Allergy - Use Self-Hypnosis To Be Free Of Allergies

I was speaking to friend recently who told me that as we were experiencing the hottest month of April on record and Summer was drawing ever closer, she could feel her hay fever coming earlier than usual this year. She was bunged up, sniffing and snuffling along as she spoke. Without giving too much thought to it, as the conversation went on I made a few unusual references to things... chatting about when we were at school together: "I can remember my parents old house when we were first starting at secondary school, I would open the front door into a large uncongested hallway and I remember always seeing the curtains at the far end flapping and expanding from a strong breeze that was blowing in through an open window, my Mum used to love having the windows open... whenever I want to feel relaxed, I often remind myself of how I can feel less congested, more open, like a breeze flowing through me, whenever I remember how I used to feel then. Do you remember that house? ....." The idea was that while my friend was receptive to me during our conversation, I wanted to get all kinds of imagery into her mind that was going to be a relief from the expected and anticipated negative notion that she was getting her hay fever symptoms earlier this year. When she left me, she was sniffing a lot less! Self-hypnosis and hypnotherapy are not necessarily always an all-out cure for allergies, though I have seen some amazing things happen with their use. Of course, first of all, I recommend seeing a doctor and taking a conventional treatment route - you know I have to say that. I have found that when dealing with an allergy of any kind, when you get your imagination working for you for the better, then you are more likely to start taking control of your symptoms. I want to share with you a really good technique to help you with the process of using your mind to overcome allergies. Follow these few simple steps: Step One: First up then, be in a place where you are not going to be disturbed, get yourself relaxed and concentrate on your breathing. Use any technique that you can to get yourself relaxed and then into a receptive trance-like state. Ideally, go and get a copy of my self-hypnosis book and learn how to really get yourself into a deep state. Tune in to your breathing, engage in the moment and become aware of what you notice - by that, I mean notice the thoughts you are thinking, sense your sensations and just observe yourself in this moment. Then imagine drifting deep inside your mind. Step Two: Having spent a good period of time to get yourself at ease and receptive of mind, imagine now that your mind is scanning through your body. Heighten your awareness of your body. Especially become aware of areas that that are always free from allergy. Notice the qualities of those areas, how do they feel and seem to you? What are the qualities of these parts of you? Then examine parts that are or have been affected by allergies currently or in the past. Make a contrastive analysis of the two. Compare them as much as you can ands of course become as acutely aware of the differences in those parts. Think about the tiniest of changes that used to happen when you were experiencing your allergy. This might sound a bit crazy... Do your best to simulate or imagine in your mind the feeling or signal of your old allergy symptoms coming on. Examine the imagined feelings of those allergy symptoms beginning, then feel it recede. Capturing the sense of, or prelude to, an oncoming allergy symptom is a self-hypnosis technique that is far more useful than the kinds of things many people do when they first sense them - like acknowledging the symptoms and then expecting to have a Summer full of a stuffed up nose and watery eyes, like my friend that I mentioned earlier for example. Use your imagination to control those oncoming sensations and move them away from you, let them abate, imagine them easing off. Like you are stopping them at the root, at their genesis. Practice doing this for a little while... Be in control of the symptoms - Feel these precursors, senses, or signals of old allergic symptoms and then pushing them away is teaching your mind how to be in control of that old allergic reaction, isn't it? Do this step for as much time as you feel you need to really get it mastered. Step Three: With this step, you want to use your imagination and suggestions to yourself for changing your perception of the substances or situations that used to trigger your allergic reaction. Naturally, we want to change the way you react to these triggers. For example, you can change your perception of shaggy dogs to short haired, tidier looking dogs. Maybe you imagine dried, cut grass turning into shredded paper. Or how about dust turning into fresh water spray? In this receptive state, you want your brain and body to respond to the old reactive thing that you used to have a allergy of - in the same way that it responds to things that you are at ease being around. While in this receptive, relaxed state, you might imagine a particular type of flower and then see it change'just as the seasons can change'into a different plant. It may turn into a different flower or it may transform into pieces of tissue paper. Change it into anything that frees you from the old allergic response. Practice with new perceptions, new colours, calming more than tensing, and relaxing more than ever. Spend a few minutes working on these kinds of suggestions and imagery to successfully begin the process of decoding in your mind. What you are doing here is getting to work on preventing allergic reactions to substances by creating new triggers of your own - ones that you can use in the future when you encounter those substances. So that your brain and body react to those old things in a new way! . Step Four: Finally, just go through everything that you have done again. Recap everything during this period of time you have spent inside your mind. Imagine that by thinking it all through again, you reinforce the changes inside your mind. Then, once you are sure that you have absorbed all you need from this session, take a nice deep breath, open your eyes and go about your business, whatever that might be. I recommend that you go and do some different activity straight away. The content of this time inside your mind is going to be far more effective if you don't try to consciously analyse it. Allow your unconscious mind to process what it has done at the deeper level and you can simply enjoy the results. You may notice feeling more calm and feeling more control over your old allergies in the first few weeks of daily practice. Remember to set reasonable goals for yourself. A long suffered problem often takes time to correct. Remember that your progress will depend on your motivation to practice, the severity of your old allergic reaction and the level of belief you have in yourself. Be patient with yourself. Nurture and encourage yourself regularly - the same way you would nurture and encourage a loved one. People that have had allergies have possibly suffered with it for a long time, they often expect it to carry on happening in the same way and so it does... just carry on happening the same way. That is a lot of programming to overcome. You are now investing in long-term relief and exploring the amazing power that you truly have when you learn to use your mind. Often, the longer someone has endured an allergic reaction, the more embedded the allergic reaction may have become. It takes time for some to erase this pattern'but it is not indelible. Adam is a best selling author, consultant and speaker please visit his website for a vast range of personal development resources and to receive your free, instantly downloadable hypnosis session and amazing ebook: http://www.adam-eason.com Thanks. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Eason Allergy - Help I Am Allergic To Penicillin If you are allergic to penicillin then you suffer from allergies Type 1 what is also called Contact Allergies. The immune system overreacts to the beta-lactam molecule found in penicillin. Why the immune system thinks this molecule is harmful to the body is not very well understood and more testing is needed. The overuse of the penicillin 40 years ago for bacterial infections resulted in an increased frequency of allergic reactions to the drug and also created what is known as antibiotic resistance bacterium. Penicillin and Amoxicillin were routinely given for bacterial infections such as ear infections, sinus and upper respiratory infections. Different types of penicillin such as Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Dicloxacillin, Nafcillin, Penicillin V, and Penicillin G were given to target different infections. Since then many new dugs have been developed to treat bacterial infections and a true allergy to penicillin should not be a problem when treating for infections. Penicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic while Amoxicillin is an amino antibiotic. Children may be allergic to Penicillin but may not be allergic to Amoxicillin or visa versa, however care must be taken when using a related type of penicillin for anyone who has reported a history of allergic reaction to penicillin. It is recommended that an alternative class of antibiotic be prescribed. Some types of penicillin will cause reactions that are not normally associated with allergies to penicillin. They include dark or amber colored urine, yellow eyes or skin, and pale stools. If you notice any of these symptoms after taking any antibiotic you should notify you doctor immediately. If you are allergic to penicillin, reactions on rare occasions may cause severe stomach cramps, bloating, vomiting, seizures, pain, unusually bleeding or bruising, or bloody diarrhea and should be treated as quickly as possible. Testing for allergies to penicillin are usually performed with a skin test. The skin is scratched or injected with a small amount of penicillin usually on the forearm or back. If you are allergic to penicillin you will develop a red, raised bump and possibility hives. Only specialized allergy centers are able to perform skin test. Treatments for allergic reactions include antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to relieve the itching and rash. More severe reactions will require treatment with an oral or injected corticosteroid. For life a threatening emergencies then injection of epinephrine administrated at a hospital. If you are allergic to penicillin then it is best to avoid penicillin and similar antibiotics. Tell you doctor about you allergy and he will give you antibodies that are completely unrelated to penicillin. If you have any type of allergy then you should wear a medical alert bracelet that describes your allergy. These items are available over the counter at most drugstores. Mild cases of Allergies Type 1 can be treated with common products such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Pantothenic Acid, Glucosamine, Antioxidants, Allergy Aid, and Quercitin. Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A. Up to one-third of older people can no longer absorb Vitamin B from their food. Vitamin B is needed to form red blood cells and keep nerves healthy. Vitamin C is nature's protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system. Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency. Vitamin E protects the lung tissue from inhaled pollutants and aids in the functioning of the immune system. Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and may give some relief from allergy symptoms. Substances called antioxidants can neutralize free radical by pairing up or binding with the free radical elections thus inhibiting them from damaging cells in the human body. Allergy Aid supplies 9 beneficial Herb's to help provide temporary relief of respiratory allergies. The natural action of these specific Herb's help to open bronchial tubes and ease breathing. Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms. Always consult your doctor before using this information. This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Allergy - Help I Am Allergic To Penicillin

