Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Psoriasis, psoriasis treatment



Psoriasis is a very common and chronic skin disease.  The affected skin is generally red with a silver scaly appearance, and is found commonly on the knees and elbows; but can be found anywhere on the body.

Psoriasis is not an infection and touching an affected person will not give you the disease. Psoriasis is a non-contagious chronic skin condition that occurs when there is rapid skin cell growth. Normally, the cells of the skin grow in weeks allowing the body to shed excess skin. In the case of psoriasis, skin cells grow within days inhibiting skin shedding and causing piling on the skin surface    

Psoriasis is a very common occurring skin condition in which the skin is most effected. With psoriasis, you will experience lots of skin redness, flaking, and sometimes patchy scales on certain parts of your body. This skin disorder can effect many different people of different cultures and ages, but the age group most effected is from 15-35 years. One important thing to know is that, luckily, this disease cannot be spread to others. So if you know someone who has this condition, you do not have to worry about it "rubbing off" on you. It is not a contagious disease. If you take a look at psoriasis and how it happens, it seems to be passed down throughout families. This means you have a larger risk of getting psoriasis at some point if anyone in your family has had it.

Psoriasis seems to occur when your body's immune system gets confused and mistakes healthy cells for dangerous substances. It usually takes about a month for new skin cells to grow and develop. If you have psoriasis, this process occurs too fast (say it happens every two weeks instead of four which makes a big difference) and this results in dead skin cells being built up on the surface of the skin. Certain triggers may cause an occurrence of psoriasis and may complicate things further. Some examples are bacterial or viral infections, too much alcohol/too little sunlight, some medicines like beta blockers, dry skin, or injury to the skin. Psoriasis is especially a cause of concern in people with a low/weakened immune system because the disease can become very severe. If you are undergoing cancer chemotherapy, or have AIDS, this may be the case due to a lack of healthy cells in the body. Psoriasis arthritis can also occur, actually frequently, in about one third of all patients who have psoriasis.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Overview of Allergies



Some of the common reasons behind allergies also include food allergies, seasonal allergies, or a variety of mold, and animal allergies. These allergies cause different types of symptoms like asthma, itchy eyes, nose congestion, sneezing, wheezing, and  skin conditions like rashes and prickly skin.

While the immune system  produces a substance  known as ‘antibodies' which protects you from these  unwanted trespassers  and it is during the course of action taken by the antibodies that we experience  allergies like skin conditions, sinuses, breathing and other digestive disorders. The severity of these allergies varies from person to person and can range from minor irritation to a budding critical emergency.  

The typical symptoms of allergy can be classified into three categories'

Mild

 Moderate

Severe.

While mild allergic symptoms include minor inconveniences like itching, watery eyes, nose congestion or rash, a moderate allergic condition include symptoms which spreads to other internal organs in the body like lungs, excretory system, etc., Severe allergic condition or Anaphylaxis can cause life threatening symptoms which effects the entire body and progresses within minutes. Its symptoms are swelling, diarrhea, nausea, difficulty in breathing, severe abdominal pain, cramps, etc.

Test Your Allergic Reaction



An allergy is actually a disease that most people have that manifests only at certain times when their body interacts with allergens. There are several times when you would be surprised that you react negatively to what seemed to be a simple occurrence or an object that has been around you for a while already.

Medical experts agree that allergies can actually be managed well if you are informed of what causes it. You may be able to undergo different tests to check which of the objects around you would create an allergic reaction from your body. There are three main tests you could go through: skin testing, blood testing, and elimination testing.

Skin testing is also called as prick or puncture testing. It involves the skin on your arms or the back, where most allergic reactions are very visible. When you undergo this test, the health personnel would look for possible allergens and puncture the skin with it. Sometimes, and especially when the test is done with the skin on your back, there would be like tables with grids. If the object is an allergen, your skin would exhibit reddish spots or swollen bites.

Blood testing, meanwhile, looks for antibodies called immunoglobulin and how its presence would affect your reaction to specific objects. In general, when the amount of the antibodies is very high, there is a greater probability that your body would exhibit allergic reactions. This is more of a predictive type of test because while an allergen may not cause reactions at the time you are tested, the amount of antibodies measured may indicate the likelihood of the same allergen doing so in the future.

