Health Issues and Symptoms – A Closer Look

There are literally hundreds of health issues and symptoms that can be discussed when it comes to alternative medicine and therapies that can be used to promote healing. This page is meant to consider some of the most common of health ailments and how natural healthcare might work for the symptoms and create a better quality of life. There are many natural healthy products available from sources online or through health food stores and frequently asked questions provide helpful insights. For further definitions of terms; refer to the reference guide as well. If you would like to tell a personal story; visit the personal reports page and let others know what worked or didn’t work for a particular issue. This website is not claiming cures, and before any alternative therapy is tried for a specific health issue; always consults a physician.

Acne – A skin issue that produces pimples; most often on the face. It usually starts in adolescence and can be difficult to treat. Severity can come from heredity, stress, seasonal changes and diet. Allergies can be one cause and hormone fluctuations may also increase the problem. Acne is really more of an embarrassment than anything else; but severe cases are often treated with antibiotics. This can create other health problems so alternative treatments are sought. Vitamins A and E added to a diet may help; as well as a zinc supplement. Evening primrose oil, black currant or borage seed oil is also good in Omega 6. Tea tree oil or Melaleucea oil from an Australian tree also assists healing when topically applied.

Arthritis – Arthritis is from the Greek word “joint”. Osteoarthritis is pain and stiffness of the joints after exercise or strenuous activity. Symptoms can occur only on one side of the body. It also may be caused by infection, trauma, imbalances or genetic predispositions. There is no cure in western medicine; reliving the symptoms is usually indicated. Some herbal remedies may be of assistance such as cat’s claw, olive leaf extract grape seed, licorice root or glucosamine and chondroitin.

Back Pain – A very common problem from over exertion, physical structure problems or stress issues and can vary from mild to quite severe. Exercise specific for the pain helps alleviate some of the pressure allowing the person to become more mobile. Some of the exercises include the pelvic tilt, bent knee sit ups, and a wall press. Ask the chiropractor for specifics. Too much bed rest can be a problem as muscles get stiff. A fish oil supplement may be beneficial and seeing a chiropractor if necessary. Acupuncture has also been found to relieve pain.

Burns – Usually burns are measured in “degrees”. The most common burns are first degree such as sunburn. A second degree burn affects deeper layers of the skin. These two can be effectively treated at home if they are small and show no signs of infection. If the burn is more severe; a doctor must be consulted immediately. Cool water is the best first aid treatment. Use it as soon as possible after the burn. Do not use ointments, butter or lotions to treat a new burn. After water has been used; vitamin E can be used to promote healing and prevent scarring. Apple cider vinegar or tea can help take out the burning. Aloe vera gel and tea tree oil can also take out that burning feeling.

Cancer – There are so many different cancer issues that it is hard to describe which one a person deals with. Some of the most common alternative treatments and therapies at health and wellness centers may include: detoxification, using melatonin, B17, shark cartilage, ozone therapy, ultraviolet blood irradiation. This is not all of the therapies available; research the specific type of cancer and other treatments may be recommended.

Canker Sores – Mouth ulcers are very common. They eventually go away but can be quite painful. They are thought to be caused by a nutritional deficiency or allergy of some type. An over the counter carbamide peroxide with glycerin used topically heals and soothes. Zinc applied directly to the sore also seems to help the pain and aids healing. Acidophilus found in yogurt helps fight off a canker sore coming on.

Carpal Tunnel – a condition where pressure is put on the median nerve as it passes down through the wrist bones and into the hand. This can be a painful issue and can keep people awake. A repetitive task; such as using a computer can cause this problem. A supplement of B6 combined with B12 and B2 is said to help carpal tunnel sufferers. Applying heat topically also helps with the pain.

Celiac Disease – A congenital, hereditary sensitivity to gluten and grains. This produces chronic issues such as bloating, indigestion, lethargy and depression. The intestines are unable to deliver nutrients to the body. Some of the best ways to combat this disease is to eat a gluten free diet, low in fiber and a lactose free diet. Avoid fatty foods as much as possible also.

Cold Sores – Fever blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus. Sun, alcohol, sugar, stress or being run down can cause an outbreak. Either one or a whole cluster can appear on the mouth. Apply lysine cream topically and a zinc lozenge can also be applied topically. To prevent cold sores avoid foods containing arginine, such as chocolate, peanuts, seeds and other grains.

Colds – Colds are caused by viruses. Many think there isn’t anything you can do for a cold; but a lot can be done to prevent them. Vitamin A and C will help boost the immune system and a good diet and exercise will also help the system. Wash hands a lot and take Echinacea to help prevent a cold. Get lots of sleep and in general take care of your health to stave off a cold.

Constipation – If there is a change in bowel movements; don’t immediately reach for a laxative. There are things that can be done naturally such as bran, psyllium fiber, aloe vera gel capsules, drink lots of water and get plenty of regular exercise to assist in getting back on track.

Depression – Some depression requires a doctor’s attention. If occasional depression is felt; try increasing activity levels by exercising more, even walking. Avoid sugar, caffeine or alcohol and take a vacation to a sunny place. Read inspiration things and avoid sleeping too much.

