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Home Remedies: Cold and Flu

FitSugar — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 08:00:00 -0800

The colors of Autumn might be lovely, but a few things about the season actually bring me down. I am talking about cold and flu season. If you're unlucky enough to have come down with some bug, you might be able to soothe some of your ailments with ingredients you have in your pantry. Prevention has listed some home remedies for common cold symptoms, and here are the highlights.

Soothe that sore throat: Mix six pressed garlic cloves with hot water, and gargle with this garlic tea twice a day, for three days. The warm liquid soothes inflamed tissues, while the garlic has antimicrobial properties that fight pain-causing bacteria.

Bring down a fever: Try drinking linden flower tea. It controls your body temperature by stimulating the hypothalamus, and also dilates your blood vessels and induces sweating. Pick up the dried herb at a health food store or herb shop. Steep one tablespoon of dried linden flower in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes. Stash makes a linden flower tea, too. Drink this tea three to four times a day. If your fever is over 102° F, take a tepid bath to cool off the body.

To see how you can dull your hacking cough with a few sweet things, just read more.

Suppress a cough: Eating a bit of dark chocolate can help your cough. Theobromine, a compound found in chocolate, has been found to be even more effective than codeine for suppressing coughs, and it won't make you drowsy or constipated. You can also tame your cough with honey. Before bed take two teaspoons of honey and take 500 mg of Ester C 30 minutes prior to lying down to quiet your cough and give your immune system a little lift.

If you have any home remedies for cold symptoms, please share them in the comment section below.

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When Is a Fever Too High?

FitSugar — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 02:30:00 -0800

With the nasty flu bug making its rounds, there's only so much eating healthy, getting enough rest, washing your hands, getting a flu shot, and avoiding germs one can do. If you're unlucky enough to get the flu, your body will hike up your body temperature to boil away all those germs. So, is there a point when your temperature can get too high?

When you get the flu, a sudden high fever is totally normal, and it can get as high as 104° F, and last for three to four days. The best thing you can do is to rest and drink plenty of fluids, since a fever can cause you to become dehydrated. Don't attempt to cool off your skin with cold packs since they'll just make you shiver, which will end up raising your body temperature. Instead you should alternate between taking Tylenol and ibuprofen every four hours to help reduce your fever. Alternating these meds will help to prevent accidental overdose, and sometimes the combination of the two will be more effective in bringing down your fever.

Fit's Tips: If your fever persists for more than five days, or it goes over 104° F, call your doctor and get some medical advice immediately.

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The Skinny On: Peppermint

FitSugar — Fri, 22 Dec 2006 17:29:06 -0800

Two of my favorite treats are a hot mug of peppermint tea and a cold dish of peppermint ice cream. I must also say that candy canes receive an honorable mention.

Peppermint has long been grandma's answer to belly aches and you know what? She was right on target. Peppermint calms the belly and stimulates digestion. It is often taken by folks with Irritable Bowel Syndrome to lessen the syndrome's irritating symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

More than just a tonic for your tummy, peppermint is also an expectorant and a decongestant. It may offer some relief for mild asthma attacks, lessening bronchial constriction and making it easier to breathe. Peppermint promotes sweating, which could possibly help regulate body temperature during a fever, which is good news during cold and flu season.

Medicinally, peppermint is available in many forms: tea, tinctures, capsules, creams, ointments, or essential oil. It is generally considered safe when used properly.

FYI - Peppermint is YumSugar's secret ingredient this week. If you have a recipe that includes peppermint, you should definitely stop by and share it with her.

What's the Deal With: Being Ill and Working Out

FitSugar — Tue, 28 Nov 2006 16:15:00 -0800

Since cold and flu season started a lot of folks have asked me if they should work out if they're sick. Well, a good rule of thumb when figuring out the answer is the neck check. Exercise is generally considered okay if your symptoms are all above the neck - sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, congestion. Light cardio might actually help reduce these symptoms and give your immune system a little boost.

But if your symptoms are below the neck like fever, chest cough (with lots of phlegm) or nausea you should probably choose your couch over kick boxing. Exercising can make those symptoms worse.

So check in with your self and listen to what your body says. If you are just tired or in the throes of PMS a work out could really do you some good.

Fact or Myth? Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever

FitSugar — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:00:07 -0800

"Starve a fever, but feed a cold." This saying plagues me every time I take the temperature of one of my girls. I always wondered if the catchy saying holds any truth.

The saying, which dates back to the late 16th century, is unfortunately wrong. Whether you're sick with or without a fever, it's best not to stress out your immune system by eating too much or too little. When your temp is above 98.6° F, the way to get healthy quicker isn't to fast, but rather to stay hydrated with plenty of fluids and eat in moderation. You probably won't feel like eating much anyway, so don't force yourself, but if you do have an appetite, here's a list of some foods and beverages that could make you feel better and speed up your recovery time.

Yellow fever vaccine (Injection)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:08:10 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Yellow Fever Vaccine (YEL-loe FEE-ver vak-SEEN)

Prevents yellow fever.