Lastly, you may also undergo a more extensive test that is elimination. In this type of test, your diet is at the most of concern. You will be asked to consume foods that are probable allergens and then slowly removing these in time. The aim is to re-introduce the foods eliminated to check if they indeed cause the allergic reaction.

All of these tests are highly suggested to be done with the aid of medical professionals (nurses, doctors, etc.) to ensure that the results your body has posed are interpreted correctly and that the procedures are of course carried out with the appropriate tools. In the end, your cooperation is a great key for the success of these tests. If you have any general questions about allergic reactions or how to manage your general health, it's recommended that you consult your general practitioner, a trusted osteopath or nutritionist.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

The Best Laundry Detergent Is No Laundry Detergent! But How Can You Wash Without Detergent?



Every day more and more people are turning to hypoallergenic laundry detergent because of an allergic skin reaction to detergent and other laundry products such as fabric softeners, bleach and dryer sheets. Perhaps you yourself suffer from skin allergies, chemical allergies, or fragrance allergies.

Have you been forced to turn to sensitive skin soap and non-toxic products in order to avoid allergic reactions?

Unfortunately, not only are these products costly but they probably aren't completely effective. If you have a soap allergy you will probably find that nothing you try, even a natural laundry detergent, will provide complete relief.

The answer? - Get rid of all laundry detergents and, as a result, say goodbye to your laundry detergent allergy.

If only it was that simple right? Everybody knows that you can't get your clothes clean without laundry soap; can you? Well, you can and I am here to tell you how.

So... If you use laundry detergent, bleach, hot water or fabric softener when you wash your clothes read on because this is going to get interesting.

A couple years back I discovered something that saves me money, does an incredible job of cleaning my clothes and helps the environment at the same time. I read about a device that you attach to your washing machine to eliminate the need for detergent, hot water, bleach and fabric softeners.

How does it work?

Water from your cold water tap enters the machine and is infused with natural gases like oxygen and hydro-peroxides. The same natural gases are created outside by the sun and lightning and are in the air we breathe everyday. The treated water then flows into your washing machine where it does its magic on your laundry. The gasses bubble up through the fabric removing dirt and sanitizing the material. Your clothes come out clean, fresh and sanitized.

I was intrigued but did not know anyone that had any experience with this technology.

With a leap of faith (how is this possible without using detergent?) I sent in my order and anxiously awaited the delivery of this new "miracle machine". When it finally arrived I was pleasantly surprised at how easily it attached to my washing machine and how simple it was to operate. The directions said to run 2- 3 washes without any laundry in order to "clean" the washing machine and set up the device for its first load.

I started my washing machine and Wow! - The water smelled like a thunderstorm had just passed delivering a fresh country rain. I was starting to feel pretty good about my purchase, but...

Could it actually clean my clothes?

My question was answered in short order. After a couple washes I found that our clothes not only smelled fresh but they were just as clean as they would have been if I had used my regular laundry detergent.

Then came the surprise! If all this device did was to eliminate the need for detergent and hot water, I would have been satisfied, but to my delight, it did much, much more. One of my faded shirts came out a bit brighter than expected. Was I imagining it? How could this device add color to my shirt? Not possible, but...

After each wash my shirt and other clothes kept getting brighter and brighter until they looked almost new again. What was happening?

Apparently detergent remains in our clothes after each wash and eventually weighs down and fades the material. The laundry unit was removing this residual detergent and bringing "life" back to the fabric. Our towels became brighter and more fluffy with every wash. Now the shelf that easily held all of our towels was almost too small and I had to force the last few towels in.

I was sold. This device was worth its cost and more. Even better, I was saving money. I figure I recovered my cost within the first year and a half of usage. (U.S. statistics claim a savings of about $400/year for a family of 4)

Imagine saving about $1.20 every time you wash a load of clothes. - The average family can get a 40%-100% annual return on their investment.

I have now owned my miracle laundry machine for over 2 years and I am thrilled with the results I am getting. Our clothes last longer, smell like they were hung outside to dry and the colors are brighter than ever.

BONUS:The mold smells I had in my front load washer disappeared within 2 washes.

And the bottom line?....

Using this device to wash your clothes is healthier for you, the planet and your pocketbook. Your clothes last longer, smell nicer and the colors stay brighter.

What is the Down Side?

By now you are probably wondering (as I did) what if this machine is a piece of junk that doesn't do what it promises or breaks down after a few months when the warranty has expired?

