Home Remedies for Flatulence

Flatulence is the emission of a mixture of gases called 'flatus' present in the intestine. This gas is produced by symbiotic bacteria and yeasts found in the gastrointestinal tract. Flatus is usually released under pressure through the anus which creates sound and is often accompanied by a foul odor. Flatulence, many a times causes discomfort and pain due to bloating, not to mention social embarrassment. Read more about Flatulence causes, symptoms and treatment on our blog.

Whether you like it or not flatulence is a condition that all of us experience at some point of time or the other. Flatulence can be a major source of embarrassment when it happens in social settings making for some really awkward situations. Flatulence is basically a digestive condition that occurs as a result of an excessive buildup of stomach and intestinal gas. Such an excessive buildup of gas causes a great deal of discomfort and a feeling of fullness and bloating, along with possible abdominal pain. The pressure that results from such a buildup of gas is naturally relieved through the passage of gas from the rectum –flatulence, or through the mouth with belching or burping. Severe flatulence and bloating after eating is therefore likely to have causes that can be easily addressed. Flatulence is a completely natural phenomenon for all of us, but it can become problematic when excessive. This is therefore likely to be most of problem for individuals who suffer from digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance, as well as for individuals with unhealthy eating habits or irregular bowel movements.

On an average it is believed that most humans pass gas at least fourteen times in a day, producing around one to three pints of gas daily. Flatulence itself is not a cause for worry at all. It does not pose any health risk at all, but it certainly poses a high risk of social embarrassment which is why flatulence treatment and natural remedies for flatulence are so sought after. Excessive passage of gas or flatulence is often reason enough to seek medical treatment. It should be pointed out that in most cases of excessive flatulence it is important to identify possible underlying causes and treat them to eliminate the problem. As excessive flatulence causes would stem from digestive problems that are in most cases mild or easily treatable you could simply use diet modifications as the most powerful flatulence remedy to control the problem. Lifestyle changes may also be necessary and if the problem persists it could be because of a medical condition that requires additional medical treatment.

Gas accumulation of buildup in the digestive system occurs in two ways. When we swallow any food or even water or our own saliva for that matter, we also ingest some amount of air. This mostly includes oxygen and nitrogen. This does contribute to a gradual buildup of gas. In addition to this gas is also released as part of the digestive process when food is broken down in the digestive system. Some of the gases released could include hydrogen, carbon dioxide and methane.

If you’re troubled by the problem of flatulence just keep in mind that this is a natural biological process, just like breathing for that matter and it affects absolutely everyone. Both men and women experience flatulence, but men tend experience flatulence a little more often than women. Age also holds no bars and the aged, children, toddlers and adults alike all experience flatulence. Flatulence may in fact more often than not go unnoticed as you may not even realize that you have passed gas because of the small quantities released and at most times the gas passed is odorless. Foul smelling flatulence in babies, children and adults alike are caused by the presence of trace elements of sulfur. This only tends to occur however if food has not been digested thoroughly and begins to decompose. Anyone suffering from constipation is therefore also likely to pass extremely foul smelling odor.

Excessive flatulence odor and excessive gas can be controlled through dietary and lifestyle changes. It is important that you minimize your intake of, or avoid consuming foods that cause flatulence for any flatulence relief. Lifestyle habits such as meal timings, regular sleep timings and most importantly regular bowel movements are also important. Some amount of physical activity is essential for the efficient functioning of your digestive system. Also make it a point to avoid controlling or delaying bowel movements. Treatment with such simple measures can help to control flatulence odor or excessive flatulence. In almost all cases of excessive flatulence the problem can be controlled with such home treatments. In cases of severe flatulence where such methods fail to reduce flatulence it would be advisable to seek a medical diagnosis as there could be some other underlying condition that contributes to the problem.

Flatulence or Gas Symptoms

Flatulence, also known as "gas" can be identified by the following symptoms that the person may experience.

• A feeling of bloating and discomfort

• Excessive expulsion of wind

• Belching

• Pain in the abdomen

Major Cause of Flatulence is Swallowed Air

Swallowed air, though this is a major cause of flatulence, it could still be a reason. Some people swallow air as a matter of habit, this condition is referred to as Aerophagia. While the oxygen present in the air thus inhaled is absorbed by the body, the nitrogen is expelled in flatus as it is poorly absorbed by the mucous lining.

