Pre Diabetes Symptoms - Can You Really Predict Diabetes Early andPrevent It?

There are numerous pre diabetes symptoms, which should be detected earlier in order to prevent from diabetes. Most people are suffering from this deadly disease. The most common form of this disorder is Type 2 diabetes. They are spreading at a very high speed and mostly attacking adults while Type 1 is mostly attacking the younger people.

When our pancreas fails to produce insulin, it cause high blood sugar levels and leads to Type 1 diabetes and when our pancreas produces ineffective insulin due to old age, it leads to type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can also be a genetic problem. In order to prevent the side effects like blindness and rotting, we should try to detect them through their pre diabetes symptoms.

Can We Really Predict Diabetes Early And Prevent It?

Yes, we can easily predict this problem by looking at the pre diabetes symptoms. Most of the symptoms are similar in both Type1 and Type 2.

Feeling Thirsty: Despite of gulping down jars of water you feel thirsty. This unquenchable thirst is a regular pre diabetes symptoms.

Frequent urination: When there is too much glucose in your blood, the urination becomes more frequent. If you observe this type of change in your body then we should immediately consult a doctor.It can be considered as most vital pre diabetes symptoms after which patients need to to consult doctors immediately for further checkup as this disorder can turn into deadly disease at any moment.

Weight loss: When your pancreas stops producing insulin, your immune system gets affected. Your body constantly needs energy; the cells in your pancreas starts breaking down your muscles and eventually you lose weight. This weight loss is more noticeable in type 1 diabetes.This one of the main symptoms to detect this deadly disease.

There are other symptoms such as dry and itchy skin, blurred vision and tiredness. Your body also experiences weakness before the advent of this deadly disease because of low insulin production in your pancreas.

Bitter Gourd for Diabetes Mellitus

An herb know world wide for its well-known results in diabetes mellitus. Known as Momordia charantia in biological terms is an herb that is a boon to mankind. Due to its miraculous properties, it is regarded as one of the best herb existing on this planet. A wonder of nature is that, it is not only beneficial in diabetes mellitus but is also very beneficial in many other disorders that have been troubling mankind. Karela not only gives relief but also cures the patient.

This wonderful herb commonly grows everywhere in India. It is generally found in places, which are damb and wet. It is a creeper and it climbs on other trees for supports. Generally whole plat is used but some people in India also uses outer layer of the fruit.

This exotic hear is ushan virya in potency, and possess laghu (light) and ruksh (dry) properties. It possesses tickt and katu rasa. Combination of these properties makes it the real natures wonder. Due to combination of these properties it makes Karela a magic stick by which many diseases can be eradicated. Karela's chemical constituents are lectin, charatin and momordicine. It also contains a polypeptide named gurmarin, which is similar to insulin in composition. Well exact action is still unknown but it is well established that regular use of Karela has very good results in diseases like diabetes etc

Indications of Karela

A very peculiar quality of Karela is that, it suppresses kapha and pitta but due to ushan virya potency it also don't let vata to increase.

· Widely used herb in treating diabetes mellitus as it has an action similar to insulin thus helping in glucose metabolism.
· Stimulates pancreas to work and secrete all the secretions properly.
· Helps in stimulating liver for proper secretions of bile juices.
· It helps in easier digestion of food as it promotes secretion of digestive enzymes.
· Helps in good assimilation of food.
· Works as an appetizer.
· Very useful in constipated stools and disease like hemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas.
· Help in destroying worms present in our gastro intestinal tract therefore works as deworming agent.
· Its property fades away the toxin named ama formed in the body due to non-recommended lifestyle and bad eating habits.
· It is a very good blood purifier as it contains tickt and katu rasa there fore helps in purifying blood and helps us from infection from microorganism and toxins that are created by there presence.
· Due to its actions it is very commonly used in skin diseases specially it finds it application in acne and black spots on face.
· It works as an anti-inflammatory agent thus helping in subduing any kind of oedema present on body.
· Good results have been seen in patients suffering from chronic cough as it has expectorant properties and helps in releasing the sputum accumulated in respiratory tract and lungs. Asthmatic patients are believed to have a very good relief if it is regularly taken.
· A very useful remedy in pyrexia of unknown origin.
· A highly recommended herb in patients suffering from obesity and metabolism related disorders.
· Works as a female tonic thereby helpful in menstrual disorders and female genital tract related problems.
· It also helps in secretion of milk during lactation phase after pregnancy.
· Due to anti bacterial properties its external application is very effective in healing wounds an injuries.
· It is supposed to stop excess blood flow from the wounded area.
· It is very helpful in external application on any kind of skin disease due to its anti microbial action.
· It's highly used in applying on external pile mass with pain relieving and swelling decreasing properties.

Yeast Infection - The Diabetes Connection

Generally, all women at some point in their lives will suffer through a yeast infection, however those who also have diabetes will be especially vulnerable. The normal environment in the vagina is acidic. Yeast cells are kept in balance there by the lack of available nutrients and this acidic environment.

Women who have diabetes have higher amounts of glucose, or sugar, in their blood. This causes vaginal secretions to also contain more glucose, which changes the environment. This change provides nourishment to yeast cells and as they feed on this extra glucose, they are able to multiply and turn into a yeast infection.

Another thing that helps to prevent candidiasis, yeast infections, is a normal immune system. Hyperglycemia can interfere with your immune system. If you get a yeast infection and you are diabetic it could mean a couple of things; One, your glucose levels are not completely under control, your blood glucose levels are too high; Or two, there is another area of your body suffering from an infection, and your immune system cannot handle assaults from both locations.

Yeast Infection Can Have Serious Effects On People With Diabetes

A yeast overgrowth in the vagina, or other parts of the body, may prevent the body's own defense mechanisms from effectively fighting off other types of infection. Women who are diabetic and have a yeast infection will be more vulnerable to other infections like cold and flu.

The body's ability to ward off other viruses and bacteria is inhibited by the combination of high blood glucose levels and yeast overgrowth.

An infection of any kind in people with diabetes can pose a serious risk. Blood sugar levels can fluctuate higher or lower than usual when the body is trying to fight off the infection; this of course causes complications with trying to control the diabetes. We are all aware of the risks to a diabetic person if their blood sugar spikes high or drops very low.

What Are the Treatment Options?

There are antifungal medications that can be gotten by prescription and over the counter, but you should definitely consult with a health care provider before taking any of these because of the risk of interaction with your regular medications. That is why it is so much better to go with a natural option to cure your yeast infection; there is so much less risk.

There is also the option of using a vaginal suppository; however you must be certain that you actually have a vaginal yeast infection, as misdiagnosis can actually lead to fungicide resistant yeast. Women with diabetes who have yeast infections may require longer than average treatment to ensure that all the yeast is brought under control.

Yeast infections can happen in other areas of the body and can be treated by topical or oral antifungal agents, or as we prefer, natural methods to cure yeast infections. One very important thing you need to remember when you are treating a yeast infection, for people with diabetes especially is the need to ensure that whatever regime you follow you continue right to the end of the course of treatment. This will ensure that the yeast is under control. If you stop taking treatments early because you feel somewhat better, you run the risk of having the infection return even stronger than before.