If you are allergic to penicillin then you suffer from allergies Type 1 what is also called Contact Allergies. The immune system overreacts to the beta-lactam molecule found in penicillin. Why the immune system thinks this molecule is harmful to the body is not very well understood and more testing is needed. The overuse of the penicillin 40 years ago for bacterial infections resulted in an increased frequency of allergic reactions to the drug and also created what is known as antibiotic resistance bacterium. Penicillin and Amoxicillin were routinely given for bacterial infections such as ear infections, sinus and upper respiratory infections. Different types of penicillin such as Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Dicloxacillin, Nafcillin, Penicillin V, and Penicillin G were given to target different infections. Since then many new dugs have been developed to treat bacterial infections and a true allergy to penicillin should not be a problem when treating for infections. Penicillin is a beta-lactam antibiotic while Amoxicillin is an amino antibiotic. Children may be allergic to Penicillin but may not be allergic to Amoxicillin or visa versa, however care must be taken when using a related type of penicillin for anyone who has reported a history of allergic reaction to penicillin. It is recommended that an alternative class of antibiotic be prescribed. Some types of penicillin will cause reactions that are not normally associated with allergies to penicillin. They include dark or amber colored urine, yellow eyes or skin, and pale stools. If you notice any of these symptoms after taking any antibiotic you should notify you doctor immediately. If you are allergic to penicillin, reactions on rare occasions may cause severe stomach cramps, bloating, vomiting, seizures, pain, unusually bleeding or bruising, or bloody diarrhea and should be treated as quickly as possible. Testing for allergies to penicillin are usually performed with a skin test. The skin is scratched or injected with a small amount of penicillin usually on the forearm or back. If you are allergic to penicillin you will develop a red, raised bump and possibility hives. Only specialized allergy centers are able to perform skin test. Treatments for allergic reactions include antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to relieve the itching and rash. More severe reactions will require treatment with an oral or injected corticosteroid. For life a threatening emergencies then injection of epinephrine administrated at a hospital. If you are allergic to penicillin then it is best to avoid penicillin and similar antibiotics. Tell you doctor about you allergy and he will give you antibodies that are completely unrelated to penicillin. If you have any type of allergy then you should wear a medical alert bracelet that describes your allergy. These items are available over the counter at most drugstores. Mild cases of Allergies Type 1 can be treated with common products such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Pantothenic Acid, Glucosamine, Antioxidants, Allergy Aid, and Quercitin. Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A. Up to one-third of older people can no longer absorb Vitamin B from their food. Vitamin B is needed to form red blood cells and keep nerves healthy. Vitamin C is nature's protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system. Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency. Vitamin E protects the lung tissue from inhaled pollutants and aids in the functioning of the immune system. Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and may give some relief from allergy symptoms. Substances called antioxidants can neutralize free radical by pairing up or binding with the free radical elections thus inhibiting them from damaging cells in the human body. Allergy Aid supplies 9 beneficial Herb's to help provide temporary relief of respiratory allergies. The natural action of these specific Herb's help to open bronchial tubes and ease breathing. Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms. Always consult your doctor before using this information. This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice. David Cowley has created over 50 articles about the relationship between diseases and vitamins. For other articles on Allergies click on Articles on Allergies and for other articles click on Other Articles Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Cowley Allergy - You May Be in Need of an Allergy Treatment A lot of people are suffering from allergies and simply don't have an idea about it. They sniff and sneeze every ten minutes and still they consider it a "minor cold". This is not the case, and if you are one of them, you should prepare yourself to learn the bare truth: you are perhaps suffering from an allergy. Allergies are something common for nowadays' lifestyle. There are so many people out there suffering from various kinds of allergies. You wonder what they do about it? I may say nothing special. In most cases people just don't realize that they have to treat something and continue dragging their allergies till the end of days. But if you are really thoughtful, you should take certain measures to prevent things from sophistication. There are a lot of various ways to get allergy treatment. Allergy treatment can be done by simply admitting that you suffer from allergy. You should go to your doctor, and talk about it. He or she will surely give you a suitable advice. Allergy treatment can be done with medicines, one of the most popular being Allegra. It treats everything: from minor allergies to greater ones. Allergy treatment is of various kinds and it generally depends on the allergy degree that you are faced to deal with. To establish your type of allergy, you should do allergy testing. It will show you exactly what you are allergic to: whether be cats, dust, smoke, flower pollen and so on. After indication your type of allergy, it is now time to treat it accordingly. After you get the prescription, you should keep to it. If you are allergic to your pet, it would be horrible, of course, but you should admit that it is best to get rid of it and find a better home for the poor animal. If you love it desperately, maybe you should start by keeping it outdoors most of the time. It will definitely help your allergy take off. A lot of people are allergic to dust. This can be solved by just keeping your house clean! You can purchase air purification system for your home, because it keeps the air clean. It will help you get rid of any kind of dust allergy. If you are allergic to pollen, growing flowers in your garden is not a good idea Try to find another hobby that will make for your passion in gardening. There are a number of things you can take up, which are by no means damaging your health. The most important thing when getting an allergy treatment, is to start taking care of yourself. No-one will do it better than you, so you should make the first step on the way towards your health improvement.

Allergy - You May Be in Need of an Allergy Treatment

A lot of people are suffering from allergies and simply don't have an idea about it. They sniff and sneeze every ten minutes and still they consider it a "minor cold". This is not the case, and if you are one of them, you should prepare yourself to learn the bare truth: you are perhaps suffering from an allergy. Allergies are something common for nowadays' lifestyle. There are so many people out there suffering from various kinds of allergies. You wonder what they do about it? I may say nothing special. In most cases people just don't realize that they have to treat something and continue dragging their allergies till the end of days. But if you are really thoughtful, you should take certain measures to prevent things from sophistication. There are a lot of various ways to get allergy treatment. Allergy treatment can be done by simply admitting that you suffer from allergy. You should go to your doctor, and talk about it. He or she will surely give you a suitable advice. Allergy treatment can be done with medicines, one of the most popular being Allegra. It treats everything: from minor allergies to greater ones. Allergy treatment is of various kinds and it generally depends on the allergy degree that you are faced to deal with. To establish your type of allergy, you should do allergy testing. It will show you exactly what you are allergic to: whether be cats, dust, smoke, flower pollen and so on. After indication your type of allergy, it is now time to treat it accordingly. After you get the prescription, you should keep to it. If you are allergic to your pet, it would be horrible, of course, but you should admit that it is best to get rid of it and find a better home for the poor animal. If you love it desperately, maybe you should start by keeping it outdoors most of the time. It will definitely help your allergy take off. A lot of people are allergic to dust. This can be solved by just keeping your house clean! You can purchase air purification system for your home, because it keeps the air clean. It will help you get rid of any kind of dust allergy. If you are allergic to pollen, growing flowers in your garden is not a good idea Try to find another hobby that will make for your passion in gardening. There are a number of things you can take up, which are by no means damaging your health. The most important thing when getting an allergy treatment, is to start taking care of yourself. No-one will do it better than you, so you should make the first step on the way towards your health improvement. Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning lifestyle. Get more information by visiting Allergy Treatment Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Morgan_Hamilton Allergy - Allergy Treatment Millions of Americans suffer from allergies. Many people are afflicted with some type of allergy to all sorts of things, such as environmental allergens, odors, fumes, food, and cigarette smoke are few of the factors. Allergies despite not being diseases can severely affect your health for weeks. Allergy is widespread and affects approximately one in four of the population in the UK at some time in their lives. According to a study each year the numbers are increasing approximately by 5% with as many as half of all those affected being children. Allergy is basically a Greek term which means "other work". The term allergy is used to describe a response, by the body, to a substance, which is not necessarily harmful itself, but results immune responses and reactions that causes symptoms and disease in a predisposed person, causing inconvenience, or a great deal of misery. It occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances. It is a popular form of immune reaction which creates the process of irritating the body through means of itching. Allergy is a common disorder which is virtually affecting more than 50% of the total world population in one way or the other. By allergy the immune system reacts against a substance that it is not supposed to react against, and the reaction is often exaggerated. Allergy often leads to the formation of certain chronic diseases. Allergy may be caused due to weather, dust, food, pollution, animals, flowers, plants etc and the list is quite unending. Objects containing substances that commonly cause allergy are domestic dust, animal hair, household chemicals, chlorine, microorganisms, pollen, nuts, citrus fruits and seafood. Also bacteria and parasites can cause inappropriately strong immune reactions. TYPES OF ALLERGY Allergic reactions are caused by substances in the environment known as allergens. Almost anything can be an allergen for someone. Allergens contain protein, which is a constituent of the food we eat. In fact it is an organic compound, containing nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen, which form an important part of living organism. Allergy varies according to the compound that causes the immunological reaction. An allergic condition also often implies reaction against a combination of several substances. An allergic condition may periodically get better or worse according to the concentration of the allergen in the environment. A typical example is pollen allergy with peaks in the pollination season of grass or trees. An allergic person will often get symptoms from several tissues in the body, but the symptoms are often most prominent at one body part and give very specific symptoms at that site. Broadly speaking, there are only three types of allergies, which affect us commonly. These include: Food Allergies Allergies to food can be mild, like a little tingling in the mouth, but for some people they may be severe, for example causing difficulty in breathing. Food allergies happen when a person's immune system mistakenly diagnoses that something the person is eating is harmful for the body. The most common foods that cause allergies are wheat, soy, peanuts, milk, eggs, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. Symptoms of food allergies include swelling in the throat or other parts of the body, abdominal pain, eczema, dizziness, diarrhea or vomiting. Contact allergies This type of allergy is due to contact with chemicals and fumes, insect bites, allergic contact eczema, leather etc. Symptoms of contact allergy include redness, itchy, deep blisters, scaly patches and weepy skin. Inhalant allergies Inhalant allergy, also known as atopy is caused by allergic reactions to substances in the environment including pets, dust mites, outdoor air pollutants like pollens are the chief allergens. Formaldehydes, molds, occupational allergies etc fall under this category. Symptoms of inhalant allergy include inflammation, sputum secretion and contraction of respiratory system resulting insufficient breath. ALLERGY TREATMENTS Prevention works better than cure in respect of allergy. But when allergy becomes very acute, proper treatment should be meted out to overcome it. Allergy needs proper treatment and medical diagnosis. But most importantly, allergy which is caused due to dust and pollution can be treated by way of avoiding them. It is basically recommended to stay far away from those things which produce allergies Before providing the basic treatment to the allergy patient, the root causes of allergy should be diagnosed correctly. For this purpose, a proper skin test and blood test should be conducted. Through this process the basic cause of allergy can be sorted out and on the basis of it the right treatment allergy could be processed. There are a lot of therapies which has been in practice for overcoming of allergy. Certain alternative medicines like herbal medication, ayurvedic medication, homeopathy and chinese medicines are helpful in treatment of various types of allergies. Besides these, there are also certain aromatic processes which also work wonders in the process of overcoming allergies.

