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The inception of cold breeze; frosty nights; biting chilly mornings and starts the winter woes that come along with it as a twin sibling-agitating the body to hell and disturbing the immune system. Some experience a rashness in the skin, some undergoes a flaky skin, some feel an itching numbness in the feet and palms while someone’s nose pours like a stream through out the season. Name it as seasonal sickness or an allergy, it definitely irks!

Explains Dr. Sanjay Saini, a physician.

People don’t understand that one has to tame the body with the upcoming change in the season, don’t we prepare and check our memories for the coming examinations? Why not check and scrutinize our bodies? Generally, everybody takes the seasonal change for granted and ultimately join the unending queue of the viral victims. No concern for health and one end in the bed with prescribed medication. It is nothing but a bad reaction to a bad action.

During this season, the human body, in order to keep itself warm, generates a lot of energy as a protection against the cold weather and chilly winds. This warmth intensifies the fire of the stomach which helps to digest the food and strengthens the digestive system of a healthy and strong person. It is then able to digest heavier food taken in large quantity. Therefore, during the winter season nutritious food should be taken. Though, with seasonal fruits and vegetables available throughout the year to meet the ingredients of junk food-be it frozen peas or cabbage grown with agro technology, the Gen next no longer experiences the bliss of enjoying the seasonal delicacies. Result: An imbalance in the metabolism and sickness. Here are a few tips to not to fight but copout the woes:

1. Avoid extreme changes in temperature. With Ac’s becoming a norm in every household; comforting oneself to room temperature and switching immediately to the coldness can make the matters worse.
2. Include rich supplements to your diet such as millet, maize, gram, moong, black gram and masoor. Besides, milk, clarified butter and mawa are foods that provide energy. Juices of amla, carrots and tomatoes are also highly beneficial.
3. For someone who experiences extreme numbness, a few sips of beer, red wine and alcohol can help increase the blood rotation.
4. Pamper your skin with glycerin or a number of moisturizers available. Remember, a dreary skin is a signal of an ailment about to pounce.
5. With winters, comes the season of taking vows. Be in vogue with overcoats, pullovers and scarves. Showcasing your worked up attire in biting cold may leave you loosing all the fervor of the occasion. Being comfortable and appearing trendy is much better than rubbing hands and shivering all the while in front of a wood fire.
6. Be it winters or summers, the best time to exercise is still dawn. Engage yourself in brahstika and suryabhedi pranayam. Also, suryanamaskar helps increase the blood rotation thereby bringing heat in the body. Yes, it feels like being cozy in a warm blanket but a workout in the morning is worth it. After all, it is no one else you are doing it for and don’t they say sound health is the first state of happiness.
7. Beat the winter blues. According to The National Organization for Seasonal Affective Disorder (NOSAD) Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of winter depression which affects millions of people every winter, especially during December, January and February. If you think that you may suffer from SAD try to get out in the daylight for a while each day. If possible get some winter sun. Make the most of it, it’s a lovely season!

Allergy symptoms vary from person to person (and animal to animal), but tend to fall into a few categories. One group of people will tend to express their allergies through their skin. Various eruptions will appear on any part of your body. These are unique to you, in both the area affected and the type of eruption.

Another group of people will express their allergy symptoms through watery discharge of the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms might include those typical of hay fever – streaming eyes, sore eyes, red eyes, itchy eyes, streaming nose, itchy palate, itchy throat, itchy nose, sneezing, etc.

And yet another group of people may express their allergy symptoms through their stomach, with indigestion, gas and diarrhea.

Whatever the area affected, it is showing you your weakness. But at the core of the problem is your immune system. It’s struggling really hard and not making much headway. It’s badly compromised.

This is at the heart of every single disease under the sun. The expression of the disease (ie your symptoms) indicate your area of weakness, but the fact that you have the allergy or disease in the first place is because your immune system is compromised.

If you have a good, healthy immune system, your body will heal everything. You won’t even be aware that there is a problem.

So how do you restore your immune system to its former glory? Generally this is a life transformation. There is no easy fix, no magic bullet. But if you start now, it can only improve.

Things that stop your immune system working are:

• eating unhealthy food (fast, junk, processed, dairy, too much meat, preservatives, colours and so on)
• taking medicine on a regular basis
• having vaccines
• not getting exposed to enough sun
• not taking regular exercise
• drinking too much alcohol

But by far the most important aspect is how you think. If you think negatively, get frightened easily, get angry often or suppress your feelings regularly, your immune system will be badly affected.

