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  • Medicinal Uses Of Epazote Herb: 3 Health And Nutritive Benefits

    The nutritive and health benefits of the herb Epazote has been well known for centuries now; the Aztecs made use of it to cure a host of ailments and illnesses. Epazote is native to Central America, South America and Mexico. The herb is also known as wormseed, jesuits tea, pigweed and Mexican Tea.

    Epazote grows to a height of 3 feet and has rectangle-like shaped leaves which measure around 12 cm and fan out in an asymmetrical shape. The flowers are green and grow in clusters. The stems and the leaves of the herb provide the healing properties of epazote. Health benefits of the epazote include: perking up of digestion, elimination of worms and parasites treating amenorrhea and effectively managing malaria.

    Health Benefits Of Epazote Herb

    Epazote is a Mexican herb having a rather strong flavor and a gasoline like smell. Epazote has been used in Mexican cuisine for several hundred years; in fact, the Aztecs used it for culinary purposes as well as to treat various disorders and illnesses. Epazote is somewhat toxic in huge quantities, but, it has been used in moderation to treat abdominal discomfort effectively. It alleviates abdominal distension, flatulence, pain and cramps in the abdomen and also enhances digestion.

    It has a distinctive flavor in Mexican cuisine and is used to add flavor to an array of dishes, such as, soups, beans, salads, salsas, enchiladas and quesadillas. Older leaves of the herb have a stronger aroma and thus use it in moderation. Younger leaves tend to have a milder, but a richer aroma. The herb thrives in tropical and sub tropical zones and grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet.

    You can find Epazote in almost all Hispanic grocery stores or Latin markets. There are several online stores as well that sell dried epazote leaves, which is an acceptable option, in case, fresh herbs aren’t available.

    The herb is also called wormseed, given that, it helps prevent worms in animals and is frequently put in to animal feed for this reason.

    Epazote Herb Medicinal Uses

    The nutritive and health benefits of Epazote are numerous and vastly far reaching. The herb is loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B complex, good quality proteins, iron, copper, calcium, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, and dietary fiber. Adding the herb to your daily menu will yield wonderful health benefits.

    The herb has been used extensively for the treatment and efficient management of:

    • Respiratory disorders, such as, bronchitis, asthma, catarrh, etc. It improves breathing and gets rid of mucus and phlegm. It is useful in cases of chest congestion as well.
    • Amenorrhea and menstrual irregularities can be handled well too.
    • Helps in the management of malaria and expedites the process of healing and recovery.
    • Occasionally, the herb has been used to treat chorea as well.
    • Chenopodium, an oil that is derived from the herb helps kill intestinal worms and parasites.
    • The epazote herb is used extensively in the treatment of gastric derangement and diseases. In fact, managing GI discomfort is one of the most important uses of the epazote. It helps in the treatment of a host of gastric disorders; it curbs flatulence, helps expel gas, and eases abdominal distension significantly; it peps up digestion and assimilation and keeps the GI tract working optimally.
    • Epazote also helps prevent several chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and anemia.

  • Human Liver Fluke Infection Symptoms: Diagnosis And Treatment

    Liver fluke or Clonorchis sinensis belongs to the class Trematoda, and the phylum Platyhelminthes. It dwells in the liver of humans and is predominantly found in the gall bladder and the common bile duct, feeding on the bile.

    Liver fluke are the 3rd most widespread worm parasite in the world, and are rife in China, Taiwan, Japan and South East Asia. Research and studies demonstrate that it can cause cancer of liver and bile duct and has also been classed as a group 1 biological carcinogen.

    How Is Liver Fluke Infection Caused In Humans?

    The eggs of Clonorchis sinensis, that hold the miracidium which develop into adult, drift in fresh water till they are eaten by a snail.

    In the body of the snail, the miracidium hatch and grow inside the snail. The sporocyst is formed which in turn houses the asexual reproduction of the redia. Redia houses the asexual reproduction of cercaria. As a result there is exponential multiplication. Once the redia mature in the snail’s body, they then leave the snail and go in to the freshwater.