Allergy - Allergy Treatment

Millions of Americans suffer from allergies. Many people are afflicted with some type of allergy to all sorts of things, such as environmental allergens, odors, fumes, food, and cigarette smoke are few of the factors. Allergies despite not being diseases can severely affect your health for weeks. Allergy is widespread and affects approximately one in four of the population in the UK at some time in their lives. According to a study each year the numbers are increasing approximately by 5% with as many as half of all those affected being children. Allergy is basically a Greek term which means "other work". The term allergy is used to describe a response, by the body, to a substance, which is not necessarily harmful itself, but results immune responses and reactions that causes symptoms and disease in a predisposed person, causing inconvenience, or a great deal of misery. It occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to normally harmless substances. It is a popular form of immune reaction which creates the process of irritating the body through means of itching. Allergy is a common disorder which is virtually affecting more than 50% of the total world population in one way or the other. By allergy the immune system reacts against a substance that it is not supposed to react against, and the reaction is often exaggerated. Allergy often leads to the formation of certain chronic diseases. Allergy may be caused due to weather, dust, food, pollution, animals, flowers, plants etc and the list is quite unending. Objects containing substances that commonly cause allergy are domestic dust, animal hair, household chemicals, chlorine, microorganisms, pollen, nuts, citrus fruits and seafood. Also bacteria and parasites can cause inappropriately strong immune reactions. TYPES OF ALLERGY Allergic reactions are caused by substances in the environment known as allergens. Almost anything can be an allergen for someone. Allergens contain protein, which is a constituent of the food we eat. In fact it is an organic compound, containing nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen, which form an important part of living organism. Allergy varies according to the compound that causes the immunological reaction. An allergic condition also often implies reaction against a combination of several substances. An allergic condition may periodically get better or worse according to the concentration of the allergen in the environment. A typical example is pollen allergy with peaks in the pollination season of grass or trees. An allergic person will often get symptoms from several tissues in the body, but the symptoms are often most prominent at one body part and give very specific symptoms at that site. Broadly speaking, there are only three types of allergies, which affect us commonly. These include: Food Allergies Allergies to food can be mild, like a little tingling in the mouth, but for some people they may be severe, for example causing difficulty in breathing. Food allergies happen when a person's immune system mistakenly diagnoses that something the person is eating is harmful for the body. The most common foods that cause allergies are wheat, soy, peanuts, milk, eggs, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. Symptoms of food allergies include swelling in the throat or other parts of the body, abdominal pain, eczema, dizziness, diarrhea or vomiting. Contact allergies This type of allergy is due to contact with chemicals and fumes, insect bites, allergic contact eczema, leather etc. Symptoms of contact allergy include redness, itchy, deep blisters, scaly patches and weepy skin. Inhalant allergies Inhalant allergy, also known as atopy is caused by allergic reactions to substances in the environment including pets, dust mites, outdoor air pollutants like pollens are the chief allergens. Formaldehydes, molds, occupational allergies etc fall under this category. Symptoms of inhalant allergy include inflammation, sputum secretion and contraction of respiratory system resulting insufficient breath. ALLERGY TREATMENTS Prevention works better than cure in respect of allergy. But when allergy becomes very acute, proper treatment should be meted out to overcome it. Allergy needs proper treatment and medical diagnosis. But most importantly, allergy which is caused due to dust and pollution can be treated by way of avoiding them. It is basically recommended to stay far away from those things which produce allergies Before providing the basic treatment to the allergy patient, the root causes of allergy should be diagnosed correctly. For this purpose, a proper skin test and blood test should be conducted. Through this process the basic cause of allergy can be sorted out and on the basis of it the right treatment allergy could be processed. There are a lot of therapies which has been in practice for overcoming of allergy. Certain alternative medicines like herbal medication, ayurvedic medication, homeopathy and chinese medicines are helpful in treatment of various types of allergies. Besides these, there are also certain aromatic processes which also work wonders in the process of overcoming allergies. allergy treatment Health articles Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Admint Allergy - Bed-Wetting in Children For most children who wet the bed there is no need for medical intervention - as there are usually no physiological problems. However, for both the child and their parents it is inconvenient. It is uncomfortable for the child to be wet and cold and to have their sleep interrupted - it can also be embarrassing if the child wants to spend the night with a friend. There is also the extra laundry that needs to be done. Common causes of bed-wetting There are several common causes of bed-wetting and more than one may apply in any given case. They include the child: being very deeply asleep when they have a full bladder during the night. having drinks, quite juicy fruit or cold food before going to bed. taking in too many stimulants such as cola and chocolate - especially in the evening or before going to bed. having urinary tract or vaginal infections. being cold during the night. having weak kidney or bladder tone. not going to the toilet to empty their bladder before going to bed. experiencing psychological factors related to such things as moving house, changing schools, a new baby or just being tired. having food allergies and intolerances. being nutritionally deficient - especially in magnesium, calcium and silicon. Food allergies and other allergic triggers are very common in children who wet the bed. They often have other allergic symptoms and problems such as asthma, eczema and hyperactivity. Often they will be hot and sweaty at night as allergens tend to over stimulate the nervous system - including the nerves that control bladder function. What you can do to help There are many positive things that you can do to minimize and potentially eliminate your child's bed wetting. Many of these causes of wetting the bed can be prevented. Monitor your child's nightly eating and drinking patters. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids early in the day and discourage any after about 5 pm. Check that they go to the toilet before bed and have plenty of bed clothes in cold weather. Keep your child's lower back and abdomen warm by having them wear a cotton undershirt and teaching them to keep this tucked in. However, if they have allergies don't overheat them. Basically, use the causes that are outlined above as a guide to try and see what the underlying problems might be. The following are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection: constant urge to pass urine, painful, burning sensation when passing urine, fever, dull backache, and cloudy or blood stained urine. For further information on urinary tract infections and their treatment consult the Herb-Health-Guide.com/urinary-system.htm. This information is also primarily geared to adults and adjustments will need to be made when considering children - but the basis of the information is essentially the same for adults or children. When dealing with children it is wise to consult a trusted health care professional when you become aware of the signs and symptoms mentioned above. For preference, consult a naturopathic doctor. The following are the symptoms of a vaginal infection: dry, red and itchy vulva and a white discharge. For further information on vaginal infections see vaginal thrush at healthy-vitamin-choice.com/female-reproductive.html. This information is also primarily geared to adults and adjustments will need to be made when considering children - but the basis of the information is essentially the same for adults or children. The same advice concerning consulting a professional applies here too. If allergies are suspected it is important to find out what are the triggers. Common food allergies in children include: eggs, cow's milk and other dairy products, peanuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, chocolate, citrus fruits and juices, food additives and colours. Eliminate the suspect foods from the diet for a few weeks. If it is the cause the problem should be eliminated. If it contributes to the cause, along with other factors, there may or may not be a marked improvement. However, in both cases there will be a heightened response to the food if it is reintroduced. You can also work on strengthening the bladder. The muscle that we release to allow our urine to flow is called the urethral sphincter. It can be released both voluntarily and involuntarily. This muscle can be strengthened by an exercise. To do this you need to teach your child how to recognize the sphincter muscle by having them stop the flow of urine midstream and then allowing the urine to flow again. Have them practice stopping the flow of urine during the day - so that they can recognize what using the sphincter feels like. When they can feel what using the sphincter feels like they can then practice using this muscle at times other than when they are passing urine. Have your child practice using the sphincter muscle 10 times per day and then increase the number of times that they practice to 50. On each contraction of the muscle they should try to hold the contraction for the count of 5 seconds. Before long the necessary tone and control will be available. Additionally, here are some recommended herbs for strengthening the urinary system and reducing any anxiety and tension which might be related to bladder control. They are: 1/2 ounce St John's Wort tincture 1/2 ounce kava tincture 1/2 ounce partridgeberry tincture 1/2 ounce schizandra tincture 1/2 ounce bistort tincture. Combine all the ingredients in an amber glass jar. Have a child (aged between 5 - 9 years) take 1/2 teaspoon twice daily. For a child aged over 9 years give 1 teaspoon twice daily. Another herbal mixture is: 1 ounce horsetail tincture 1/2 ounce agrimony tincture 1/2 ounce sweet sumach tincture Combine all of the ingredients in an amber glass jar. Have a child (aged between 5 - 9 years) take 1/2 teaspoon twice daily. For a child aged over 9 years give 1 teaspoon twice daily. It is important to explain what you want your child to do without making the child feel guilty or burdening them with added anxiety over the situation. Scolding, belittling and punishing a child for bed-wetting is never appropriate. Never commit the poor parenting error of comparing the child's behavior unfavorably with that of a sibling. A child who feels in any way rejected because of their bed-wetting or that they must stop in order to be loved and approved may develop lasting problems that are more difficult to deal with. Dealing with bed-wetting in children over a longer than normal time can be quite exhausting. Use night time 'nappy pants' - so that you don't have the added burden of extra laundry - while dealing with the problems. Try to relax and not let it get you down. This really is quite a common problem and with the above strategies you can ensure that it doesn't last for too long. I hope you find the above useful. Remember that this problem is not insurmountable, is nothing to be ashamed of and it will pass. References Brewin, L. 2002, Natural Health for Children. ABC Books. Hoffmann, D. 2000, The New Holistic Herbal. Element Pub. Mills, S. Y. 1989, The A-Z of Modern Herbalism: A Comprehensive Guide to Practical Herbal Therapy. Thorson. Romm, A. 2000, Naturally Healthy Babies and Children. Storey Books. Shaw, N. 2002, Herbalism. Element.

