Are home remedies a recommended option to treat Shingles?

Most individuals have been affected by Chicken pox at least once in their lifetime.  Chicken pox is caused by a virus and goes away in its due course. However in some individuals this virus remains dormant in the system and in later life can grow up to cause a viral infection affecting the skin called Shingles.  This virus can become active when it interacts with certain elements in the environment or when the individual contracts a certain illness and has a weakened immune system.  The virus that causes shingles is known as Varicella zoster virus, which can also spread through contact with the fluid that oozes out of the rash.  Shingles can be very painful and need immediate treatment else can affect the individual’s day to day working. 

Shingles appears on the body as rashes which can be painful. It creates a burning sensation as it starts and may also have symptoms like fever, headaches, body aches and skin discomfort.  In the beginning shingles are characterized by red colored rashes which eventually develop into blisters which are filled with fluid. Shingles can develop anywhere on the body but is mainly found around regions like the waist, torso and the back.  Since shingles is caused by a virus attack, the general course of treatment includes anti-viral medicines. These medicines not only help in curing the disease but also help in pain management; symptoms associated with this disease.

Medications for treating Shingles 

In most cases of shingles, the prescribed medication consists of antivirals that must be consumed within 72 hours of observing the first signs of shingles.  The antivirals prescribed are drugs such as acyclovir, valtrex, Famvir etc.  Most of these medications are for oral consumption. There are a number of pain killers that are prescribed such as ibuprofen that are OTC drugs, but must be suggested by the doctor. Topical medications that include certain classes of antibiotic drugs are also suggested for a faster recovery. Medications are the best way to quickly curb the infection from spreading and reduce the effects of the symptoms for the patients. 

Can home remedies treat shingles?

 There are no proven home remedies that can cure shingles; however there are a number of treatments done at home which can bring about relief to the patients.  There are also a number of home remedies that can provide relief to patients suffering from shingles.  The benefit of natural treatment methods is that they come with no side effects unlike medications.

•  Cool showers:  Taking a cool shower or soaking your body in a tub of cool water can help in bringing relief from painful shingles. The water should be just about the temperature that your body is comfortable in. Too hot or too cold waters could react to your body making the symptoms worse. After the bath, make sure the body is dried well with a towel that is clean and well sanitized.  Post drying it is important to wash the towel that comes in contact with the infected skin and sanitize it by soaking it in some clothes sanitizer.

•  Lotions:  No we are not talking about the cosmetic lotions here. Not all lotions can work in healing shingles  What you need is soothing calamine lotions that are cooling and help in reducing the itching sensation that can be very irritating on the infected skin. After a cool bath or a compress it is important to apply a soothing calamine lotion to prevent the rash from drying further

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•  Up your lysine content:  Lysine is a compound that is found in proteins, a number of vegetables and dairy products. Shingles causing virus are normally impaired by the lysine compound and hence it s highly recommended for patients to consume foods that are rich in amino acids and lysine.  Some of these foods include: meats, fish, eggs, milk, pineapples, pears, green beans, asparagus, apricots, avocados etc. Another compound called Arginine present in human body affects the shingles virus, but positively. Excess of arginine present in the body makes it comfortable for the virus to dwell in the body.  Arginine is also derived by body through various foods such as: Tomatoes, pecans, blackberries, sugars, chocolates, peanuts, blueberries and cashews.  Persons suffering from shingles must avoid these foods to reduce the level of arginine in the body thereby making the virus weaker.

•  Apple cider vinegar:  Apple cider vinegar is an excellent home remedy to treat multiple skin related issues. It is particularly found beneficial in treating skin infections and rashes and helps in killing the infection. It acts as a natural antiseptic helping the skin improve faster and preventing the spread of the infection. For this treatment a piece of cotton cloth must be dipped in apple cider vinegar. A pinch of cayenne pepper must be sprinkled over the infected area and then covered with the damp cloth dipped in vinegar.  When done repeatedly, this process can help to fasten the recovery time and heal the infection better.  The problem of itching due to excessive dryness is also taken care of by this remedy.

