Darrell Miller asked:


When fall and winter arrive, does it seem like you always get sick? Don’t fear the changing seasons anymore – there is help. One of the most effective way to reduce the frequency of colds is by washing your hands on a regular basis. Studies have suggested that by washing your hands can reduce your chances of getting a cold by 50%. (1,2) Other ways of protecting your body from the dreaded yearly cold or flu is by taking an herb called echinacea.

Echinacea (pronounced eck-in-AY-sha) is a safe and effective herb to help the body fight off colds or prevent them entirely. When Echinacea is combined with other herbs that boost the immune system, you will get even greater cold and flu protection. (3,4)

You might be wondering what the difference is between having a cold and having the flu. Both have similar symptoms but very in severity. If you have a cold, you may experience sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, and runny nose. These symptoms usually last a week or so and make life miserable for a short time. With the flu, symptoms start out like a cold but taking a turn for the worst and escalating rapidly. Symptoms can consist of fever, chills, headache, dry cough, sore throat, runny and stuffy nose, severe fatigue, weakness, body aches, and muscle pain. The fever, muscle pain, and aches may go away in a few days with the flu, but the tiredness and fatigue can last weeks.

There are over 200 different viruses known to cause the flu. (1) Influenza viruses are classified by types. Type A, B, or C, each type is capable of causing the flu. People tend to catch a cold when the weather is cool and wet. When it is cold and wet outside, people tend to stay indoors more and more close contact with others pass the flu virus from person to person.

You might wonder why there is not a cure for the common cold or flu. The flu virus continually mutates and changes each year making it difficult to fight. With the increased use of antibiotics these viruses have managed to build up an immunity making it harder to fight every year. Research has developed over-the-counter (OTC) medicines to help treat the common cold or flu, but consuming such medicines might prolong the length of the disease and increase the length of the misery. There are also potential side effects of using OTC cold and flu medications. (5,6)

There are a variety of OTC medications available today such as decongestants to dry up the runny nose and relieve sneezing and watery eyes. For those aches and pains there is acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen. Aspirin and ibuprofen can help bring down a fever. Both of these fever reducing products come at a cost, they can cause gastrointestinal upset. (7,8) Also, aspirin should not be given to children because it has been linked to the development of Reye’s syndrome, a rare and possibly fatal illness. (1,2)

Acetaminophen used over a long period of time can cause liver and kidney failure. Daily doses of no more than 4000 mgs should be taken to prevent any kind of complications with acetaminophen. Decongestants can cause all sorts of problems such as high blood pressure, accelerated heart beat, heart palpitations, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, anxiety, and insomnia. Decongestants can increase the length of nasal congestion so use should be limited if possible. (9,10) The common cold or flu can leave you suffering if left untreated, but nobody wants to prolong the symptoms. Lucky for us there is another answer, echinacea, cedar leaf, and wild indigo root are natural remedies that can help reduce the severity and length of the common cold.

Contrary to the medical establishment’s belief, herbal extracts are really effective for colds and flu. Echinacea is one of the most effective remedies on the market today. This plant has a beautiful purple cone flower in the summer and helps treat common cold symptoms along with reducing infections after being exposed to them. (11)

Back when settlers came to America, they had trouble the first winter and the Native Americans inhabiting the land showed them echinacea to treat illnesses and injuries. Knowledge of herbs was passed down to settlers who discovered its ability to treat the common cold and flu. In 1920, doctors were prescribing echinacea and other herbs to help heal the body, but in the 1930s sulfa drugs came out and herbal remedies were quickly forgotten. Echinacea gave way to antibiotics to treat colds and flu in America, but over in Europe herbs are still used regularly. Scientists in Germany continued to study echinacea and its properties, now there are over 280 commercial preparations containing echinacea in Germany. (12) Also, in Germany a discovery was made by combining white cedar leaf and wild indigo root with echinacea, combined to increase immune system health which helps one fight off the common cold and flu.

