Healthy Tips For Better Live

Signs and symptoms

 

For some people an allergic reaction to a particular food can be uncomfortable, but not serious. For other people, a food-allergic reaction can be frightening and even life-threatening. Signs and symptoms of a food allergy usually develop within a few minutes to an hour after eating the offending food.

 

The most common signs and symptoms of a true food allergy are: *

 

Tintelingen in the mouth

* Galbulten, itching or eczema

* Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body

* A wheezing, nasal congestion or difficulty in breathing

* Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting

* Dizziness, light or fainting

 

symptoms depends on what type of food allergy you have.

 

In a severe allergic reaction to food, called anaphylaxis, You can have more extreme symptoms including this life-threatening signs and symptoms:

 

* Design of the airways, such as a swollen throat or a lump in the throat, which makes it difficult to breathe

* Shock With a sharp drop in blood pressure

* Fast heartbeat

* Dizziness, light or loss of consciousness

 

Emergency treatment is of crucial importance in the treatment of anaphylaxis. Food anaphylaxis is responsible for thousands of emergency room visits and as many as 200 deaths in the United States each year.

 

Exercise-induced food allergy

Some people have an allergic reaction to a food which is caused by exercise. If the body is stimulated by exercise, a person with an exercise-induced food allergy May feel itchy and lightheaded. In severe cases it can lead to reactions such as hives or anaphylaxis. Not eating for a few hours before the exercise of this problem can be avoided.

 

Oral allergy syndrome

Some fresh vegetables and fruits can lead to a mild allergic reaction that causes the foot to Tingle or itching. This is an example of cross-reactivity, proteins in vegetables and fruits because they cause the reaction ‘re similar to those allergy causing proteins found in certain pollens. For example, if you ‘re allergic to ragweed, you may also react to melons, if you ‘ re allergic to birch pollen, you may also react to apples. Most cooked vegetables and fruits generally do not lead to cross-reactive oral allergy symptoms.





By Rishabh Sood

 

Generally, allergy shots are safe, with minimal side effects. There are no long-term complications associated with this form of therapy, but there is a small risk of allergic reactions immediately following the injection. These allergic reactions can be severe.

Typically, allergy shots may cause slight swelling or redness at the injection site. These reactions can occur immediately after the injection and/or can occur several hours later. This mild allergic reaction is usually harmless and goes away within 24 hours.

The shots may also cause symptoms similar to the allergy symptoms you experience: itchy, stuffy nose; itchy, watery eyes; sneezing. In very rare cases, these symptoms become very severe and are accompanied by other symptoms, including the following, difficulty breathing or wheezing, chest or throat tightness, rapid or irregular heart beat, dizziness or light-headedness, loss of consciousness and death.

This type of very severe allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis. It is a very uncommon reaction to an allergy shot, but it is dangerous, even life threatening.

This is less likely to happen if you follow the schedule of shots recommended by your allergist and observe the technician administering the shot. Be sure you are receiving the correct dose of the correct extract. The dizziness, light-headedness, and loss of consciousness are due to dangerously low blood pressure, usually called “shock.” These symptoms occur when the brain is not receiving enough blood. Anaphylactic shock is a medical emergency.

Such severe reactions usually begin within 20-30 minutes after receiving the shots. For this reason, most allergists require that you wait in the office for 20-30 minutes after your shots to be monitored. If you should experience these symptoms at any time, tell the allergist or other medical professional right away.

If you have already left the allergist’s office, and are having a severe reaction, go directly to the nearest hospital emergency department. If you already have and Epi-pen, use it. If you have an antihistamine such as Benadryl, take it regardless, go to the nearest hospital emergency room or urgent care center as soon as possible. Do not attempt to drive yourself. If no one is available to drive you immediately, call 911 for emergency transport.

Immunotherapy does not treat symptoms; it treats the immune system, the source of all allergic reactions. Although the exact details of how allergy shots work is unknown, we do know the general way they affect the immune system.

An allergic reaction occurs when the body is exposed to an external substance (the antigen) that the immune system interprets as a foreign invader. In allergic individuals, the immune system then makes an unusual (allergic) response that harms the body.

Allergy shots desensitize you by turning down this immune response to the antigen. As a result of immunotherapy, the white blood cells no longer respond as strongly to the antigen, and less production of the immunoglobulin E antibody to this antigen occurs. So, when you are exposed to this antigen, less severe allergic reactions occur in affected areas like the eyes, nasal mucosal surfaces, and the bronchial airways.

Generally, allergy is a word that describes as reaction of body tissues in certain individuals, which is uncommon in substance and has no noticeable or characteristic result on other people. Studies have shown that out of every one hundred Americans seventeen of them are indeed hypersensitive to some substances that are known to cause uncommon reactions, in other words they are allergic to common sources of allergens. These allergens may range widely from varies sources of irritants. For instance, some individuals show signs of allergies when introduced to certain annoyances such as dust and pet dander as well as insect venom, mold spores and pollens. Others may show signs of allergies when exposed to flowers and yet other individuals may show signs of being allergic to certain soaps.