•  Wet compress:  Hot or cold wet compress helps in a big way to bring relief from the pain.  A towel or cloth should be soaked in hot o cold water, squeezed out well and kept on the infection. One must take care the water should not to too hot to burn the skin or keeping a ice pack that is too cold is also not advisable.

 Management of Shingles

 While the medicinal drugs and certain home remedies can help in pain relief and reducing the impact of the symptoms, there are a few self care tips to be kept in mind by the patients for effective management of Shingles and its control it from spreading:

•    Maintain hygiene:  This primarily means to take good care of the rash to prevent it from spreading.  The rash area should be kept clean and as dry as possible. Using an antiseptic to clean the area helps in reducing the chances of the infection spreading. Keeping the area dry is also essential to prevent other forms of infection from thriving on the infected area.

•    Avoid scratching:  The blisters and sores upon drying can get very itchy creating a natural instinct to scratch. However, when these are left alone they tend to fall out by themselves.  Scratching can lead to further infection to spread. 

•    Using OTC drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help in pain management.  However these drugs must be consumed in consultation with the treating doctor. 

•    Application of topical creams that can fasten the healing process of the affected area.

Can certain foods trigger Gout?

 Gout has been an age long problem and a major public health concern for that matter. In fact, an increasing number of people are suffering from this problem. Gout has been linked to increasing metabolic and cardiovascular diseases in recent times and can be caused by certain foods.

What is Gout?

Gout is a kind of inflammatory arthritis which is known to develop in some people who are having high level of uric acid in their blood. The acid is known to form a king of needle like crystal in a joint which cause a whole lot of swelling, redness, tenderness and severe pains. Gout symptoms occur as chalky deposits from lumps under the skin which surround the joint. When these acids collect in the kidney, it could result to kidney stones.

What Causes Gout?

In the first place, gout is caused by the excess of uric acid in the blood. In normal circumstances, uric acid dissolved in the blood would be excreted from the body through urine. However, in a situation where the uric acid produced is too much or the one excreted is not enough, then it can build up and trigger inflammation and pain around the joints and other tissues. The following factors can increase the likely hood of gout. 

They are:

Genetics: When there is a condition of gout in the family lineage, they likely of gout developing becomes higher

Age and Gender: Uric acid is produced more in men than in women except during menopause in women where the uric acid levels become equal to the ones in men

Medications: There are some medications which has the potential to increase the level of uric acid in the body like diuretics and some drugs with silicylate contents

Weight: The chances of gout increases with being overweight since there is more turnover on body tissue leading to a lot more production of uric acid. In addition, when the body fat level is high, the level of systemic inflammation increases

LeadExposure: one of the causes of gout has been linked to chronic lead exposure other health Problems: The major culprit here has always been kidney problem which reduces the ability of the body to the waste products which then increases the uric acid levels. Other causes of gout include diabetes, high blood pressure and hypothyroidism.

What are the Symptoms of Gout?

The symptoms of gout could be tricky because it normally occurs in attack. This type of attack develops suddenly over a few hours causing severe pains around the joint. In this case, it becomes very painful to work. It is important to note that symptoms of gout can manifest on any joint, in some cases, more than 2 joints could be affected. Another symptoms of gout include swelling, reddish skin and inflammation. Untreated gout can last up to 7 days before it goes. However, there are less severe attacks which could be mistaken to be a type of arthritis. In this case, time between attacks may take up to years. In fact, 
some people can have this attack only once.

Related: Is Gout Serious?

 What Foods Cause Gout?          

The reality remains that some foods can trigger gout and this should be known and understood. Foods capable of trigging out attack should be avoided at all cost. For example, foods that have high purine content can raise uric acid levels in the blood. However, realistically speaking, it is just difficult to avoid all purines in your diet but it is important to know what foods cause gout and avoid them as much as possible. Some of them are

Organ Meat: An example of this are brains, liver, kidneys, eyeballs, heart, cow tongue. In fact, besides triggering a gout attack, organ meat contributes to your cholesterol.

Seafood: This is one food to avoid with gout. You may also want to avoid seafoods like crab, lobster, shrimp as well as shellfish. While they can be very irresistible and appealing, it is important to note that they have the potentials of causing gout, therefore it is best to stay out of it.