• Presence of excessive amounts of bacteria in the intestines

• Consumption of large amounts of fibrous foods

• Consumption of products that contain malt extracts

• Digestive disorders that affect the GI tract such as gastroenteritis

• Irritable bowel syndrome

• Irregular bowel movements or constipation

• Food or water that may be prepared under unhygienic conditions

• A high-fat diet generates a huge amount of carbon dioxide, some of which is released as flatulence or gas

• Odorous flatulence is caused due to the metabolic breakdown of sulfur-containing proteins and amino acids in the intestines

• Persistent bloating and flatulence that is present consistently over a period may be an indication of a serious medical condition such as colorectal cancer. This may need deeper investigation and treatment

• Fat malabsorption could be another cause for flatulence. This problem produces loose and light-colored stools accompanied by gas.

Tested Methods for Treating Flatulence

Gas or flatulence can to a great extent be remedied at home using kitchen cures. Here are some of the tried and tested methods for treating the breaking wind problem:

• Mix 1/2 tsp of dry ginger powder with a pinch of asafoetida and a pinch of rock salt in a cup of warm water. Drink this concoction to get relief from gas.

• Mix 2 tsp of brandy with a cup of warm water and drink this before going to bed.

• Chew on some fresh ginger slices that are soaked in lime juice after meals.

• A drop of dill oil in a tsp of honey taken immediately after a meal should be of great help.

• Dry grind 1 tsp of pepper, 1 tsp of dry ginger and 1 tsp of green cardamom seeds. Add 1/2 tsp of this mixture to water and drink after 1 hour after meal.

• Chewing peppermint after a meal does a lot more than just freshening your breath. Peppermint contains menthol that soothes the digestive muscles. It helps in treating flatulence, bloating and abdominal pain that accompanies gas. Peppermint oil combined with caraway oil has been used since ages to treat abdominal discomfort caused by flatulence.

Avoid Foods Which Produce Gas when Consumed

No matter what course of treatment you choose even your doctor would advise you to avoid eating or to at least reduce your consumption of foods that contribute to the problem. The problem here is that this may also involve cutting back on some healthy foods like certain fruits or vegetables and whole grains and milk products. High fat foods may also need to be reduced as they can add to the problem of bloating and abdominal discomfort. While carbohydrate rich foods can be a major cause for gas as compared to foods with a high protein or fat content, fatty and protein rich foods may at times be the main culprit. The cause can vary for different people so you will have to examine your own diet and make changes accordingly. Fatty foods and protein rich foods like red meats can be a problem as they put a lot more stress on the digestive system and take a lot longer to get digested completely. This means that there is a higher likelihood of bloating, discomfort and also less room for gases to move into the small intestine, leading to a buildup of gas. The amount of gas released from digesting specific foods can also vary from person to person unfortunately which is why it would be advisable to experiment with your diet.

If flatulence is a major problem, a look at your diet is important. There are foods that inherently produce gas when consumed. You must take care to avoid such foods.

• These include foods such as beans, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, yeast-containing foods such as breads and cheese.

• Carbonated drinks produce gas too.

• High carbohydrate content in oats and potatoes make them the culprits for gas.

• Foods that produce negligible amounts of gas are rice, bananas, citrus, grapes, hard cheese, meat, eggs, peanut butter, non-carbonated beverages and yogurt made with live bacteria.

Eat Smaller Meals

• Eating smaller meals is a good idea rather than consuming a large meal at a time.

• Avoid meals containing a large amount of monounsaturated and essential fats.

• Chewing the food slowly and steadily is important. Avoid swallowing or gulping down food. Properly masticated food is better digested.

• Regular exercise such as walks keeps the intestinal muscles in ship shape. Regular bowel movements keep the levels of gas producing bacteria low resulting in less flatulence.

• Yoga is believed to be extremely helpful in relieving a variety of digestive problems, flatulence included. There are in fact various poses that are meant specifically to address the problem of excessive gas, abdominal discomfort and bloating and flatulence. Yoga poses in fact include a posture known as the ‘wind relieving pose’.

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Home Remedies for Gout

Gout is a type of inflammation of the joints and swellings of a recurrent type. Gout is chronic in character and occurs in acute attacks. It is a disease of the wealthy and chiefly affects middle-aged men. Women, after menopause, are also sometimes affected by this disease. Gouty arthritis is another very painful condition that would require immediate treatment.

Gout is essentially a form of arthritis that is characterized with sudden bouts of severe pain, inflammation and tenderness in the joints, known as gout attacks. Because of the strong connection between diets and gout, the condition was regarded as an affliction of the wealthy in the past. With modernization and social reforms in the past century our economic condition has greatly improved and there is less disparity, particularly with regard to the foods we consume. This condition has therefore become a lot more common and can afflict absolutely anyone, although men are more susceptible, as are post-menopausal women.