If you have diabetes, or know someone who does then please check out our resource box for more information. You owe it to yourself to do the right thing and seek help for this debilitating, and potentially fatal condition.

Countdown to Flu 2010: Flu Vs Cellulitis

How can you tell the difference between the flu and cellulitis?



Description
Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria. Bacteria can enter into the skin either through a cut or insect bite and spread to deeper tissues causing an infection. If it is not treated with antibiotics, the infection can spread to the blood or lymph nodes. The most common bacteria are staphylococcus and streptococcus species. A particular staphylococcus species called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming a more common bacteria. Patients with depressed immune systems such as diabetes, cancer, HIV, chronic steroid use, and auto immune diseases are more likely to acquire cellulitis.



Symptoms
The affected skin becomes red, warm to the touch, painful, and swollen. If the surrounding lymph channels become infected red streaks up the arm or leg will be seen. These red streaks are called lymphangitis. Patients may also experience fever, fatigue and vomiting.



Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. A culture of any infectious fluid will be done if available. If
there is an associated fever blood cultures may be done.



Treatment
Cleaning and bandaging of any lacerations or abrasions will be done. Removal of the stinger will be performed if the infection is from an insect bite. Antibiotics either orally or intravenous depending on the severity of the infection will be administered. Common antibiotics include: cephelexin/Keflex, dicloxacillin/Dynapen, clindamycin/Cleocin, or clarithromycin/Biaxin. If MRSA is suspected the following antibiotics may be used: trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole/Bactrim, vancomycin/Vancocin, daptomycin/Cubicin, tigecycline/Tygacil, or linezolid/Zyvox.



As you can see while both diseases are associated with a fever the hallmark of cellulitis are areas of red, hot, and painful skin. Any area of the body can be affected but the most common places for cellulitis are the arms and legs. Patients with cellulitis will not have the cough and runny nose so common with the flu.
If you have cellulitis you should seek treatment quickly since early antibiotics are the best way to ensure a complete recovery. Either an emergency department or urgent care clinic can appropriately take care of patients with cellulitis. You can find either of these healthcare facilities anywhere in the United States by using iTriage.

Symptoms of Drinking Contaminated Water

What are the symptoms of drinking contaminated water? This is a question you may ask if going on a trip overseas to some of the poorer countries whose supplies are questionable. Although, you do not have to travel to have this problem, it can be right on your doorstep.



Water can become contaminated by many things. These things can be protozoal infections which can be like cryptosporidium, which causes a flu, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhoea, weight loss and bloating with increased gas. Another is Giardia, which causes diarrhoea, bloating, abdominal discomfort and gas. There are three others in this group and they can all display similar symptoms.



Another is the bacterial infection of dysentery caused by a salmonella contamination. This infection causes diarrhoea with blood, fever, stomach pain, vomiting, and an e.coli infection. It also causes loose watery bowel movements and sometimes death from dehydration in the young and very old, as well as those with a low immune system from a prolonged illness. There are twelve others in this group with varying symptoms. They mostly have a feeling of being very unwell to respiratory problems, chills, fevers, muscle aches, pains, tiredness, and in serious cases pneumonia.



There are also the parasites that can get into a person by drinking dirty water. These are mostly caused by the ingestion of eggs or larvae, which hatch inside the human body and can cause all kinds of unpleasant reactions. These can range from such things as nausea, vomiting, loose bowels, liver enlargement and jaundice, as well as fevers. Each has its own particular area where it migrates to and its own set of irritations. World wide there are nine which can be picked up from unclean storage.



The final type is viruses, and there are six of these. These are ones that can cause cold and flu, pneumonia, coughs, tiredness, headaches, sore throat, jaundice, depression and many other things. Each has its own misery and some can also cause death.



When looking at this list it is not hard to see why clean drinking water is a must. Any of the symptoms of these various problems would wear a person down with ruined health, and some would take a great deal of recovery.



Clean drinking water can be obtained in several ways. One way is by using a filter which has been specially designed for this purpose, and another is by boiling water. Boiling may remove all of the so called bugs, but will not remove chemicals or heavy metals as the filters do. If you are interested in these filters try your local plumbing store or the internet for more information.

Pre Diabetes Symptoms: Warnings to Avoid Full Blown Diabetes

Pre diabetes is a medical condition which occurs when a person's blood sugar levels become higher than the normal range but still falls short to reach the range for a qualified diagnosis of diabetes. Several terms are used to mean the same condition such as borderline diabetes, Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) or Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG). Because the condition is medically accepted to be the precursor of diabetes, which is a much serious glucose impairment, knowing the pre diabetes symptoms is important to make necessary steps to hinder the onset of full blown diabetes.



Diabetes is considered as a silent medical condition because in most cases, physical symptoms and manifestations are absent. It is hard to tell if a person is pre diabetic or not. Most people often have the condition without actually knowing that he has it. One of the few and accepted pre diabetes symptoms is called acanthosis nigricans. It is the darkening of some skin areas, the most commonly inflicted of which are the neck, armpits, elbows, knees and the knuckles. However, this symptom rarely manifests. It is therefore very important to watch for the known tell-tale signs of diabetes as they are likely manifestations that a person is indeed pre diabetic.



Polydipsia, polyuria and polyphagia can all be considered as pre diabetes symptoms. Polydipsia in simpler terms is excessive thirst. A pre diabetic person often requires to quench his thirst more than the usual. Most of the times he would like to drink water even though he has not been exposed to a physically demanding activity. Polyuria, on the other hand is excessive urination. It is somehow connected to polydipsia because the body of a diabetic person would try to flush out the excess sugar in the blood through urine.



When frequent urination occurs, the brain is stimulated to drink more. Polyphagia or excessive eating is triggered by the functional anomalies within the pancreas and also with insulin, the hormone which the pancreas secretes. When a person has diabetes, the cells may become insulin resistant due to the over production of the hormone. The cells will try to deal with the excessive level of sugar which is the resulting product of carbohydrate synthesis. When this happens, the insulin will again stimulate hunger.



Some medical professionals recognize minor diabetes symptoms such as fatigue, blurred vision, and dry and itchy skin particularly to the genital parts. Because the symptoms of diabetes are almost similar to diabetes itself, it is essential for a person experiencing a sign or two to immediately seek professional help. Most cases of diabetes are reversible and many ways can be done to stop it from becoming full blown diabetes.



If you are suspecting that you have pre diabetes, set an appointment to undergo tests such as fasting plasma glucose test (FPG) or oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Whether you have pre diabetes or you have normal blood sugar, a key aspect to reverse its occurrence or to hinder it from occurring is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This means that you should at least refrain from eating foods which contain high amount of carbohydrates as they are converted to sugar.



You should also watch for your weight. Overweight persons are more likely to be diabetic or diabetic. Keep a daily exercise routine to maintain a good weight. By doing these, you are walking away from the pre diabetes symptoms, and the more likely you are not to become afflicted with diabetes. And by the way, reversing diabetes can also save you from other diseases involving the cardio vascular system such as heart attack and stroke.