Alcohol: This remains dangerous and a bad news for gout. Excessive intake of alcohol is a trigger for gout and besides, alcohol dehydrates the body which also causes gout.

Fried Foods: Certain foods fried in oil are one of the causes of gout. It is important to avoid them. It is also good to avoid prepackage foods that have been fried before packaging.

Sugar: Sugar especially the high fructose corn syrup is bad for gout. Any food that contains this ingredient is dangerous to your body and can lead to gout. Eating sugar on its own is not bad but the quantity of sugar in take should be monitored before it gets excessive.

Foods that are Safe to Eat: Now, we have seen what foods cause gout, but what other foods are safe to eat? Foods that are safe to eat are foods that are low in purines and that include bread and cereals that are not whole grain, fruits, tomatoes, green vegetables, nuts, peanut butter, carbonated beverages, cheese and eggs, cocoa and chocolate among others.

How to Get Rid of Gout :-

There are several things that can help you get rid of gout disease fast and naturally.

Lifestyle Changes: In addition to change in diet, making important changes to your lifestyle will help eliminate gout disease as well as preventing it from returning. For example, losing wealth in a healthy way is ideal to prevent gout. This can be done by engaging in sensible exercises and good dieting. It is also important to reduce your intake of alcohol because excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high uric acid in the body.

Note that even if you eliminate gout disease, it is important to prevent it from coming back because once you have suffered a gout attack; it is possible to get more. This is why you need to watch your diet, weight and your lifestyle to stay healthy.

How can Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affect your life?

Anxiety disorders are not life threatening diseases, but medical conditions that can severely impact normal day to day functioning of individuals. Anxiety disorders are common in people of all ages. The severity of the condition can range from mild to debilitating.  The good news is that there is enough and more help available for those suffering from this medical condition. Treatment for anxiety disorder can range from medications to alternative therapies depending upon the severity of the disease.

What is Anxiety Disorder?

Anxiety disorder is a constant feeling of fear and uncertainty that clouds the patient’s mind most of the time. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the fear and anxiety resulting out of an anxiety disorder are different than the feelings of anxiety related to normal events, such as nervousness before taking a test or speaking before an audience. In most cases, if a person has an anxiety disorder, the symptoms are longer persisting for over six months. There are several different types of anxiety disorders, namely:

·         Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

·         Panic Disorder (Panic Attacks)

·         Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

·         Phobias

Learning about Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized anxiety disorder is a medical condition that is characterized by persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worry about day to day routine things. 

People suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), experience excessive anxiety and worry.  Their fears are often about the worst even when there is no significant reason for worry and concern. They anticipate disaster almost all the time and are often overly concerned about issues like money matters, health, work, family and other issues. GAD is diagnosed when a person experience long term worry symptoms which he has no control over.  These bouts can last up to six months. 

How does a GAD patient feel?

A person with GAD has no control over worry and the simplest of things can be a cause of stress and anxiety.  Sometimes even doing the routine can produces anxiety. They don’t know how to stop the worry and unnecessary thoughts that are going on in their mind as they feel they are beyond their control.  Such patients are aware that most of their worries are beyond what the situation calls for, yet are unable to deal with the same.  When the anxiety levels are mild, the patient’s function almost normally carrying out their everyday tasks, but sudden spurs can make them completely shaky and stressed.

What triggers GAD?

Like many other mental health conditions, causes and risk factors for GAD remain unknown.  However there are a few reasons that are the possible triggers for GAD:

• GAD may be a genetic disorder and is often found in patients having a family history of anxiety
• prolonged exposure to stressful situations such as dealing with long term personal or family illness
• Use of caffeine or tobacco excessively can worsen anxiety symptoms
• Experiencing stressful conditions such as abuse, accident, rape etc.

Diagnosing GAD

GAD is diagnosed with a mental health screening that is conducted by a medical practitioner.  The patient is asked question about his symptoms and how long he has been experiencing them.  The doctor depending upon his inference can refer the patient to a mental health specialist, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.