You will be happy to hear that the manufacturer offers a 30 day satisfaction or your money back guarantee AND they have a full 3 year parts and labor warranty. What appliance manufacturer do you know that offers that kind of piece of mind when you buy their product?

If you want more information I will be happy to answer any questions you may have including where you can get your hands on one.

Contact me through EzineArticles.com or my website below.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Allergy Testing By Skin Prick - Simple, Painless - Quick Results



Allergy testing has been progressing for over 100 years. Doctors and scientists have a difficult job looking to find the root causes of those symptoms such as running nose and streaming eyes, among several others. One third of Britons (around 19 million people) develop allergy symptoms, and are looking for effective answers through allergy testing.

Treatments and vaccines for hay fever, asthma and food allergies have failed to live up to expectation despite the huge amount of money we spend on them, and sufferers are left wondering where all the money pumped into research over decades has gone.

A high percentage of doctors and researchers are baffled at certain causes of allergies in many patients. Some people do react to certain events that trigger a group of reactions in their system, while the exact same events might not have any effect on others whatsoever. The difficulty in pinpointing the exact reason why someone is allergic to a particular food, insect or even house is a very complicated situation.

Many doctors advise that 'blood allergy testing' has to be employed to find out which allergy you suffer from, which takes longer than skin prick tests - but is extremely accurate. With the sheer amount of complex allergies in society today, it is a difficult and slow process finding out their source. Those who suffer allergies may have to wait a few decades for allergists to come up with answers.

There are several methods of allergy testing that are effective, quick, and cheap, but don't expect any miracle cure - as you will only be given advice on altering your lifestyle. These tests look for 'Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies' in the human system for allergens like pollen, common dust mites, indoor pollutants and pet dander. Variations of these tests like skin prick food intolerance testing are used to examine the complex subject of food allergies. Food allergy testing kits are said to be very accurate in their results, but it's surely better to seek advice from a doctor before you purchase one these kits.

Finding allergy testing centres in your area is straight forward. You can ask your own doctor or practice nurse if you are registered with a GP. A health visitor or school nurse can give you good advice about testing and effective Allergy Relief, or even your local family health service authority where you live. Failing that, just pop down to your local hospital reception or speak to a pharmacist.

Allergy testing kits are available to buy in chemists and on the web that will give you your results in a short period of time. Basic skin prick testing is painless and it's usually the first test advised by specialists when allergy symptoms are present. Taking antihistamines and various other medications like inhalers are prohibited for up to 1 week before the skin testing start day.

A very small droplet of allergen is placed on the skin inner forearm. Up to 30 allergens can be tested on the one arm, which is marked in various areas so the tester knows which allergen those results will come from. Using a specially designed very sharp lancet, the skin is lightly pierced at an angle of 90 degrees directly on top of the allergen drop. Simple, painless and quick diagnosis.

The main advantage of this type of testing is that results normally takes up to 25 minutes. A visible raised wheal and red flare activity on the skin means that the tester can effectively eliminate a realistic cause for allergic symptoms, or diagnose you as positive for an allergy.

Allergy Patch Testing
Another relatively easy way to test for allergies is 'patch testing', which is carried out to determine whether allergies are present through dermatitis (Eczema). Tiny droplets of allergen are spread in a 'Vaseline mixture' which is applied to small metallic discs. These discs are usually taped on the patients back area, and left there for a few days. The patient comes back to the specialist after 2 days for removal and inspection in case of swelling and redness.

After another 2 days, the back is thoroughly scanned for signs of skin reaction to the small amounts of allergens that were applied there earlier. 'Atopy Patch Tests' (APT) on the skin can also be implemented to find out if reactions to foods are present. They are usually used to identify other allergens such as metals, rubber/latex and certain beauty cosmetics. Please note there are several more allergy testing methods available today.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Get Your Immunity Checked By Immunologists



Immunity is very important if you want to stay healthy and fit in your body. There is an immunity system inside our body which helps us to fight against all the disease and ailment germ, virus and bacteria only if your immunity system is strong enough. After growing up you suddenly wants your immunity to get strong then it is a sorry full condition because it is not possible. Immunity is something on which you need to work a lot from the beginning then only you can get it to work properly for your body mechanism.