What Are 3 Short Term Complications Of Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a disease produced by insufficient insulin or insulin resistance. There are mainly two types of complications of diabetes. Short Term Complications and long term complications. Here we will discuss short term complications of diabetes.



Short Term Complications



Hypoglycaemia



Hyperosmolar NonKetotic Coma



Ketoacidosis



Hypoglycaemia Causes:



Hypoglycaemia is seen when patient's blood glucose level falls too low. The causes of hypoglycaemia are



1-Insufficient intake of meal, specially after taking glucose lowering drugs or insulin.



2-Excessive dose of Insulin or Sulphonylureas may cause hypoglycaemia as well.



3-Excessive exercise can also lead to hypoglycaemia specially those who are on antidiabetic drugs. By doing exercise glucose goes into cells and glucose level in blood decreases.



Hypoglycaemia Symptoms:



Whenever hypoglycaemia occurs, patient can have symptoms like palpitations, feeling shaky, sweating, tingling in the lips, going pale, heart pounding, rapid pulse rate, anxiety, confusion and irritability. These are just warning signs, however if we will not treat hypoglycaemia then patient can lead to coma and even death can occur.



What to do if Hypoglycaemia occurs:



If you are in a hospital and your nurse or doctor find out that you are in hypoglycaemia, then most probably you will be injected with 25% dextrose water 5 ampules depending upon your blood glucose level. At home, hypoglycaemia can be treated simply by taking some sweet juice like orange juice or glucose containing tablets. If patient goes to coma stage then intramuscular injection of GLUCAGON may help. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood glucose level. So it is necessary that if you are traveling or going outside, must take your glucagon kit with you. Family and friends should be taught how to inject Glucagon, as patient is already unconscious and can not take it himself. If patient becomes unconscious never try to put food or drink in his mouth as it may lead to choking. If you are on insulin and taking alcohol, there are great chances of going into hypoglycaemia as body will be unable to produce glucose rapidly. It is suggested that man on insulin should take 3 units of alcohol and women should take 2 units. Moreover while drinking, you should always eat something.



What is Ketoacidosis, Definition of ketoacidosis



Ketosis is the accumulation of ketone bodies (produced by breakdown of fat) in the blood and Acidosis is increased acidity of the blood, i.e PH of blood decreases. It is a serious condition that can also lead to coma. Usually seen in type 1 diabetic patients, may also appear in type 2 diabetes specially older patients. Diabetic acidosis is often initiated by an infection like Urinary track infection or chest infection.



Pathophysiology and causes of Diabetic Kitoacidosis:



Usually we see DKA when you miss doses of insulin, as a result blood glucose level will rise, and body cells will start burning fat which leads to production of ketone bodies and acidosis.At the same time, the high secretion of glucose into the urine causes dehydration due to loss of water and salts. Ketoacidosis occurs when cells of body can not fulfilled their metabolic demand in absence of sufficient glucose. Instead, cells start getting energy by breakdown of fatty acids which results in formation of ketone bodies. PH of body will become acidic and body will try to eliminate acids by increasing rate and depth of acids.



Symptoms and signs of ketoacidosis:



Tiredness Fruity smell to breath like nail polish remover Increase thirst Polyuria increase urination. Weight-loss. Oral Thrush Muscle wasting. Aggression Confusion Agitation Irritation Emesis (vomiting), Abdominal pain. Loss of appetite. Flu-like symptoms. Lethargy and apathy. Patients breathe more deeply and rapidly. Unconsciousness (diabetic coma) after prolonged DKA.



Prevention of diabetic ketoacidosis



If you are ill and having an infection, always remember your body will need more insulin in such conditions, so try to increase your insulin dose during infectious illness, but before taking insulin should always check your blood glucose level. Keep tight control of your blood sugar level by regularly checking it with glucometer. Whenever you feel unwell, just check your blood glucose level. If you ever find that blood glucose is high, then go for your urine examination for presence of ketone bodies. You should always have ketone measuring urine strips at home.



Diabetic acidosis is often seen in stomach infection Gastritis, as you think that less insulin is needed if you are having symptoms of gastritis like nausea vomiting and reduced eating and this insufficient insulin may lead to acidosis.



How do you know if you have diabetic acidosis?



The diagnosis is made by: Always measure blood glucose - It is always high in diabetic ketoacidosis. Urine examination for ketone bodies a blood sample taken from an artery - it is done in the hospital and measures the PH of the blood. Doctor will also perform tests to rule out any infection.



How to treat diabetic ketoacidosis.



This condition usually requires hospital admission. Treatment consists of: Intravenous salt fluids like NaCl, KCl etc Insulin is given via intravenous drips. potassium supplements added to the infusion If infection is present then antibiotics are also added.



Prognosis is quit good, if diabetic ketoacidosis is diagnosed and treated earlier, patient usually recovers within few days, however if acidosis is not treated earlier, it may become life threatening.



Hyperosmolar nonketotic Coma



Diabetic Coma in Type 2 Diabetes Hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar nonketotic coma is a serious complication seen in type 2 diabetes patients with severe infection or stress. Diabetic coma is seen when blood glucose level becomes too high and there is severe dehydration. Unlike ketoacidosis which is usually seen in type 1 diabetes, in hyperosmolar stage we dont see any ketones in body and urine, and there is no acidosis. Diabetic hyperosmolar coma is usually seen in diabetic patients older than 60 years as they have altered sense of being thirsty and are more likely to become severely dehydrated. If there is severe loss of water from body, it can lead to shock, syncopy, coma and death



What are Causes of Diabetic Coma?



Severe Infection UTI, respiratory tract infection, bacterial meningitis,retropharyngeal abscess, hepatobiliary sepsis. Noncompliance with diet or insulin therapy Heart attack Renal failure Drugs (diuretics, steroids, phenytoin, รŸ -blockers, calcium channel blockers) Fever Illness Bleeding ulcer Blood clot hyperglycaemia Trauma CVA Pancreatitis



Symptoms of Hyperosmolar Coma:



Symptoms of hyperosmolar coma are produced due to hyperglycaemia and dehydration. Increased urination Increased thirst Severe Weakness Drowsiness Altered mental status Headache Restlessness Inability to speak Paralysis If you have any of these signs and symptoms, check your blood glucose and call your doctor if your blood glucose is high. Diabetic hyperosmolar coma typically seen when blood glucose increases to 600 mg/dL or more.



What are laboratory findings of Diabetic Coma patient.



o Severe hyperglycaemia (> 500mg/dl)



o Plasma hyperosmolality



o urea:creatinine ratio increased



o Secondary glycosuria



o Absence of significant ketoacidosis o Metabolic acidosis absent or mild



How Is Diabetic Coma Treated? It is an emergency situation, and should be treated immediately. Patient should be hospitalised. Treatment goals are to treat hyperglycaemia with insulin and treat dehydration with intravenous fluids. Infection can be treated with antibiotics.



How to prevent diabetic coma? Monitor and Check your blood glucose regularly, as recommended by your doctor Check your blood glucose every four hours when you are suffering from any infection. Take special care of yourself when you are having severe illness.