Herbal extracts gained more interest in the early 1960’s where echinacea gained a loyal following ever since. To date echinacea continues to be and impressive herb against colds and flu. There are three varieties of echinacea available in your health food store. These popular varieties are echinacea angustifolia, echinacea purpurea, and echinacea pallida. Most studies done on echinacea were the purpurea and pallida variety.

Because echinacea works so well, there has been quite a bit of research done to discover why it helps so well with colds and flu. Antibiotics kill the disease that causes sickness, echinacea on the other hand boosts the immune system, to be specific echinacea boosts the production of macrophage an aspect of the immune system that engulfs bacteria and viruses killing them. Macrophage is the body’s first defense against invading bacteria and viruses. Echinacea also helps enhance the function of monocytes, blood cells that mature into macrophage. Echinacea boosts the number of natural killer (NK) cells and those cells activity in the body. NK cells are programmed to seek out and kill invading bodies such as viruses.

Echinacea also boosts the production of Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferons. Along with echinacea, white cedar leaf and wild indigo both boost the production of TNF, macrophage and interferon production in the body.

Safety might be a concern to those who are considering echinacea, white cedar leaf and wild indigo as a remedy. The German Commission E recommends (GCE) the use of these herbs only if you do not have an autoimmune disease such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, tuberculosis, HIV, or AIDS. Because these herbs boost the immune system, one with the above autoimmune diseases would not want over activation of their immune system which might progress the disease. Allergic reaction may occur in some who are allergic to rag weed or plants in the sunflower family. The GCE also recommends short term use of echinacea no more than 6 weeks. Wild indigo and white cedar leaf do not have this limitation and can be taken year round.

The amount of echinacea consumed by an individual should be measured by the age of an individual. For adults and children over 12, one should consume 7.5mg of standardized echinacea 3 times a day to fight a cold. White cedar leaf should be taken in 2 mg doses 3 times a day and wild indigo should be taken in 10 mg doses 3 times a day as well.

If you are around someone who has a cold, remember to wash your hands on a regular basis and the dosing of herbs mentioned above can be followed to help fight off a cold before it starts. Echinacea is used more often then any other herb in the United States this is because it works. Do not worry if you have not gotten a flu shot, there is hope in herbs such as echinacea, white cedar leaf and wild indigo root that can help boost your immune system to keep you strong and healthy throughout the cold season. These and many other wonderful herbs can be found at your local health food store.

References:

1. The Common Cold. National Institutes of Health Web site. Available at: www. niaid. nih. gov/factsheets/cold.htm. Accessed on April 30, 2001.

2. Flu. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site. Available at: wwwcdc. gov/ncidod/diseases/flu/fluinfo.htm. Accessed April 30, 2001.

3. Wustenberg R, Henneicke-von Zepelin HH, Kohler G, Stammwitz U. Efficacy and mode of action of an immunomodulator herbal preparation containing echinacea, wild indigo, and white cedar. Adv Ther. 1999;16:51-70.

4. Henneicke-von Zepelin HH, Hentschel C, Schnitker J, Kohnen R, Kohler G, Wustenberg P. Efficacy and safety of a fixed combination phytomedicine in the treatment of the common cold (acute viral respiratory tract infection): results of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre study. Curr Med Res Op. 1999;15:214-227.

5. Karch AM, Karch FE. Let the user beware. OTC drugs aren’t necessarily ’safe when taken as directed.’ Am J Nurs. 2001;101:25.

6. Ornato JP. Over-the-counter stroke? Health News. 2000;6:3.

7. Hirschowitz BI, Hawkey CJ. Questions regarding future research on aspirin and the gastrointestinal tract. Am J Med. 2001;110(Suppl):S74-S78.

8. Hunt RH, Bowen B, Mortensen ER, et al. A randomized trial measuring fecal blood loss after treatment with rofecoxib, ibuprofen, or placebo in healthy subjects. Am J. Med. 2000;109:201-206.