Gout is known to be quite debilitating at times because of the severity of gout attacks. The excruciating pain can cause you to wake up in a sweat, causing what is often described as a feeling of fire or burning sensation in the afflicted joint. The plus point is that gout treatment is extremely effective and the best form of treatment would be through a gout diet. Sufferers of gout need to be careful about their diet as there are certain foods to avoid with gout, as they could trigger a higher frequency and increased severity of gout attacks.

Gout Symptoms

Acute Pain in the Toe, Swelling

The most common Gout symptom is acute pain in the big toe, which becomes tender, hot, and swollen in a few hours. It may also similarly affect other joints such as the knees and wrists, and sometimes more than one joint may be affected at a time. The attack, usually occurs at midnight or in the early hours of the morning when the patient is suddenly awakened.

The acute attack generally lasts for a week or so. During this period, the patient may run a slight fever, and feel disinclined to eat. A serious complication of gout is the presence of kidney stones containing uric acid. In some cases the kidneys get damaged and do not function properly.Gout attacks are most severe within the first 12 to 24 hours of their onset, but the joint discomfort and pain although lessened, do not subside for a few more days or even for a week. It is important that these symptoms are not neglected as in the absence of appropriate gout treatment there could be other complications and also permanent damage to the affected joints. A gout diet suffices to control and reign in the condition at most times, but it would still be important to consult with your doctor and keep him informed.

Causes of Gout

Gout Caused Due to Uric Acid Crystals

One of main causes of gout is the formation of uric acid crystals in the joints, skin, and kidneys. Uric acid is an end product of the body's chemical processes. Those affected by gout have a higher level of uric acid in the blood than the normal, due either to formation of increased amounts or reduced amounts of acid being passed out by the kidneys in the urine. This uric acid usually remains dissolved in the blood. But when the blood becomes too full of it, the uric acid forms needle-shaped crystals in the joints which bring about attacks of gout.

Excessive Alcohol, Heredity, Rich Foods, Lack of Exercise also Causes Gout

Other causes of gout are heredity, alcoholic drinks, regular eating of foods rich in protein and carbohydrate, lack of proper exercise, and stress. A clear understanding of the risk factors is always useful as it can help to prevent the onset of the condition or at least delay it. If you can identify with any of the risk factors it may also give you some insight into possible causes and triggers of gout attacks.

Dietary Habits: People who follow a diet that comprises of a high amount of red meats, oily fish, yeast and internal organs are very susceptible to gout. A regular or high intake of alcohol, particularly beer, is also known to increase the risk of developing gout. In the past it the consumption of red meat among the population was a rarity as it was more of a privilege for the wealthy and ruling classes, which is why it was often referred to as a disease of the rich.

Heredity: A family history of gout puts you at high risk of developing gout. Although there may be little that you can do to correct this, following a gout diet or exercising some amount of caution when it comes to diet and alcohol consumption could make a huge difference.

Age and Gender: Men tend to be more susceptible to gout at an earlier age because uric acid levels rise at puberty in men, while in women this occurs only at menopause.

Medical Conditions and Drugs: The presence of certain conditions could put you at a higher risk of developing gout. Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are known to cause such complications at times, particularly if not treated appropriately. High cholesterol levels and a narrowing of the arteries also contribute to the development of gout. Certain drugs could also cause a rise in uric acid levels, thereby contributing to the occurrence of gout. These include drugs like certain diuretics used in the treatment of high blood pressure, as well as low dose aspirin drugs and also many anti-rejection drugs prescribed for patients who have undergone transplant surgery.

Gout Treatments

Self care is an important aspect of gout treatment, whether or not you are on medications for the condition. Home remedies for gout pain, whether in the knee, big toe, ankle or foot are meant to facilitate healing and provide relief from the painful symptoms of gout attacks, they are not meant to treat the condition itself.

The most important consideration should be the recommendations of your doctor and it is imperative that you follow his gout treatment recommendations meticulously, taking medications as advised. If you suffer a gout attack, make it appoint to rest and do not try to use the affected joint. Instead rest with the affected joint elevated if possible. If the affected joint restricts your ability to move around comfortably, then make it a point to use a cane or walking stick for support, no matter how unnecessary you may think this to be. Ice packs or cold compresses are useful in gout treatment for some relief from the pain and also to reduce the inflammation. You could also try applying hemorrhoid creams to the affected area to reduce inflammation. Make sure that you keep yourself well hydrated to minimize the risk of further gout attacks.