Those people who are at peace with themselves don’t have compromised immune systems. And they don’t get sick very often.

So instead of thinking someone else, other than you, can fix your allergy symptoms, try thinking that you are responsible for your health. It could be the start of a profound journey for you.

Asthma attacks are quite prevalent these days. Every day you might come across news snippets stating the casualties of asthma attacks. Plenty of misconceptions and theories exist in this domain and in this brief description; I would like to shed some important information regarding the same.

A number of factors might lead to asthma attacks. Knowing them and keeping them at bay requires careful thought as well as guidance. What exactly is an asthma attack? In simpler non-medical terms, it is the narrowing of the air passage leading to the lungs.

There is no specific cause for the condition. Researchers and doctors all over the world attribute allergens and the genetic make-up as major contributors of the condition. Parents who are known to suffer from this condition can impart asthma to their offspring. The presence of allergy causing agents like dust, pollen also induces asthma attacks in a person. A characteristic feature of asthma is the fact that is sets from an earlier stage of one’s life. Latest research is pointing to the fact that respiratory complications that were present on a child during childhood era might also contribute a lot to shape this condition.

Keeping themselves away from dust and dirt ridden environments is one of the best manners to ward away asthma attacks. Hair from domesticated animals might also pose a significant risk. If one is suffering from asthma, it is better not to invest on any kind of pets for the home. Microscopic particles might irritate the bronchial lining and an asthma attack might be induced on the patient. The room occupied by the patient – it must not contain objects that aid in quick dust accumulation like drapes. Carpets also pose problems like the aforementioned drapes. Asthma attacks are also known to be the direct reaction to allergy to certain foods. Please avoid them.

Doctors and modern medicine present numerous tests to confirm the existence of asthma on a patient. Spirometer is the commonly employed instrument to detect and study about asthma. Breathing problems are the hallmark of the condition, hence tests that are employed to detect them can be implemented for detecting asthma. The value of peak expiratory flow provides an insight into the condition. X-rays of the chest and the associated regions will also prove to be beneficial in detecting the condition. Various tests are present that will aid in detecting allergy – these might prove to be helpful, likewise.

There is no specific treatment for asthma. Doctors are known to advise the patient to keep away from dusty environments. Altering the lifestyle so that asthma causative agents are less inhaled is the pivotal step in curbing the condition. Certain physicians also recommend mild dosage of anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent asthma attacks.

The case of hives you have experienced are the itchy, red splotches on your skin that can come quickly and disappear over the course of minutes or hours. Almost all types of allergy hives cause itching. They usually form on the surface of the skin. Sometimes they appear in the soft tissues of the mouth, throat and eyes. Hives are the  reaction of the body to an allergen, this is where the name allergy comes from. On some occasions, hives can be so severe, they become life-threatening affecting the whole body not just the skin. This systemic condition is called anaphylaxis.

When you come in contact with certain foods, cosmetics, soaps and detergents , medicines or even substances in your environment, your immune system can become negatively affected. You can experience an allergic reaction to any number of these items and your body goes on defense, prompting immune cells to produce a chemical called histamine. Histamine affects the  small blood vessels in the skin, the capillaries, causing them to swell and liquids are pooled under the skin causing welts known as hives.

Histamines can also be released in the bloodstream due to chronic infections systemic disease such as asthma, a condition that causes inflammation and obstruction of the airways in the lungs, blood products given intravenously, or into the veins. A healthcare professional can diagnose hives after examining the affected person and listening to an account of the event. Medical experts refer to chronic hives as cases that lasts longer than 6 weeks. This may happen to anyone, but it is usually most common in women aged 40-60 years. These chronic hive cases can last for months or years, but they are very unusual.

According to findings of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, allergy hives affects an estimated 20 % of our population. The rash associated with hives can be brought on by anything as simple as an allergic reaction to food. Hives can also be triggered by insect stings and bites, emotional and physical stress and certain physical agents: heat, cold, sunlight, or water. Medical professionals refer to hives as urticaria.

You find a good  hives treatment by using some over the counter antihistamine medications but be sure to read about possible side effects and make sure you do not have a reaction to them before you rely upon them. Many people have had relief from their hives with diphenhydramine, sold as Benadryl. Cetirizine, marketed as Zyrtec, has been recommended as well as loratadine (Alavert and Claritin). Medical technicians use Epinephrine to treat very severe reactions such as anaphylaxis.