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H1N1 Influenza Symptoms - Apply These Indicators For Diagnosing the Flu

H1N1 Influenza symptoms involve a fever, runny nose, slight cough, sore throat, physical aches, headaches, fatigue and some chills. Other folks may perhaps also experience diarrhea, upset stomach or vomiting.



A lot more extreme indicators are centered around respiratory illnesses and symptoms without the feeling of fever. Like other viruses, deaths have been contributed to this kind of virus.



For those that experience extreme signs or symptoms, anti-viral drug treatments might be subscribed by your health care provider.



Natural Self Treatment



Fill your body with lots of rest, fluids and light foods. Other than anti-viral medications, you will find no other treatments that may enhance the recovery time. Building up immunities prior to a viral attack will present your entire body the resources to recover quicker or lessen the signs and symptoms in half the time.



Infection Rate



Those that carry the virus can infection others from day 1 to day 7. It's best to stay away from others when recovering from the H1N1 virus. As with most viruses, an individual can still feel the signs and symptoms after seven days, yet the ability to transmit the virus is greatly reduced.



It is vital to get to a physician within the first 24 to 48 hours. It is during this time that anti-viral medicines are the most efficient. Most of the time a fast infusion of fluids and medicine can give the entire body the edge it needs to make it through a serious reaction to influenza. It doesn't take lengthy amount of time for the body to respond to medicines. In rare instances a man or woman may perhaps be hospitalized for a few days for respiratory difficulties associated to influenza.



Even though the indicators of a flu or influenza occur for several weeks following first contact with the virus, it doesn't mean the person is able to infect other people. It does take time for the system to recover fully and return to its original healthy state. Swelling, cough, a tried feeling may occur for weeks. If signs persist, it is important to see a medical doctor to check for other complications.



Keeping a strong immunity against infection is very important to a quick recovery. The stronger the immune system, the better off a person will be when they come in contact with a virus, bacteria or cold. An ounce of prevention goes a long way.

Visit A Family Practice Doctor If You Are Experiencing Flu Symptoms

If you are coming down with flu symptoms, you may be asking yourself if you should call a doctor. Medication can help you get better faster, so it's worth it to visit a doctor.



You should call a family practice doctor if you have a fever, headache, cough, extreme fatigue, sore throat, stuffy nose, muscle aches, nausea, or if you are vomiting. If you have trouble breathing or if your fever or sore throat lasts longer than two days, you should call a doctor immediately. If your sore throat lasts longer than 2 days, you may have strep throat. If you have strep throat, your doctor may give you a prescription for antibiotics.



A doctor will diagnose you and he may run some tests in order to make an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medicine for you. These medicines will shorten the duration of the flu and they are usually taken for 5 days or so. If your body temperature becomes higher than 102 F, even when you take medicine, you should also speak to a doctor.



Certain groups of people are at risk for developing complications from the flu including pregnant women, people who have diseases of the lungs, heart, kidneys, and people with diabetes.



After you visit a doctor, make sure you take good care of yourself. You should get plenty of sleep and rest and drink a lot of fluids. Gargling with salt water may help you relieve your sore throat. Over-the-counter medicines may also reduce some of your symptoms. You should avoid physical exertion, stay away from tobacco and alcohol, and eat soups. Water should not be the only liquid you consume because it doesn't contain enough electrolytes that your body needs. Gatorade and similar sports beverages are good choices.



You can treat aches and fever with over-the-counter medicines like Advil, Motrin, and Tylenol. Aspirin shouldn't be used because it's associated with Reyes syndrome. You can treat your cough with cough suppressants. For nasal congestion, you can take over-the-counter decongestants. However, anybody with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, and thyroid disease should stay away from decongestants.



If you have the flu, you should wash your hands often with water and soap, avoid touching your nose, eyes, avoid contact with people who are sick, and avoid sharing clothes with a person who has the flu. If you have a fever, you should stay home until it is resolved.The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a vaccination. A vaccination will decrease the amount of visits to a doctor, hospitalizations, and the risk of dying from the flu.



You can find a family practice doctor online and it won't cost you a penny. Search through online directories and get the contact information for several doctors in your area. Contact them to see if they accept your health insurance plan and ask questions if you need to. If you want to find out if the doctors in your area are worth paying a visit, check out the online doctor reviews and ratings. Many websites are packed with useful information and they will help you find the best family practice doctor for your needs and budget.

Diabetes Mellitus - Its Types and Treatments

Diabetes is an ailment wherein the human body do not create or utilize proper insulin, which is the hormone produced by the pancreas. The pancreas is the organ adjacent to the stomach. Insulin is necessary to convert sugar and as well as other foods to energy. If someone has diabetes, the body either can not utilize its individual insulin or the pancreas can not produce sufficient insulin or both. This is the reason why the sugars build up very high in the blood.



A person develops diabetes mellitus if the result of fasting blood sugar level test is 126 mg/dl or higher. Pre -diabetes is a situation wherein the blood sugar levels are elevated than he normal reading, however, it is not diabetic. Persons who have pre-diabetes are at risk to develop type II diabetes, stroke and heart ailments.



The following are some signs if a person having pre-diabetes: damaged fasting blood sugar level (100 -125 mg/dl), impaired or damaged glucose tolerance (fasting blood sugar level which less than one hundred twenty six milligrams per deciliter) and blood sugar level between one hundred forty and one hundred ninety milligrams per deciliter 2 hours after having the glucose tolerance test by mouth.



The most common type of diabetes is type II and it appears frequently in grown up adults; but young adults and teenagers are developing this type II of diabetes at frightening rate. It appears when the human body can not produce sufficient insulin and can not use effectively the insulin it has made. Type I diabetes normally occurs in kids and young adults. In this type of diabetes, the pancreas produces small amount or no insulin at all. People with diabetes type I will not survive if not injected with insulin everyday.



Both types of diabetes are inheritable through the genes. A family with history of this ailment may significantly enhance the danger of developing the disease. Diabetes if not treated may lead to several severe medical problems. These problems include kidney diseases, blindness, cardiovascular diseases, nerve diseases and limb amputation.



Diabetes can be treated, however, even if glucose level is properly managed, it significantly increases the danger of stroke and heart ailments. In reality, majority of people having diabetes die of heart or cardiovascular disease because of diabetes.



Pre-diabetes as well as type II diabetes normally result from resistance to insulin. When diabetes or insulin resistance happen with other cardiovascular diseases danger factors like elevated blood pressure, obesity, high triglycerides and abnormal cholesterol, the danger of stroke and heart ailments increase more. Resistance to insulin is connected with atherosclerosis (fatty buildups found in arteries) and diseases of the blood vessels just before the diagnosis of diabetes. Therefore, it is very essential to avoid and manage diabetes and insulin resistance. Obesity and physical immobility are vital danger factors for diabetes, insulin resistance and cardiovascular diseases.



