6.  Flu Prevention
 
In wake of current swine flu outbreaks, it is important to keep in mind prevention and protection for you and your family. Now is a good time to be aware of health resources near you. Symptoms • Symptoms may vary if you are experiencing fever and any upper respiratory symptoms seek a healthcare professional near you. • High fever • Runny nose • Presence of a dry cough and sore throat. • Headache • Weakness and fatigue • Nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite • Achy muscles Prevention • You should have a means to cleanse your hands with you, use of hand wipes and alcohol based hand sanitizers are necessary to reduce your risk of exposure. This is especially important in high traffic areas like grocery stores, shopping mall, playgrounds and other public areas. • Avoid contact by protecting your mouth and nose from your hands. Viruses stay active on surfaces, tables, doorknobs and other areas. Avoid touching your face and wash your hands frequently. • Take action as soon as you know you have been exposed or notice symptoms. Seek a healthcare provider near you. • Current swine flu outbreak may require you to get tested. Testing is usually done with a nasal swab or/and throat swab. • Keep warm. Viruses grow in areas with lowered body temperature like the nasal passage. Frequent hot face towels and hot steam baths are recommended. • Check your temperature if you feel warm. Natural Therapies • Before adding natural therapies seek medical advise as some vitamins and nutrients are not recommended during pregnancy or may have side- effects. • Nutrients Vitamin C and A are important for the body’s immune system. • Herbs (commonly found in syrup, tincture, or inhalants, capsules or lozenges acts as antiviral) • Herbs: Echinacea, licorice, elderberry, peppermint, thyme, eucalyptus • Zinc important mediator for your immune system • Foods: increase Garlic, ginger, onion, cinnamon, and lemon. Honey, fiber, vegetables • Increase clear liquids, vegetable broth; don’t force your body to eat if you are not hungry. Avoid sugar, breads, and sweet foods when ill. • See our website for updates on natural therapies. More information: www.naturalrootsmedicine.com http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ http://www.lapublichealth.org/ IMPORTANT NOTICE Micaela Finlayson is a Naturopathic Doctor with experience in the fields of natural healing, preventive and Naturopathic medicine. Information on this site represent the opinions of Dr. Finlayson based upon her knowledge, experience and training and have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Any information on this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The material provided on this site is for educational purposes only and any recommendations are not intended to replace the advice of your physician. You are encouraged to seek advice from a competent medical professional regarding the applicability of any recommendations with regard to your condition. Some products, herbs and supplements may conflict with prescribed medications and should not be taken without consulting with your doctor. It is important that you do not reduce, change, or discontinue any medication or treatment without consulting your physician first. http://www.naturalrootsmedicine.comhttp://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/http://www.lapublichealth.org/shapeimage_1_link_0shapeimage_1_link_1shapeimage_1_link_2
Wednesday, April 29, 2009