With the advent of so called “Alternative Medicine”, there is a whole new awareness of safer, more natural cures and remedies for hives and related allergic reactions of the body. On the forefront of this more holistic approach to human imbalances is the science of Homeopathy.

The science of Homeopathy is more than 200 hundred years old. It is based on the philosophy that certain natural substances can stimulate the body’s own innate healing systems. This then allows the body to heal itself, often faster than with so called modern medicines.

Homeopathy is a very unique system of medicine. The ingredients that are used are at levels generally understood to be non-toxic and develop no negative side effects. The use of homeopathic ingredients for the treatment of hives, or any other particular condition, is based on “homeopathic provings” recorded in the “Homeopathic Materia Medica”.

Many different people who have allergy problems have difficulty dealing with their powerful symptoms that have them sneezing, coughing, and congested, sometimes all year long. This article will give you the information to enable you to take care of whatever symptoms you have when allergy season hits hard. You don’t have to live with all of these frustrating and sometimes debilitating symptoms that keep you from enjoying life inside and outside of your home.

The first option you have regarding allergy treatment is anti-histamines. These are medications that are both over-the-counter and prescribed by a doctor. You can find most of these at your local drug store or grocery store, and they are fairly inexpensive, depending on which brand you get. Many of these have symptoms like marked drowsiness, so pay attention to what the label says before you decide on one specific kind.

To get your allergies under control when the season hits, you can also choose to get shots which are administered by a nurse at an allergist. These types of vaccines shots have been proven to get results in people who are allergic to a variety of things, from cats to pollen and dander. If you are interested in this method, then you will want to gather as much information as possible on it to avoid any possible negative side-effects.

Getting an air purifier to put in your home is another good idea. Most people are not aware of the amount of allergens and dust that is in their home. If you find that you are constantly sneezing and getting congested in the comfort of your own home, you may need to buy one of these devices to help filter the air so you can breathe a little easier when trying to relax at home.

Cough, congestion, running nose, headache and phlegm accumulation is common in winter seasons. Some people suffer from these symptoms even during off winter season. Such symptoms may have been a result of some allergy caused by different viruses in the air. It is these virus which attacks the immune system leading to cold allergies.

Best advice from the doctors would be to build your immune system strong.

Keep those bad viruses at bay. This will not only keep you fit but also help you avoid unnecessary use of medications, such as antibiotics, decongestant and any unnecessary contact with hospitals and medical facilities.

Common symptoms that people experience during winter seasons:

• Sneezing which is contagious
• Cough which is contagious
• Congestion
• Headache
• Running nose – may be clear, green, yellow or white

Herbal tea such as green tea is popularly used in China and among other western countries. It is not only good for your skin but also improves immunity and keeps allergies away from your life.

Similarly inner bark of the purple lapacho tree, P’au D’Arco tea have properties which are anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal thus help fight infection and allergy causing bacteria.

Consumption of a gooseberry every day or tulsi leaf (Holy Basil Supplements) has proved to boost your immune system. Tulsi is also helpful for skin burns and improves memory if it is eaten on a daily basis. It has been a main ingredient in ayurvedic medicine and has been in the top ranked medicinal herb list.

Eating a Camphor every month, can also help build your immune system. Camphor can be consumed along with a plantain or can be swallowed directly. Your body releases chemicals known as histamine, just as it does when fighting a cold. This can cause swelling in your nasal passages, a runny nose, coughing and sneezing. When your immune system is exposed to an allergen for the first time, you may not always have a reaction. Soon after that initial exposure, your body may begin to produce histamines when you face the allergen again. These histamines are what cause the symptoms of allergies.  If you build your immune system you can fight against all these problems.

Prevent substance to which you are allergic to known as allergens

• Dust mites
• Pollen
• Cockroaches
• Mold
• Animal dander

In addition to the herbs, drinking purified water and washing your hands before eating anything is mandatory to keep your self away from bacterial infection. Develop good habits and see how things work out for you.

Many food allergies can cause a reaction within minutes of consuming or inhaling in the allergen. Other food allergies can take up to several hours to show up and a yeast allergy is no different as people can react in different ways within different time frames. Most mild to moderate reactions last less than 24 hours and can involve a simple rash of the skin, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, runny nose, watery eyes, wheezing and coughing. Many of these can be symptoms for all different types of allergic reactions and therefore it is important to determine exactly what you are allergic to. A person is able to determine if they are allergic to yeast by having a scratch test done.

The process involves putting a sample of the allergen on the skin and scratching it and then there is a waiting period to see if there is any type of reaction.