    Then, as an alternative to waiting to be consumed by a host, they seek out a fish. They penetrate in to the fish’s body, and become parasites of the new host.

    Inside the fish muscle, the cercaria produce metacercarial cyst shield to encapsulate their body. This protective cyst is helpful when the fish muscle is consumed by humans.

    In humans, the acid-resistant protective cyst helps prevent digestion by the gastric acids, and permits the metacercaria to get to the small intestine. Then, they circumnavigate towards the liver, which is its last habitat. The parasite feeds on bile. In the human liver, the adult produces eggs every 1 – 30 seconds.

    Liver Fluke Symptoms In Humans

    By and large, the case may be asymptomatic; most clinical manifestations occur due to inflammation and sporadic blocks of the bile duct.

    In an acute phase, there will be pain in the abdomen, along with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Long standing infection is seen as exhaustion, abdominal discomfort, and extreme loss of weight, diarrhea, and jaundice.

    Investigations reveal inflammation, bile stasis, and occlusion of the bile duct, bacterial infection, peri-ductal fibrosis, and hyperplasia. Cancer is also known to develop in some cases.

    Human Liver Fluke Infestation Diagnosis And Treatment

    Prompt diagnosis and quick treatment are very crucial. Infection is chiefly recognized on identification of the parasites eggs by microscopic examination of the feces or their presence in the duodenal aspirate. Most health care providers will recommend ELISA to diagnose the condition quickly and precisely, and it has become the most important clinical technique.

    Diagnosis by detecting DNAs from eggs in feces are also developed using PCR, real-time PCR, and LAMP; these are very sensitive and highly precise.

    • Drugs used to treat infestation include albendazole, mebendazole, triclabendazole, and levamisole. Recently, tribendimidine has been approved as an efficient and safe drug to manage liver fluke successfully.
    • What’s more, you need to maintain a healthy and wholesome diet. Cut down on fatty and greasy food to manage jaundice better. Have 2 to 5 flakes of garlic every day to manage parasitic as well bacterial infections. Furthermore, garlic also boosts the immune mechanism.
    • Have a glass of dandelion juice daily, it will perk up liver as well as biliary functioning appreciably.

  • What Is Pectus Excavatum? Symptoms And Natural Home Remedies

    Pectus excavatum is characterized by a breastbone that is sunken in to the chest. In extreme cases, it looks as if the center of the chest has been lifted out, leaving a deep indentation.

    Severity of pectus excavatum usually increases during the adolescent growth spurt. The condition is commoner in boys than girls. Severe cases tend to hamper the functioning of the lungs and heart. Mild cases make children feel very embarrassed about their appearance. Surgery helps rectify the misshapenness.

    The precise cause of pectus excavatum is yet not known, however, experts say that it is an inherited disorder; given that, it occasionally runs in families.

    Signs And Symptoms Of Pectus Excavatum

    For most people diagnosed with pectus excavatum, the only symptom or presenting feature may be an indentation in the chest. The indentation tends to worsen during early adolescence and may continue to aggravate in to adulthood.

    In severe cases, the breastbone may press on to the lungs and heart, thereby, affecting their functioning. Manifestations in such cases include:

    • Reduced exercise tolerance and capacity.
    • Palpitations and rapid heartbeat.
    • Frequent and recurring respiratory tract infections.
    • Pain in the chest
    • Wheezing and coughing
    • Heart murmur
    • Exhaustion and lassitude

    Natural Remedies For Pectus Excavatum

    People who undertake surgery are pleased with the change in how the chest looks, no matter which procedure is used.

    Optimal results can be attained when the surgery is carried out around the adolescent growth spurt, on the other hand, adults have also significantly benefitted from pectus excavatum repair surgery.