9. Graf P. Adverse effects of benzalkonium chloride on the nasal mucosa: allergic rhinitis and rhinitis medicamentosa. Clin Ther. 1999;21:1749-1755.

10. Graf P. Rhinitis medicamentosa: aspects of pathophysiology and treatment. Allergy. 1997;52:28-34.

11. Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Echinacea. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice. Binghamton, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press; 1999: 253-257

12. Foster S, Tyler VE. Echinacea. In: The Honest Herbal. Binghamton, NY: The Haworth Press; 1999:143-145.

Delora Rose asked:


Is there an acne remedy that really works is a question that has been asked a million times. Do medications work? Does diet affect my finding a real acne remedy? Is there only one true acne remedy?

After dealing with people on a professional level and on a personal level (yes, acne is in my home also) there isn’t just one way to treat acne. But when you are looking for a quick acne remedy, there are tips that if you follow, you will alleviate 90% of what you are experiencing.

Some of the following suggestions may seem trivial but they are probably the most important when finding an acne remedy. Try all of these and then you’ll understand that sometimes it’s the simple things that are the best.

1. Wash your pillow case daily. If possible, wash your sheets every couple of days. Hang to dry outside if possible. If that can’t happen, then use the hottest setting on your dryer.

2. A great acne remedy is to make sure you wash your face with an anti-bacterial soap or acne cleanser (a gentle one) at least twice a day. Try to find a product with aloe vera in it. It is amazing for your skin.

3. Only use products which contain benzoyl peroxide.

4. To help with your acne remedy, only use cosmetics that are hypoallergenic.

5. Do not touch or rub your face with your hands. Your hands are full of oils and usually have a lot of bacteria on them. When washing your hands, only use an anti-bacterial soap or wash and make sure you wash them many times during the day.

6. At least once a day, run very hot water in the shower and let the bathroom fill up with steam. Sit there for at least 10-15 minutes. The steam opens and cleans your pores and is a wonderful acne remedy.

7. Don’t drink milk. It aggravates your acne.

8. Stop using sugar and sugar substitutes. This robs precious vitamins from your body which is trying to battle this condition.

Lastly, finding an effective acne remedy has a lot to do with what we consume and put into our bodies. Many women use birth control pills which can greatly affect their acne condition and therefore there is a greater difficulty in finding an acne remedy. Try changing pills or using one that is not as many milligrams. This will make a big difference in treating your acne condition.

Some doctors may also recommend using antibiotics for an acne remedy. We wouldn’t suggest that unless your acne is very severe. Problem is that once you stop taking the antibiotics your acne will return. Also, using antibiotics in this way creates a resistance to them in your body which is not a good thing in the long term.

If you follow the above regime exactly, you will find that they are perfect for an acne remedy. Every day you will find that your acne clears up a little more. Stick with it and before you know it, you’ll be acne free.

Robert. Wood asked:


This is the third part of a guide to avoiding the MRSA superbug. MRSA is an infection that is more dangerous than similar illnesses because it is resistant to normal treatment. MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (SA). SA is a type of bacteria and the fact that it is methicillin-resistant means it cannot be treated with antibiotics such as penicillin.

MRSA is no more infectious than other types of bacteria however, and one in three of us carry on our skin or in our nose. It causes skin infections such as boils, styes and impetigo, but is only really dangerous if it gets into the bloodstream when septicemia, joint problems and heart and lung infections can result. It spreads through physical contact, but generally only infects people with a weakened immune system. Hospital in-patients, particularly the elderly, newborn babies, and those with health problems such as diabetes, cancer or HIV/AIDS are most at risk.

How is MRSA diagnosed?

MRSA is diagnosed by testing blood, urine or tissue samples from the infected area. If MRSA bacteria are found, further tests are carried out to decide which antibiotics are most likely to treat the infection effectively. Many hospitals now test everyone who is admitted to see if they carry MRSA. Swabs from skin, the nose, and urine and blood samples will be testes and it can take three to five days for the results to come back. MRSA carriers will still be admitted, but doctors may give them additional treatment to reduce or remove the bacteria.

