There are no serious side effects of Zyrtec as such. However, if you experience any allergic reaction like breathing difficulty, closing of throat, swollen lips, tongue, face or hives, stop taking Zyrtec and visit your doctor for immediate medical attention.

o If you experience other side effects which are less serious don't stop use of Zyrtec. However you must consult your doctor if you develop symptoms like drowsiness, dizziness, and headache or mouth dryness.

o You may notice any other unusual side effects other than those enlisted here. In such case you must consult your doctor who will provide required medical treatment.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

You can take the missed dose immediately after you remember it. However you must keep in mind the time of your next dose. If there is sufficient time gap you can take the missed dose. If your next scheduled dose is nearing then skip the missed dose and take the regular scheduled dose in time. Never double your dose to make up for missed dose.

If you are using Zyrtec on as required basis, take the missed dose if it is need, but you must maintain the prescribed gap before you take next dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

If you suspect the overdose or develop unusual symptoms, you must consult your doctor for immediate medical attention. Exact symptoms of Zyrtec overdose are not known. However Drowsiness is considered as one of the symptoms.

Is Zyrtec Safe?

If you are suffering from liver disorders, you may not be able to use Zyrtec. Your doctor may make dose adjustment to suit you and closely monitor effects of the dose.

If you have allergic reaction to Zyrtec or medicines like Atarax and Vistaril, you must consult your doctor before taking Zyrtec.

There are no proven results available regarding effects of Zyrtec on the unborn baby. However, you must consult your doctor if you are pregnant.

There are no proven results to confirm that Zyrtec passes into breast milk and it may affect the nursing baby. You must consult your doctor before using Zyrtec, if you are breast feeding your baby.

Your doctor may prescribe you lower dose of Zyrtec if you are over 65 years of age. Aged people are likely to experience side effects of Zyrtec.

Zyrtec may cause drowsiness. If you experience this side effect, avoid driving, operating machinery and other hazardous activities.

If you are taking Zyrtec, avoid alcohol. Alcohol may increase drowsiness.

You must tell your doctor that you are taking Zyrtec, before your doctor prescribes you other medicines. Do not use other allergy medicines or cough; Cold medicine without consulting doctor, if you are taking Zyrtec.

Medicines like antidepressants, sedatives, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, muscle relaxants and other antihistamines increase drowsiness or dizziness when taken with Zyrtec. Consult your doctor on use of these medicines when you are taking Zyrtec.

How does Zyrtec interact with other medicines?

If you are taking any of the following medicines, you must inform your doctor regarding this before using Zyrtec. You may require dose adjustment and close monitoring, if you are taking these medicines.

o Antidepressants

o Sedatives

o Medicines for treating anxiety like diazepam, alprazolam, Iorazepam, Restoril, Librium etc.

o Pain relievers

o Muscle relaxants

o Other antihistamines

Never take other allergy or antihistamine medicines without consulting your doctor.

Some other drugs, other than those listed above may have interaction with Zyrtec. You must consult your doctor even before using vitamins, minerals and herbal products.

What other information should I know?

o You should continue use of Zyrtec as per your doctor's advice till you get complete relief.

o Chew the chewable tablet thoroughly and use measuring spoon, cup or dropper for taking Zyrtec in liquid form.

o Take your Zyrtec on scheduled time and period as directed by your doctor.

o You must consult your doctor if you experience any unusual occurrence of side effect.

Vitamin B12 Injection Side Effects - Common and Rare

Vitamin B12 injections, also known as cobalamin or cyanocobalamin injections, are administered to patients with deficiency of B12 and symptoms associated with the deficiency, such as fatigue and anemia. B12 injections are given to patients who have low resistance to diseases and remain sick from common illness for long period of time.

Although it is better to consume foods rich in vitamin B12 naturally, such as meat, fish, and dairy products, often the doctor may recommend the supplement of Vitamin B12 in injection form. Injections are beneficial to those individuals who show signs of vitamin B12 deficiency but are unable to absorb it into the body.

Injecting B12 shots are often painful to those sensitive to injections, because they are injected deep into the muscle under the skin.

Common Side Effects

Side effects of vitamin B12 injections vary from person to person depending on the mode of delivery and the health of the person. Some side effects are temporary and may last for just a few days.

Some of the most common side effects are:

1. Muscle cramps:
Some people get cramps or spasms in their muscles after injecting vitamin B12 shots. This will occur usually within 6 hours of receiving the injection.

2. Sleeplessness:
Insomnia, or the inability to sleep, is a commonly-occurring side effect of receiving a vitamin B12 injection.

3. Skin infections and Acne:
Shots of Vitamin B12 may lead to some skin infection, known as Folliculitis, around the hair follicles. Acne may also develop on skin accompanied by skin rashes.

4. Nausea and Headache:
Runny nose and headache are other common side effects after injecting vitamin B12. Some people might experience shortness of breath, unusual coughing, or unusual wheezing.

5. Stomach upset:
Another common side effect of B12 injections is upset stomach followed by diarrhea, difficulty in swallowing food, and feeling of extreme dizziness. A few patients may also feel extreme thirst and tiredness.

6. Rapid heart beat:
Some patients have reported rapid palpitation of the heart and a sensation of heart burn accompanied by chest pain.