In the next step, several medical tests may be performed to determine the causes that are resulting in the GAD symptoms such as an underlying illness or substance abuse problem.  Researchers have linked anxiety symptoms to health conditions like gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), thyroid disorders, heart disease, and menopause.

If the medical practitioner suspects a medical condition or substance abuse problem to be the cause of the anxiety, they may perform more tests such as:

• blood tests — To check on hormone imbalances and disorders in the body
• urine tests — to check for traces that are indicative of a substance abuse
• gastric reflux tests (X-ray of the digestive system or an endoscopy procedure to look the esophagus) — to diagnose GERD
• X-rays and stress tests that monitor the heart function while performing a certain activity -  to check for the heart functioning

Treating GAD

The treatment plan for GAD consists of both Therapy and Medicinal approach.  While the medication works on improving the clinical factors affecting the patients, therapy helps the individuals to cope better with the disorder and its symptoms.  Here is the treatment recommended for GAD:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

This therapy requires the patient to meet and talk to the mental health professional on a regular basis. The objective of this therapy is to understand the thinking and behavioral pattern of the patient thereby enabling him deal with the condition better. This approach has a high success record in bringing about a positive change in many individuals suffering from GAD symptoms. In fact this treatment is considered first-line treatment for alleviating symptoms of the disorder in pregnant women. Cognitive behavioral therapy is known to benefit patients in the long term relieving them from the anxiety symptoms.

 In therapy sessions patients are counseled to enable them to recognize and control anxiety related thoughts. Therapists also guide the patients how to manage and relax in situation when upsetting thoughts arise.

In a number of cases, medication is prescribed to compliment the therapy and help patients deal with GAD better.

Medication Prescribed

The treating doctor creates a medication plan which is divided into short term and long term to help patient cope with GAD. Short-term medications help in relieving some of the physical symptoms of anxiety like stomach cramping and tensed muscles. These medications are called anti-anxiety medicines. Some of the commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medicines are:

• alprazolam (Xanax)
• clonazepam (Klonopin)
• lorazepam (Ativan)
• buspirone (Buspar)

Anti-anxiety medicines have a high risk of dependence and abuse and are hence meant for short term treatment only.  In some cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants also along with the medication to help patients deal with depressing thoughts during the course of the treatment.

How to Get Rid of Cold Sores

Cold sores can cause unbearable pain and irritation. Although there is no cure, there are some ways to treat symptoms. Cold sores may erupt around your lips, and can be painful.

Cold sores cause great discomfort and are unsightly as well. None the less you can try the following quick and handy techniques to get rid of the cold sores quickly.

Consider taking a lysine supplement 

Lysine is an essential amino acid, and acts as a potential curative. The dosage of 1,000mg to 3,000mg a day during an active herpes outbreak proves to be a great step in getting rid the cold sores.

Take oral antiviral pills

The common Antiviral pill known as Valtrex, if taken properly, halts the replication process of the herpes virus preventing further formation of cold sores. It is usually recommended to take a one gram pill in the morning and two later in the day.

Related: How To Prevent Cold Sores

Ask your doctor for steroid creams

Use of steroid creams can reduce inflammation, redness and pain caused by cold sores with haste. Steroid cream is suggested only when you are on oral antiviral. If the combination is not taken, the immune system may lose its strength to fight the infection.

Use SPF lip balm

Direct sunlight is one of the main causes of the cold sores. In order to reduce the exposure of the sores with direct sunlight, SPF balms can be more effective.

Choosing the right brand proper SPF is important when treating cold sores.

Coat the sore with earwax 

Curamen, which is actually ear wax, is proved to inhibit herpes activity. Coating the sores with the earwax may induce comfort. It may feel awkward, but it will help in the treatment process.

Eat healthy

Add foods like almonds, spinach, sweet potatoes, avocados, sunflower seeds, olive oil etc. to your diet. These foods have antioxidant properties and help boost the immune system. These improve skin health and aid in the healing process of cold sores.

Use lemon balms

Lemon balms contain lemon extracts which decrease redness and inflammation caused by sores. Lemon balms are very effective and show healing results in just two or three days

Dab the sores with petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly moistens the cold sore. It doesn’t let the sore dry up causing severe scarring on the face.