Allergy - Bed-Wetting in Children

For most children who wet the bed there is no need for medical intervention - as there are usually no physiological problems. However, for both the child and their parents it is inconvenient. It is uncomfortable for the child to be wet and cold and to have their sleep interrupted - it can also be embarrassing if the child wants to spend the night with a friend. There is also the extra laundry that needs to be done. Common causes of bed-wetting There are several common causes of bed-wetting and more than one may apply in any given case. They include the child: being very deeply asleep when they have a full bladder during the night. having drinks, quite juicy fruit or cold food before going to bed. taking in too many stimulants such as cola and chocolate - especially in the evening or before going to bed. having urinary tract or vaginal infections. being cold during the night. having weak kidney or bladder tone. not going to the toilet to empty their bladder before going to bed. experiencing psychological factors related to such things as moving house, changing schools, a new baby or just being tired. having food allergies and intolerances. being nutritionally deficient - especially in magnesium, calcium and silicon. Food allergies and other allergic triggers are very common in children who wet the bed. They often have other allergic symptoms and problems such as asthma, eczema and hyperactivity. Often they will be hot and sweaty at night as allergens tend to over stimulate the nervous system - including the nerves that control bladder function. What you can do to help There are many positive things that you can do to minimize and potentially eliminate your child's bed wetting. Many of these causes of wetting the bed can be prevented. Monitor your child's nightly eating and drinking patters. Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids early in the day and discourage any after about 5 pm. Check that they go to the toilet before bed and have plenty of bed clothes in cold weather. Keep your child's lower back and abdomen warm by having them wear a cotton undershirt and teaching them to keep this tucked in. However, if they have allergies don't overheat them. Basically, use the causes that are outlined above as a guide to try and see what the underlying problems might be. The following are the symptoms of a urinary tract infection: constant urge to pass urine, painful, burning sensation when passing urine, fever, dull backache, and cloudy or blood stained urine. For further information on urinary tract infections and their treatment consult the Herb-Health-Guide.com/urinary-system.htm. This information is also primarily geared to adults and adjustments will need to be made when considering children - but the basis of the information is essentially the same for adults or children. When dealing with children it is wise to consult a trusted health care professional when you become aware of the signs and symptoms mentioned above. For preference, consult a naturopathic doctor. The following are the symptoms of a vaginal infection: dry, red and itchy vulva and a white discharge. For further information on vaginal infections see vaginal thrush at healthy-vitamin-choice.com/female-reproductive.html. This information is also primarily geared to adults and adjustments will need to be made when considering children - but the basis of the information is essentially the same for adults or children. The same advice concerning consulting a professional applies here too. If allergies are suspected it is important to find out what are the triggers. Common food allergies in children include: eggs, cow's milk and other dairy products, peanuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, chocolate, citrus fruits and juices, food additives and colours. Eliminate the suspect foods from the diet for a few weeks. If it is the cause the problem should be eliminated. If it contributes to the cause, along with other factors, there may or may not be a marked improvement. However, in both cases there will be a heightened response to the food if it is reintroduced. You can also work on strengthening the bladder. The muscle that we release to allow our urine to flow is called the urethral sphincter. It can be released both voluntarily and involuntarily. This muscle can be strengthened by an exercise. To do this you need to teach your child how to recognize the sphincter muscle by having them stop the flow of urine midstream and then allowing the urine to flow again. Have them practice stopping the flow of urine during the day - so that they can recognize what using the sphincter feels like. When they can feel what using the sphincter feels like they can then practice using this muscle at times other than when they are passing urine. Have your child practice using the sphincter muscle 10 times per day and then increase the number of times that they practice to 50. On each contraction of the muscle they should try to hold the contraction for the count of 5 seconds. Before long the necessary tone and control will be available. Additionally, here are some recommended herbs for strengthening the urinary system and reducing any anxiety and tension which might be related to bladder control. They are: 1/2 ounce St John's Wort tincture 1/2 ounce kava tincture 1/2 ounce partridgeberry tincture 1/2 ounce schizandra tincture 1/2 ounce bistort tincture. Combine all the ingredients in an amber glass jar. Have a child (aged between 5 - 9 years) take 1/2 teaspoon twice daily. For a child aged over 9 years give 1 teaspoon twice daily. Another herbal mixture is: 1 ounce horsetail tincture 1/2 ounce agrimony tincture 1/2 ounce sweet sumach tincture Combine all of the ingredients in an amber glass jar. Have a child (aged between 5 - 9 years) take 1/2 teaspoon twice daily. For a child aged over 9 years give 1 teaspoon twice daily. It is important to explain what you want your child to do without making the child feel guilty or burdening them with added anxiety over the situation. Scolding, belittling and punishing a child for bed-wetting is never appropriate. Never commit the poor parenting error of comparing the child's behavior unfavorably with that of a sibling. A child who feels in any way rejected because of their bed-wetting or that they must stop in order to be loved and approved may develop lasting problems that are more difficult to deal with. Dealing with bed-wetting in children over a longer than normal time can be quite exhausting. Use night time 'nappy pants' - so that you don't have the added burden of extra laundry - while dealing with the problems. Try to relax and not let it get you down. This really is quite a common problem and with the above strategies you can ensure that it doesn't last for too long. I hope you find the above useful. Remember that this problem is not insurmountable, is nothing to be ashamed of and it will pass. References Brewin, L. 2002, Natural Health for Children. ABC Books. Hoffmann, D. 2000, The New Holistic Herbal. Element Pub. Mills, S. Y. 1989, The A-Z of Modern Herbalism: A Comprehensive Guide to Practical Herbal Therapy. Thorson. Romm, A. 2000, Naturally Healthy Babies and Children. Storey Books. Shaw, N. 2002, Herbalism. Element. Dr Jenny Tylee is an experienced health professional who is passionate about health and wellbeing. She believes that health is not just absence of disease and seeks to actively promote vitality and wellness through empowering others. She encourages people to improve their health by quit smoking, cleansing their body, taking essential, non contaminated vitamin and mineral supplements (from healthproductssite.com) and many other methods, including herbal remedies. She also owns Healthy Living blog. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Jenny_Tylee Allergy - What is CAM? (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a term used to describe a diverse group of healing systems that are not presently considered to be part of mainstream medicine also known as traditional or western medicine. The goal of conventional medicine is to locate the physical source of a particular disease and then remove it or treat or "mask" the symptom. For example, if a patient has some sort of infection, a conventional doctor would probably prescribe a specific antibiotic to kill the invading bacteria. If a patient has an allergy, that patient is usually treated with over the counter or prescription medication to treat the symptoms. For other cases, a patient is given a series of shots that can last many years to teach the body to build up immunity. CAM practitioners, on the other hand, take a more "holistic" approach to healthcare. They believe that health and disease involve a complex interaction of physical, spiritual, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, and social factors. In order to treat a disease or simply promote good health, CAM practitioners treat the whole body by taking all of these factors into account. These practitioners also look at ways to prevent illness or symptoms. In the United States, this holistic approach to health has been labeled "alternative" for a variety of scientific, cultural, and political reasons. When you think about it, traditional medicine in the United States is really the alternative when you consider things like Chinese Medicine which has been practices for thousands of years not a couple of hundred years. In many cases it is very difficult to scientifically test alternative practices, such as acupuncture, in the same way that certain conventional practices, such as medications, are tested. Although alternative therapies are often based on hundreds -- in some cases thousands -- of years of experience, the conventional medical community relies heavily on scientific evidence (rather than clinical experience) when evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a particular therapy. For this reason, many alternative practices that have not been thoroughly tested (or cannot be thoroughly tested) are considered "unscientific" by modern Western standards. Not too long ago, Chiropractic medicine was not covered by most insurance policies. In addition, many non-Western healing practices are not taught in United States medical schools, available to patients in U.S. hospitals, or even covered by health insurance in the country. So typically in the United States, medical professionals treat the symptoms and not the cause or the whole body. They don't usually look at how to prevent the symptoms. If you have a headache, take an aspirin. If you have an allergy, take an anti-histamine. An example of a CAM would be a product called NasalGuard for allergy sufferers. This product creates an invisible electrostatic screen around the nose. Since all allergens have an electrostatic charge, it screens out the allergens and therefore a patient does not get the allergy symptoms. Some patients and doctors even recommend NasalGuard to keep people from catching the cold or flu, as these viruses also have an electrostatic charge and are killed on contact as NasalGuard has an ingredient called Lysine which is proven to kill off these bacteria and viruses. NasalGuard can be used as a Complimentary treatment and sometimes an Alternative treatment. What does complementary medicine and alternative medicine mean? The terms "complementary medicine" and "alternative medicine," although often used to mean the same thing, actually have quite different implications. Complementary medicine refers to medical practices used together with conventional medicine while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. An example of complementary medicine is the use of hypnotherapy together with pain medications to reduce anxiety and enhance relaxation in people recovering from severe burns. Following a special diet rather than taking medications to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an example of alternative medicine. What is integrative medicine? The term "integrative medicine" is often used interchangeably with CAM, but it has a subtle and very important different meaning. Professionals who practice integrative medicine blend appropriate CAM therapies with mainstream medicine rather than simply adding one complementary therapy (such as herbs, for example) to a standard medical treatment. For example, an integrative treatment for Alzheimer's disease may include a combination of the following: 1. Medications that increase certain brain chemicals, 2. Antioxidants (such as vitamin E and ginkgo biloba) that scavenge free radicals, 3. Changes in lifestyle (such as walking programs and relaxation training) to reduce anxiety and improve behavior. 4. Music therapy to bolster the immune system. More and more Americans are becoming familiar with the term "integrative medicine," and studies have found that this blended approach to healthcare is safe and effective for a growing number of medical conditions. What are the basic principles of CAM? Although CAM therapies vary widely, several themes can be traced through them all: - The focus is on the whole person -- physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. - Prevention of illness is a primary concern. - Treatments are highly individualized. - Treatments are aimed at the causes of illness rather than at its symptoms. - Treatments are designed to support the natural healing processes of the body.