Uncommon Side Effects:

There do exist some side effects, though not very common, that may be severe, and possibly life threatening.

1. Clotting of Blood:
Blood clots in the arteries of legs and arms, followed by swelling of the affected areas known as peripheral vascular thrombosis, a serious condition that has the potential to cause loss of limb or even loss of life.

2. Severe Allergic reaction:
Severe allergic reaction is very rare but can be life threatening. Researchers and medical professionals alike question whether the allergy is caused by preservatives in injection or by the vitamin itself. Vitamin B12 injections should be avoided by persons who are allergic to cobalt or cobalamin, as it may lead to allergies.

3. Vision loss in case of "Leber's Disease":
A person who has or has had Leber's Disease should not take vitamin B12 injections, since it can result in optic nerve damage (and possibly blindness). Leber's Disease is hereditary optic neuropathy which will cause slow vision loss, first in one eye and then in the other eye.

4. Pulmonary Edema:
In very rare cases, fluids get accumulated in the lungs of the person taking vitamin B12 injections, a condition known as pulmonary edema. The person may experience pain in the chest and shortness of breath.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. There are others. Please do some research to become informed, and always consult with your doctor if you suspect that you are experiencing side effects to any medication.

Alternatives to Receiving Allergy Shots

Living with debilitating allergies can be most painful for millions of people because their quality of life revolves around irritating symptoms caused by their allergies. Some of the symptoms that they may experience may include: sinusitis, skin disorders, gastro-intestinal upset and chronic ear infections.

It becomes a real struggle to find effective treatments for these allergies, as many therapies are only for short term.

One treatment that many people have employed is taking allergy shots. These shots contain a small amount of the allergen to which the patient is allergic. The efficacy of this method is still not known, but many swear by it and have stated that they have had good results over a period of time.

Allergy Shots: How Do They Work?

When a person first receives the shots, the body starts producing antibodies to that particular allergen. This helps your body fight the allergen. Then, the next time you come into contact with the allergen, these antibodies help to block the effects it would normally had had on you.

This in turn causes the symptoms to become less severe. Relief will then begin to come with time and the time will become longer lasting that you are without pain.

The most common reason a person takes shots is to have relief from pollen allergies. These can be found in hay fever or allergic rhinitis. Some have said that asthma can also be improved by using allergy shots.

These shots should only be considered as a last means, when other treatments have failed to help.

If someone is suffering from severe asthma or heart disease, then allergy shots are not recommended for them. Also children under five should not receive them either. If pregnant, it is not know how the shots would effect the unborn child. If you are already on shots, you must consult your doctor before you continue them. If it is recommended that you take allergy shots, you will have to have a allergy test, skin test, and blood test as well. Most shots are started by going twice a week and then after six months, one can begin maintenance of once a month. The decision about allergy shots should be discussed with you and your doctor. Life can be easier through better medicine. Maybe allergy shots are what are right for you.

How to Become a Medical Test Subject

Being a medical test subject is an interesting way to earn extra money while helping researchers develop new potentially lifesaving medications. If you've ever wanted an interesting hobby that actually pays you to spend a few days lying around in bed watching TV and playing video games, then you may want to become a medical test subject.

Testing takes place in hospitals all around the country and test subjects can make thousands of dollars for staying overnight for a weekend, or for making a few regularly scheduled doctors visits. Here's how to do it:

Identify your test group type: There are medical tests available for just about everyone, from weight-loss medicines, to blood thinners. Many studies are available for healthy participants as well. If you currently suffer from any ailments you will want to start your search looking for new treatments for those.

Search for related studies: Do a simple Google or Bing search to find test facilities in your area. Use terms like "medical test subjects" or "drug research subjects." Be sure to check out your local yellow pages and online classifieds like craigslist or backpage.

Narrow your search: Once you have found a few companies look through their index for studies you may qualify for.

If you have a specific illness or disability you may want to look for studies that deal with it first. If you are healthy look for "healthy" studies which will place you in a control group to test the side-effects of various new medicines.

Apply for a study: Once you have found a few studies that interest you, follow the companies application protocols to sign up for the study. In most cases the facility running the test will call you back within a few days and give you a phone interview. If you pass that you'll be asked to come in for a screening to determine your eligibility.

Before your interview: If you are applying for a "healthy" study, make sure that you really are healthy. Many studies will disqualify you if you smoke, do drugs, or use alcohol. In most cases they give you a couple of weeks to get any disqualifying substances out of your system.

Ace your Phone Interview: The first step to a good phone interview is honesty. During the interview, the researcher will ask you a variety of questions about your medical history and will talk to you about their privacy policy. If you have chosen a study that you should qualify for you will most likely breeze through this part and get scheduled for a screening.

Pass your screening: At this point the researches want to make sure that you are fully qualified for their test, so they will run a variety of screens on you. Tests may include urine samples, blood draws, EKG s etc. During your screening they will also explain the details of the specific study you are applying to and will have you sign papers stating that you understand the rules of the study and the risks.

Wait: Once you have gone to your screening, they will tell you if the study is open or if you are on a waiting list. If you are in the study, you will be sent home to wait and see if you pass your screens. If you did pass, then you will be told where to go for the study, and any other rules about your specific test protocol.

Congratulations! You have now become a medical test subject. Make friends with your fellow "lab rats" and enjoy your mini-vacation!