Some points which can reduce your immunity levels are bad health diet, smoking, drinking alcohol these maybe some of the serious problem which can make your immunity system weak. Many times parents are not able to provide their children, infant and adolescents with proper food and nutrition all of these results in weak immunity level. Malnutrition children when grow up have a very weak immunity level.Poor diet for long time can weaken our immunity system,

when our body lacks nutrition then we will have a weak immune system; over dose of sugar is another most prominent cause for lack or say weak immunity system; excessive drinking harms the immunity system. A good sleep is essential for our body because it helps our body to rebuilt, without adequate sleep immune system becomes weak because it doesn't get a chance to rebuild. Stress and dehydration are other foremost reason for weak immunity; overuse of prescribed or non prescribed medicinal use can also reduce immunity. Chemical exposure, UV, and radiation exposure- all these damage the immune system.

A good hygiene care is very important to maintain a strong immune system. Too much exposure to germs may stress the body beyond what it could handle. Exercise is very important to keep a good immune system. Exercise helps to increase the blood flow which helps cleansing the body of certain toxins and waste products. Lack of exercise slows down this process and it results a weak immune system. Obesity is also one of the reasons for having lower level of immunity.

If any of the reason is making you weak by immunity, then you should visit a specialist to get your immunity cured. There are numbers of good immunologists in Delhi region itself, such as immunologists in janakpuri. The immunologists in paschim vihar and the immunologists in rajauri garden are expert in immunotherapy treatment and diagnose for patients lacking immunity or have a weak immunity system.

Monday, January 23, 2012

My Child is Gluten Intolerant. Now What?



Children are always too sensitive about how people around them treat them. If there is something that puts children out of their place, they become too vulnerable to their surroundings. Gluten intolerance although may seem like a big change in the child's life in a society but it is easily avoidable today. Gluten intolerance now happens to a number of people including adults, and this has introduced a range of gluten free items on the store. While it is easy to find such items for your child, you will still have to look out for him/her when your child is in school or with friends. It is difficult to put the consciousness and maturity in the child to eat what everybody else is enjoying. It is the duty of the parent to inform other parents and teachers to make sure the child is avoiding gluten based food. There are many ways to do this, and also a way to bring this to your advantage.

By making a conscious effort towards healthy food consumption

Make more unique celebrations with special gluten free dishes unlike anywhere else

Sunday, January 22, 2012

How to Reduct Asthma Triggers in Your Home



To reduce allergens in your home you have to make sure your home is as dust free as possible. You should also avoid using harsh cleaning products while cleaning your home as well. Here is a few things you can do in your home to help reduce asthma triggers in your home.

Dusting

Avoid feather dusters. Feather dusters tend to upset the dust and put the dust back into the air. Instead, use a slightly moist cloth or specially designed dry cloth to wipe, trap, and remove dust on all hard surfaces.

Choose the Right Vacuum Cleaner

Vacuums come in all shapes and sizes and prices. Unfortunately when it comes to vacuums you get what you pay for. Many vacuums suck up the dust and then spew it back out into the air. You should make sure that the vacuum has a HEPA filter and is well made with tight seals around openings so that no dust can be leaking out of the vacuum as you are using it. Make sure the vacuum is easy to open and empty so that when you are emptying a full vacuum the particles of dust and dirt are not entering the air again.

Cleaning Products

When choosing a cleaning product make sure you are reading labels and purchasing cleaners that are non-toxic with little to no odor. Avoid aerosol products as they are another potential irritant.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

How Made in the USA is Making a Comeback in the Home Air Purification Market



It is surely not be cooincidence that satirical documentary king Michael Moore has seen his popularity grow over the last decade or two wince his debut hit "Roger & Me"  

 As difficult it is to believe, that film is nearly a quarter century old. It is probably harder to believe that the job losses from GM's outsourcing highlighte in the movie, left the Flint area at a job level that would be widely praised today.

From my home base near Detroit, I have witnessed the new economy in all the bad it has with it. This is not to say, the new economy is all bad.

 Yet when you look at the sheer amount of quality manufacturing jobs that have left our area, it is impossible to miss how all of the losses have crippled so many communities.  Start with the people who lost the American dream of a good wage, benefits and a retirement for life and look at the univeral vibrational ills on large markets like retail and real estate. It has been sad to witness.

The losses are frightening and the future frighteningly uncertain.

Amidst this there actually have been companies that have continued to make real things on US soil and have remained prosperous in the face of predicted doom.