Allergy - What is CAM? (Complementary and Alternative Medicine)

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is a term used to describe a diverse group of healing systems that are not presently considered to be part of mainstream medicine also known as traditional or western medicine. The goal of conventional medicine is to locate the physical source of a particular disease and then remove it or treat or "mask" the symptom. For example, if a patient has some sort of infection, a conventional doctor would probably prescribe a specific antibiotic to kill the invading bacteria. If a patient has an allergy, that patient is usually treated with over the counter or prescription medication to treat the symptoms. For other cases, a patient is given a series of shots that can last many years to teach the body to build up immunity. CAM practitioners, on the other hand, take a more "holistic" approach to healthcare. They believe that health and disease involve a complex interaction of physical, spiritual, mental, emotional, genetic, environmental, and social factors. In order to treat a disease or simply promote good health, CAM practitioners treat the whole body by taking all of these factors into account. These practitioners also look at ways to prevent illness or symptoms. In the United States, this holistic approach to health has been labeled "alternative" for a variety of scientific, cultural, and political reasons. When you think about it, traditional medicine in the United States is really the alternative when you consider things like Chinese Medicine which has been practices for thousands of years not a couple of hundred years. In many cases it is very difficult to scientifically test alternative practices, such as acupuncture, in the same way that certain conventional practices, such as medications, are tested. Although alternative therapies are often based on hundreds -- in some cases thousands -- of years of experience, the conventional medical community relies heavily on scientific evidence (rather than clinical experience) when evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a particular therapy. For this reason, many alternative practices that have not been thoroughly tested (or cannot be thoroughly tested) are considered "unscientific" by modern Western standards. Not too long ago, Chiropractic medicine was not covered by most insurance policies. In addition, many non-Western healing practices are not taught in United States medical schools, available to patients in U.S. hospitals, or even covered by health insurance in the country. So typically in the United States, medical professionals treat the symptoms and not the cause or the whole body. They don't usually look at how to prevent the symptoms. If you have a headache, take an aspirin. If you have an allergy, take an anti-histamine. An example of a CAM would be a product called NasalGuard for allergy sufferers. This product creates an invisible electrostatic screen around the nose. Since all allergens have an electrostatic charge, it screens out the allergens and therefore a patient does not get the allergy symptoms. Some patients and doctors even recommend NasalGuard to keep people from catching the cold or flu, as these viruses also have an electrostatic charge and are killed on contact as NasalGuard has an ingredient called Lysine which is proven to kill off these bacteria and viruses. NasalGuard can be used as a Complimentary treatment and sometimes an Alternative treatment. What does complementary medicine and alternative medicine mean? The terms "complementary medicine" and "alternative medicine," although often used to mean the same thing, actually have quite different implications. Complementary medicine refers to medical practices used together with conventional medicine while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine. An example of complementary medicine is the use of hypnotherapy together with pain medications to reduce anxiety and enhance relaxation in people recovering from severe burns. Following a special diet rather than taking medications to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an example of alternative medicine. What is integrative medicine? The term "integrative medicine" is often used interchangeably with CAM, but it has a subtle and very important different meaning. Professionals who practice integrative medicine blend appropriate CAM therapies with mainstream medicine rather than simply adding one complementary therapy (such as herbs, for example) to a standard medical treatment. For example, an integrative treatment for Alzheimer's disease may include a combination of the following: 1. Medications that increase certain brain chemicals, 2. Antioxidants (such as vitamin E and ginkgo biloba) that scavenge free radicals, 3. Changes in lifestyle (such as walking programs and relaxation training) to reduce anxiety and improve behavior. 4. Music therapy to bolster the immune system. More and more Americans are becoming familiar with the term "integrative medicine," and studies have found that this blended approach to healthcare is safe and effective for a growing number of medical conditions. What are the basic principles of CAM? Although CAM therapies vary widely, several themes can be traced through them all: - The focus is on the whole person -- physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. - Prevention of illness is a primary concern. - Treatments are highly individualized. - Treatments are aimed at the causes of illness rather than at its symptoms. - Treatments are designed to support the natural healing processes of the body. Bob Paulson is the CEO of Hanginwaves.com For more information and traditional, Complementary and Alternative Health please visit http://www.hanginwaves.com For more information on how to prevent colds and or allergies please visit http://www.allergyblocker.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bob_Paulson Allergy - How Antihistamines Work For millions of us allergy sufferers, antihistamines ease the annoying discomfort accompanying allergic reactions. Being an allergy sufferer myself, through the decades I have taken both over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines, some of which have been discontinued. Allergic reaction symptoms include nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, headache, and itching indicating sensitization to certain allergens such as pollen, mold, dust, or insect venom. Repeated exposure results in allergic reactions due to antigen-antibody interactions. First, antigens come into contact with lung, gastrointestinal tract, and/or skin tissue, and enter into the bloodstream. Next, mast cells and white blood cells misidentify these as invaders and inappropriately respond by releasing histamines causing tissue injury. The severity of the allergic reaction is directly proportional to the amount of histamine released. Histamines dilate small blood vessels and capillaries, but contract smooth muscles. Responses include decreased blood pressure, increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, constipation or diarrhea, heartburn and nausea, and proteins and fluids leaking from capillaries. Nasal mucous membrane capillaries leaking, result in nasal congestion. Skin capillaries leaking produce hives and swelling resulting in pain and itching. Thankfully all antihistamines block most of histamines effects by competing at histamine receptor sites thereby preventing them from producing an effect on the tissues. Antihistamine drugs prevent, but can't reverse, histamine responses. Some of the general uses of antihistamines include relief from nausea and vomiting, relief from motion sickness, and relief from coughs. Usually antihistamines are administered orally since they are well absorbed in the intestinal tract, or topically, although a few can be given intravenously. To maintain a therapeutic dose, these medicines are given two to four times per day because the liver rapidly metabolizes them. First generation antihistamines, which can be used interchangeably, include chloropheniramine (Chlortrimeton?), diphenhydramine (Benadryl?), and promethazine (Phenergan?). Some of the side effects include nose and mouth dryness, and drowsiness. Some antihistamines are also used as local anesthetics because they depress sensor nerve activity. When taking these antihistamines, it is advisable to not drive or perform hazardous tasks, and not to use alcohol or other drugs. Second generation antihistamines include cetirizine (Zyrtec?), and Loratidine (Claritin?), and third generation antihistamines include fexofenadine (Allegra?), claim to be more selective for histamine receptors and cause less drying or sedating. However, these are contraindicated in patients with hepatic dysfunction, and when taking certain antifungal, antibiotic, and serotonin release inhibitors due to unfortunate deaths. My personal experience with these antihistamines is I did not find the relief I needed. Because of the sedative effect, antihistamines are used in sleep aids like Nytol?, or Tylenol PM?. Because of the drying effect, antihistamines are found in over?the?counter skin ointments/sprays/creams, cold remedies, and cough syrups. However, people with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, urinary retention, increased intraocular pressure, narrow-angular glaucoma, peptic ulcer, or prostatic hypertrophy should not use antihistamines. They are also contraindicated in dehydrated children, nursing mothers, newborn or premature infants. Nonetheless, antihistamines are widely used successfully by millions. In conclusion, antihistamines work by providing us allergy sufferers much needed: relief. ? Debby Bolen