Brand Name(s)

YF-VAX

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to eggs or egg products. This medicine should not be given to children under 9 months of age. You should not receive this vaccine shot if you have diseases that weaken your immune system such as AIDS or cancer.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin.
A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines while you are receiving this medicine. Vaccines may not work as well, or they could make you ill while you are using this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a steroid medicine such as dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, or Medrol®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you are allergic to latex rubber.
Make sure your doctor knows about any illness you have, especially HIV.
Side effects from this medicine could occur up to 30 days after you receive the shot. Be sure to tell your doctor about any serious side effects that occur during that time.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Confusion, extreme sleepiness, changes in personality or behavior.
Decrease in how much and how often you urinate.
Fever, severe headache, stiffness in your neck, vomiting, or seizures.
Shallow breathing.
Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Mild fever, headache, muscle pain, or weakness.
Redness, pain, swelling, itching, blistering, or rash where the shot is given.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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Source Doc: 45_5190

Don't "Starve Your Fever"

FitSugar — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 15:30:00 -0800

"Starve a fever, but feed a cold." This saying plagues me every time I take the temperature of one of my girls. I always wonder where I learned it and if it is true. After researching it, I now know that this age-old maxim is not only not true, but that public-health officials have been working for years to debunk it.

The saying dates all the way back to 1574. At least the "starve a fever" part, for no one is sure when the second half was added. I guess maxims are more memorable when they contain pairs of things.

There seems to be no scientific evidence that supports fasting as a cure for a fever. However, when running a fever, it is best not to stress the body by not eating much. Chances are high (sorry for the pun) rich foods will have no real appeal if you're feverish. Stick to simple broths and toast.

If you have a cold there is nothing wrong with eating, but you just might not be able to taste it.

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"Starve a Fever, Feed a Cold": Folklore Debunked

FitSugar — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 04:00:00 -0800

I'm sure you all have heard the saying "Starve a fever, but feed a cold." It goes through my head every time I take my daughter's temperature.

Well, I researched it and it is SO not true and public health officials have been working for years to debunk the age old maxim.

According to Straight Dope the saying dates all the way back to 1574. At least the "starve a fever part", no one is sure when the second half was added.

There seems to be no scientific evidence that supports fasting as a cure for a fever. When running a fever, it is best not to stress the body by not eating. Chances are high (sorry for the pun) rich foods will have no real appeal if you're feverish. Stick to simple broths and toast.

If you have a cold there is nothing wrong with eating, but you just might not be able to taste it.

Acetaminophen (Rectal)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:00:10 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Acetaminophen (a-seet-a-MIN-oh-fen)

Treats minor pain and reduces fever in children or in people who cannot take acetaminophen by mouth.

Brand Name(s)

Feverall, Acephen, Fever Reducer

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen (Tylenol®).

How to Use This Medicine

Suppository

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to. It is not safe to use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) of acetaminophen in one day (24 hours).
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the label directions on the medicine package. Never take rectal suppositories by mouth.
Wash your hands with soap and water before using this medicine. Remove the foil or wrapper from the suppository before inserting it.
To make the suppository easier to insert, you may use a lubricating gel such as K-Y® Jelly, but do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline®).
Lie on your left side with your left leg straight or slightly bent, and your right knee bent upward. Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into the rectum about 1 inch.
Keep lying down for about 15 minutes to keep the suppository from coming out before it melts. Then, wash your hands again.
Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

If you are using the medicine on a regular schedule and you miss a dose or forget to use the medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. You may store the suppositories in the refrigerator, but do not freeze them.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine. Acetaminophen can damage your liver and drinking alcohol can increase this risk. If you regularly drink 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day, do not take acetaminophen without asking your doctor.
Do not also use other medicines that contain acetaminophen, or you may be getting more than a safe amount of this medicine.
Many combination medicines contain acetaminophen, including products with brand names such as Alka-Seltzer Plus®, Comtrex®, Drixoral®, Excedrin Migraine®, Midol®, Sinutab®, Sudafed®, Theraflu®, and Vanquish®. Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using to be sure they do not contain acetaminophen.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver or kidney disease.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if you develop new symptoms such as redness or swelling. If you have been using this medicine for a fever and the fever lasts longer than 3 days, stop using the medicine and call your doctor.
Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. Acetaminophen may affect the results certain laboratory tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
Blood in stools or black, tarry stools
Dark-colored urine or pale stools
Lightheadedness, fainting, weakness, sweating
Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, severe stomach pain
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Yellow skin or eyes

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_1132

Ragweed Allergies Are Upon Us

FitSugar — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700

It seems like I am in a never ending allergy cycle, where the hay fever of Spring blends almost seamlessly into ragweed season. My sinuses seem to be continually fighting pollen of one kind or another. The latest culprit, ragweed, starts blooming in mid-August and the pollen grains are so lightweight that they can travel up to distances of 400 miles. It doesn't take much of this tiny pollen to wreak havoc on your system. It causes classic allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny noses, swollen, itchy watery eyes so severe that it's hard to function normally.

Ragweed season runs through mid-October in most parts of the US and to see tips on how to deal with the misfortunes this tiny pollen delivers, just read more.

Nasal irrigation is a prescription free way to lessen the severity of sinus allergy symptoms. I am here to say that daily use of a neti pot can work wonders.
Avoid areas where ragweed plants thrive, such as ditches, roadsides, riverbanks, vacant lots, and the edges of wooded areas.
Keep windows closed during ragweed season in order to prevent pollen from getting into your home. Use air conditioning, which cools, cleans and dries the air. The same goes for when you are driving; use the AC and keep your windows rolled up.
Shower after you spend time outdoors to wash the pollen off.

Fit's Tips: With the power of the Internet at your fingertips, be sure to check the reports on pollen counts in your area.

If you're suffering let me know in the comments below because misery loves company.
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