Common Allergies:

1. Anaphylaxis – generated by food, insect stings or drugs

2. Contact Allergies – activated by skin-affecting allergens

3. Food Allergies – provoked by certain types of food

4. Insect Sting Allergies – produced by insect venom

5. Respiratory Allergies – prompted by airborne allergens

In view of the fact that all individuals may display reactions unique to their own bodily system, allergic reactions may vary widely as well as show signs to all or some of the reactions listed below. Always seek advice from your physician if any allergic reaction becomes severe or persistent. Here you will find symptoms, which are associated with common allergy types, these symptoms may range from mild to very severe.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a potentially fatal allergic reaction that has sudden and severe affects on varies areas of the body. This allergic reaction is most commonly found resulting from food or drug allergies as well as from insect stings. Anaphylaxis requires urgent medical attention. Anaphylaxis is generally noticeable very soon after the exposure of the affecting allergens, and can very well bring on a life endangering shock. As well, other signs of Anaphylaxis are distress of the respiratory system, swelling in certain areas of the body or the total body and an extreme itching over the total body.

Anaphylactic symptoms include:

1. Abnormal heartbeat

2. Tightening sensation of the chest

3. Difficulty in swallowing and breathing

4. Swelling of the throat, mouth and tongue

5. Flushing of the skin

6. Tingling or itching throughout the body

7. Agitation, anxiety or distress

8. Confusion or disorientation

9. Dizziness or lightheadedness

10. Fainting or nausea

11. Stomach upsets such as abdominal cramps, vomiting or diarrhea

Since some severe cases of anaphylactic shock, can occur and can prove to be life threatening it is best to get proper medical treatment immediately. As a sudden drop in blood pressure, which results from the dilation of blood vessels may also cause the loss of consciousness and the swelling of the body’s bronchial tissues can cause choking before the loss of consciousness.

Contact Allergies

The symptoms of contact allergies normally occur within a few moments of exposure to the allergen; however, it is possible for reactions to the allergens to show up several hours after exposure. There are many common allergens such as poison oak and poison ivy as well as medications, latex, dyes, fragrances or perfumes and cosmetics, preservatives and nickel, rubber and hair dyes. Nickel is a frequently used metal in jewelry, hairpins, buttons and zippers as well as snaps and metal clips and is frequently associated with allergies. Some individuals may also display signs of being allergic to the exposure of the sun.

Mild Symptoms:

1. Eczema

2. Hives

3. Redness or swelling of the skin

4. Itchy or a bumpy rash

5. Skin bumps that are filled with fluid

Severe Symptoms:

1. Anaphylaxis

Food Allergies

Certain types of food, which normally occurs within a few minutes, generally bring on a food allergy symptom. As well as showing, up several hours after the food consumption. Although it is possible for food allergies to involve many areas of the body, it is usually seen around the areas of the mouth and lips as well as the digestive tract. Foods that are commonly known to cause allergic reactions are milk, nuts, eggs, wheat and soy as well as shellfish and fish products.

Mild Symptoms:

1. Tightness of the throat

2. Difficulty in swallowing or speaking

3. Itching, swelling or tingling in the areas of the mouth, throat, tongue and lips

4. Wheezing

5. Sneezing

6. Coughing or congestion

7. Rashes of the skin

8. Itchy, stuffy or runny nose

9. Nausea

10. Abdominal cramping and indigestion

11. Diarrhea and vomiting

Severe Symptoms:

1. Difficulty in breathing

2. Sudden increase of heart rate

3. Sudden hoarseness or inability to speak

4. Extreme facial swelling

5. Sudden outbreak of facial itching

6. Dizziness and fainting

7. Sudden and profuse sweating

8. Anaphylaxis

Insect Sting Allergies

Although it is possible to develop symptoms of allergies to insect stings can occur several hours after exposure, most symptoms of allergies from insect stings normally happen just a few moments after being stung. Allergic reactions from insect venom can come from such insects as bees, hornets and wasps as well as yellow jackets and fire ants.

Mild Symptoms:

1. Swelling of the tongue

2. Tightness of the chest

3. Difficulty in breathing

4. Fever

5. Nausea or fatigue

6. Hives

7. Swelling in other areas of the body, including the stung area

8. Itching in other areas of the body, including the stung area

9. Pain in other areas of the body, including the stung area

Severe Symptoms:

1. Anaphylaxis

Respiratory Allergies

Respiratory allergies symptoms generally occur after several hours of exposure, which is normally provoked by airborne allergens, such as dust mites, plant pollens, and pet dander and mold spores.