Allergy - How Antihistamines Work

For millions of us allergy sufferers, antihistamines ease the annoying discomfort accompanying allergic reactions. Being an allergy sufferer myself, through the decades I have taken both over-the-counter and prescription antihistamines, some of which have been discontinued. Allergic reaction symptoms include nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, headache, and itching indicating sensitization to certain allergens such as pollen, mold, dust, or insect venom. Repeated exposure results in allergic reactions due to antigen-antibody interactions. First, antigens come into contact with lung, gastrointestinal tract, and/or skin tissue, and enter into the bloodstream. Next, mast cells and white blood cells misidentify these as invaders and inappropriately respond by releasing histamines causing tissue injury. The severity of the allergic reaction is directly proportional to the amount of histamine released. Histamines dilate small blood vessels and capillaries, but contract smooth muscles. Responses include decreased blood pressure, increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, constipation or diarrhea, heartburn and nausea, and proteins and fluids leaking from capillaries. Nasal mucous membrane capillaries leaking, result in nasal congestion. Skin capillaries leaking produce hives and swelling resulting in pain and itching. Thankfully all antihistamines block most of histamines effects by competing at histamine receptor sites thereby preventing them from producing an effect on the tissues. Antihistamine drugs prevent, but can't reverse, histamine responses. Some of the general uses of antihistamines include relief from nausea and vomiting, relief from motion sickness, and relief from coughs. Usually antihistamines are administered orally since they are well absorbed in the intestinal tract, or topically, although a few can be given intravenously. To maintain a therapeutic dose, these medicines are given two to four times per day because the liver rapidly metabolizes them. First generation antihistamines, which can be used interchangeably, include chloropheniramine (Chlortrimeton?), diphenhydramine (Benadryl?), and promethazine (Phenergan?). Some of the side effects include nose and mouth dryness, and drowsiness. Some antihistamines are also used as local anesthetics because they depress sensor nerve activity. When taking these antihistamines, it is advisable to not drive or perform hazardous tasks, and not to use alcohol or other drugs. Second generation antihistamines include cetirizine (Zyrtec?), and Loratidine (Claritin?), and third generation antihistamines include fexofenadine (Allegra?), claim to be more selective for histamine receptors and cause less drying or sedating. However, these are contraindicated in patients with hepatic dysfunction, and when taking certain antifungal, antibiotic, and serotonin release inhibitors due to unfortunate deaths. My personal experience with these antihistamines is I did not find the relief I needed. Because of the sedative effect, antihistamines are used in sleep aids like Nytol?, or Tylenol PM?. Because of the drying effect, antihistamines are found in over?the?counter skin ointments/sprays/creams, cold remedies, and cough syrups. However, people with hypertension, cardiovascular disease, urinary retention, increased intraocular pressure, narrow-angular glaucoma, peptic ulcer, or prostatic hypertrophy should not use antihistamines. They are also contraindicated in dehydrated children, nursing mothers, newborn or premature infants. Nonetheless, antihistamines are widely used successfully by millions. In conclusion, antihistamines work by providing us allergy sufferers much needed: relief. ? Debby Bolen I educate the public about a preventative-based healthy lifestyle and operate my own online business offering the best in whole food health and wellness products. The best method of achieving wellness and optimal weight is by eating healthy and exercising. I am a Registered Nurse. Your Health Issues Decrease Your Weight Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Debby_Bolen Allergy - Factors to Consider When Purchasing an Air-Purifier So you've taken the first step in the decision making process. You've decided to buy an air purifier for your home or office. That was the easy part. Now comes the more difficult chore of actually sifting through all the plethora of product information available on the scores of air purifiers available to you. There are many factors to consider when purchasing an air-purifier. This list of tips will perhaps make it easier for you make your final choice. Which technology? There are multiple technologies in air-purifiers available in the market. There are the mechanical HEPA filers, electronic ionizers, ozone filters, UV filters and gas phase filtration purifiers. No single technology purifier will be effective in removing all the pollutants. Your choice would depend on which type of pollutant you wish to eliminate from your environment. Your best bet would be to invest in a hybrid type air-purifier which is one which combines two or more technologies into a single unit. Consider the noise factor Some air purifiers, like the HEPA filter, due to a motorized fan make a fair amount of noise. Others are completely silent. How much noise are you willing to put up with? This is a personal preference. Do request a demonstration of the model you are purchasing to get an indication of the noise level. Individual air purifiers for each room? Which room would you like to place the purifier in? Or it the whole house that you would like to cover. You can choose between a central air-purifying unit or a portable (one room) unit. The former, as the name suggests cleans all the air in your home through that single unit. This is attached to a central heating or cooling unit of your home. Portable unit, on the other hand services a single room at a time and the main advantage is that is can be moved to another room as the need arises. These are generally found to be more effective. However, depending on the size of the room this may mean buying one or more units for each room. Replacement and maintenance costs Do consider the costs of running and maintaining the product you finally purchase. An expensive air-purifier may actually work out more economical in the long run as it may require less maintenance, like filer changes and servicing, and running costs. Some purifiers have expensive filters but they do not need to be changed that frequently. Filter change intervals vary and depend on the extent of use of the air-purifier and the level of pollution in the air. Do remember to include electricity consumption as part of the running costs!

