Jan

29

Distinguishing Allergy Symptoms From A Common Cold

Filed Under Sinus Allergy, Asthma Relief | Leave a Comment

It is important to distinguish allergy symptoms, asthma, sinus infections and a cold properly.  A misdiagnosis can mean getting the wrong treatment and prolonged suffering.

When you first experience the symptoms of allergies, asthma, or a sinus infection, you may think that you are suffering from a cold because they can present with nasal congestion, cough, head and body aches, watering eyes, and fatigue.  For a cold, the remedy may be chicken soup, rest, and cold remedies or medications.  However, if you are really having allergies and asthma, you may not see an improvement.

This has been my personal experience.  I often find myself having sinusitus and thought that I was having a cold.  However, my cold never really went away.  Now I realize that it may be allergies that I have been having all these years instead of allergies.

 If you too are experiencing ongoing symptoms, then you ought to find out the subtle differences between allergies, asthma, and sinus infections. 

Allergies are caused from a problem with the immune system.  An allergic reaction is caused when the immune system responds to an irritant such as pollen, mold, dust mites, specific foods, or other material that triggers a person’s allergic reaction.  You can find out the cause of your problems with allergy tests so that you can reduce irritants or avoid them altogether.  You can determine food allergies on your own with an elimination diet. 

Asthma is a respiratory condition that results in coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and an inability to get enough oxygen into your system.  Asthma causes bronchial passages to become inflamed and narrow.  Mucus is produced and cause further problems.  Bronchial spasms can also be present.  Asthma must be treated as it can be a life threatening condition.  It is very important to take treatment of asthma very seriously.

Sinus infections, or sinusitis, are infections of the sinus passages resulting in inflammation and mucus production.  Sinusitis not only causes pain in your head, cheeks, and nose; but it will result in fatigue.  Do not treat with over the counter medications, unless you know what you are doing, since some of such medications can be counterproductive.  One of the natural ways treat sinusitis is to use a saline nasal spray to flush the sinuses two or three times a day.  You can make your own spray at home by dissolving ½ teaspoon of salt in ½ cup of water.  This natural remedy cleanses the area, giving your own immune system an opportunity to heal the infected area.  If the problem persists, then see a doctor.

Jan

8

Aromatherapy For Asthma Relief

Filed Under Asthma Relief | Leave a Comment

can be triggered by many factors, including allergies and illness.  This is why many asthmatic people prefer to stay away away from aromatherapy to avoid exacerbating inflammation and congestion at the chest.  However, when used carefully, aromatherapy for asthma can help ease symptoms for many people.

You should only try new fragrances at a time when your asthma is under control.  Start in small doses and gradually work your way up.  Always treat your asthma with caution.  Just because you used a fragrance one day does not mean that it will be safe to use indiscriminately the next day.

There are several ways to use aromatherapy:

Aromatherapy Steam

Steam is often used to open the airways.  By carefully using a very dilute essential oil with the steam, the relaxing and refreshing results can be heightened.  Before using steam for an essential oil, be sure that you do not have an allergy or sensitivity to the fragrance.

Diffuser

The use of steam can be difficult for some people and it is usually used in a concentrated time.  The use of a diffuser or humidifier allows you to use a small amount of essential oil that will not require constant maintenance.  You can set up your diffuser with the oil and then turn your attention to a good book and a cup of hot tea with lemon.

Always dilute the essential oils to a solution of about one to two percent.  Keep safety in mind while using essential oils.  Check with your aroma therapist if you have chronic conditions or if you are pregnant to make sure that you are using the oils safely.  Aromatherapy for asthma can be a great way to naturally ease symptoms and find relaxation when it is used with caution.  The natural medicinal properties of essential oils can bring you relief and comfort.

Chest rubs

Essential oils that help to counteract congestion can be used with great effect. Peppermint, chamomile, and ginger can be used in a chest rub.  Stronger oils such as eucalyptus and tea tree oil must be used with care because they are strong oils.  Relaxation can sometimes help control the tension and spasms involved with asthma, and so relaxants such as chamomile, lavender, or rose can be soothing and calming, allowing for deeper and easier breathing.  Frankincense can be used to aid lung expansion.  Mix the essential oil in a less expensive carrier oil.  You can thicken the lotion with jojoba.