Chest Infection Antibiotics
CHEST INFECTION ANTIBIOTICS
The public are now generally aware that antibiotics will only help with bacterial infections. Most chest infections of the upper respiratory system are caused by a virus of which there are over 150 strains.
Although antibiotics were used extensively in the past for a chest infection, they are not normally recommended as they can do more harm than good, as there is now increasing concerns with the side effects of chemical medicine. Studies have shown that antibiotics will not increase the recovery time of an illness in fact, it is known that they can have a detrimental effect on other medication which might have been prescribed, such as Warfarin the blood thinning drug or the contraceptive pill which can make the pill ineffective. Antibiotics are known to disturb the gut flora which affects the healthy populations of bacteria in the body.
The other reason that antibiotics are not now preferred is the knowledge that bacteria have the remarkable ability to mutate becoming resistant to other stronger and ever more sophisticated drugs developed to combat them.
The immune deficiency effect is the concern of modern medicine throughout the world. George Jacoby of the Harvard Medical School, quoted in Laurie Garret’s book, ‘The Coming Plague- Newly Emerging Diseases of the World out of Balance’, Penguin Books-“Bugs are always figuring ways to get around the antibiotics we throw at them, they adapt and come roaring back again”, no wonder, bacteria were around long before man inherited the earth and will always find around the antibiotic effect, and chest infections antibiotics in particular.
Chest infection antibiotics will normally only be considered if you are aged and have a temperature over 38 (100F), or any other condition such as Asthma or a long term condition of the lungs, you are a smoker with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and if your immune system is compromised as a result of Cancer treatment chemotherapy, or you have diabetes or pleurisy which is the inflammation of the lining of the lungs.
PNEUMONIA
The greatest benefit of antibiotics seemed to be for reducing the risk of pneumonia after a chest infection, particularly in the elderly. This conclusion was as a result of research by I. Peterson and colleagues of The Centre for Infectious Disease and Epidemiology, Department of Primary Care and Population Sciences, University College, London. They found that the greatest benefit of administering antibiotics for pneumonia reduced the risk after a chest infection. The size of this risk increased with the age of the patients. In the over 65 groups, 403 patients per 1000 were at risk of pneumonia, if a chest infection was untreated .This was reduced to 146 per 1000 if treated with antibiotics. Just 39 patients over 65 years would need to be treated with antibiotics to prevent one case of pneumonia compared to 119 patients between the ages of 1 and 64 year.
Their studies taken from records between 1991 1nd 2001 concluded that antibiotics should only be prescribed in more serious cases of chest infections.
PREVENTION
Your immune system will be stronger and you will be better able to prevent viral and bacterial infections if you lead a healthier lifestyle.
Colds Remedies: Discover 7 Little Known Home Remedies
Colds Remedies- Discover 7 Little Known Natural Home Remedies
There is no need to suffer from a cold, as there are many alternative colds remedies available. These are the least well known, but just one of them might be what you are looking for. They are all natural homeopathic remedies which have stood the test of time. There are over 150 types of virus which cause a cold, which explains why children have repeated colds and middle ear infections. There is no cure for the common cold, but this selection of herbs will reduce the symptoms. Here are some tried and tested remedies for colds and flu.
Cold remedy #1 HYSSOP: These are perennial plants usually cultivated for their medicinal qualities. As a member of the mint family it has a strong liquorice-minty flavor. It is used to relieve coughs and colds and treating lung infections. As a matter of interest, the camphor like oil of the Hyssop is used as a key ingredient of Benedictine and Chartreuse liquors.
Cold remedy #2 GINGER: This horn shaped herb, available in most stores induces perspiration and eases coughs colds and flu and boosts the immune system. An infusion (tea) is an excellent remedy for colds and can be made from ginger, honey, and fennel. Ginger is also used as a treatment for motion sickness and nausea and helps in morning sickness.
Cold remedy #3 BORAGE: An ideal remedy for lowering temperature by inducing perspiration and relieving cold and flu symptoms. A tea infusion can be made from a liquid tincture or by adding leaves and flowers to boiling water. The flowers of this plant have been used traditionally in cough mixtures.
Cold remedy #4 MYRRH: Mentioned of course in the Bible used extensively in the Middle East for catarrhal and sinus problems. A gargle made fro this herb is effective against colds, sore throats and coughs. Myrrh also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. Used also as a treatment for gum disease.
Cold remedy #5 THYME: This herb has along tradition of use as a remedy for colds, dry coughs asthma, and bronchitis and has excellent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities when used for external applications via a tincture.
Cold remedy #6 PROPOLIS: A natural product made by bees made from tree resins to sterilize the hive. Used as a tincture with many uses. Recommended as a preventative rather than a cure during the winter when colds and flu abound. The antibacterial and antiviral properties of propolis work to raise the body’s natural resistance to disease by stimulating the immune system. Also known as Russian Penicillin as it was used with success for treating slow healing wounds during the Boar War and again during the Second World War in Russia. Obtainable in capsule, as a tincture, or now available as an ointment, soap, and toothpaste.