Allergy - Factors to Consider When Purchasing an Air-Purifier

So you've taken the first step in the decision making process. You've decided to buy an air purifier for your home or office. That was the easy part. Now comes the more difficult chore of actually sifting through all the plethora of product information available on the scores of air purifiers available to you. There are many factors to consider when purchasing an air-purifier. This list of tips will perhaps make it easier for you make your final choice. Which technology? There are multiple technologies in air-purifiers available in the market. There are the mechanical HEPA filers, electronic ionizers, ozone filters, UV filters and gas phase filtration purifiers. No single technology purifier will be effective in removing all the pollutants. Your choice would depend on which type of pollutant you wish to eliminate from your environment. Your best bet would be to invest in a hybrid type air-purifier which is one which combines two or more technologies into a single unit. Consider the noise factor Some air purifiers, like the HEPA filter, due to a motorized fan make a fair amount of noise. Others are completely silent. How much noise are you willing to put up with? This is a personal preference. Do request a demonstration of the model you are purchasing to get an indication of the noise level. Individual air purifiers for each room? Which room would you like to place the purifier in? Or it the whole house that you would like to cover. You can choose between a central air-purifying unit or a portable (one room) unit. The former, as the name suggests cleans all the air in your home through that single unit. This is attached to a central heating or cooling unit of your home. Portable unit, on the other hand services a single room at a time and the main advantage is that is can be moved to another room as the need arises. These are generally found to be more effective. However, depending on the size of the room this may mean buying one or more units for each room. Replacement and maintenance costs Do consider the costs of running and maintaining the product you finally purchase. An expensive air-purifier may actually work out more economical in the long run as it may require less maintenance, like filer changes and servicing, and running costs. Some purifiers have expensive filters but they do not need to be changed that frequently. Filter change intervals vary and depend on the extent of use of the air-purifier and the level of pollution in the air. Do remember to include electricity consumption as part of the running costs! Jack Smith writes about various topics. This article is free to re-print as long as nothing is changed, all links remained intact, the bio remains in full and the rel="nofollow" tag is not added to any of the links. Thank-you - Please visit central-air-purifiers.info Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Smith Allergy - Healing From Within - Healing Allergies "We are responsible for everything in our lives, including how the chemistry in our bodies works or doesn't work." Wayne Dyer's words hit me like a bolt of lightening as I listened to his taped book, You'll See It When You Believe It. Throughout the years, I had suffered tremendously with bouts of allergies and asthma; it wasn't until that moment that I had a confirmation I could eliminate my allergy problems. The asthma attacks had been under control since leaving the mid west where I was born and raised. This move eliminated contact with cattle hair and grain dust and other pollens indigenous to the area, which I had extreme allergic reactions with. I often spoke, to anyone who would listen, about how the mind heals the body or allows the body to become ill. This knowledge was based on my thoughts, reading and research. As I spoke about my 'belief/knowledge' my bouts with allergies hung heavy in my mind. In all of my reading, nothing clicked as a solution until that moment in September 1989. I was 47 years old. As I had learned while studying transactional analysis, Dr. Dyer, also, held the premise: "We are responsible for everything in our lives." "OK, Wayne," I said, "I agree. Now what? How can I take responsibility for the chemistry in my body when my immune system is damaged? My immune system contains chemicals," I reminded myself. "I am responsible for those chemicals doing their job. What am I doing or not doing that is responsible for the chemicals not doing their job?" I asked myself fervently. A few days later I began, in earnest, to be a detective. I revisited myself as an infant in the crib. With much satisfaction and pride, my father has told the story that he knew how to quiet a howling infant. With his hand, big and muscular from working as a cattle rancher, he 'patted my back with three or four hard, quick pats, 'You,' he proudly announced, 'stopped howling. You seemed to like it,' he concluded, 'because you always stopped howling.' My father was physically abused as a child, and he carried the legacy into his parenting. He did not consider the 'hard quick pats' on my tiny back as abusive, nor would anyone necessarily consider either of us as abused at the time of our upbringings; some people would not consider it abuse today. In the days of my father's childhood, and those of my own, this type of behavior with a child was viewed as stringent discipline for a child obviously needing corrective action. However, with certainty, my abuse began when I was an infant in the bassinet. As I revisited my infancy and childhood, no new memories came forth. This was frustrating. I had not found any new clues. "Chemicals. I am responsible for my chemicals. How can I take responsibility for those chemicals?" The answer seemed elusive, but I was determined. "Chemicals? What mechanism triggers the release of my chemicals?" "Ye gads! The brain. The brain sends messages to all systems in the body. The portion of the brain that controls the chemicals is often called 'the old brain': it is the 'fight-flight' mechanism that instantaneously (no need for conscious command) sends chemicals so the system can 'fight or flee.' "So what has that got to do with allergies?" I asked myself. "Allergies, allergies, allergy attack, allergy attack'am I getting somewhere? I am being attacked by pollen'so? What is the link between allergy attacks and being an abused child? Allergy attack'allergy attack." Days and weeks passed. I repeatedly mulled the thought, "Allergy attack, child abuse, allergy attack, child abuse: there is a link. I know there is a link. What is the link?" When the human system is attacked by something, the immune system instantaneously sends chemicals to fight the invasion. "My system is damaged since being frightened as an infant," I lamented. "What can I do now? I am responsible for the chemicals in my body," I reminded myself. "How do I make a system work that has been damaged? If my brain controls the chemicals and my thoughts control my brain, I can control those chemicals. Nevertheless, how can I control the chemicals? The link-where is the link?" I began thinking about the incidents of physical abuse. I saw my father's menacing figure coming at me'his face red, hand raised, swearing and shouting. Whack, his large hand hit the side of my head. ATTACK! My father attached me verbally and physically. There is the link! Allergy attack's verbal/physical attack'the two had emerged in my psyche as the same. To understand the physiological and psychological construct, one needs to accept the reality that the physical body and psyche are intertwined. One is not separate from the other. To understand the emergence of allergy attacks with verbal or physical attacks in my psyche, we need to discern my experience as an infant in the bassinet. The five senses: hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch are an infant's only means of understanding their world and communicating. Three of the five senses are activated by the technique such as my father's to quiet a howling infant: The infant hears the father's footsteps and, in the first instance, assumes that someone is coming to comfort her. The father says, 'Be quiet ;' in a loud voice; simultaneously the impact of a hard, quick pat is registered (touch). The shock of the loud voice (hearing) and hard pat (touch) is reacted to by a restriction in crying (breathing)'breathing and smell are synonymous. The shock of the loud voice and physical impact has knocked the breath from the infant. When the infant's autonomic system reactivates breathing, the infant breathes in the smell of cattle hair and grain odor, which permeates the father's clothes. In many instances, the mother responds to the crying infant; however, the infant is unable to distinguish when the mother or father will respond. Therefore, the infant soon recognizes the footsteps of the father, but has no way to escape. Her fight and flight mechanism is triggered, and chemicals surge through her body requiring additional oxygen as her heart rate and breathing increase. As she attempts to bring in oxygen, she simultaneously constricts her crying; the two conflict with each other. This causes swelling in the bronchial system, which is how asthma is manifested'restricted bronchial passage. Not withstanding, humans have evolved with immunities to the elements that are common to the environment. With rare exceptions, the human immune system, as a chemically functioning system, is adequate to protect the organism. In an experience such as mine, the infant's psyche is being imprinted through three of the five senses. This leaves a powerful impact. As in my case, cattle hair and grain odors are associated with fear and not being able to breathe. Thus, my asthma/allergies became a physical reaction to fear, distress and the sensation associated with any strong smells. I remember experiencing asthma attacks when I was anticipating a stressful situation involving my father or if he verbally attacked me. Through listening to my past feelings and watching my reactions, I accepted the reality that my immune system had been damaged. The doctors also told me my immune system was ineffective, but they blamed it on a fact of genetics fluke, something I had to accept. I dutifully accepted my fate; after all, doctors know the human body and are healers-they know best. The next step, I began observing my physical reactions whenever I started having allergic reactions. "What did I tell myself-what did I tell my brain? My brain has the power to send chemicals to my immune system. Why weren't my chemicals there when I needed them?" I observed and observed. One day I noticed a very subtle body sensation, so subtle that I hardly noticed its presence. The body sensation was so faint and so far away. I barely captured it. "What was the origin of this faint sensation? Listen carefully, listen, observe, listen. Yes, yes, there it is: Shut down, shutdown, do not move, do not think, do not feel, do not react, you cannot do anything, shutdown.'" My heartbeat seemed so still. It was very faint. I took my pulse and had a hard time finding it. "How is that connected to my chemicals? How is that connected to my immune chemicals not being sent?" I continued to listen and observe my body's reaction to smells. Ye gads! The thought came into my mind. My fight-flight command was not being activated. Instead, I was telling my fight-flight system to shut down. WHAT? The fight-flight mechanism is fundamental to the survival of the system. I was telling mine to shut down. My mind then wandered back to the incident when my father attempted to chase me with the horse. I realized that was the time I shut my fight-flight system down more than it had ever been shut down. "Do not move, do not move, do not think, do not feel, do not react, you cannot do anything, shut down." My heart stood still as the horse jolted to a stop in front of me, his hot breath blowing in my face. From that point on, I remember not feeling the pain when my father hit me. I was completely shut down. As the days passed, I continued to listen to and observe my breathing. As I observed, I became aware that I became passive when a sneeze was an allergic sneeze. The thought was, "There is nothing you can do, the pollen attacks and you are in a lot of pain and feel sick and can hardly function, but it only lasts a short time. Withstand the pain'keep going'it will pass." As a child, I could not fight or flee. Emotionally, to survive the verbal and physical attacks, I became passive by telling myself, "The best course of action is to do nothing." This thought process subconsciously blocked the transference of survival chemicals to protect my system from danger. When the chemicals were sent, I could feel the bone-chilling pain before and after the assault. I did not like this chilling pain and, therefore, instructed myself to shut down. Eureka, the final link! I had trained my brain to stop sending the fundamental fight-flight chemicals used to protect the system. No wonder the doctor gave me adrenaline shots when my natural chemicals did not work. Adrenaline is the major chemical the immune system sends to fight or flee. The next step was to monitor the messages I gave myself when I sneezed. The pattern was consistent-I became very passive, I could feel my senses shut down. All my muscles relaxed, no outward emotion. Nothing! I listened, observed and listened. After many years of telling my brain to shut down, learning to fight back was not easy. It was so natural to shut down. Nevertheless, I listened and every time I felt myself shut down, I gave a command to fight back. I visualized the chemicals rushing into the blood stream and throughout my body. I practiced and practiced. Gradually, I noticed a difference in the severity and the duration of allergy attacks. Spring 1990 arrived (a usually difficult season, as I was allergic to tree and grass pollens): no sneezing, no watery eyes, no coughing. Eureka! I did it. I did it! This was and remains a physical and psychological victory with extensive implications. I wanted to shout from the rooftops. I wanted to tell everyone'Metaphysical healing works!! With each passing pollen season, I have been increasingly allergy-free. For three years, it was necessary that I consciously made the effort to 'remind' myself to fight back. I do not need to have total concentration anymore. In addition, if I have allergic reactions to manufactured elements, I do not hold myself responsible for generating the immune system to fight back. This is due to the fact that the immune system protects the system from natural elements; if I held myself responsible for eliminating all allergic reactions, I could set up unrealistic demands and constitute an unrealistic psychological failure as well. A note of caution for anyone who may think I have described this process as simple and easy: it was very difficult and required concentration, commitment and dedication. During the beginning stage of recovery, any distractions resulted in reduction in concentration as well as reduction in effectiveness. This was discouraging at times and I heard myself saying, "See you cannot really change this damage, you are not as good as you think you are." This was an example of all the negating and demoralizing things my father said to me. It occurred to me, I was allowing other people's words to control what I could or could not accomplish today, and I became even more determined.