How is MRSA treated?

How you are treated depends on whether you are infected with the bacteria, or only a carrier of it. If you are infected you will be given the antibiotics that are still effective which are normally given either through injection or through a tube straight into a vein. Most cases require treatment in hospital and antibiotic courses may last for several weeks. If you are an MRSA carrier you may also be treated, particularly if you need to have an operation. If doctors want to remove MRSA before you enter hospital a special antibiotic cream will be applied to your skin or the inside of your nose. You may also need to wash your skin and hair with an antiseptic shampoo and lotion.

How can MRSA be prevented?

MRSA is usually contracted through human contact, often via the hands, so you should also make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after visiting hospital. Staff treating MRSA patients should always maintain high standards of hygiene. Before and after caring for any patient, hospital staff should ensure their hands have been thoroughly washed and dried.

Many hospitals now use antiseptic solutions such as alcohol rubs or gels, and you may find dispensers at entrances and by patient’s beds for use by staff and visitors. Staff should also wear gloves when in contact with open wounds – for example when changing dressings, handling needles or inserting an intravenous drip.

What can I do to stop MRSA?

If you are prescribed antibiotics you should always make sure that you complete the full course so that all bacteria are killed off and none can survive to develop a resistance. If you are in hospital, you should also try to reduce the risk of infection by ensuring your own cleanliness. Always wash after using the toilet, and keep your hands and body clean. Take soap, a flannel and moist hand-wipes with you, as well as your own razor.

If you are concerned about hygiene, then do not be afraid to ask staff, or your visitors, if they have washed their hands. Make sure your bed area is cleaned regularly and report any unclean toilet or bathroom facilities to staff.

Monch Bravante asked:


Never underestimate the power of being small. Many a small thing had been able to put to shame big, formidable challenges quite unexpectedly. Think David and Goliath. In the same way, a group of tiny invaders known as germs can make even the healthiest person become sick when caught unguarded.

We live in an environment full of germs. No matter how frequent you wash your hands or how many times you bathe, you cannot totally get rid of them. They are a multitude of tiny organisms that cause illness. These microscopic body invaders include bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other infectious organisms which could be present in the air we breathe, in the water we drink, or in the water that you use for washing the dishes and taking a bath. They are everywhere, practically in every surface that you can think of.

The following is a list of top ten places where germs may be found waiting for a host to infect:

Public Bathrooms. No matter how sparklingly clean it may appear, virtually any surface in a public restroom carries germs which may include intestinal bacteria, such as E.coli and Enterococcus, both of which cause diarrhea. Sitting on the toilet is not the main source of infection, but from touching the seat, stall door or sink. Germs gain entry into your system when you accidentally touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with an infected hand.

Home Kitchens and Restaurants. When kitchen employees do not practice good hygiene like hand washing especially after using the bathroom, they can easily taint food with fecal matter and, in the process, contaminate the food with infectious bacteria or viruses. Another possible source of infection is when we eat raw food which, at times, could also be tainted with a wide range of bacteria. Even ordering well-done food is not a guarantee against bacterial infections especially when a kitchen worker or waiter handles raw food and then touches your dinner plate.

Workplace. According to a study by University of Arizona microbiologist Dr. Charles Gerba, surfaces used by teachers, accountants, and bankers have the most germs. Phones, desks, and computer keyboards are considered germ magnets.

Airplanes. Having so many people in close quarters for hours at a time is a breeding ground for germs. Upper respiratory infections are common in such cramped quarters because viruses and intestinal bacteria can spread easily during a flight. When someone has a bad cough, the surfaces throughout the cabin and particularly in the lavatory can harbor germs.

Hotels and Motels. Whether there’s truth to the rumor that the bedspreads in hotels are never washed, these are not likely to spread germs. The bigger risk is found in the bathrooms that have not been properly cleaned, contaminated surfaces such as doorknobs or phones. While bed bugs living in the mattress or headboard may not carry the disease, their bites could cause allergic reactions.