Gout Treatments

Treating Gout using Cherry

The cherry, sweet or sour, is considered in effective treating gout. To start with, the patient should consume about fifteen to twenty five cherries a day. Thereafter, about ten cherries a day will keep the ailment under control. While fresh cherries are best, canned cherries can also be used occasionally.

Gout Treatment using Vegetable Juices

Raw vegetable juices are used for gout treatment. Carrot juice, in combination with the juices of beet and cucumber, is especially valuable. Beet juice - 100 ml and cucumber juice - 100 ml should be mixed with 300 ml of carrot juice to make 500 ml of combined juice and taken daily

Treating Gout using French Beans

The juice of French or string beans has also proved effective in treating gout. About 150 ml of this juice should be taken daily by the patient suffering from this disease.

Cure for Gout using Apple

Apples are regarded as an excellent source for curing gout. The malic acid contained in them is believed to neutralise the uric acid and afford relief to gout sufferers. The patient is advised to take one apple after each meal.

Gout Relief using Banana

Bananas have been found beneficial in the treatment of gout. A diet of bananas only for three or four days is advised for providing some relief from gout. A patient can take eight or nine bananas daily during this period and nothing else.

Treating Gout using Lime

Lime is also used as a source in treating gout. Vitamin C is known to prevent and cure sore joints by strengthening the connective tissues of the body. The citric acid found in lime is a solvent of the uric acid which is the primary cause of this disease. The juice of half a lime, squeezed into a glass of water, should be taken twice daily.

Gout Diet

Fast of Orange Juice and Water

For an acute attack, there is no better remedy than a fast of orange juice and water. In severe cases, it is advisable to undertake a series of short fasts for three days or so rather than one long fast.

All Fruit Diet

After the acute symptoms subside, the patient may adopt an all fruit diet for another three or four days.

Natural Food diet

Thereafter, he may gradually embark upon a well-balanced diet of natural foods, with emphasis on fresh fruits, raw vegetables, and sprouts.

Avoid Purine and Acid Producing Foods

The patient should avoid all purine and uric acid-producing foods such as all meats, eggs, and fish; tea, coffee, sugar, white flour and its products; and all canned, processed, and fried foods.

Diet for Gout

When seeking treatment and prevention measures for arthritis one could also make a list of foods that would provide the body with some best natural vitamins that are essential for the body. Following an appropriate gout diet should be central to any gout treatment plan as this is the single greatest influence on the condition. It is essential that you severely restrict the levels of animal protein in your diet. Red meats are known to be the worst possible food for gout patients. High protein levels cause a spike in blood uric acid levels, triggering severe gout attacks. Limit your intake to very small portions of lean meats, such as poultry or certain fish like salmon. Keep in mind that not all fish are healthy for you as many are extremely high in purines. Mackerel, herring, and anchovies are just a few of the fish foods to avoid with gout.

It’s important that you keep yourself well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks as these will simply aggravate the problem. If you are experiencing a gout attack it may help to consume some oral rehydration solutions. Avoid consuming any alcohol as it severely impairs your body’s ability to eliminate excess uric acid. Your doctor or nutritionist would however be the best source of information on a gout diet or any specific supplements and nutrients or vitamins for gout. One of the best tips when considering gout diet is to check out some gout recipes and prepare a gout diet chart or have a gout diet menu that will help you know and prepare some new food every day. A typical gout diet invariably excludes all forms of alcohol and alcoholic beverages.

Other Gout Treatment

Warm water enema

A warm-water enema should be used daily during the period of fasting to cleanse the bowels.

Epsom salt bath

Epsom salts foot baths are advised twice daily. About 250 gm - 500gm of these salts may be added to tolerably hot water for this purpose. Full Epsom salt baths should also be taken three times a week. The baths may be reduced to two per week later.

Cold packs, fresh air, exercise, reduced stress

Cold packs, applied to the affected joints at night, will be beneficial. Fresh air and outdoor exercise are also essential. The patient should eliminate as much stress from his life as possible

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Home Remedies for Headaches

A headache is the term used to define any kind of ache or pain that occurs in and around the head, or even in the upper neck. Headaches may occur independently, in the sense that they are unconnected to any health condition or disease, or they may at times occur as a symptom of some disease. All of us experience headaches at some point or the other and it is in fact one of the most common complaints and also the most widely treated with home remedies and pharmaceutical headache treatments. Although headaches may in most cases be unconnected to specific ailments or health conditions they are often like a warning system from our body that something is not right. In most cases it is stress, lack of sleep, and other such circumstances that trigger this response. For example, if you haven’t had adequate sleep for a few nights in a row you would most likely experience headaches. Headaches may not necessarily be trigger by psychological factors such as emotional distress, stress and so on, but could also be triggered by physical stress and exhaustion.