    Those who aren’t interested in going in for or do not need surgical intervention, can manage the symptoms associated with pectus excavatum using these simple home remedies:

    • Pectus excavatum can be surgically remedied, however, surgical intervention is, by and large advised for those having moderate to severe clinical features of the condition. Mild cases are successfully managed by physical therapy. Physiotherapy improves posture and increases the degree to which the chest can expand, thus preventing chest pain and recurring infections.
    • Ginger and turmeric: It helps to treat and prevent frequent chest infections. Blend 1 spoon of powdered turmeric with 2 spoons of dried and powdered ginger root. Add a generous amount of honey. Consume this mix daily, once or twice. This helps ward off as well as control respiratory infections and makes sure you do not need to consume too much of allopathic drugs.
    • Dates: Have 4 to 5 dates daily; it helps boost tolerance levels appreciably and helps to effectively battle fatigue and exhaustion. Incorporate dates in to your everyday routine.
    • Berry smoothie: Start your day with a berry smoothie to stay energetic all day long. Berries are energy storehouses and supply you with a burst of energy and vitality. Blend together a cup of strawberries, half a cup of black berries, 1 orange and 1 lime. Have this blend every morning. It combats exhaustion and tiredness wonderfully.
    • Pranayama: It helps you to improve your lung capacity considerably and helps avert wheezing and chest pains too. Experts recommend ‘the equal breath’, ‘alternate nostril breathing’ and ‘the humming bee’ as the most effective and excellent breathing techniques to handle respiratory complaints related to pectus excavatum.
    • Homeopathy drugs such as Cactus, Arnica and Alfalfa help one deal with heart murmurs and palpitations exceedingly well.

  • Valley Fever Symptoms In Humans And Its Natural Home Remedies

    Valley fever is a fungal infection that is caused by coccidioides organisms. Mild cases, by and large, subside on their own without any treatment regimen. In more severe cases, the doctor prescribes anti-fungal drugs to treat the infection. Common manifestations are chest pain, fever, cough, breathlessness and difficulty while breathing.

    The coccidioides species of fungi are commonly found in the soil of certain areas. Anything that disturbs the soil, such as construction, farming, or wind, makes these fungi enter the atmosphere. Consequently, when you breathe, you take in the fungi, which then enter the lungs. Valley fever usually begins as an acute infection; however, it can develop into a more serious disease, including chronic and disseminated coccidioidomycosis.

    Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii are the causative fungi; they flourish in alkaline desert soils of Nevada, southern Arizona, northern Mexico and California’s San Joaquin Valley. In the soil, the fungi grow as mold, having long filaments that break into air-borne spores when the soil gets disturbed. The spores are tiny, and can travel hundreds of miles by the wind. They are very contagious. When inhaled in to the lungs, the spores reproduce, completing the disease cycle.

    Symptoms Of Valley Fever

    Acute valley fever.

    Acute coccidioidomycosis is usually mild, with very few symptoms. Clinical features develop 1 to 3 weeks after exposure.

    • Fever with chills.
    • Chest pain.
    • Cough.
    • Night sweats.
    • Headache.
    • Exhaustion.
    • Breathlessness.
    • Rash; red, painful bumps form, they turn brown later on.
    • Joint pains.

    Chronic valley fever.

    In case coccidioidomycosis doesn’t resolve completely, it may progress in to a chronic form. This occurs in diabetics or those who have a weak immune system.

    • Low grade fever.
    • Cough with bloody sputum.
    • Chest pain.
    • Nodules in the lungs.
    • Weight loss.

    Home Remedies For Valley Fever

    • Rest is the main aspect of the treatment. Most people do not need any treatment. However, careful monitoring is a must.
    • If your symptoms do not improve; or they aggravate, or if you are going to develop complications, your doctor will prescribe anti-fungal drugs. These medications control the fungal infection, but sometimes do not completely obliterate them, and relapses are known to occur.
    • Consuming plenty of fluids is very essential. Supportive treatment is crucial for speedy and quick recovery from valley fever.
    • Supplement your diet with protein: soy milk, milk, yogurt, barley water, etc are good options. Protein boosts the working of the immune system and helps fight the fungus better.
    • Turmeric is an excellent anti fungal. Add 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder to a glass of boiling water; and have this thrice daily. Curcumin found in turmeric helps battle the fungus effectively.
    • Step up our intake of vitamin C. you may have a supplement; or plenty of vitamin C rich foods such as: limes, lemons, oranges, sweet limes, mangoes, papayas, etc.
    • Herb Echinacea is another potent infection fighter, take a capsule, twice daily for 15 days; it will hasten recovery and accelerate infection fighting.
    • A holy basil tea is also recommended. Boil 5 to 10 leaves of the holy basil in a cup of water; add a spoon of honey and consume. This decoction helps bring down the fever and eliminates the fungal infection with great effectiveness.

  • Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis Symptoms: Causes And Treatment

    Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a progressive disease which is usually chronic in nature. While the prevalence of the condition is fairly low, in some cases, partial to complete resolution is observed, without any specific therapy or treatment. Most experts believe that medical treatment of the condition is associated with unreliable results. The conventional treatment is not only expensive but in most cases, nonproductive.

    Cause Of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

    Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a condition characterized by fibrosis of the skin and internal organs, but is different from scleroderma. The condition is attributed to exposure to gadolinium (a contrast agent used for imaging studies in patients with poor renal functions) and there is evidence of the contrast present in the nephorgenic tissue.

    The condition is uncommon and the prevalence is fairly low. In a study conducted in Denmark, the condition had an estimated prevalence rate of 12 per million, the highest in the world. Other countries like France have laid down guidelines for the use of gadolinium and no cases have been reported since. No racial or sexual predisposition has been observed.

    Symptoms Of Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

    Reports suggest that the condition is linked with increased mortality and morbidity. The condition can result in increased risk of contractures and fractures in patients within weeks of exposure, leading to most patients becoming dependent on a wheelchair for mobility.

    Some of the signs associated with the condition include,

    • Dark red patches on the skin. Itching and burning on the skin which is associated with swelling and hardening of the skin. In some cases subcutaneous nodules are also observed. Cellulitis may also be present with typical peau d’orange appearance of the skin. The skin is too shiny and hard to touch.
    • Yellowish spots on the sclera of the eyes. Yellowish discoloration is also observed on the trunk though the face is almost never involved.
    • Stiffness of the joints and trouble especially to move or attempting to straighten the joint.
    • Severe throbbing pain in the bones, especially the arms, wrists, hips and knees. The condition is also accompanied with generalized muscular weakness, which is attributed to formation of contractures and atrophy.

    Natural Treatment For Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

    Unfortunately, modern medicine has little to offer in treatment of this condition. While there are host of treatment modalities, there is a clear lack of therapy prescription guidelines, which makes the treatment regimen ineffective.

    While there have been different specific treatments/ drugs aimed at improving the texture of the skin or improve joint mobility or enhancing renal functions, in most cases the treatment has been ineffective and incomplete as a whole.

    Alternative therapy can be useful and at times can help complement the treatment regimen recommended by physicians. Some of the home remedies/ natural treatment options include,

    • Add two teaspoon of honey and turmeric to a glass of milk and consume three times a day. Honey and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and can help in regression of fibrosis of the tissue, especially the skin and muscle tissue. Alternatively local application of turmeric paste may also be useful.
    • Homeopathic drugs namely Bryonia and Rhus Tox can help alleviate the joint pain and generalized muscular weakness. Consumption of these medicines in low potency and repeated four times a day can help improve mobility. Simple and complementary physical therapy should help hasten recovery and ensure mobility.

  • Diet for Jock Itch Skin Infection | Foods to Avoid Jock Itch Problem

    Jock Itch Diet Treatment:

    When you are trying to treat jock itch or are trying to prevent it, there are some types of food that you should avoid to keep the growth of fungi down and the infection from worsening or even happening. Here are some suggestions you might want to try:

    • Garlic is a very good herbal remedy for fungal infections; therefore, increasing your intake of this herb will help give you the kind of protection or remedy you need for these fungal problems.
    • Food that contains yeast, are sugary, and foods that can be called refined carbohydrates should be avoided at all costs. Other foods that you should avoid include fried foods, greasy foods and processed foods.
    • A healthy diet that consists of fresh vegetables and fruits is also essential to the prevention as well as healing of this problem. Green leafy vegetables are always good for a person’s body and should be incorporated in your diet every day.
    • Alcoholic drinks should also be omitted from your diet since it can be converted into sugar that the fungi can feed on. Alcohol also slows down the healing process and may make your rashes and itch last longer than they should.