Use an antiseptic mouthwash over your tooth brush

Brushing your teeth while suffering from cold sores may cause pain and increase the chances of contact with the sores. Use of antiseptic mouthwash decreases any such chances.

Wash your hands frequently with soap

Wash your hands properly with soap after applying cream or after accidentally touching the sores to prevent them from spreading.

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated prevents the drying up of the sores and prevents unnecessary pain and irritation.

Avoid rubbing the cold sores

Every day when you apply the cold sore cream, dab it rather than rubbing it on the sores. The rubbing may cause pain, itchiness and will increase the chances of infection.

How Does Spiriva Work? Is it for me?

Spiriva is a brand of anticholinergic medication that dilates airwaysand facilitates breathing in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It contains the “active” drug molecule Tiotropium. It should be used only to prevent the common symptoms of COPD which include wheezing, shortness of breath (SOB), coughing, and chest tightness.

This medication is available in the form of a capsule, the contents of which are to be inhaled using a specialized device that comes with it. The device is called HandiHaler.

Continue reading to discover more on how Spiriva works and to learn more about its Uses, Side effects, and Dosage.

How does Spiriva help you breathe?

When Spiriva is inhaled, the powder inside the capsule reaches inner walls of the bronchi (singular: bronchus). Bronchi are two tube-like structures that branch from the base of the wind-pipe and connect to each lung. It works on specific target sites (receptors) in the bronchi and inhibits receptor-mediated bronchoconstriction. Then,the muscles of the bronchi are relaxed,providing more space for better air flow.

Studies also suggest that Spiriva may reduce production of mucus, which provides better air flow.

When can you use Spiriva?

You can use Spiriva only after your doctor recommends it for you. You have to keep in mind that Spiriva is meant for maintenance therapy of COPD, meaning that it can be used for a long period of time to control the symptoms of COPD, helping you breathe more easily. However, it should not be used when you have attacks of COPD that occur suddenly. For serious attacks of COPD symptoms, your doctor will prescribe some other medications. Talk to your doctor to learn if you are eligible to use Spiriva.

Uses of Spiriva

The capsules of Spiriva are inhaled using the HandiHaler to prevent wheezing, breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, and coughing in patients with COPD. Ask your doctor to learn how to use the HandiHaler properly.

Dosage of Spiriva

The way Spiriva works is slightly different from other similar drugs like Ipratropium. The bronchodilating effects of Spiriva last for 24 hours or even more after a single dose. A single daily dose is recommended. For more information on doses, read the medication guide carefully and follow accordingly.

Side Effects of Spiriva

Spiriva is associated with various side effects, some of which are non-serious, while some can be life-threatening. So, it’s wise to take note of any side effect that persists or causes you trouble. For convenience, the side effects of Spiriva may be categorized as:

Common and non-serious side effects

All anticholinergic agents including Spiriva cause dryness of mouth.

You may also have digestive problems including Constipation, abdominal pain, Dyspepsia (indigestion), and painful patches in mouth.

Side effects involving the respiratory system are nosebleeds, runny nose, and sneezing.

Remember that the majority of these side effects improve as your body becomes accustomed to Spiriva.

Uncommon and serious side effects

The following side effects of Spiriva are not so common but can be serious. These include sore throat, fever, and other signs of infection.

You may experience headaches due to inflammation of Sinuses.

Problems related to vision are also considered serious. These include blurred vision or painful and reddened eyes.

Abnormally fast heart rhythm is another cardiac sign that indicates something serious.

Remember not to take any of these side effects lightly. If you notice any of these side effects, consult your doctor right away. Also keep in mind that these side effects could indicate overdose.

Symptoms of Allergy to Spiriva

If you have a known allergy to Tiotropium, other anticholinergic agents, or any ingredient used in the drug preparation, you should not take Spiriva.

If you experience signs of allergy such as hives, rashes, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, and breathing difficulties, discontinue treatment right away and ask for emergency medical attention.

To know more about Spiriva, COPD, the proper use of HandiHaler, or more, book the best doctors in your town at FindaTopDoc.com. It’s absolutely free and the service is available 7 days a week/24 hours a day.