There are various types of headaches, with an even greater variety of causes, but the most commonly occurring types of headaches are tension headaches. There are probably none among us who have escaped this type of headache. The severity may vary greatly and so will the duration, depending on the trigger, the tension headache treatment provided and other factors. Tension headaches generally occur due to causes like neck pain, stress, anxiety, depression and also because of muscle tightness or tension in the shoulders, jaws and scalp. Tension headaches are most likely to affect you if you work excessively, if your social relationships are strained, if you follow irregular eating and sleeping patterns, or consume excessive amounts of alcohol. As with any other condition the only effective treatment would be to eliminate the cause and provide relief. Tension headache treatment with over the counter medications that simply provide relief will only offer a temporary solution, and you will be plagued by the problem increasingly frequently.

Apart from tension or stress headaches there are some other types of headaches that are quite common. Sinus headaches and migraines are probably the next most common types, although migraines cannot really be classified as headaches as this would be an over simplification. Migraines are a lot more severe, and the experience of a migraine is not comparable to the normal headache. Sinus headaches, which are the other common phenomenon, are triggered due to blockages of the sinus passages that create a buildup of pressure and also due to infections of the sinus like sinusitis. Cluster headaches are another type of headache that is not uncommon. Headaches in children are again not something out of the ordinary and could have similar causes, but if persistent, severe or unresponsive to treatment should be given medical attention promptly. Under normal circumstances however mild natural headache treatments should suffice for headaches in children. When dealing with headaches in children always check the forehead in case of a fever and seek medical advice promptly if there is any vomiting.

Headache treatment no matter what the cause or type of headache can however best be remedied through simple lifestyle changes and relaxation. If you have persistent headaches that do not respond to treatment, make sure you consult your health care provider. A sudden onset of severe or recurrent headaches could also be indicative of some serious health disorder, or if accompanied by other symptoms like nausea, stiff neck, disorientation, fever or ear and eye pain. Headaches that occur following trauma to the head should also receive medical attention.

Chronic headaches should always be treated seriously, particularly in children as chronic headaches would have some underlying causes that may be serious and treatment should be directed towards these causes, not simply for relief.

Natural Headache Cures and Headache Remedies

Headache cures are the most sought after remedies as it is one of the most common ailment people suffer from. Headaches afflict almost everyone at some time or the other. Most headaches are functional, being caused by temporary upsets, and are not related to any organic changes in the brain. They are often natures warning that something is wrong somewhere in the body. The actual pain, however, arises from irritation to nerve endings in the shoulder, neck, and scalp muscles, and also in the smooth muscles encircling the blood vessels which severe these areas. Migraine headaches in an acute condition suffered by some patients and we have listed some useful information for them also.

Symptoms of Headache

Headache Symptoms

Tension or stress headaches usually cause pain that diffuses and is not concentrated in one identifiable spot. There is also likely to be tenderness in the surrounding areas and muscles. Here are some of the common symptoms associated with tension headaches.

• Tension headaches tend to cause mild to moderate intensity pain.

• Typically headaches like these do not develop suddenly, but there is a gradual build up of pain. There is however no warning or prodrome prior to the actual onset of the headache.

• The pain could radiate from one side of the head or it may be present on both sides. It could cause an aching and squeezing sensation in the forehead or temples, or towards the back of the head. Headaches occurring towards the back of the head will generally radiate down towards the neck and the shoulders. There is a general feeling of tightness around the head.

• The pain from a headache is usually constant, although there may fluctuations in the severity.

• Tension headaches are usually not intensified with physical activity, nor is there any association with nausea or vomiting.

• In some cases there may a slightly increased sensitivity to visual and audio stimuli.

• You are also likely to experience a sensation of pressure behind the eyes.

• Headaches of this type often come on during the day and progressively worsen, lasting for a few hours.

Cluster headaches are characterized by excruciating pain that may be localized around one eye, producing a stabbing sensation. Tearing and nasal congestion are also likely to occur on the same side as the affected eye. Cluster headaches may just last for a quarter of an hour or for as long as four hours. There is also a high possibility of them recurring through the day. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is likely to influence or trigger cluster headaches.