  • What Causes Typhus Fever? Symptoms And Treatment Of Typhus Disease

    Typhus is a serious infectious disease that is caused by the Rickettsia bacteria. Typhus originates from typhos which means ‘hazy or smoky’, and describes the state of mind of the individual who is afflicted with typhus. Rickettsia cannot survive for a prolonged period of time outside living cells. Most importantly, typhus must not be confused with typhoid, the two are unrelated.

    The 2 commonly seen typhus illnesses are louse borne and murine. The two are caused by 2 diverse bacteria; however, they are clinically rather analogous, and share certain characteristic symptoms of high fever and rash.

    Murine typhus fever is a relatively milder version than the louse borne fever.  Epidemic typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia prowazekii; whilst, Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi.

    Characteristically, outbreaks occur in filthy, unclean conditions where people hardly ever change clothes or bathe. The typhus bacteria attack the cells that line the blood vessels in your body. By and large, 7 days after an infectious louse bite, the illness commences.
    Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi; and it spreads to humans by rat fleas. Murine pertains to the scientific name of the animal group that includes mice and rats.

    Murine typhus fever is a gentler disease than the louse borne typhus. About 1 to 2 weeks after the initial flea bite, the symptoms become evident.

    Symptoms Of Epidemic And Murine Typhus Fever

    Symptoms of the 2 types of typhus fever are somewhat same; however, here are the typical features of each:

    Epidemic typhus:

    • High grade fever with chills.
    • Delirium.
    • Headache.
    • Backache.
    • Bad cough.
    • Joint and bone pains and severe muscle pain.
    • Rashes.
    • Drop in the blood pressure.
    • Extreme sensitivity to light.

    Murine typhus:

    • Pain in the abdomen.
    • Backache.
    • Rashes.
    • Headache.
    • High grade fever.
    • Dry cough.
    • Joint and bone pains.
    • Nausea and vomiting.

    Treatment For Typhus Disease

    • If left untreated; or any kind of neglect occurs, the disease can prove to be fatal. Timely treatment with antibiotics is very essential. Hospitalization may or may not be required. Commonly prescribed antibiotics are: tetracycline, doxycycline, azithromycin and chloramphenicol.
    • Alongside, the doctor will ensure that you get good supportive treatment in order to hasten recovery and promote healing.
    • It is very vital that you stay well hydrated; drink plenty of water and fluids. Soups, broths, juices and herbal teas are a must. In severe cases, the patient may need to be put on to IV fluids to keep the water-electrolyte balance.
    • Nausea, vomiting and blood pressure need to be managed effectively. Suck on ice chips and have ginger tea frequently through the day. Ginger will help allay most GI discomfort and treat nausea and vomiting efficiently.
    • Pain killers and anti-emetics may be necessary in extreme cases.
    • Echinacea tea has proved to be rather beneficial. It is an immune booster and helps handle the infection better. Echinacea is a powerful anti bacterial and consuming Echinacea tea or having a supplement daily will yield good results. However, do confer with your doctor before staring a supplement.

  • Hereditary Angioedema: Its Causes, Symptoms And Natural Treatment

    Hereditary angioedema also referred to as the Quincke’s disease, is a relatively rare condition resulting in altered immune system, which is passed from generation to generation. Since the condition is linked with a genetic defect, currently there is no cure for this condition. The condition is caused due to improper functioning or low levels of a protein – C1 esterase inhibitor, which results in repeated attacks of edema throughout the body.

    Current treatment therapies include use of attenuated androgens, antifibronolytic agents and C1 esterase inhibitor replacement therapy, however most of these treatment regimens have limited efficacy. As genetic science advances, there is hope for people affected with this condition.

    Causes Of Hereditary Angioedema

    The condition is caused when there is a higher demand of C1 esterase inhibitor, compared to the available amount of functional C1 esterase.

    The primary function of C1 esterase is to turn off the immune system, however the deficiency of this enzyme leads to higher level of bradykinin, which in turn increase vascular permeability. Increased vascular permeability results in leakage of fluid into the surrounding area, resulting in edema or swelling.