Another method to test for an allergy to yeast is to have the person avoid anything containing yeast for several weeks. This method can prove to be very difficult because yeast protein is often hidden in other foods. Following the two week period, a Dr. will then have you eat only yeast under close supervision. If symptoms appear after the period of abstinence, it is a safe bet that you are allergic to yeast and will need to avoid anything that has contains yeast on the ingredients label, as well as anything that is made in a facility that also processes yeast items.

William G Cook M.D. 1983 published a book called The Yeast Connection. In his book he claims that by using antibiotics to eliminate germs in humans would also kill needed germs which help to maintain homeostasis. Yeast produces toxins that weaken the immune system. Diets rich in carbohydrates and yeasts, birth control pills, cortisone, and other drugs can stimulate yeast growth. He believes that to correct the problem, he prescribed allergenic extracts, anti-fungal drugs, vitamins and mineral supplements, and diets that avoid refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and fruits and milk.

If you are allergic to yeast then you need to be sure to avoid bread and other baked goods, drinking ale, beer, red or white wine, sherry, and vermouth. All alcoholic beverages will contain yeast to some extent. If you have an allergy to yeast, then alcohol is also off limits. It is also important to remember that reaction can vary and become either worse or better overtime.

It is important to discuss with your Dr. any concerns you have about an allergic reaction to yeast.

Gluten allergy symptoms can be harmless and immediate or serious but take months or even years to manifest themselves. Either way, if you’re experiencing gluten intolerance symptoms, don’t take them lightly. The consequences can be dire. Here’s what gluten reactions to watch for and how to eliminate them.

When gluten allergy symptoms occur right after consuming food with gluten, you’re probably experiencing a wheat allergy rather than a gluten intolerance (though this isn’t always the case). Immediate reactions are usually histamine responses like hives that can be addressed with traditional antihistamines like you would take for hay fever.

The more dangerous gluten allergy symptoms, however, often don’t manifest themselves for a long team. This is because gluten triggers your body to create antibodies which wear down your intestinal tract. Over time, you can become malnourished even if you’re eating tons of healthy food.

The only way to stop these gluten allergy symptoms is to eliminate gluten from your diet completely. This doesn’t just mean you have to stop eating bread. It means you have to watch for any trace of gluten or gluten-derived food in your diet. It can be a challenge but it is absolutely vital for your well-being.

Once you’ve begun eliminating gluten from your diet, there are some other things you can do to help eliminate those gluten allergy symptoms. You can take supplements which help to heal and restore your digestive track. I suggest fiber and flax oil for digestive functioning, probiotics to improve your intestinal flora, enzymes to help you break down and absorb the nutrients in your meals and last but not least, vitamin D. Often times, vitamin D deficiency is one of the first health problems you’ll suffer when you’re gluten intolerant.

By eliminating gluten and encouraging greater health and vitality along your digestive track, you’ll be well on your way to eliminating gluten allergy symptoms from your life.

Seasonal allergies are a constant companion for many individuals and represent a major health factor for millions of Americans. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, red itchy eyes, sore throat and even dark circles under the eyes.

Hay fever is often caused by pollens which are at the highest counts in higher heats, humidity and carbon dioxide concentration. Ragweed is the most common allergen in the fall which causes our immune system to release histamines and other inflammatory mediators. The spring is dominated by tree contributions, followed by flowers, weeds and molds. These all cause the same immune system response. In the United States about 75% of allergy sufferers are to ragweed and 10% are to trees.

Since we can not cure allergies, we must change our environment to best deal with them. When the outdoor allergens are high, try and stay indoors keeping the humidity below 50%. Change the filters on the air conditioners at least once a month and wear a mask outside when working in the garden. Be sure to wash hands immediately after out door activities, shower and change clothes often.

Contact lens wearers should consider reducing their wear during high allergen times and while working out doors. If contacts are worn then rub and rinse them frequently and use hydrogen peroxide systems like AOSept or OXYSept.

Medications can also be very helpful. Eye allergy drops like Patanol or Pataday are great at relieving the symptoms, and severe allergy suffers can benefit from mild topical steroid drops as well such as Lotemax or FML. Systemic antihistamines that can be purchased over the counter are useful as well, Claritin, Allegra, Benadryl etc.

Always inform your health care provider and eye doctor of all the medications that you are taking even the OTCs. They can interact with prescriptions that may be detrimental, or antagonize conditions such as glaucoma.