Migraines on the other hand cause an intense throbbing pain that may be felt on just one or both sides of the head. The pain from a migraine generally is accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Blurring of vision is another common symptom of headaches in a migraine attack. Light, sound and movement can cause the symptoms to be severely aggravated. Migraines may be brought on by specific triggers like red wine, chocolate, cheese, heat or other factors, often not easy to identify. For many women menstrual cycles may influence the pattern of migraines and they can also be brought on because of the influence of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy.

Causes of Headache

Allergies, Stress, Eye Strain

The common causes of headaches are allergy, emotional stress, eye strain, high blood pressure, a hangover, infection, low blood sugar, nutritional deficiency, tension, and the presence of poisons and toxins in the body. Allergies are often the unsuspected cause of headaches. The foods to which some people are allergic and which can trigger headaches are milk and milk products, chocolate, chicken, liver, alcohol and strong cheese. Sneezing and diarrhoea are further indications of an allergy.

Headache Cures and Remedies

Natural Headache Cure using Lemon

There are several natural remedies for various types or headaches. The juice of three or four slices of lemon should be squeezed in a cup of tea and taken by the patient for treating this condition. It gives immediate relief. The crust of lemon, which is generally thrown away, has been found useful in headaches caused by heat. Lemon crusts should be pounded into a fine paste in a mortar and applied as plaster on the forehead. Applying the yellow, freshly pared-off rind of a lemon to each temple will also give relief.

Cure Headaches Naturally using Apple

Apples are valuable in curing all types of headaches. After removing the upper rind and the inner hard portion of a ripe apple, it should be taken with a little salt every morning on an empty stomach in such cases. This should be continued for about a week.

Natural Headache Remedy using Henna

The flowers of henna have been found valuable in curing headaches caused by hot sun. The flowers should be rubbed in vinegar and applied over the forehead. This remedy will soon provide relief.

Headache Remedy using Cinnamon

Cinnamon is useful in headaches caused by exposure to cold air. A fine paste of this spice should be prepared by mixing it with water and it should be applied over the temples and forehead to obtain relief.

Headache Treatment using Marjoram

The herb marjoram is beneficial in the treatment of a nervous headache. An infusion of the leaves is taken as a tea in the treatment of this disorder.

Headache Treatment using Rosemary

The herb rosemary has been found valuable in headaches resulting from cold. A handful of this herb should be boiled in a litre of water and put in a mug. The head should be covered with a towel and the steam inhaled for as long as the patient can bear. This should be repeated till the headache is relieved.

Diet for Headaches

Proper Nutrition, Excercise, Positive Thinking

The best way to prevent headaches is to build up physical resistance through proper nutrition, physical exercise and positive thinking. As a first step, the patient should undertake a short fast, and take citrus fruit juices diluted with water every two hours from 8.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. daily. Thereafter, he should plan his diet in such a way as to put the least possible strain on the digestion. Breakfast may consist of fruits, both fresh and dried. Lunch may consist of protein foods. Starchy foods such as wholewheat bread, cereals, rice, or potatoes should be taken at dinner along with raw salads. Spices, condiments, sour buttermilk, and oily foodstuffs should be avoided. Drinking a glass of water (warm water in winter and cool water in summer), mixed with a teaspoon of honey first thing in the morning, is also a good remedy. Copious drinking of water throughout the day is also advised.

Other Headache Remedies

Water Treatment

Other helpful measures in the treatment of headaches are a cleansing enema with water temperature at 37 degree C, a cold throat pack, frequent applications of towels wrung out from very hot water to the back of the neck , a cold compress at 4.4 degree C to 15.6 degree C applied to the head and face, or an alternate spinal compress. Hot fomentations over the abdominal region just before retiring relieve headaches caused by stomach and liver upsets.

Hot Foot Bath

Hot foot baths are also beneficial in the treatment of chronic headaches. The patient should keep his legs in a tub or bucket filled with hot water at a temperature of 40 degree C to 45 degree C for fifteen minutes every night before retiring. This treatment should be continued for two or three weeks.

Yogasanas

Yogic kriyas like jalneti and kunjal; pranayamas like anulomaviloma, shitali and sitkari; and asanas such as uttanpadasana, sarvangasana, paschimottanasana, halasana, and shavasana are also beneficial in the treatment of headaches.

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Home Remedies for Hives

The medical term used for Hives is urticaria. It is a skin condition which leaves behind rings and patches all over your body. It appears in group and looks like pale red swellings. Once these swellings are developed they fade away to re-appear on some other part of your body. Chemical called histamine is the reason for the red blotches. It is released when you come in contact with an allergen. You can develop this condition without being allergic to anything. They usually come in different sizes depending upon the seriousness of your illness. Anyone can suffer from this skin disorder.