Why What You Were Saying About the Vornado AQS 500 Matters



One of the great things about my job is that affords me the chance to explore the inner workings of some of the most prominent business thinkers in a cross-section of industries. 

 I freely admit that I don't have the strongest of business backgrounds. So I am fascinated by those who seem to create great success in business development. 

I have written recently about Vornado Air out of Kansas. For those of you who aren't familiar with Vornado, here's a quick background.

The company brand has been around since the 1940s, but it began it's rise to a leader in commercial and residential comfort air applications in 1989.  Many of you may remember that this was a time of definite tribulation in the old industrial economy.

Free trade was aggressively making it's way into popularity in the United States. Soon you had NAFTA and GATT among many new agreements which opened up markets. One consequence was that borders were opened for the practice of making goods in a country with decidedly cheaper labor and then shipping them to the US market for sale. 

In terms of cost, domestic manufacturers were getting squeezed and forced off shore for production. This trend heated up in the 1990s and 2000s as the downside of outsourcing became widely apparent in large job losses in the domestic manufacturing.

Vornado is Looking to Remake the Standards and Expectations of the American Consumer



Very recently, I was handling my usual Saturday morning chores. You know the stuff we all do and we always tend to do on Saturday and not any other day of the week. We do light clean up around the house, pay some bills, fold clothes or maybe prepare a breakfast with more care than we could have during the week.

The TV was on as is the habit of many of us. The report was about President Barack Obama's weekly address to the country.

The news agency (I think it was CNN?) said that the President was focusing on products made in the USA and promoting them as viable alternatives for purchase. Apparently, the phrase that is now coined for buying American and therefore supporting more American jobs was "insourcing."

This was a clever take on the scary concept of "outsourcing" that has been such a huge part of the vocabulary of the new economy. It has been taken always in a negative way.  

To many folks who rely on a sound economy and the availability of good paying jobs, it has meant a dire threat to the middle class way of life. 

The President's statement about buying American and insourcing is not the first time the concept of buying American and the benefits of doing it have been discussed by important policy makers. 

Monday, January 16, 2012

Dust Mite Allergy Solutions - Effective Home Eco-Cleaning Guide



Dust mite allergy problems are rising steadily. Unwelcome mites just love our warmth and hospitality because we feed them and keep them nice and warm in our beds and pillows at night. This is not the most appetising of conversations to bring up before dinner, but it's one that needs to be addressed quickly and effectively, because the common dust mite is becoming much more of a problem in every home than ever before. This is no fun for the millions that endure dust mite allergy symptoms like sneezing, a running nose, nasal congestion, streaming eyes, skin rash and breathing difficulties.

Nearly 33% of the population in the UK have some type of allergy, and there is no sight of this trend slowing down. Dust mites are microscopic critters that originate from the 'arachnid' or spider family of insects, and they are responsible for over half of all household allergies in the UK. Allergy UK maintain that over 20 million UK residents have some form of allergy.

There is no doubt about it - we must banish these unhealthy and unwelcome visitors from our home. They love to take up residence in our carpets, pillows, mattresses, sofa, and especially everywhere around the bedding area - oh yes! and in it too. Removing dust mites and harmful allergens in your bedroom dramatically reduces allergy symptoms and improves your health.

So how do we get rid of those '0.02mm' micro sized mites from our home? You will never completely get rid of them all from your home, but you can reduce their numbers to such an extent that you will find that your breathing at home becomes much easier, and those with allergies will find a marked reduction in the severity of allergy symptoms that they normally endure on a daily basis.

Avoid Chemicals For Dust Mites
Dust mite allergy symptoms can be difficult to cope with, but never find yourself tempted to use any chemical based cleaning solutions in your home, as this will simply add or multiply the amount of allergens and chemicals that are potentially inhaled by members of your family.

Carpeting in your home is the best place to start, because dust mites like to bury themselves in the warm, humid pile. If your home is wall to wall carpeting throughout, then there will be billions upon billions of them breeding in the carpet fabric. Many of those with allergies prefer rugs scattered around on wooden floors, because you can take them out to the garden and use a carpet beater to get all of the dust and debris out quickly and effectively. House dust mites prevention is also important. Tiled or wood flooring is an option worth consideration if your symptoms do not improve with cleaning.