Cold remedy #7 EUCALYPTUS: Originally a native tree of Australia known as the blue gum tree whose extracts produce the well known oil of eucalyptus is used as a very good nasal/sinus decongestant for colds and sore throats. Also used as a chest rub for bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
It must be stressed that where health is concerned there is no substitute for seeking advice from a qualified physician or herbal practitioner. Never disregard expert medical advice or delay in seeking medical advice or attention due to this articled information, particularly if you are pregnant
Pregnancy and Flu
Filed under: Chest infection symptoms, Home Remedies Colds, Immune System Herbs, Swine Flu Symptoms, Uncategorized, contagious flu, flu symptoms, immune system, pregnancy and flu, prevent swine flu
Pregnancy and Flu
Flu is a more common condition in the winter months because the air is dryer and the flu virus tends to linger longer in the mucous membranes on the nose. Central heating in the winter also tends to increase this risk.
There is now a pandemic of swine flu (level 6 now as advised by the Word Health Organisation (WHO) currently 55,807 cases worldwide. Don’t panic, as here are several symptoms if you are pregnant and suspect a chest infection or flu.
Chest Infection Symptoms for Pregnancy and Flu
Loss of appetite
Headache
Aching muscles
A persistent dry chesty cough
A fever indicated by a temperature higher than 38c (100f)
If you are coughing up phlegm which is either green or yellow.
Feeling cold (a body chill)
If you have been traveling to any Country where flu or swine flu is prevalent then you are strongly advised to check in to at your local hospital where a swab will be taken. If you have these symptoms it is important to drink plenty of fluids, as your fever will cause a fluid loss due to dehydration.
colds and flu
Pregnant Women and Flu
During the second or third month of the pregnancy you may be more at risk of complications setting in, particularly if you still working and traveling by public transport or you are in close contact with infectious persons.
The current strain of flu may become more widespread in the winter and may even mutate to a different strain, so what can you do to minimise the risk. Always, it is essential to carry wipes with you particularly if you have been in public places and to disinfect your hands. Be aware of the common danger areas where the virus can linger. Such as door handles, toilet areas, elevator controls, store trolleys, TV remote, and pay particular attention to your car steering wheel which usually is forgotten, and your car controls.
If you handle cash, make sure you observe the disinfect behaviour even at ATM machines, which could be a common infectious area.
These obvious precautions are worthwhile observing to protect yourself and your baby. Just a thought, do keep a good supply of wipes at home as stores might run out quickly if flu is rife in your area.
Do use tissues and trash them after use, and follow a good hand washing procedure to reduce the spread of the virus, as it can live on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours, and it has been known to linger on banknotes for up to 14 days.
Pregnancy and Flu Drugs
Your physician or doctor will advise you on the type antiviral he will use. For simple flu antibiotics are not effective, so he might advise a simple analgesic or equivalent. If a chest infection is indicated then an antibiotic will be prescribed.
In the case of swine flu in pregnancy, your medical advisor will prescribe one of two antiviral drugs, Tamiflu which is injected or Relenza. The latter is the most favored one during pregnancy as this particular antiviral is inhaled and treats the flu without reaching the developing fetus.
Pregnancy and Flu and Breastfeeding
When breastfeeding you will be advised to continue whilst receiving antiviral treatment with Relenza. If mother is ill with the flu then she will be advised to continue feeding but at greater frequency. Mothers milk will contain only a small amount of the antiviral which we are told will not affect the child.
Home Remedies Colds – Top 10 Tips to Discover
Home Remedies Colds –Top 10 Tips to Discover
Taking home remedies for colds will reduce the duration of the cold (usually 7 days) by at least 3 days and minimise its potency. So how do you know whether you have a cold or just starting with flu? It’s important to distinguish between the two, more than ever now as there are ore than 44, 287 Swine Flu cases to date, worldwide.
Flu will induce a sudden fever temperature of over 100F to 104F. Other symptoms can include a sore throat chills, aching muscles, and headache.
Here are 10 tried and tested home remedies for colds to reduce the symptoms whilst boosting the immune system. If you have more than one cold per year you will know which one might work the best for you.
- Home remedies for colds # ECHINACEA: This has been used for centuries and has an immune stimulating effect by killing the cold virus, and known in Germany as “resistance drops”. This herb is available in tincture or capsule form.
- Home remedies for colds # VITAMIN C: Vitamin C levels must be replenished daily as the body is unable to make its own supply. An over abundance of this vitamin is simply passed out of the system by normal body functions. Along with the health benefits, it is one of world’s favourite supplements. Homeopathic doctors recommend 6 to 10 grams for the first few days, with plenty of fresh fruit as the water content in the fruit e.g. apples , orange, grapefruit (particularly red grapefruit), cranberries, helps to hydrate the body at the same time adding natural vitamin C. Once you are feeling better reduce the dose to 3 grams per day.
