Asthma & Allergies

Helping Asthma and Allergies Naturally

With proper diagnosis, prevention and treatments, there are no restrictions on what people with asthma and allergies can do in life. With proper management and education, people dealing with Asthma and Allergies can control the diseases and can live healthy, productive and normal active lives!

Asthma is a disease of the lungs where the airways become blocked or narrowed causing difficulties in breathing. These effects are usually temporary, but they cause shortness of breath, breathing trouble, and other symptoms. Asthma is a chronic disease affecting nearly 20 million Americans. Worldwide, asthma prevalence ranges from 1.9 percent to 36.7 percent in various countries, according to the International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Children.

Asthma is commonly divided into two types: allergic or extrinsic asthma and non-allergic or intrinsic asthma. Although asthma can cause severe health problems, treatment can control it and allow a person to live a normal and active life.

Allergic and non-allergic asthma are mainly chronic inflammatory diseases of the airways. This means that people with asthma have inflamed airways which causes two secondary symptoms: (1) The bronchi, the airway branches leading to the lungs, become overly reactive and more sensitive to all kinds of asthma triggers such as allergens, cold and dry air, smoke and viruses. Also, (2) the lungs have difficulty moving air in and out, which is called airflow obstruction. Together, these symptoms cause the tertiary symptoms the coughing, wheezing, tight chest and worse.

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Asthma occurs when airways become temporarily blocked or narrowed due to exposure to allergens (“allergic asthma”), irritants, strenuous exercise, anxiety or other triggers. Symptoms include:

* Sudden shortness of breath
* Difficulty breathing
* Tight chest
* Wheezing or coughing

People with asthma have inflamed airways which are super-sensitive to things which do not bother other people and are called “triggers.” Asthma triggers vary from person to person based on whether one has allergic asthma or non-allergic asthma, but some of the most common triggers include:

* Allergens
* Irritants in the air
* Respiratory Infections
* Exercise
* Weather
* Strong Emotions such as fear, anger or excitement
* Certain medications

Asthma episodes do not always occur right after a person is exposed to a trigger. Depending on the type of trigger and how sensitive a person is to it, asthma episodes may be delayed. Each case of asthma is unique just like you.

Asthma doesn’t have to impose any big limits on quality of life. An asthma management plan is important and something developed by you and your physician to help you control your asthma, instead of your asthma controlling you.

There are many things that can be done, including natural treatments, to take control of asthma and its symptoms to minimize any impact on life and activities. Asthma medications may be either inhaled or in pill form and are divided into two types—quick-relief and long-term control such as Native Remedies’ BioVent (long-term control) and BronchoSoothe (quick-relief) which are 100% natural, safe and effective remedies for natural asthma relief and to assist with the management, control and prevention of asthma and can be a part of your asthma management plan.

Many, and in fact most, cases of asthma, particularly among children, have allergies as a major component.

ALLERGIES

Allergies are diseases of the immune system and are characterized by an overreaction of the human immune system to certain substances that usually cause no reaction in most individuals. “Antigens,” or protein particles like pollen, food or dander enter our bodies through a variety of ways. If the antigen causes an allergic reaction, that particle is considered an “allergen” – and antigen that triggers an allergic reaction. These are substances (or “allergens”) that are eaten (peanuts, shellfish, etc.), breathed into the lungs or inhaled (pollen, dust mites, etc.), injected (bee stings, certain medicines, etc.) or touched (poison ivy, latex, etc.). The immune system overreaction can result in symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, skin rashes or hives, itching and itchy and scratchy nose and throat. In severe cases it can also result in rashes, hives, lower blood pressure, difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, and even death.

Allergies are grouped by the kind of trigger, time of year or where symptoms appear on the body: indoor and outdoor allergies (also called “hay fever,” “seasonal,” “perennial” or “nasal” allergies), food and drug allergies, latex allergies, insect allergies, skin allergies and eye allergies.

More Americans than ever before say they are suffering from allergies. It is among the country’s most common, yet often overlooked, diseases. Allergies are not only bothersome, but many have been linked to a variety of common and serious chronic respiratory illnesses (such as sinusitis and asthma). Additionally, allergic reactions can be severe and even fatal. Allergies have a genetic component. If only one parent has allergies of any type, chances are 1 in 3 that each child will have an allergy. If both parents have allergies, it is much more likely (7 in 10) that their children will have allergies.

Get More Info on AllergiClear for Natural Allergy Relief

There are no cures for allergies. Allergies can be managed with proper prevention and treatment. Good allergy treatment is based on the results of allergy tests, medical history, and severity of symptoms. It can include three different treatment strategies: avoidance of allergens, medication options and/or immunotherapy (allergy shots).