Skin rashes involving hives are quite a common problem and they appear as red, lumpy or raised areas of skin that cause intense itching and they can vary in size and shape. Hives can develop in small areas of just a few millimeters or occur in patches as large as several inches. Wheals or welts are another common manifestation of hives and appear as red lesions. Hives can develop on almost any part of the body, commonly on the trunk, arms and legs. A notable feature of hives would be that they tend to change rapidly in size and even in location, appearing on one spot and then disappearing only to reappear elsewhere. When hives occur individually they usually last for just a day, with even a serious looking outbreak that appears in the morning often disappearing by noon only to appear later in the day. Because of the rapidity of the onset and resolution of the condition it is often not possible to visit a doctor for treatment within the duration of the condition. But consulting a doctor even after the condition resolves can help as your doctor should be able to arrive at a diagnosis based on your history of symptoms. Photographic evidence could help however, so try and take a photograph of the outbreak with you. At times an outbreak of hives may involve deeper swelling in the skin and this is referred to as angioedema. This is usually quite brief but it can be quite disturbing as it is not just present on the hands and feet but could also affect mucus membranes like those in the lips or eyes.

Keep in mind that hives is not really a disease in itself, but is a symptom or condition that usually occurs as an allergic reaction to certain irritants or allergens that could include foods, environmental factors, or cosmetic products like lotions or deodorants and so on. Utricaria or hives is a relatively common condition that affects plenty of men and women although more common in women. Treatment for hives in children and infants should relieve the itching as there is a high threat of secondary infections developing from skin lesions that could develop from scratching.

Symptoms of Hives

Swelling, Itchy and Sometimes Painful

Your skin swells which is covered by small or sometimes large red colored rings or patches. Wheals or welts appear all over your body which is very itchy. Their shapes vary and keep disappearing and reappearing within minutes or hours. You can see raised pink lesions too all over your body in different sizes.

Difficulty in Routine Activity

You may find difficulty in breathing and swallowing. Your level of anxiety increases which causes rapid and irregular heart beat. You may even suffer from loss of consciousness, dizziness or faintness.

Mild cases of hives and angioedema may appear disturbing but are rarely serious. Mild cases of hives can be dealt with quite easily with natural home remedies for hives or with over the counter skin rash hives treatments that can mainly help to provide relief from the symptoms. The main priority after achieving some quick relief would be to identify the cause or triggers for the condition so that you can avoid exposure to the allergen, allowing the condition to resolve and also ensuring that there are no further outbreaks. If you find that the treatment is ineffective or if the symptoms drag on for more than a day or two make sure you seek medical help. You should also get medical treatment for hives if you notice any other symptoms like light headedness or fatigue and difficulty breathing and swallowing or if you experience swelling in the throat.

Hives Symptoms

Hives symptoms are not very different in men, women or children, although they can turn a lot more severe and cause complications in younger kids. You would probably notice some of these hives symptoms:

• Red and inflamed or whitish wheals or welts that could vary in size.

• A single welt or a group of them that could develop over a large area of skin.

• The appearance and disappearance of welts, with new ones appearing as others resolve.

• There may also be a burning or stinging sensation in the affected areas of skin and there could be very severe itching.

The symptoms of hives may also vary in duration with acute hives lasting for periods as little as under a day to up to periods as long as six weeks. On the other hand chronic hives lasts for lengthy periods spanning well over six weeks, very often for months or even a year and chronic hives treatment is therefore a lot more intensive. Chronic hives treatment for children suffering from utricatia or hives would also require strict medical supervision and adherence to all instructions.

In addition to typical hives symptoms it would help to be aware of symptoms and signs of angioedema as well. As with hives there is an appearace of welts, but in angioedema these welts will appear to be thicker, larger and firmer. There is considerable swelling of the skin and in some areas of severe swelling you may also observe the appearance of blisters. There may also be pain and a sensation of heat or warmth in the affected areas. In very severe cases of angioedema patients may also experience difficulty breathing and in swallowing.

Angioedema tends to develop near the eyes and lips, but could also affect the hands, feet, genetalia, or could even develop inside the throat. Both conditions – hives and angioedema may occur simultaneously.