Allergy - Healing From Within - Healing Allergies

"We are responsible for everything in our lives, including how the chemistry in our bodies works or doesn't work." Wayne Dyer's words hit me like a bolt of lightening as I listened to his taped book, You'll See It When You Believe It. Throughout the years, I had suffered tremendously with bouts of allergies and asthma; it wasn't until that moment that I had a confirmation I could eliminate my allergy problems. The asthma attacks had been under control since leaving the mid west where I was born and raised. This move eliminated contact with cattle hair and grain dust and other pollens indigenous to the area, which I had extreme allergic reactions with. I often spoke, to anyone who would listen, about how the mind heals the body or allows the body to become ill. This knowledge was based on my thoughts, reading and research. As I spoke about my 'belief/knowledge' my bouts with allergies hung heavy in my mind. In all of my reading, nothing clicked as a solution until that moment in September 1989. I was 47 years old. As I had learned while studying transactional analysis, Dr. Dyer, also, held the premise: "We are responsible for everything in our lives." "OK, Wayne," I said, "I agree. Now what? How can I take responsibility for the chemistry in my body when my immune system is damaged? My immune system contains chemicals," I reminded myself. "I am responsible for those chemicals doing their job. What am I doing or not doing that is responsible for the chemicals not doing their job?" I asked myself fervently. A few days later I began, in earnest, to be a detective. I revisited myself as an infant in the crib. With much satisfaction and pride, my father has told the story that he knew how to quiet a howling infant. With his hand, big and muscular from working as a cattle rancher, he 'patted my back with three or four hard, quick pats, 'You,' he proudly announced, 'stopped howling. You seemed to like it,' he concluded, 'because you always stopped howling.' My father was physically abused as a child, and he carried the legacy into his parenting. He did not consider the 'hard quick pats' on my tiny back as abusive, nor would anyone necessarily consider either of us as abused at the time of our upbringings; some people would not consider it abuse today. In the days of my father's childhood, and those of my own, this type of behavior with a child was viewed as stringent discipline for a child obviously needing corrective action. However, with certainty, my abuse began when I was an infant in the bassinet. As I revisited my infancy and childhood, no new memories came forth. This was frustrating. I had not found any new clues. "Chemicals. I am responsible for my chemicals. How can I take responsibility for those chemicals?" The answer seemed elusive, but I was determined. "Chemicals? What mechanism triggers the release of my chemicals?" "Ye gads! The brain. The brain sends messages to all systems in the body. The portion of the brain that controls the chemicals is often called 'the old brain': it is the 'fight-flight' mechanism that instantaneously (no need for conscious command) sends chemicals so the system can 'fight or flee.' "So what has that got to do with allergies?" I asked myself. "Allergies, allergies, allergy attack, allergy attack'am I getting somewhere? I am being attacked by pollen'so? What is the link between allergy attacks and being an abused child? Allergy attack'allergy attack." Days and weeks passed. I repeatedly mulled the thought, "Allergy attack, child abuse, allergy attack, child abuse: there is a link. I know there is a link. What is the link?" When the human system is attacked by something, the immune system instantaneously sends chemicals to fight the invasion. "My system is damaged since being frightened as an infant," I lamented. "What can I do now? I am responsible for the chemicals in my body," I reminded myself. "How do I make a system work that has been damaged? If my brain controls the chemicals and my thoughts control my brain, I can control those chemicals. Nevertheless, how can I control the chemicals? The link-where is the link?" I began thinking about the incidents of physical abuse. I saw my father's menacing figure coming at me'his face red, hand raised, swearing and shouting. Whack, his large hand hit the side of my head. ATTACK! My father attached me verbally and physically. There is the link! Allergy attack's verbal/physical attack'the two had emerged in my psyche as the same. To understand the physiological and psychological construct, one needs to accept the reality that the physical body and psyche are intertwined. One is not separate from the other. To understand the emergence of allergy attacks with verbal or physical attacks in my psyche, we need to discern my experience as an infant in the bassinet. The five senses: hearing, sight, smell, taste, and touch are an infant's only means of understanding their world and communicating. Three of the five senses are activated by the technique such as my father's to quiet a howling infant: The infant hears the father's footsteps and, in the first instance, assumes that someone is coming to comfort her. The father says, 'Be quiet ;' in a loud voice; simultaneously the impact of a hard, quick pat is registered (touch). The shock of the loud voice (hearing) and hard pat (touch) is reacted to by a restriction in crying (breathing)'breathing and smell are synonymous. The shock of the loud voice and physical impact has knocked the breath from the infant. When the infant's autonomic system reactivates breathing, the infant breathes in the smell of cattle hair and grain odor, which permeates the father's clothes. In many instances, the mother responds to the crying infant; however, the infant is unable to distinguish when the mother or father will respond. Therefore, the infant soon recognizes the footsteps of the father, but has no way to escape. Her fight and flight mechanism is triggered, and chemicals surge through her body requiring additional oxygen as her heart rate and breathing increase. As she attempts to bring in oxygen, she simultaneously constricts her crying; the two conflict with each other. This causes swelling in the bronchial system, which is how asthma is manifested'restricted bronchial passage. Not withstanding, humans have evolved with immunities to the elements that are common to the environment. With rare exceptions, the human immune system, as a chemically functioning system, is adequate to protect the organism. In an experience such as mine, the infant's psyche is being imprinted through three of the five senses. This leaves a powerful impact. As in my case, cattle hair and grain odors are associated with fear and not being able to breathe. Thus, my asthma/allergies became a physical reaction to fear, distress and the sensation associated with any strong smells. I remember experiencing asthma attacks when I was anticipating a stressful situation involving my father or if he verbally attacked me. Through listening to my past feelings and watching my reactions, I accepted the reality that my immune system had been damaged. The doctors also told me my immune system was ineffective, but they blamed it on a fact of genetics fluke, something I had to accept. I dutifully accepted my fate; after all, doctors know the human body and are healers-they know best. The next step, I began observing my physical reactions whenever I started having allergic reactions. "What did I tell myself-what did I tell my brain? My brain has the power to send chemicals to my immune system. Why weren't my chemicals there when I needed them?" I observed and observed. One day I noticed a very subtle body sensation, so subtle that I hardly noticed its presence. The body sensation was so faint and so far away. I barely captured it. "What was the origin of this faint sensation? Listen carefully, listen, observe, listen. Yes, yes, there it is: Shut down, shutdown, do not move, do not think, do not feel, do not react, you cannot do anything, shutdown.'" My heartbeat seemed so still. It was very faint. I took my pulse and had a hard time finding it. "How is that connected to my chemicals? How is that connected to my immune chemicals not being sent?" I continued to listen and observe my body's reaction to smells. Ye gads! The thought came into my mind. My fight-flight command was not being activated. Instead, I was telling my fight-flight system to shut down. WHAT? The fight-flight mechanism is fundamental to the survival of the system. I was telling mine to shut down. My mind then wandered back to the incident when my father attempted to chase me with the horse. I realized that was the time I shut my fight-flight system down more than it had ever been shut down. "Do not move, do not move, do not think, do not feel, do not react, you cannot do anything, shut down." My heart stood still as the horse jolted to a stop in front of me, his hot breath blowing in my face. From that point on, I remember not feeling the pain when my father hit me. I was completely shut down. As the days passed, I continued to listen to and observe my breathing. As I observed, I became aware that I became passive when a sneeze was an allergic sneeze. The thought was, "There is nothing you can do, the pollen attacks and you are in a lot of pain and feel sick and can hardly function, but it only lasts a short time. Withstand the pain'keep going'it will pass." As a child, I could not fight or flee. Emotionally, to survive the verbal and physical attacks, I became passive by telling myself, "The best course of action is to do nothing." This thought process subconsciously blocked the transference of survival chemicals to protect my system from danger. When the chemicals were sent, I could feel the bone-chilling pain before and after the assault. I did not like this chilling pain and, therefore, instructed myself to shut down. Eureka, the final link! I had trained my brain to stop sending the fundamental fight-flight chemicals used to protect the system. No wonder the doctor gave me adrenaline shots when my natural chemicals did not work. Adrenaline is the major chemical the immune system sends to fight or flee. The next step was to monitor the messages I gave myself when I sneezed. The pattern was consistent-I became very passive, I could feel my senses shut down. All my muscles relaxed, no outward emotion. Nothing! I listened, observed and listened. After many years of telling my brain to shut down, learning to fight back was not easy. It was so natural to shut down. Nevertheless, I listened and every time I felt myself shut down, I gave a command to fight back. I visualized the chemicals rushing into the blood stream and throughout my body. I practiced and practiced. Gradually, I noticed a difference in the severity and the duration of allergy attacks. Spring 1990 arrived (a usually difficult season, as I was allergic to tree and grass pollens): no sneezing, no watery eyes, no coughing. Eureka! I did it. I did it! This was and remains a physical and psychological victory with extensive implications. I wanted to shout from the rooftops. I wanted to tell everyone'Metaphysical healing works!! With each passing pollen season, I have been increasingly allergy-free. For three years, it was necessary that I consciously made the effort to 'remind' myself to fight back. I do not need to have total concentration anymore. In addition, if I have allergic reactions to manufactured elements, I do not hold myself responsible for generating the immune system to fight back. This is due to the fact that the immune system protects the system from natural elements; if I held myself responsible for eliminating all allergic reactions, I could set up unrealistic demands and constitute an unrealistic psychological failure as well. A note of caution for anyone who may think I have described this process as simple and easy: it was very difficult and required concentration, commitment and dedication. During the beginning stage of recovery, any distractions resulted in reduction in concentration as well as reduction in effectiveness. This was discouraging at times and I heard myself saying, "See you cannot really change this damage, you are not as good as you think you are." This was an example of all the negating and demoralizing things my father said to me. It occurred to me, I was allowing other people's words to control what I could or could not accomplish today, and I became even more determined. Dorothy M. Neddermeyer specializes in: Mind, Body, Spirit healing for Individuals, Special Issues and Professional Coaching. As an inspirational leader, Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for Emotional Healing and Spiritual Awakening. http://www.gen-assist.com Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dorothy_M._Neddermeyer,_PhD Allergy - When Bird Allergy Flies Your Way Bird allergy is a normal reaction of your body's immune system to the feather dander, or more popularly known as feather dust, and droppings or fecal matter coming out of birds. People who work closely with birds and those who take care of birds as pets are the most at risk to develop bird allergy. Farm workers, bird fanciers and zookeepers are the most common bird allergy patients in hospitals in the US alone. However, medical statistics reveal that globally, the ratio of people allergic to birds are far lower compared to those allergic to other animals like dogs and cats. Be also aware that bird allergy is an allergic reaction that indicates the immune system's efforts to defend you from what it senses or perceives as a health threat. In reality, bird allergy should not be considered as a harmful or deadly disease. Take note that complications to bird allergy kill, not the bird allergy itself. During the process of an on set of bird allergy, the feather dust becomes an allergen that is not wanted by the body's system. When it manages to make a contact with your body, it will automatically trigger or cause the immune system to retaliate and produce antibodies or counter substances. Hence, you have the symptoms. Symptoms of bird allergy People with bird allergies exhibit manifestations or symptoms that are sometimes similar to those for hay fever or allergic rhinitis. It is alarming to know that most of the time, people with this allergy often ignore the onset of the symptoms thinking that these are just petty reaction to some weather or dust elements. Symptoms for bird allergies can be divided into two groups. One, those symptoms that are considered lesser or less severe. These include watery eyes, sneezing, postnatal drips, sore throat, stuffy nose, coughing, hives itchy eyes and allergic shiners or the presence of black circles in the area below the eyes. For the more serious form of bird allergies, the symptoms may vary. Take note that suffering from a severe attack of bird allergy can reduce your lung's capacity, that may potentially pose a detriment not just to your health but also to your life. Such symptoms may appear in a long term like two years of regular or constant exposure to allergy-causing birds like budgies and pigeons. In some cases, bird allergy appears after as long as 10 to 20 years after initial exposure to allergens. Such cases are determined by finding the following symptoms in a patient: prolonged coughing, breathing difficulties occasions, occasional fever and chills, weight loss and dry cough that lasts for some time. How is bird allergy treated? Usually, your doctor will have to delve deeper into your medical records to determine or to make sure the disease is pin pointed at bird allergy. Take note that most or basic symptoms of bird allergy are minor and therefore needs no further and serious medical treatment. Just like other allergies, bird allergy can disappear on its own without the help of any drug or treatment. Avoiding or discontinuing exposure to allergens, in this case the birds and their feathers, will surely help cease the bird allergy attack. Physicians often prescribe antihistamines, decongestants and corticosteroids to relieve the person from a bird allergy attack. Antihistamines block symptoms to allergic reactions, not just to birds, but also to all forms of allergies. Decongestants relieve swelling of the nasal area and stops secretion of mucus or the stuff that runs through your nose when you have a bad cols. Corticosteroids are drugs that treat inflammation due to allergic and other medical reactions. Allergy shots, of course, will also greatly help to curtail the onset of bird allergy. Prevention The most effective measure to avoid bird allergy, if ever you are allergic to birds, is to avoid getting near these animals. Hygiene is the best combative defense against any form of diseases and will also be effective in fighting attacks of bird allergy.