- Home remedies for colds # PAPER TISSUES: They are better than a handkerchief as they can be disposed of by trashing after use. Hand washing is important so that you do not pass on the virus or re-infect yourself.
- Home remedies for colds # GARLIC: Cold germs hate garlic as it clears chest infections! And now not a day passes without some new use being discovered. Reputedly, 3,000 years ago the Egyptians insisted that their slaves be fed on it to keep them healthy and fit for work. To keep the breath fresh only use the deodorized capsules. Take3 grams daily to help clear the virus. Continued use may protect against blood clots and reduce bad cholesterol.
- Home remedies for colds # WATER: Colds are very debilitating, so plenty of fresh filtered water is essential to keep well hydrated, as much as 8 to 10 glasses daily.
- 6. Home remedies for colds # HORSERADISH: Well known for treating respiratory infections by increasing perspiration to reduce any fever associated with a cold. Easily prepared in the kitchen by grating the root and then adding cream and vinegar to make a sauce. Used traditionally with roast beef.
- 7. Home remedies for colds # VITAMIN A: Strengthens the mucus membranes which help to trap the cold virus and is needed for an improved immune system. It is sometimes known as the ‘skin vitamin’. Low levels can lead acne and spots.
- 8. Home remedies for colds # SAGE: Fresh sage juice made from the leaves of this herb has anti-inflammatory and can be used as a mouthwash to alleviate sore throats, laryngitis. It also has antiviral properties, which is useful for treating coughs and colds.
- 9. Home remedies for colds # ZINC: It is thought that zinc can kill off the cold causing rhinovirus, and is believed to have an antioxidant function by supporting the other antioxidant nutrients. Smokers are usually deficient in this vitamin. Check the dosage with your pharmacist as it can cause imbalance in copper levels.
- 10. Home remedies for colds # PROPOLIS: Used over 3,000 years ago by primitive humans who enjoyed the fruits of the industrious honeybee, dining on royal jelly, honey and the honeycombs. However, it was the ancient Greeks who gave propolis the name we use today. ‘Pro’ means before and ‘polis’, refers to the city, or the apt translation is ‘In defence of the city’, lining the hive with this resin to keep it safe from infection and intruders.
It has shown to have antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Very little is known about this natural product from the bees, but it is becoming very popular. I personally have been using it daily for over three years in capsule form, and have been colds and flu free. It is available as a mouthwash, soap, and lip balm.
Chest Infection Symptoms
CHEST INFECTION SYMPTOMS 
Since my last blog entry last week, the Swine flu infection statistics A (H1N1) virus have increased remarkably. The Laboratories have confirmed the worldwide cases to the World Heath Organisation (WHO-193 member states) have increased from 19,273 to 36,038 as of the 6-17-2009. Worst cases confirmed as follows:
• USA 17855
• Mexico 6241
• Canada 2978
• Australia 1823
• Chile 1694
• UK 1582
Countries infected now 80 ….up sixteen
Deaths now 167 up ……. fifty
Patients with a compromised immune system, such as the elderly or very young or those that smoke can more readily have chest infection symptoms, usually starting with a sore throat, a cold and a cough which produces mucus, which can be green or yellow.
In view of the worldwide pandemic and particularly if you have recently visited an infected country such as Mexico and have chest infection symptoms, it is advisable and strongly recommended to be checked out at your local Hospital where a swab will be taken to check for the flu virus, H1N1.
Chest Infection Symptoms
Headache
A persistent chesty dry cough
Loss of appetite
Breathlessness (Not associated with exercise)
Coughing up phlegm which is either green or yellow in color or both
Appetite loss
A fever indicated by a high temperature above 38 c (100F)
Aching muscles
A body chill (feeling cold)
If you have any of these symptoms it is important to drink plenty of fluids, as the body temperature will cause a fluid loss due to dehydration as a result of the chest infection.
Treatment for Chest Infection Symptoms
Some conditions such as influenza which is highly infectious as is the case of the current Swine Flu or Mexican flu has to be treated with antiviral drugs (Tamiflu), as antibiotics do not respond to a viral infection. It is essential that the antiviral drug be administered in the early stages of the chest infection symptoms, ideally within the first two days to combat chest infection.
The Tamiflu drug which is the first to be used against the Swine flu A strain influenza pandemic, seems to becoming resistant to this particular strain. “It is not the case of Tamiflu becoming ineffective but there are natural mutational shifts and drifts, says Dr. Len Horovitz a pulmonary specialist with Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Just because it’s becoming more resistant does not mean that it is a more deadly virus.”
The alternative to Tamiflu is Relenza which is being used to combat Swine flu, but researchers have warned that widespread use of these antivirals would risk creating a resistance to swine flu and would make it harder to stem its spread, and they should only be given to patients with a compromised immune system, the very sick, and those with chest infection symptoms.
The fact that these drugs are available online is worrying the medical profession, Relenza in particular as it is administered by inhalation and therefore not recommended for patients with a chronic respiratory disease or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
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