Causes of Hives

Allergy

Being allergic to medications, nuts, eggs, berries, insect bites, jelly fish, can release the batch of hives. If you are exposed to animal dander it may also cause an allergic reaction. Wearing tight clothes and jewelry which does not suit you can also be another reason for hives. Here are some of the most common groups of allergens and triggers for hives and angioedema:

Food allergens are the most common type of allergic reaction to produce hives and the most common culprits are shellfish, eggs, nuts, peanuts, chocolate and milk. Processed foods that contain additives like sulfites and salicylates are also known to trigger hives in some individuals. Medical drugs are among the most common culprits behind hives outbreaks and could include some of the most common drugs like aspirin, penicillin, ibuprofen and medications for blood pressure.

Environmental allergens or allergens that trigger hives and angioedema through direct contact would include pollen, dander from pets, latex or insect stings.

Hereditary

Being affected by hives through hereditary is a very rare case and most of the times unknown.

Exposure to Extreme Weather

If you are being exposed to extreme temperatures you may suffer from this condition. Presence in extreme heat and extreme cold can create such problems.

Sweat

Hives may start developing once you come in contact with sweat or water.

In addition to being triggered by allergens, hives or angioedema may develop as a result of the production of antibodies because of immune system disorders, after blood transfusions or due to certain infections like hepatitis or even with certain disorders like thyroiditis.

Causes of Hives

Both hives and angioedema are caused by skin inflammation usually triggered by the release of histamine and certain other chemicals into your blood stream and skin. The most common causes of hives are due to allergens in the form of specific food ingredients or certain medications. Hives symptoms, causes and treatment are completely interdependent. Understanding and identifying what causes hives is important not just in babies or kids, but for adults as well, as it takes you half way closer to solving the problem and helps to prevent future outbreaks of the condition.

Home Remedies for Hives

Hives Treatment by Eliminating the Triggering Factor

It is very important to know the cause of allergic reaction. Once you found out the triggering agent, it becomes very easy to fight the battle.

Hives Treatment by Using Cool Compression

By applying the cool compression it may help to provide some relief from the pain and itch.

Hives Treatment by Using Calamine Lotion

By applying this lotion it can grant you relief from the itchy feeling.

Hives Treatment by Using Milk of Magnesia

By dabbing milk of magnesia on the lesions, provides some relief. As milk of magnesia is an alkaline solution it helps in removing the irritating itchy sensation.

Hives Treatment by Using Herbal Tea

Calming our nerves is one of the important things to do, as stress makes the matter worse. Drinking peppermint or passionflower tea is very good. You can also try chamomile, valerian and catnip which also soothe your nerves.

Hives Treatment by Using Cornstarch

To stop the itching get 1/2 a tub filled with warm water, add 1/2 cup cornstarch and 1/2 cup baking soda. Soaking yourself at least once a day can make a lot of difference.

Hives Treatment by Using Aloe Vera Gel

Applying aloe vera gel or vitamin E oil to the affected area at least twice a day can benefit you a lot.

Hives Treatment by Using Nettles

Have nettle tea which is made by 2 tsp. powdered stinging nettles. You can add honey or lemon to add flavor your tea.

Hives Treatment by Using Cayenne Pepper

Consume cayenne pepper capsules to help the healing procedure. You can also have vitamin C, vitamin E or zinc for quick relief.

Diet for Hives

Avoid Allergen Triggering Food

Avoid food like eggs, strawberries, berries, peanuts, nuts, chocolates, cheese, tomatoes, soy products, shellfish and many more. Find out the food that is allergic to you and avoid having it.

Other treatment for Hives

Hives Treatment

Use of Acupressure: By massaging the trapezius points, you can find some relief. This trapezius muscle is found between the neck and the shoulder. By giving the vital pressure it may help you clear the red and white ringed patches of your body.

Hives in children can also be caused for a variety of reasons from heredity and allergies to exposure and sweat. Hives in children can be quite worrying to a parent and although not serious if treated immediately, do keep in mind that it requires particular attention and prompt treatment as children are not as well equipped to deal with it.

Chronic hives is a problematic condition as there is no known specific cause, which means that the condition can not be cured. It is only the symptoms that can be treated. The condition may however be related to an autoimmune disorder or a thyroid problem. Chronic hives last longer than the usual cases of hives, and recur more frequently.

Urticaria or hives as it is more commonly known can also cause a variety of symptoms like welts and rashes that may be confused by the lay man with an ordinary skin rash or even shingles. If you have the slightest doubt over whether you are suffering from utricaria get yourself checked as a rash treatment will not just be ineffective, but delaying treatment for hives will only increase the damage.

The hives stress relationship is one that can not be understated. It is believed that great stress can trigger off hives even in the absence of allergies.

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