If diabetes is detected, the physician may suggest changes in eating lifestyle, management of weight and exercise programs and also drugs to remain it in test. It is important for diabetic patients to have habitual checkups. People with diabetes and elevated blood pressure should have a blood pressure lower than one hundred thirty over one hundred eighty mm Hg. Diabetes is the prime risk factor for coronary heart ailment and stroke, which entails heart attack. Persons with diabetes may prevent or delay heart and cardiovascular ailments by controlling some other factors. It is specifically essential to control body weight and blood cholesterol by means of low-saturated fats, less cholesterol diet and habitual aerobic exercises. It is vital also lower elevated blood pressure and quit smoking. Lastly, you have to maintain healthy lifestyle.

Diabetes Symptom

Diabetes symptom is very often understated. As a result, Diabetes often goes undiagnosed because many of its symptoms seem so harmless.Initially, the diabetes symptom is subtle or innocuous. It is no surprise that, you could have diabetes for months or even years and not even know it.



There are millions of people in the world who are unaware of the fact that they are diabetic. Awareness of the possible diabetes symptom can facilitate an early diagnosis and treatment, and ensure a better health for lifetime. In either cases of type1 and type 2 diabetes, signs and symptoms are more likely to be alike as the blood sugar is high. It could be due to less production of insulin, or no production or insulin resistance. In both cases there is inadequate glucose in the cells, which can be recognized through certain signs and symptoms. These symptoms are quickly eased once the Diabetes is treated .It will lessen the chances of developing serious health problems.



The most common diabetes symptom is excessive thirst and increased urination. They are typical symptoms.When you have diabetes, excess sugar or glucose develops in your blood. It puts extra load on the kidneys to filter and absorb the excess sugar. If the kidneys can't carry on, the excess sugar is excreted into the urine along with fluids pull out from the tissues. This activates more frequent urination, which may cause dehydration. The more you drink fluids to satisfy your thirst, the more you will urinate.



Another diabetes symptom is a flu-like feeling. One may experience tiredness, weakness and poor appetite. The reason being uncontrolled or poorly controlled diabetes obstructs the body's ability to convert sugar into energy. Instead of energizing the body cells, the sugar stays in your blood. The outcome is you end up feeling tired and exhausted.



Variations in the Body weight are also a possible diabetes symptom. Loss of sugar through frequent urination, results in loss of calories. The presence of diabetes prevents the sugar from your food from reaching your cells. This leads to frequent hunger which will result in rapid weight loss, especially if you have type 1 diabetes.On the other hand, increase in body weight is an equally serious concern. Over weight makes your tissues more resistant to the insulin action. This increases your blood sugar level. The cells become more anti with the increase in fatty tissues. Hence, obesity is a serious factor for developing type 2 diabetes.



Unclear or blurred viision is yet another diabetes symptom. High levels of blood sugar pull fluid from your tissues, including the lenses of your eyes, thus damaging your ability to focus .Diabetes needs immediate attention .If ignored; it promotes new blood vessels to form in your retina which is the back part of your eye, thereby damaging the old vessels. In some, this may bring minor vision problems such as dark spots, flashing lights or rings around lights. Rarely, diabetes can lead to blindness in some cases.



Diabetes can slow down the process of healing of sores or infections. This is because the body has lost most of its ability to challenge infections due to high levels of blood sugar. Natural healing process of the body is also weakened as a result. Women with diabetes are troubled by bladder and vaginal infections..



Loss of sensation in the hands and feet are another diabetes symptom. The excess blood sugar can damage the nerve. There may be tingling and a feeling of numbness in the hands and feet, as well as intense pain in the arms, hands, legs and feet.The risk of infection in the gums and in the bones that hold the teeth in place increases in diabetics. This is because the condition weakens the resistance towards germs. As a result, the gums may move away from the teeth, eventually the teeth may become loose, there may develop sores or pockets of pus in the gums .The risk is even more if one previously had a gum infection even before diabetes developed.



One must contact a physician as soon as the symptom is evident. If you notice any possible diabetes symptoms,it is absolutely vital to take all the body hints seriously and contact your doctor. The earlier the condition is diagnosed, the sooner the treatment can begin. Diabetes is a serious condition. Nevertheless, it is not the end of the road. By proper and timely medication, balanced diet and regular exercise a diabetic can enjoy a normal, healthy and happy life.

What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Juvenile Diabetes and Type 2?

Do you know the causes and symptoms of juvenile and Type 2 Diabetes? Diabetes is a disease characterized by the body's inability to produce or properly use insulin, which is a hormone needed to convert sugar and other food into energy for the body. It has three types: Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes that affects pregnant women. Gestational diabetes usually goes away once the baby is born.



Type 1 or Juvenile diabetes is usually the kind of diabetes that affects children. In Type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. The person cannot make enough insulin needed in the body causing an accretion of sugar in the blood but nothing in the cells needed to generate energy. This type of diabetes is insulin dependent.



There are cases when Type 1 diabetes occurs following other health problems particularly viral ones such as rubella, mumps, measles, cytomegalovirus, influenza, encephalitis and polio. An injury to the pancreas caused by toxins, distress or trauma or its removal can also result to Type 1 diabetes.



Type 2 diabetes is also called adult-onset diabetes. It is non-insulin dependent. The person with Type 2 diabetes cannot produce enough insulin to burn the sugars thus failing to achieve a normal or regular level of sugar in the body.



The most common symptoms of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes include frequent urination, extreme thirst, drowsiness or tiredness, increased appetite, weight loss for no reason, sudden vision changes, sugar in urine, heavy or labored breathing, and even changes in behavior. In some cases, the person may experience convulsions or may go into a coma.



Diabetes is said to be partly due to genetic or hereditary factors. But even if you may be at high risk of having the disease, there are very practical ways to prevent or manage diabetes. Healthy eating and ample physical exercise may make wonders in winning the fight against diabetes.



Type 1 diabetes can be treated with insulin shots injected into the skin or fat tissue. Since Insulin is a hormone, it cannot be taken orally. The sad fact is even at this time and age, there is still no known cure for Type 1 diabetes.



Adult-onset or Type 2 diabetes can be controlled through a healthy diet and regular exercise. One must not allow the disease to control him. Some have been successful to get rid of it just by religiously paying attention to what he eats and his lifestyle in general. Source: Simplediabetesguide dot com

Diabetes and Treating Gum Disease

Low-carb eating is especially important for any diabetic who has an infection. Despite your best efforts to keep your blood sugars in check, any infection, especially a kidney or bladder infection, can cause these to rise. Fortunately, rising these also serve as an early warning system for impending infections. If you notice that your blood sugars rise 24 hours before the onset of colds or flu, you can take zinc lozenges or Sambucol (an extract of black elderberries) to stop the colds or flu before they start.



Low-carb eating is especially important for diabetics who have gum infections. Frequent dental infections are a sign that blood sugars are poorly controlled, although dental infections also make that hard to control. If you have high blood sugars you cannot explain, and you are sure your medications are not out of date and your insulin (if you take it) is not contaminated, the very first place you should check for infection is your mouth.



First, check your gums to see if there is any swelling or redness. Gently press them to see if there is any tenderness to pressure. Put some ice water in your mouth for 30 seconds. If a tooth hurts, you more than likely have an infection.