    Reports have suggested that there are certain trigger factors like stress, infection, pregnancy, injury, menstruation, and certain drugs like oral contraceptives and dental procedures, which may trigger an attack of hereditary angioedema.

    Hereditary angioedema is classified into three types, depending nature of the defect. Type I is associated with low levels of C1 inhibitor protein levels, which is the most common type, Type II is associated with normal levels of C1 inhibitor, but with abnormal functions and in Type III while the C1 inhibitor protein level and function are dependent on estrogen. Some experts suggest that there is a fourth type called acquired angioedema, which is usually drug induced and there is no family history.

    Hereditary Angioedema Symptoms

    Some of the common symptoms associated with hereditary angioedema include the following,

    • Blockage of the airways, which results in sudden hoarseness and swelling in the throat
    • Frequent and recurrent attacks of abdominal cramping without any apparent cause
    • Sudden swelling of the tongue, throat, lips, eyes, legs and arms
    • Intestinal swelling which can be associated with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, pain, dehydration and shock.

    Diagnosis: There are certain blood tests that can help in the diagnosis of the condition. These tests need to be performed during an acute episode of swelling. These tests include C1 inhibitor function test, C1 inhibitor blood level and complement components test for C4 and C2.

    Natural Treatment For Hereditary Angioedema

    Hereditary angioedema attacks can range from mild to severe which may be associated with life threatening situation, especially when involved in the swelling and obstruction of the air passage. Further, during attacks, the individual’s quality of life is severely compromised and he may be unable to perform some of the most routine functions.

    While the treatment options are fairly limited and depend on the extent to which they alleviate some of the symptoms, there are certain natural treatment options that might be beneficial,

    • Alfalfa herb is considered useful in dealing with symptoms of edema. Take about 2 to 3 grams of active ingredient each day which will help detoxify the body. Overdose can trigger stomach upset and diarrhea.
    • Herbs like parsley, dandelion, Uva Ursi, Butcher’s Broom and Horsetail work as natural diuretics and can help in alleviating some of the symptoms. However these herbs may interact strongly with prescription medicine and hence should be taken only after consulting your doctor.
    • Coriander seed tea is also beneficial in alleviating symptoms of edema.

  • Treatment For Brachial Plexitis: What Are Its Causes And Symptoms?

    Brachial plexus is a complex nerve network that originates in the region of the neck and then branches out to supply to the muscles of the upper limb primarily located in the shoulder, forearm, hand and arms. The primary nerves that are the part of this plexus include ulnar, median and radial nerve.

    Neuropathy or inflammation of the nerve sheets is characterized by a wide range of symptoms which primarily affect the upper limb. When the entire nerve complex is inflamed the condition is referred to as brachial plexitis and the symptoms may vary depending upon the level of involvement of the nerves within the group.

    Causes Of Brachial Plexitis

    Brachial Plexitis is a form of peripheral neuropathy, which is characterized by the dysfunction that affects the nerves of the brachial plexus. This condition occurs due to any damage to the plexus or the area surrounding the spinal cord where the nerve bundle disintegrates to supply to different muscles.

    While the most common cause for damage to the brachial plexus is trauma or injury, other causes may include pressure on the brachial plexus due to a tumor, or damage due to radiation therapy or trauma during birth. Some of the other causes include exposure to chemicals or toxins and systemic inflammatory condition associated with virus or immune disturbances.

    Brachial Plexitis Symptoms

    The symptoms associated with brachial plexitis vary depending upon the extent of nerve involvement and the severity of the injury. However some of the common symptoms include,

    • Numbness in the arms and hands which is associated with reduced sensation of touch.
    • Shoulder pain may be associated symptom, which may vary depending upon the number of nerves involved.
    • Weakness of the shoulder, arms or wrist joint is another associated symptom. This may be associated with reduced mobility of the arms and diminished reflexes
    • Tingling and sensation of burning or some other abnormal sensations may also be observed.