Effective Dust Mite Vacuums
Start dusting your room from top to bottom so that it all falls on the carpet. Wipe off dust from tables, furnishings etc. Next you will need a competent HEPA vacuum cleaner to give the carpet a thorough clean. This should trap a high proportion of dust and their mites/faeces in the filter. Do not buy a HEPA vacuum if it does not have 'EN1822' authentication.

Many unscrupulous vacuum manufacturers will not divulge this information, and try to pass off an inferior HEPA vacuum as a 'true HEPA' cleaner. To be very honest about vacuums now, there is no point in buying a cheap vacuum cleaner, because they are more likely to emit more of the debris and dust that they pick up back into your home atmosphere - which defeats the whole purpose of dust particle retention.

I could ramble on all day about the importance of purchasing a high quality vacuum cleaner for your home. My opinion is that if you suffer from dust mite related allergies, you must have one of the better micro filtration or S-Class filter vacuum cleaners for your home. They are very effective in trapping the tiniest particles from your carpets and your home atmosphere. 'British Allergy Foundation' seal of approval vacuum cleaners are worth your consideration too as they have been tested for their filtration qualities, and how well sealed the unit casing is for minimal leak back of unhealthy particles.

Yes, Sebo and Miele vacuums are more expensive than others, but they are quality machines that you can rely on for years and years. Even if you do not suffer from dust mite allergies - it's still wise to buy a vacuum cleaner that traps over 99.98% of all dust, pollen, smoke particles, tiny hairs and those invisible pollutants that float into every home. Vacuums with a high filtration technique literally clean the surrounding air in your room as you vacuum your carpet. Invisible dust and chemical particles are filtered through the machine, ensuring that you do not inhale dusty, stale or used air.

Some people buy 3 cheap vacuum cleaners in 1 year because they break down after a short time, and they usually come with no warranty to fall back on. A premium vacuum manufacturer will supply you with a high quality cleaner and a long guarantee at the same time. Therefore you will always be in possession of a competent vacuum that gets fixed immediately if something goes wrong.

You really can't afford to buy cheap, especially when you or your family's health is in question. We spend most of our time at home, and we really should be sitting in a clean, fresh, hygienic atmosphere breathing in nothing but pure fresh air, rather than enduring nasty dust mite allergy symptoms.

Steam Clean Dust Mites
After you have dusted and vacuumed your entire home - it's time to get out the steam cleaner. There really is no better way to clean your home than with the natural power of pure, hot, dry steam without any caustic cleaning solutions that are on sale in the supermarket. There are some fantastic steam cleaners on the market that efficiently manage carpets, upholstery and hard flooring. Steam cleaning in your home is environment friendly, safe, and yields effective dust mite allergy relief. It effectively kills dust mites and eliminates allergens and chemicals, leaving very high indoor air quality. Many modern steamers come with every accessory that you need to clean your home from top to bottom.

Look for those with the 12 - 15 piece accessory set which enables you to steam the following - Windows, mirrors and glass, clean grout in between tiles, porcelain sinks, chrome objects, shower doors, plastic glass fittings, curtains, lamp shades, mattresses, bedding, all round the bed area, vinyl fabrics, synthetics materials, cotton and leather upholstery, window blinds, kids cuddly toys, cooker surfaces, oven interiors, garden furniture, jewellery, straighten out wrinkles on your favourite clothing, vegetation, clean algae on decking and exterior wooden surfaces.

Always use as little water or moisture as possible when applying to any surface, especially the carpet as this will take longest to dry naturally. Let dry naturally and ventilate your rooms for as long as you can. Most good steam cleaners come with a full set of instructions guiding you best on how to clean practically anything you desire in your home.

After you have vacuumed the entire house and finished steam cleaning curtains, carpets, soft furnishings etc - and everything has dried sufficiently, you will have a much fresher, cleaner, more hygienic home to enjoy with all the benefits that comes with living in a healthy atmosphere, free of dust mite allergy problems, stale air and allergens.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Cholinergic Urticaria - How To Manage And Get Relief



It's called exercise-induced hives many times, because one of the triggers is physical activity, categorizing cholinergic urticaria in the bracket of physical hives. Running, walking, lifting, exercising; almost any form of physical activity that can increase body temperature can trigger an outbreak.

Different activities can change your body by different amounts of degrees, and depending on the momentum and vigor that you conduct them with, can also influence your internal body heat.