See your dentist immediately. Your dentist can X-ray the parts of your mouth where teeth are sensitive and make sure you do not have a deep infection. Infected root canals are very common in diabetics and make blood sugar regulation very difficult until they are treated.

Are There Alternatives to the Swine Flu Vaccine?

The latest outbreak of H1N1 viral influenza commonly referred to as swine flu or Mexican flu hit the world in the early part of 2009. Although the current outbreak was termed Novel Influenza A' in the US, previous smaller outbreaks have occurred in Europe and elsewhere. Because of the frequently recurring avian flu outbreaks over the past few years, both the WHO and most countries were better prepared to control the swine flu outbreak. Unlike the avian flu virus, there has been no record of transmission of this flu virus from animals / birds to humans and it is safe to eat cooked pork products. So far the infection has spread only between humans, but there is always the risk that the virus will mutate and eventually transmit between different species.



Most people who have been infected by the flu have shown only mild symptoms and the normal precautions taken for those afflicted with seasonal flu should suffice. These include vaccination (when made available in the market), washing hands, sufficient rest and sleep, exercise, balanced diet with emphasis on fruit and vegetables and avoiding crowds. Covering the face while sneezing or coughing and staying at home during the period of illness (with some level of isolation) also helps in preventing the spread from an infected person; there is some doubt as to how effective face masks are, in this regard. The most common symptoms are body ache, fever, coughing (dry), sneezing, headaches and in some instances - diarrhoea and vomiting. Stricter control and more care is needed for the high risk group comprising people likely to be more severely affected by the virus and these include children below 5 years of age, the elderly (above 65), pregnant women, people with asthma, diabetes, obesity, heart disease and people having muscular and nervous system concerns; hospitalisation may be the best option in extreme cases.



Vaccines used for treating the common influenza have not worked in controlling swine flu and more specific vaccines have been tested. Just a single dose of these is expected to be reasonably effective in preventing an attack on most individuals, but younger children less than 10 years of age are advised 2 injections at an interval of 21 days. More efficient vaccines are also being tested and should be made available shortly. A number of countries are gearing up for mass vaccinations in late 2009 to try and control the spread of the virus among their citizens - something similar to what was undertaken during the polio eradication campaign.



There are a number of options available to control the flu and its symptoms without a swine flu vaccine. Ideally a homeopathic specialist should be consulted to decide on which formulation to take and the dosage required. There are some companies who continuously modify their formulations to create natural flu remedies that take care of differences in the type of flu that is going around as to what works well for the current influenza that may be effective for swine flu.

What You Need to Know About the Flu - How Does the Flu Spread?

What Is the Flu?



Each winter, millions of people suffer from the flu, which is a highly contagious infection. It spreads easily from person to person, mainly when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs cause the flu, which is the short name for influenza. The illness is usually a mild disease in healthy children, young adults, and middle-aged people. However, it can be life threatening in older adults and in people of any age who have chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart, lung, or kidney diseases.
The flu is a respiratory infection caused by a variety of flu viruses. It differs in several ways from the common cold, which is a respiratory infection that is also caused by viruses. For example, people with colds rarely get fevers, headaches, or suffer from the extreme exhaustion that the flu viruses can cause.



What types of Flu are there?



The first flu virus was identified in the 1930s. Since then, scientists have classified three types of flu viruses based upon their protein composition. The types of flu virus include types A, B, and C. Type A viruses are found in many kinds of animals, including:



Ducks
Chickens
Pigs
Whales
Humans



Type B virus widely circulates in humans. Type C has been found in humans, pigs, and dogs. Type C causes mild respiratory infections, but does not spark epidemics.
Type A influenza is the most frightening of the three flu types. It is believed to be responsible for the global outbreaks of 1918, 1957, and 1968.



What are the first signs of the Flu



Common flu symptoms start quickly and can include:



Fever
Chills
Dry cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Headache
Muscle aches
Extreme fatigue.



Typically, the fever will begin to decline on the second or third day of the illness.



Is the Flu contagious?



Outbreaks usually begin suddenly and occur mainly in the late fall and winter. The flu spreads through communities, creating an epidemic. During the epidemic, the number of cases peaks in about 3 weeks and subsides after another 3 or 4 weeks. Half of the population of a community may be affected. Schools are an excellent place for flu viruses to attack and spread. Therefore, families with school-age children have more infections than other families, with an average of one-third of the family members becoming infected each year.



When is the Flu season?



Approximately 10 percent to 20 percent of Americans come down with the Flu between November and March (the season for this illness).



Complications



Besides the rapid start of the outbreaks and the large numbers of people affected, the flu is an important disease because it can cause serious complications. Most people who get it will get better within a week, although they may have a lingering cough and tire easily for a while longer. However, for elderly people, newborn babies, and people with certain chronic illnesses, the flu and its complications can be dangerous.



How does the Flu spread?



You can get the flu if someone around you who has it coughs or sneezes. Or, you can get it simply by touching a surface, like a telephone or doorknob, that has been contaminated by someone who has the flu. The viruses can pass through the air and enter your body through your nose or mouth, or if you've touched a contaminated surface, they can pass from your hand to your nose or mouth. You are at greatest risk of getting infected in highly populated areas, such as in crowded living conditions and in schools.



Why do I get the Flu?



It is estimated that 10 percent to 20 percent of Americans come down with the flu during each flu season, which typically lasts from November to March. Children are 2 to 3 times more likely than adults to get sick with the flu, and children frequently spread the virus to others. Although most people recover from the illness, it is estimated that in the United States more than 100,000 people are hospitalized and about 36,000 people die from this illness and its complications every year.



Medication for the Flu



Although the flu vaccine is the best flu prevention method, antiviral flu medicine is also available by prescription. Flu medicines include:



Tamiflu® (oseltamivir)
Flumadine® (rimantadine)
Symmetrel® (amantadine)
Relenza® (zanamivir).



Tamiflu, Flumadine and Symmetrel may be used by adults and children who are 1 year of age and older. The drugs can be used for both prevention and to reduce the duration of fever and other flu symptoms.



Tips on how to prevent the Flu



A flu shot can greatly lower your chances of getting the flu. In fact, most illnesses and deaths that are caused by the flu could be prevented by a yearly flu shot. Medicare covers the cost, and many private health insurance plans also pay for the flu shot. You can get a flu shot at:



Your doctor's office
Your local health department
Other healthcare providers.



It is important to note that there are no vaccines that will give you complete protection, and the flu shot is no exception. In older people and those with certain chronic illnesses, the flu shot is often less effective in preventing the flu. However, the flu shot will help to reduce associated symptoms and the risk of serious illness and death.



Summary



Key information about the flu includes:
The flu can be quite dangerous for people who are 65 years of age and older
It can be prevented
Each fall, a flu shot is necessary for people in high-risk groups
The shot is covered by Medicare
The shot is safe and it cannot cause the flu
The flu shot and the pneumococcal vaccine can be given at the same time.

Common Diabetes Symptoms

It seems that the number of people getting inflicted with diabetes increases year by year. This is indeed an alarming phenomenon and if no one heeds the call to regulate and control diabetes, many people will be in a precariously unhealthy situation.