    Treatment For Brachial Plexitis

    Prior to initiating the treatment it is important to confirm the diagnosis, as there are other conditions that may mimic the manifestations of brachial plexitis. A series of tests including MRI, X rays and nerve conduction tests are performed to ascertain brachial plexitis. This is followed by the treatment regimen, which may be aimed at using symptomatic treatment approach.

    • Physical therapy may be recommended in some individuals to improve muscle strength.
    • Use of splints and braces may be recommended in some individuals in order to provide support during the healing process.
    • In severe cases, vocational counseling or job retraining may be provided to assist the individual in performing his/her activities effectively.
    • Ensure that your diet is rich in vitamin and nutrients especially vitamin B12, which is important for the nerves.
    • Homeopathic drugs like Gelsimium are potentially useful in the treatment of this condition. It helps in strengthening the muscles and also alleviates the pain associated with the condition.

    In some cases brachial plexitis may be associated with other systemic disorders like diabetes. In such cases, treating the underlying cause may be important in management of this condition.

    In general, the prognosis usually depends upon the cause of the condition. While in most cases recovery is usually possible without any complications, some cases may be associated with complete or partial loss of movement or sensation and may be accompanied with severe nerve pain.

  • What Causes Typhus Fever? Symptoms And Treatment Of Typhus Disease

    Typhus is a serious infectious disease that is caused by the Rickettsia bacteria. Typhus originates from typhos which means ‘hazy or smoky’, and describes the state of mind of the individual who is afflicted with typhus. Rickettsia cannot survive for a prolonged period of time outside living cells. Most importantly, typhus must not be confused with typhoid, the two are unrelated.

    The 2 commonly seen typhus illnesses are louse borne and murine. The two are caused by 2 diverse bacteria; however, they are clinically rather analogous, and share certain characteristic symptoms of high fever and rash. Murine typhus fever is a relatively milder version than the louse borne fever.  Epidemic typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia prowazekii; whilst, Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi.

    Characteristically, outbreaks occur in filthy, unclean conditions where people hardly ever change clothes or bathe. The typhus bacteria attack the cells that line the blood vessels in your body. By and large, 7 days after an infectious louse bite, the illness commences.
    Murine typhus fever is caused by Rickettsia typhi; and it spreads to humans by rat fleas. Murine pertains to the scientific name of the animal group that includes mice and rats. Murine typhus fever is a gentler disease than the louse borne typhus. About 1 to 2 weeks after the initial flea bite, the symptoms become evident.

    Symptoms Of Epidemic And Murine Typhus Fever

    Symptoms of the 2 types of typhus fever are somewhat same; however, here are the typical features of each:

    Epidemic typhus:

    • High grade fever with chills.
    • Delirium.
    • Headache.
    • Backache.
    • Bad cough.
    • Joint and bone pains and severe muscle pain.
    • Rashes.
    • Drop in the blood pressure.
    • Extreme sensitivity to light.

    Murine typhus:

    • Pain in the abdomen.
    • Backache.
    • Rashes.
    • Headache.
    • High grade fever.
    • Dry cough.
    • Joint and bone pains.
    • Nausea and vomiting.

    Treatment For Typhus Disease

    • If left untreated; or any kind of neglect occurs, the disease can prove to be fatal. Timely treatment with antibiotics is very essential. Hospitalization may or may not be required. Commonly prescribed antibiotics are: tetracycline, doxycycline, azithromycin and chloramphenicol.
    • Alongside, the doctor will ensure that you get good supportive treatment in order to hasten recovery and promote healing.
    • It is very vital that you stay well hydrated; drink plenty of water and fluids. Soups, broths, juices and herbal teas are a must. In severe cases, the patient may need to be put on to IV fluids to keep the water-electrolyte balance.
    • Nausea, vomiting and blood pressure need to be managed effectively. Suck on ice chips and have ginger tea frequently through the day. Ginger will help allay most GI discomfort and treat nausea and vomiting efficiently.
    • Pain killers and anti-emetics may be necessary in extreme cases.
    • Echinacea tea has proved to be rather beneficial. It is an immune booster and helps handle the infection better. Echinacea is a powerful anti bacterial and consuming Echinacea tea or having a supplement daily will yield good results. However, do confer with your doctor before staring a supplement.