Some people don’t take allergy medicines because they don’t take their symptoms seriously and say “Oh, it’s only my allergies.”. The result may be painful and worse complications such as sinus or ear infections. Don’t take the risk because there are other options available to treat allergy symptoms rather than the traditional allergy medications, allergy shots, or consulting an allergist.

There are many safe non-prescription medicines available to relieve allergy symptoms such as Native Remedies’ AllergiClear and SOS HistaDrops which are 100% natural, safe and effective herbal and homeopathic remedies to naturally clear allergies and protect against all Airborne and Seasonal Allergies, Allergic Rhinitis and Hayfever!

Get More Info on BioVent for Natural Asthma Relief.

Get More Info on AllergiClear for Natural Allergy Relief

Parts of this article provided by Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) 2005 and 4 freshAAIR — Spring 2005 edition.

Depression & Herbal Remedies:

Alternative Treatment for Depression: Learning How Herbs Can Aid in Treating Depression Naturally

by Tess Thompson

If you are like many of the 20.9 million adults in the U.S. who are suffering from depression, you have probably debated the pros and cons of taking prescription antidepressants. While depression can often be combated with therapy alone, some professionals do recommend medication for certain cases. The right type and dosage of a prescription medication can sometimes meet with success for a patient, but many experience side effects that outweigh the benefits.

Get More Info on MindSoothe for for Depression, Insomnia, OCD and Anxiety

Side effects vary between the different types of antidepressant, but the most commonly prescribed medications are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft are all SSRIs, and often produce side effects such as sexual dysfunction, nausea, diarrhea and headaches, and in some cases thoughts of suicide. In order to avoid these, more and more people are deciding instead to explore natural remedies for depression.

Among those who know, St. John’s Wort is almost unanimously agreed upon as the alternative treatment for depression. Many believe that it is more effective at treating depression than many prescription medications but with fewer risks. The active compounds in St. John’s Wort help naturally reduce feelings of sadness, anxiety and worthlessness, and many who take it also report less exhaustion and fewer headaches. Best of all, this herb often produces no side effects, although some might experience sensitivity to sun or other minor side effects.

Ginko Biloba is a natural ingredient that improves circulation in the brain, which often in turn improves memory and also alleviates some symptoms of depression. It is not as effective as St. John’s Wort, but it can be taken in conjunction with other natural ingredients as an overall mood-booster.

Siberian Ginseng aids the balance of essential neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. Taking Siberian Ginseng regularly can lead to improved feelings of general well-being.

Passion flower is another natural ingredient that can help treat depression, anxiety and sleep disorders. Passion flower is a natural salve that helps to calm and soothe. When it is combined with St. John’s Wort, it can be very successful in treating depression naturally.

These and many other herbs are helpful in alleviating many of the symptoms of depression, and as with anything you put into your body, each person will react differently to them. It is important to allow a trial period in order to feel the effects of the natural medications, as some will take several weeks to take effect. As always, you should seek a doctor’s advice before you decide to stop taking a prescription medication, and you should avoid combining prescription medications with natural medications. Hopefully, you will find a safe, healthy combination of natural ingredients helps you to feel consistently better over time.

Get More Info on MindSoothe for for Depression, Insomnia, OCD and Anxiety

Eye Health Article part 3 of 3

In part 2 of our 3 parts series titled ‘Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health’ we will explored how an eye exam could prevent future vision loss brought on by diabetes. In this 3rd and final part in the series we will examine how obesity can actually lead to a life with diabetes. I hope you find this information helpful. - J.T.

Obesity Can Lead to Diabetes

Obesity is one of the major causes of Type II Diabetes and is one variable that can be adjusted and controlled by you to prevent onset of diabetes and thereby halting formation of diabetes related eye diseases as well.

Certain risk factors like age, family history, and ethnicity cannot be altered, but a change in lifestyle that includes a healthier diet and increased physical activity with or without weight loss may help reduce your risk.

The immense rise in Type II Diabetes in recent years, the serious health risks and costs associated with diabetes, and the fact that several of the risk factors are modifiable, have created great interest in the importance of diabetes prevention. If you have high blood pressure, are overweight, smoke, or use alcohol or drugs, you can help lower your risk by modifying your lifestyle. Obesity is a major modifiable risk factor for Type II Diabetes. Lowering weight and blood pressure and quitting smoking can significant positive impacts on health and lifestyle.

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One in three Americans born today is predicted to develop diabetes as a consequence of obesity. It is estimated that at least half of all diabetes cases would be eliminated if weight gain could be prevented. Of particular concern are the current rates of overweight and obese children, due to inactivity and increases in caloric intake of almost all countries over the last 20 years.