Sometimes cholinergic urticaria is referred to as heat hives, because other factors can activate it. Spicy foods are one of the most common reasons people break out. Emotional triggers also play a contribution in the outbreaks. Anxiety, anger, extreme laughter and even blushing can all cause cholinergic urticaria to raise it's ugly head.

The word cholinergic as described in any medical dictionary means "related to acetylcholine". This is a parasympathomimetic, meaning an action caused by the stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system.

With cholinergic urticaria, a heat trigger of some kind causes the body to release acetylcholine at the nerve endings in the skin, leading to a hives-like reaction.

Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter in both the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, and it has many functions, but one is to help in muscle contraction.

Unfortunately, this subject matter is so complex that many doctors and scientists are not exactly sure what really causes a person to have a hives reaction to their own body heat or even sweat.

Many things have been suggested, such as possible autoimmune disorders and even blood disorders.

Managing Cholinergic Hives When It's Caused By Stress

The real treatment at this time is management of this strange form of skin hives. One thing that is noted is that stress seems to play a huge role in people with heat hives, especially amongst teenagers.

Stress management is a serious option to consider if you can determine that your skin reactions are due to being overwhelmed, anxiety, anger or general emotional feelings from current events in your life.

It is more than just possible for a person who struggles with cholinergic urticaria to get relief by countering the stress trigger; using breathing techniques, relaxation strategies and stress management techniques.

The reason this is important, is because stress causes a defensive mechanism in your body to activate. When this happens, your "fight or flight" response is triggered, and your core body temperature can increase.

An increase in dermis (shell) or core temperature can trigger an outbreak if you suffer with cholinergic urticaria.

Assessing Your Diet - Are Spicy Foods The Problem?

Eating spicy foods can also elevate your temperature. These mainly include hot peppers, but also root vegetables that cause your body to rise in temperature in order to digest.

Also, foods that are heated can cause an episode of hives. Liquids such as hot chocolate, coffee, and warm soups can raise your temperature, especially if consumed too quickly.

Many foods activate a process known as thermogenesis, which causes your body to produce heat during the digesting process of certain edible items. Some will have a thermogenic effect on the body a little more than others, and although eating foods that are high in the thermogenesis process is great for weight loss, it can trigger itching, stinging and burning skin sensations in people who have cholinergic urticaria.

Internal Body Temperature Control

Thermogenesis, thermoregulation and emotional state can influence the temperature within your body as well. It's very important to understand all of these triggers so that you can cut them off at the pass.

Light, physical activity can cause an episode with cholinergic urticaria, but obviously more strenuous and intensive exercise will make matters worse.

Some people who have C.U. also have poral occlusion, which means that they struggle with sweating because of blocked sweat glands. As a result, toxins build up in the system which can cause a whole plethora of problems for your body.

Some cholinergic urticaria patients choose to exercise through the itching and stinging skin sensations so that they can get a good sweat out. You have to be careful in doing this, because over-doing this process can cause your body to go into shock.

Sweating through the urticaria seems to help a lot of people who have C.U. though.

External Body Temperature Control

Environmental temperature change is one of the biggest factors to keep in mind. Outside temperatures, hot water (either consumed or bathed in), thermostat settings and even the clothing you wear, how much of it is worn, and fabric materials are required to understand in order to manage cholinergic urticaria.

You may find that using sweat wicking shirts when doing exercise really helps. These draw the fluids away from your skin, and they are fairly effective in doing so.

Also consider using a dehumidifier for your office or home environment. This will keep the humidity at bay and help you exist in a habitable environment.

Finally, cool compresses work very well if you feel an outbreak of hives coming on. There are many different ways to make these, and you can even combine herbs and essential oils that have skin healing & soothing benefits.

To make one is simple. Just take a clean, cotton cloth and dip it into a bowl of water. Whether you want to include some herbs or oils is up to, but those would go in the water as well.

Normally water compresses are made very hot, but there are cold ones as well; making simple use of cooler water. This method is not appropriate for people with aquagenic urticaria (water hives), but is helpful for people who struggle with cholinergic urticaria.