Diabetes knows no barrier and it can attack anyone irrespective of color, gender or age. Despite campaigns worldwide on the dangers of diabetes and the insistence of controlled sugar consumption, the occurrence of diabetes goes unabated.



There are many natural remedies to combat and eliminate diabetes but doctors sadly still go for the prescription pad to combat the disease. Imagine the effect of treating diabetes using, say, an anti diabetic drug that has an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality as one of its side effects? How ironic.



Simply, it is what you consume that can cause diabetes. So we must be very selective in the type of foods that we take everyday. You have to practise wise eating. Only then will you be able to keep diabetes at bay. The range of food that you can eat without is enormous. You can consume, without restriction, any amount of fish, fowl, vegetables, and meat (with restraint). These foods can be prepared for feast fit for a king.



Enjoy your meals if you must but if you sort of having the symptoms below, then it is better that you go for a health screening to eliminate diabetes:



1 You have the tendency to urinate very frequently and you always feel hungry and thirsty.



2. You tend to lose weight very easily without any effort. Again you would feel lethargic and tires easily.



3. You will experience blurred vision



4. There is numbness and tingling sensation in your limbs



5. Your skin tends to be very dry and there is itchiness.

Swine Flu, The Common Cold, and Influenza - How Can You Tell the Difference?

As we rapidly find our way approaching fall and winter, seasonal influenza and colds are bound to start manifesting themselves quickly. In its latest Swine Flu update, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said twenty one states are already reporting widespread flu activity.



Physicians state they're afraid the two flu strains (H1N1 Swine Flu and seasonal flu) could merge together creating additional complications to an already frightened society. If you then add in the common cold, which is the most common virus this time of the year, there is a chance that immune systems can be compromised by a one two punch.



How can people figure out if the sniffles and runny nose they are having are something that they should be worried about? Infectious disease experts explain that the public should to be cognizant of the symptoms. Dr. Shmuel Shoham, an infectious-disease medical specialist at Washington Hospital Center, states the cold, seasonal flu and H1N1 swine flu are each respiratory diseases, but they are induced by dissimilar viruses.



Symptoms of the common cold are consistent with most people and may cause the patient to be quite miserable for three to five days. A person will commonly suffer from a stuffy nose, congestion, aches and pains, and in some instances a cough will develop.



As reported by the CDC they state that seasonal flu and H1N1 Swine Flu symptoms are fever, severe aches and pains, dry coughing, diarrhea and fatigue or lethargy. It can be almost impossible without and examination or test to differentiate the seasonal form of flu from the H1N1 Swine Flu that is currently being studied.



"People should acknowledge once they start to feel bad. Whenever they begin to have respiratory troubles, or are dehydrated because of illness, they need go to see their doctor. It could be Swine Flu or seasonal flu," says Shoham. "A few people with influenza could become very ill and may end up in the hospital if it has not been attended to."



Most at Risk



The population at the largest risk for catching H1N1 Swine Flu include adolescents and young adults up to twenty five years, pregnant women, and people with prolonged health conditions similar to asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease. The CDC has advocated that these groups as well as health care workers are first on the vaccination list.



The seasonal flu vaccination is particularly crucial for anyone that has a chance for serious flu complications, reported by the CDC, including adolescents, anyone with a weak immune system, women who are planning a pregnancy during the influenza season, people that are fifty years or older, and health care professionals like nurses and doctors.



Prevention is the Best Medicine



Other than flu shots there are additional ways to remain healthy and have a high chance of resisting these illnesses. Physicians will tell you to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or a hand sanitizer and keep your fingers away from your face. If you need to sneeze you should sneeze into your elbow so that you don't spread your germs to your hands or everyone and everything else in the immediate area.



Whenever you become sick and have severe symptoms you should call your health care practitioner. Your family doctor may recommend antiviral drugs that will address the flu. Antiviral drugs are prescriptions (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that battle the flu by keeping the virus from multiplying throughout your system giving your immune system a better chance to fight off the infection.



Most importantly, stay away from other people. If you have the flu, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends you remain home for at the very least 24 hours after your fever is gone. This is the best way to keep other people from contracting the seasonal or H1N1 Swine Flu virus



Keep your immune system strong and healthy. The best way to do this is by eating a healthy selection of foods including many fruits and vegetables. Get a lot of sleep or rest and remain active as well. Some of the best vitamins to begin taking are Vitamin D, Vitamin C. Add these to your daily nutritional plan to begin building your immune system now. Don't wait for and outbreak, start today!

Juvenile Diabetes Symptoms - What You Should Look Out For!

Juvenile Diabetes is on the increase. It is important to have it diagnosed at the earliest stage possible so that treatment can start at the earliest possible time.



Children are unable to discern a problem in their system, they might feel slightly off color and still say they are fine., it is therefore important that you observe them closely and look for tell tale signs that may point to something out of the ordinary.



A visit to the doctor is not high on the list of a kid's favorite things to do. Nor is it recommended that you run to the doctor every time you suspect something is not quite right. However, you should talk to your doctor when you have any persistent concerns about your child's health. Here's how to recognize Type 1 or juvenile diabetes symptoms, so you can decide if and when a call is necessary..



Bedwetting Or More Frequent Urination



If you note your child is forever thirsty and hungry, this may indicate that there is a lack of insulin which transports much needed glucose to your child's body cells, the body tries to make up for the lack of insulin by absorbing water from everywhere it can. Thus this makes the child very thirsty and usually very hungry as well. Because of the increase in fluid intake, it has to go somewhere, and so the child needs to keep running to the toilet to emptying his or her bladder. The onset of bedwetting can start simply because the bladder is so full all of the time.



Unexplained Loss Of Weight



Sure kids burn a lot of energy and can be quite thin, however, anytime your child is loosing weight for seemingly no reason at all. This may indicate juvenile diabetes is affecting their health and alarm bells should start ringing especially when the child is eating and drinking more than usual, yet still loosing weight. The body just can't eat and drink enough when it has problems producing insulin. Like any piece of machinery if there is a problem in the fuel supply you can't expect it to run properly.



More Confused Than Usual



It can be said that quite often kids thoughts are quite confused or rather confusing this can easily be put down to their stage in life. However, this may in-fact be one of the harder juvenile diabetes symptoms to discern. If your child is showing signs of confusion, disorientation or uncoordinated movements due to fatigue, coupled with increased hunger and thirst, pay attention. These are symptoms of the body going through a lot of work trying to keep the child going.



Other Warning Signs



Obviously not every child is alike therefore juvenile diabetes symptoms will vary with each child. Here are some other diabetes symptoms:



1. Constant fatigue for no reason,



2. Fruity-smelling breath when they haven't been eating or drinking anything fruity.



3. Looking like they may have the flu.



4. Some may even complain that their hands or feet tingle for a long time.



As you can see there is a lot to look out for, now that you are aware of what the juvenile diabetes symptoms are it is easy to keep an informed eye on your child's development and you will be able to examine the behavior habits in the light of this information.