“The rising levels of obesity worldwide are likely to drive the prevalence of diabetes even higher than present forecasts”, according to Professor Pierre Lefèbvre, President of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

A study done by the Harvard School of Public Health and published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that being overweight and obese was the single most important factor that predicted who would develop Type II Diabetes. During a 16 year follow-up period the study concluded that Type II Diabetes could be prevented by living a healthier lifestyle and risks decreased with weight loss, diet and exercise. Another study conducted by The Finish Diabetes Prevention Study Group found that with weight loss and better physical activity levels alone, people at high risk of developing diabetes could reduce their risk by more than 50%(The New England Journal of Medicine 2002; 346: 393-403). Control your weight with Native Remedies’ EcoSlim, Triple Complex Slimmer’s Assist, Detox Drops as aids to help you lose weight safely and naturally while substantially improving your health and reducing health risks.

Information compiled from International Diabetes Federation

If you have not seen your optometrist in over a year, be sure to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye examination right away and…

…To prevent and control diabetes and take care of your visual health at home, use Native Remedies’ Insulate Plus to assist in the treatment and prevention of diabetes and for healthy living, Vizu-All Plus for healthy eye function and visual problems and eye disorders associated with diabetes such as macular degeneration and cataracts, and Triple Complex Diabetonic to keep sugar levels stable and reduce cravings for sweet foods.

Get More Info on Insulate Plus for Balanced Blood Sugar Levels and Diabetes

Eye Health Article part 2 of 3

 In part 2 of our 3 parts series titled ‘Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health’ we will explore how something as simple as an eye exam could prevent future vision loss brought on by diabetes. I hope you find this information helpful. - J.T.

Diabetes, Your Eyes and Health

Since over 33% of people with diabetes don’t know that they have it, an eye exam can be the only clue to detecting this potentially life-threatening disease. Changes to the blood vessels in the eye can signify various stages of diabetic retinopathy and left untreated, it can cause blindness. For those suffering from diabetes without knowing it, the detection and treatment of this disease can mean relief on many levels.

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Other eye diseases, like glaucoma, may cause vision damage and eventually blindness without the person ever experiencing any symptoms. During a comprehensive eye exam, the optometrist measures the pressure within the eye and examines the optic nerve in the eye, thereby determining the existence of glaucoma.

In the United States, diabetes is responsible for 8 % of legal blindness, making it the leading cause of blindness in adults 20-74 years of age. Every year, from 12,000 to 24,000 people lose their sight because of diabetes-related vision problems. Diabetic eye disease refers to a group of eye problems that people with diabetes may face as a complication. All of these eye problems can cause severe vision loss and even blindness. Diabetic eye disease includes glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. Glaucoma, cataracts, and corneal disease are more common in people with diabetes and contribute to the high rate of blindness. People with diabetes are almost twice as likely to develop glaucoma and cataracts than people without diabetes. The longer someone has had diabetes, the more common it is for individuals to have glaucoma and risk also increases with age. People with diabetes also tend to get cataracts at a younger age and have them progress faster. The longer someone has had diabetes, the more likely they are to have diabetic retinopathy, a term for all disorders of the retina caused by diabetes. Often there are no symptoms or pain in the early stages of diabetic retinopathy and vision may not change until the disease becomes severe. Finding diabetic retinopathy early is the best way to prevent vision loss.

Risk of diabetic retinopathy can be greatly reduced. According to The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT), better control of blood sugar levels slows the onset and progression of retinopathy. The study found that the group that tried to keep their blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible had substantially less eye, kidney, and nerve disease (New England Journal of Medicine, September 30, 1993).

Get More Info on Vizu-All Plus for Eye Problems (Cataracts, Macular Degeneration and Visual Problems Associated with Diabetes)

Statistical information above regarding diabetes compiled from The American Diabetes Association.

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In part 3 of our 3 parts series titled ‘Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health’ we will examine the link between obesity and diabetes..

Eye Health Article:

 Eye Health - Your eyes are the windows to your health?

When it comes to your overall health, looking your doctor in the eye will often reveal the hidden truth within you. That is because many systemic and chronic diseases are often first detected during a simple eye exam.  In part 1 of our 3 parts series titled ‘Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health’ we will begin to explore how an eye exam can not only tell doctors a lot about your eye health, your eyes have a lot to say about your overall health as well. I hope you find this information helpful. - J.T.

Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health

Not only are your eyes the window to your soul, but they are also often the best windows to your health. By looking into your eyes, a doctor and optometrist can tell a lot about your general health and can gain insight into your overall health as well as determine eye health and vision during a comprehensive eye exam. An optometrist can sometimes be the first medical professional to spot diseases like diabetes and glaucoma that can lead to blindness and other major medical issues. In fact, some systemic and chronic diseases can be detected with an eye exam. And some diseases, such as diabetes, can adversely affect your vision in addition to your overall health.