Mild Symptoms:

1. Itchy, watery, red swollen eyes

2. Impaired sense of smell

3. Postnasal drip

4. Runny or stuffy nose running with clear thin mucus

5. Sneezing

6. Wheezing

7. Coughing

8. Itchy nose or throat

9. Congestion

10. Hoarseness of the throat

11. Conjunctivitis

12. Fatigue

Severe Symptoms:

1. Pain and tightness in the chest

2. Difficult or shortness of breathing

It is vital to understand that many allergies have symptoms similar to other diseases or conditions. This is why it is of the utmost importance that you consult with your physician while assessing a condition and getting a proper diagnosis.

Results from a national survey in 2007 showed that, 17.7 percent of American adults had used “natural products” in the past 12 months. These natural or herbal supplements didn’t include vitamins and minerals.

Of late there have been a slew of discussions, debates, and studies that have questioned the efficacy and safety of herbal supplements, e.g. herbal supplements viz. Echinacea, Glucosamine, Kava, etc. could lead to dangerous side effects during plastic surgery. And an NIH supported study found that the herbal supplement black cohosh used alone or with other herbal dietary supplements, wasn’t effective in relieving hot flashes in postmenopausal women.

Nevertheless, the following are 5 promising health benefits of several herbal supplements.

1. Prostate Cancer Prevention – An increased consumption of dietary isoflavones is linked with reduced risk of prostate cancer. One source of the compound is Red clover (Trifolium pretense). However, there’s little information about these supplements’ safety. These results were reported in Cancer Prevention Research, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).

2. Prostate Cancer Treatment – According to a report published in the October 2005 edition of Nutrition and Cancer, Zyflamend – a unique herbal extract preparation, suppresses the growth of prostate cancer cells and causes them to self-destruct.

3. Managing Cocaine Cravings – A study presented at the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology’s (ACNP) annual conference 2005, showed that the compound N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could modulate the effects of cocaine addiction. NAC is an herbal supplement known for its antioxidant properties and is sold over-the-counter.

4. Fertility Boost in women – Chasteberry was the herb that showed an improved ovulation and restoration of progesterone balance in women. These results published in the April 2004 issue of the Journal of Reproductive Medicine were an outcome of a small pilot study in by Stanford researchers.

5. Combating Liver Cancer – The aqueous leaf extract (ALE) from the plant Acanthus ilicifolius – found across India, increased the survival of cancer ridden animals (mice) to a significant extent. Suggesting that the plant extract may be used to guard against liver cancer. The study appeared in the World Journal of Gastroenterology (volume 13, issue 48).

It’s exciting to see that effective cures and treatments could very well lie outside the purview of conventional medicine. And that researches only help separate the wheat from chaff.

When a child is diagnosed with ADHD, it can be a confusing and devastating blow. Prescription drugs are often the first line of defense for the disorder. Common side effects such as insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, decreased appetite, allergic reactions, and unforeseen long-term complications lead many people to seek alternative therapies.

Luckily, there are many herbal supplements for ADHD that can balance the brain chemistry without the unwanted side effects of prescription medication. Studies performed on the psychological effects of herbs have revealed benefits for many brain and performance parameters. These benefits also extend to ADHD patients as they have natural stimulating properties and positive effects on the nervous system.

Some of the most effective herbal supplements for treating ADHD include Ginkgo Biloba, American Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Grape Seed Extract, and Pine Bark (Pycnogenol). These herbal supplements for ADHD have been reported effective time and again by children and adults diagnosed with the disorder, and most have been validated by scientific studies.

Ginkgo Biloba is one of the most effective herbal supplements for treating ADHD. It improves blood flow, brain function, memory, and concentration. Studies have shown that combining Ginkgo with American Ginseng can treat symptoms of ADHD in many children.

St. John’s Wort is one of the classic herbal supplements for ADHD. It has been used for years to increase serotonin availability in the brain. Not only is it the most popular alternative anti-depressant prescribed, it is also very effective in the treatment of ADHD. St. John’s Wort is particularly useful in the treatment of the limbic system sub-type of Attention Deficit Disorder.

Grape Seed Extract is another of the most frequently used herbal supplements for treating ADHD. It is becoming increasingly common for physicians to prescribe this extract instead of prescription medication as a first line of defense. Although the exact mechanism that makes grape seed extract so effective is unknown, it is believed to inhibit the breakdown of dopamine in the brain, which happens faster than normal in ADHD patients.

Pine Bark is also an up and comer in the world of herbal supplements for ADHD. Also known as Pycnogenol, this supplement is a complex of flavanoids from the French maritime pine tree. It is a powerful antioxidant that increases circulation, improves capillary health, and reduces free radicals. These properties combine to increase duration and effectiveness of the brain’s neurotransmitters. Pycnogenol can cross the brain’s blood barrier, which almost no other substance can do. It has been found especially helpful in treating children with ADHD.

Diet, exercise, and herbal supplements for treating ADHD may be the answer to your prayers if you are searching for an alternative to drug therapy. These are just some of the many herbal supplements for ADHD that have been proven effective. Find what works best for your child and speak to your doctor about any changes in medication or the addition of herbal supplements for treating ADHD.