Natural Flu Remedies to Help You Fight the Influenza Virus

Influenza is a medical name for Flu. The flu is extremely infectious and causes acute respiratory infection that usually takes place in the winter season. The flu can infect anybody from any age group, but children are affected more by this disease. It also infects people suffering from chronic disease and people whose immune system is not proper.



It's essential to boost your immune system in order to treat the condition quickly and get rid of the infection. Natural flu remedies can prevent the infections.



Flu viruses are of different types and there consequences and symptoms are also different. Among the other flu types Swine flu is the worst. Swine flu is more harmful to those who are already under medical treatment for chronic disease, asthma, bronchitis, diabetes, heart, kidney and lung. In such cases the physicians recommend their patients to get the annual seasonal flu vaccine shot.



For fast flu relief you can also depend on natural flu remedies. There are various flu remedies that are used to treat flu symptoms, while the body fights the flu virus. Also it's very important to call a doctor when you have a flu symptom. If you are not sure of flu symptoms then the best indicators of the flu are body ache and fever over 102 degrees.



The immune system works nicely when in the warm environment. You may have noticed that cold and flu affects us the most during the winter season. So, you must keep yourself covered to avoid cold or flu. Basically, flu is the result of various strains of influenza virus.



Herbs



There are various types of herbs which can be used as a power cocktail to boost the immune system. The herbs work as natural flu remedies. Some of the popular natural flu remedies recommended by the different practitioners are:



1. Echinacea:



Snake Oil is the Native American snake root. You can get this herb from the travelling salesman in the Wild West. But still people need to realize the full potential of this herb. This herb has the goodness of anti-viral as well as the anti-bacterial property. This is an excellent tonic for the respiratory diseases and it also helps in increasing the production of the white blood cells.



2. Propolis:



Propolis has more properties as compared to Snake Oil. It is an anti-viral, anti-bacterial, antibiotic as well as an anti inflammatory. Propolis helps in curing the respiratory problems, sore throat and cough. From various sources the bees Propolis is produce.



3. Garlic



Garlic contains the goodness of allicin which contains immune system boosters. It is also an antibacterial herb. It helps the immune system to fight the infection. Garlic mixed with Echinacea makes a strong fighting force against infections.



4. Ginger:



It is also an antiviral herb. A dozen antiviral compounds are present in it. Ginger is used basically as a pain reliever, antiseptic and antioxidant. It helps in treating cold, sore throat and inflammation of mucus membrane. It reduces the fever and the pain from body ache also has a sedative effect to relax the body.



5. Increase water intake:



Water is required in your body to flush the toxins from the body. You should at least drink 3 litres of water every day.



Along with natural flu remedies, intake of vitamin C and essential minerals like copper, zinc and magnesium are all vital to support the body's natural immune system. They help our body to fight the infection. Proper diet and adequate rest helps us in gaining an improved and healthy life style.



By following these steps you will be able to prevent yourself as well as your loved ones from catching the deadly flu. These are the treatments that have been used by our parents, grand parents, great grand parents and on and on. Today we have access to doctor formulated natural flu remedies that will help us from contracting the flu as well as help fight and heal us if we catch the flu. This formula is re-created each year to fight the current strain of influenza.

Flu Season - The Most Miserable Time Of The Year!

Introduction



Flu (influenza) season means the months of the year when a lot of people have it and it's easy to catch. Outbreaks usually begin suddenly and occur mainly in the late fall and winter. It is a respiratory infection caused by a number of different viruses. Vaccines are usually given in the fall, before flu season starts and are available as a shot or nasal mist. Shots are most important for: people 65 or older, nursing home patients, children over 6 months old, people with health problems such as asthma or with long-term diseases, such as HIV or heart disease, children or teen-agers who must often take aspirin, people who are often around older people or those with health problems. Symptoms can be mild or severe - and if they're mild can become severe without notice.



Symptoms



If you get infected by the virus, you will usually feel symptoms 1 to 4 days later. Signs of the flu may include: fever, chills, headache, muscle ache, dizziness, loss of appetite, tiredness, cough, sore throat, runny nose, nausea or vomiting, weakness, ear pain, diarrhea. They come on suddenly and are worse than those of the common cold however; having these symptoms does not automatically mean that you have the flu. Many different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms. It is very difficult to distinguish the flu from other infections on the basis of these signs alone.



If you develop flu-like symptoms and are concerned about your illness, especially if you are at high risk for complications, you should consult your health-care provider. Based on your signs, your doctor can usually tell if you have influenza, especially during times when a lot of it is going around. After 5 days, fever and other signs have usually disappeared, but a cough and weakness may continue for a while. All symptoms are usually gone within a week or two.



Vaccine



Two kinds of flu vaccines are available in the United States: The "flu shot" - an in-activated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle, usually in the arm OR the nasal-spray - a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not cause influenza (sometimes called LAIV for "live attenuated influenza vaccine" or FluMist®). On October 24, 2007 CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended expanding the use of the nasal influenza vaccine LAIV (FluMist) to include healthy children ages 2-4 years old without a history of asthma or recurrent wheezing.



Anyone who's at risk of getting really sick needs to get a flu shot, or vaccine. It's good for kids who are around older people and younger kids (like little brothers and sisters) to get the vaccine also. If you get the vaccine, or shot, it will protect you from getting a bad case of the flu. Whichever one you get, you need to get a new vaccine every year because the flu virus changes every year and the vaccine is created to fight the viruses that are going to be a problem that year. The flu vaccine is usually offered between September and mid-November, although it may be given at other times of the year. Because it prevents infection from only a few of the viruses floating around that can cause flu-like symptoms, it is not a guaranteed protection against getting sick. Call your doctor or local public health department about availability in your area.



Treatment



Many people treat their flu by simply Resting in bed, Drinking plenty of fluids, Taking over-the-counter medicine such as aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol). You can develop complications if you get a bacterial infection, which can cause pneumonia in your weakened lungs. Treatment is usually not necessary for children, but if the illness is diagnosed early and the patient is at risk of developing a severe case, it can and should be started. Treatment will only help however; If started early and only if the illness is actually influenza. Treatment includes bed rest and plenty of fluids; anti-viral drugs may also be prescribed.



Conclusion



Influenza usually starts suddenly and may include the following symptoms: Fever (usually high), Headache, Tiredness (can be extreme), Cough, Sore throat, Runny or stuffy nose, Body aches, Diarrhea and vomiting (more common among children than adults). A doctor's exam may be needed to tell whether you have developed the flu or a complication. There are tests that can determine if you have influenza as long as you are tested within the first 2 or 3 days of illness. In some people, the illness can cause serious complications, including bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. The flu can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death.



Although most healthy people recover from the flu without complications, some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), are at high risk for serious complications. The virus usually spreads from person to person in respiratory droplets when people who are infected cough or sneeze. People occasionally may become infected by touching something with the virus on it and then touching their mouth, nose or eyes. The single best way to protect yourself and others against influenza is to get a vaccination each year.



The flu shot is approved for use in people older than 6 months, including healthy people and people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease). October or November is the best time to get vaccinated, but getting vaccinated in December or even later can still be beneficial since most influenza activity occurs in January or later in most years.