Swimming Pool. Water-borne illnesses over the past decade have increased. A pool is easily contaminated when someone with diarrhea goes swimming. Chlorine doesn’t always kill the germs immediately. Cryptosporidium can survive for days even in a properly disinfected pool.

Movie Theaters. This is another close quarter venue that draws many people for a couple of hours. Since viral infections can be contagious a day before symptoms appear, people infected with cold or flu virus may go to the movies without knowing they are sick.

Day Care Centers. Children are prone to getting fecal matter on their hands. Infection occurs when another child plays with a toy that was previously touched by another child’s contaminated hand. This is called fecal-oral transmission, a common source of diarrheal illness in children. Since young kids love to put things in their mouth, shared toys can also become contaminated with saliva.

School. Whenever there are children, hygiene becomes questionable. While school-aged children may have grown out of their thumb or toy-sucking habits, they may be less than concerned about washing their hands when they should.

Doctor’s Office and Hospitals. Since you are sharing a small space with many people who may have infectious illnesses inside a clinic, the waiting room chairs, doorknobs, toys, and even your doctor’s clothing can become contaminated. Those most at risk for picking up germs at the doctor’s office are patients who have some type of medical procedure. Hospitals have a high concentration of germs and vulnerable people in the same place. There is also increased risk of exposure to bacteria that are resistant to treatment with antibiotics.

 

Jacob Cohen-Donnelly asked:


Most people have heard of a Staph infection. A Staph infection is when the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus is on the body and there is an opening of sorts that allow the bacteria to get in. When that happens, an infection can happen. It’s common in hospital settings because of how many different bacteria are going around. For most people, their knowledge of Staph ends with the normal, simple, Staphylococcus aureus.

That would have been the case until a few years ago when suddenly, MRSA became a huge scare to people. People were talking about it as if it the Black plague had come back again. Standing for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA is a mean bacteria that can do a lot more damage to the body because of how resistant it is to so many different types of bacteria. Unlike a normal Staph infection that can be treated with a regimen of antibiotics, MRSA is immune to so many of them.

The symptoms of a breakout of MRSA (or any Staph infection) for that matter starts with simple bumps that appear to be little red pimples. Unfortunately, these can quickly turn into painful, deep abscesses that can only be treated with surgery. That happens if the bacterium stays on the surface of the body. If it gets into the body, it can do tremendous damage to bones, joints, the bloodstream, lungs, and the heart valves. As can be seen, a Staph infection is very serious.

Because of that, it makes perfect sense why people were so petrified of MRSA. In the hospital setting, there is one antibiotic that doctors are known to prescribe called vancomycin. This antibiotic is known for treating resistant germs and is lethal against MRSA. Once again, though, doctors are finding that there are new strains of MRSA popping up that are resistant to vancomycin. Doctors now are treating it by not even administering an antibiotic, but instead, draining abscess caused by the MRSA. If they can drain it, perhaps the MRSA will go away.

The simple truth, though, is that while treating MRSA might seem like the best thing you can do, the reality is: prevention is key. If you can prevent the spread of MRSA rather than worry about it only after you have it, it won’t spread. The trick to preventing the spread of MRSA are the following tips:

• Wear gloves when dealing with a patient that is a potential carrier of MRSA.

• Wash your hands before and after dealing with any patient in case you have MRSA on your hands.

• Wash your own hands often, even if you’re not in the medical field. Proper hygiene can definitely help prevent against it.

These are just three techniques that people suggest will help lessen the amount of cases of MRSA. Because of its severity, people need to do everything they can to try and limit its spread. It is life-threatening if not dealt with appropriately and people have and can die from it. But, if people take proper care in preventing against it, they have nothing to worry about. Until then, though, scientists will continue creating new antibiotics to try and counter this resistant bug.