Friday, January 6, 2012

A complete overview of fungal skin infections and treatments



Fungal skin infections are known to be one of the most stressful conditions caused by certain types of fungi. Though most of the fungi are harmless and reside in our skin, if an individual's immune system gets weak or the fungus undergoes a change, an infection can occur. Usually, most fungi target the skin to thrive on a protein abundantly found in the hair, skin, and nails, keratin. Scabies is a common skin condition that can affect people of any age group. Dermisil Scabies is a best remedy for taking care of painful situation due its symptoms. These infections can be contagious and are found superficially on the top layers of the skin. Yeast and dematophytes are the two types of fungi that can cause these infections. Let's discuss about them individually to get a clear picture of how and when these skin infections can be treated:

Yeast infections

Intertrigo – Moisture on the skin is one of the main reasons of intertrigo that mainly occurs in skin folds. Candida albicans is a type of yeast that can cause this infection. Red scaly edges with shiny lashes can appear on these folds and then spread to other areas. Even a pus-like discharge can be seen with bumpy skin patches. Topical antifungal creams and powders can help in treating this condition.

Natural Allergy Relief - Squashing Allergies and Their Symptoms



Allergies: Cough, Cough, Sneeze, Sneeze, Ohh what a relief!! NOT........

Having allergies can be one of the most annoying conditions you can have the pleasure of being blessed with. Your head is clogged or nose is running a marathon, your eyes are watery or itchy and you have been blessed so many times you would think God himself had heard you sneezing. It makes your day miserable and most medications you can take will only make you sleepy.

Allergies can be caused from almost anything, mold, dust, pollen from trees or flowers, animal fur, insect bites, household chemicals and more to list the most common. The excess of mucus can be caused by a poor diet and even stress can bring allergies on. To get rid of allergies naturally with no side effects, we suggest some of the following remedies and then changing your diet for continued prevention.

For relief of your allergies you can go to any local health food or herbal store and pick up these herbs. You should pick the one that fits you best and if you don't see improvement within three days discontinue and re-evaluate your symptoms and back to the drawing board. Use the remedy that best fits your symptoms. Again, only choose one remedy for three days before trying another. Stop taking remedy as soon as you experience relief.

Allium Cepa- If you have burning, watery eyes and a runny nose. Your symptoms feel better outside in the open air.

Euphrasia- Can be taken if you're experiencing burning teary, red eyes. You can also use Eye-Bright, 5 drops ratio to ounce saline for your irritated eyes. Apply twice daily.

Sabadilla- Take this if you suffer from repeated "ah choo's" i.e. sneezes and runny nose.

Histaminum- Are you experiencing normal allergy symptoms which have a sudden onset? This helps!!!

Natrum Muriaticum- Take this if you sneeze at the sun and get re-occurring cold sores. Craving salt might also be a concern for you.

Silica- Can be used when upper respiratory problems develop into an infection, do you feel irritable and tired??? Silica screams "USE ME!"

Nux Vomica- You may wake up sneezing and crave stimulants such as tobacco or sweets.

Arsenicum Album- You will have burning eyes and constant runny nose causing red and sore irritation under the nose. You are sensitive and have many allergies.

Lycopodium- For people with only one-sided nasal congestion and throat issues. If you are in this category, you might also experience bloating after meals.

Pulsatilla- Do your allergies get worse in warm conditions or have a lot of congestion at night. This one is definitely for you...

Stinging nettles - For Hay Fever.

I would also suggest taking 1,000 mg of Vitamin C which is a natural anti-histamine, three to five times daily. If this gives you diarrhea you can decrease the dosage or try taking Quercitin. Also, Butterbur has been studied and found to be better than Allegra and comparable to Zyrtec. In the evening, take a hot bath with Chamomile or Lavender to induce sweat and clean out toxins.

Now that you have gotten rid of the symptoms of your allergy, try some of these dietary changes to prevent further episodes.

We Recommend:

Increase your whole grains. This is something we should all be doing anyway.

Increase you intake of fresh vegetables and fruits to help with detoxification. You might try a 3 day vegetable juice fast for best results.

Cold pressed oils and raw seeds and nuts.

You will need to increase your lean protein such as seafood and tofu.

Drink all the water you can. This will cut mucus secretions.

Take flaxseed or flaxseed oil to reduce inflammation, 2 tablespoons every day.

We do not recommend:

Dairy products, fried foods or processed foods, refined flours, chocolate and eggs. Dairy only makes mucus secretions thicker.

Cut down on fats and oils and trans-fatty acids.

We also have many products in the surrounding areas of this page; please click on any of these remedies for reoccurring symptoms and relief remedies.