Get More Info on Vizu-All Plus for Eye Problems (Cataracts, Macular Degeneration and Visual Problems Associated with Diabetes)
March is Save Your Vision Month - a celebration started by members of the American Optometric Association all the way back in 1927 to remind people about the importance of vision and eye care. Save Your Vision Month raises general public awareness and targets at-risk groups to remind them of the importance of regular and comprehensive eye exams to detect eye health problems, general health issues and vision difficulties and to take care and charge of your own health and eye health.

With life expectancy figures continuing to climb, managing eye disease successfully can be essential for people to live healthy, happy, and productive lives!

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In part 2 of our 3 parts series titled ‘Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health’ we will explain how an eye exam can often be the only clue to detecting a potentially life-threatening disease.

Get More Info on Vizu-All Plus for Eye Problems (Cataracts, Macular Degeneration and Visual Problems Associated with Diabetes)

 Over the last decade of so, several prescription stimulants have become widely prescribed by doctors for the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder - ADD. In part 2 of our 2 parts series titled ‘ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments’ we will wrap up our brief exploration of these ADD stimulant medications and touch on some popular natural alteratives. I hope you find this information helpful.

ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments?

by Tess Thompson

Children on stimulants (Ritalin, Adderall and Concerta are the best-known brands) should be watched closely and their dosages should be evaluated regularly. These medications are most effective when they are administered in the correct dosage for each individual and when they are combined with additional ADD treatments like behavioral therapy and practical and emotional support. Non-stimulant drugs, such as Strattera, can also be effective, but carry a risk of similar side effects.

In light of the risks that prescription medications carry, many parents are interested in exploring an herbal remedy for ADD. There is more than one herb that has been shown to be an effective ADD or ADHD child treatment, and there are a variety of natural remedies on the market that combine many of them. Ginko Biloba, Green Oats, Brahmi, Gotu Kola and Panax Ginseng are some of the best ingredients, and the positive effects of some of them (like Ginko) can become permanent even after discontinuing use.

While stimulant medication is often successful in treating ADD, it can sometimes cause its own set of problems. Weigh the risks and the benefits carefully, and make the decision that is right for your own child. Just as each child exhibits symptoms of ADD differently, each child will react differently to medication and treatment. Patience and thorough research should lead you to a healthy solution for your child.

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Visit our website for helpful information about ADD in children ages 1-12 as well as information about ADD in children 12 and older .

Our next series will be titled: ‘Eye Health Intrinsically Linked to Overall Health’. I hope you will find it informative. - J.T.

Attention Deficit Disorder - ADD - is a group of symptoms known to affect concentration and a person’s ability to focus. There are several prescription stimulants that are widely prescribed by doctors in treating ADD, but are they effective and how safe are they for our children? 

In part 1 of our 2 parts series titled ‘ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments’ we will begin to explore these questions about ADD stimulant medications. I hope you find this information helpful. - J.T.

ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments?

by Tess Thompson

Although there is controversy surrounding them, stimulants are still the most commonly prescribed type of medication for children with ADD and ADHD. The Drug Enforcement Agency says that stimulant drug production has increased 500 percent since 1991, and over half of the prescriptions for them are written by pediatricians. Stimulants are often effective in treating many of the symptoms of ADD — but are they the best ADD treatment for your child? Many parents are concerned about the side effects stimulants can produce and choose to investigate other options like behavioral therapy and herbal supplements as well. When it comes to making a decision that affects your child’s health, having the facts is essential.

ADD stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of the chemicals epinephrine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps the brain to transmit signals between nerves. This improves a child’s (or adult’s) ability to pay attention for extended periods of time. But these medications also come with a risk of mild and serious side effects. Some of the most common side effects include headaches, upset stomach and increased blood pressure, all of which may diminish as the body adjusts after the first few weeks of treatment. Other common side effects include decreased appetite (80% of stimulant users report this), nervousness and sleeplessness. Research has also shown that stimulants can stunt growth during treatment, but have not been proven to affect final height. Less common but more serious side effects include hallucinations and feelings of suspicion or paranoia, Tourette’s Syndrome, and suicidal thoughts.

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In part 2 of this series titled ‘ADD Stimulant Medications: Are They the Best ADD Treatments’ we will explore some of the best-known brands of  stimulant medications prescribed for the treatment of ADD as well as some non-stimulant alternative medicines.

Visit our website for great information about ADD in children ages 1-12 as well as information about ADD in children 12 and older .