Dermatitis – A type of rash that can also be eczema. Contact dermatitis can have red blisters with oozing. Allergies can cause dermatitis, so it is wise to determine what the person has touched. Vitamin A and C can improve the skin; and to relieve itching; use a small amount of hydrocortisone cream over the counter.

Diabetes – A disease where the body cannot properly convert food into energy. Insulin is usually diagnosed for diabetes, but some natural treatments would include avoiding sugar, eat a high fiber diet, avoid caffeine, eat regularly, eat apples high in pectin, exercise regularly, and lose weight.

Diarrhea – This is not actually a disease but a symptom of a specific issue. Drink plenty of liquid; especially juices, avoid solids, avoid caffeine and carbonation, and eat bananas, rice, potatoes as they are easy to digest. Avoid antibiotics if possible and let the diarrhea run its course. If the person is not getting over it; see a doctor.

Fibrocystic Breast Disease – This is a condition and not really a disease. It is a benign but painful swelling of the breast tissue. It can be more of an inconvenience than anything else. Eliminate coffee, caffeine, smoking, animal fats, diuretics and prescription drugs that contain caffeine. Eat fruits, vegetables, nuts and berries. Have a regular mammogram.

Fibromyalgia – Fibromyalgia means pain in the muscles and does not really have a known cause. Most people say they ache all over. Recently people have found relief of the symptoms of fibromyalgia with aerobic exercise. Exercise such as yoga, tai chi, swimming and qigong have reduced swelling and increased mobility. Low impact is the key and do not overexert the body. Some of the beneficial herbs would include: St. John’s wort, Siberian Ginseng, turmeric, calendula, cayenne, burdock, garlic, gingko biloba, willow bark, passion flower, licorice root, milk thistle, black walnut and valerian,

Glaucoma - A disease of the eye that can lead to blindness. This occurs when normal drainage of eye fluid is blocked. This causes pressure in the eye. Mild headaches and visual disturbances are the main symptom. There is some indication that doses of vitamins A, B, C and E bring the eye pressure down to normal. Chromium, zinc and thiamin also play a lead role in the prevention of glaucoma. Dosages vary from patient to patient. Smoking can really be a problem for people with glaucoma. Avoid the smoke even secondhand smoke if you suffer from this illness.

Gout – Gout is caused by increased uric acid in the body. Crystals are formed in joints and tendons causing pain and inflammation. To alleviate problems of gout; don’t drink alcohol, eliminate foods that contain uric acid such as smoked meat, shellfish, dried peas, and mushrooms. Increase fruit and a balanced diet. Eliminate or reduce niacin and eat cherries.

Hives – Hives are among the most common of allergies of the skin. They are raised red patches with defined edges. They usually are not life threatening. Stress and tension can cause a breakout of hives. Also food allergens and penicillin can cause hives. Pay attention to what you have eaten and the symptoms should go away within a few hours. Chronic hives can be helped with vitamin C, E and selenium.

Hypertension – This is high blood pressure and one of the biggest health challenges facing Americans. It can damage organs without causing pain. If you have been prescribed a drug by a doctor; keep taking it. This is a good example where complementary care comes into play with western medicine. If the person loses weight, reduces salt, relies on a more vegetarian and high fiber diet, stops smoking and drinking and exercises, they will give themselves a better chance of feeling better and possibly reducing the amount of medication needed.

Indigestion – This is an upper intestinal tract problem that also includes the stomach and gallbladder. Heartburn is a symptom of indigestion. Allergies, heartburn, hernia, ulcers are just a few causes of indigestion. Consider taking pancreatic enzymes for increased digestion. Watch what you eat as you may have an allergy that is causing problems of digestion.

Insomnia – This sleeping disorder can have a host of causes. Some of them may be food related such as too much caffeine or stress related. Sleeping pills are usually never a very good idea. To assist with sleep; check all medications, don’t eat too late in the day, stop smoking, do only relaxing things before you go to bed, keep to the same sleep habits, try valerian or lavender for sleeping aids, passionflower tea also assists with sleep.

Kidney Stones – These will develop when calcium or uric acid form crystals in the kidney and are very painful to pass. The goal is to dilute the concentration of the above so the crystals don’t form. Some preventive things you can do are; drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day, high fiber diet, avoid carbonated drinks, lower calcium and vitamin C intake, cutback on salt, sugar and caffeine, eat lots of fruit and vegetables.

Menopause – This occurs in women when the body stops producing estrogen and eggs. This can be a 5 year process and can occur as early as 40. Hormone replacement therapy has been touted as the thing to do, but now has fallen under considerable scrutiny. Hot flashes are one of the worst symptoms of menopause and seem to be worse when there is high sugar intake. Lower sugar so the glucose levels can remain balanced. Lots of exercise and the intake of soy and tofu is a good alternative to the HRT. Dong Quai, chromium, boron and magnesium are also said to be added to the diet.

Migraines Headaches – These headaches are different from the ordinary headache that is possible on any day. A headache that happens more than once, usually on one side of the head, experiencing flashing lights, blind spots or depression, and vomiting or nausea is possible; could also be genetic. They can be triggered by food so watch what is eaten. Get lots of exercise and watch any changes in routine, such as; changes in sleep patterns or temperatures. Feverfew, fish oil and magnesium may also help prevent headaches.

Osteoporosis – Loss of bone density, usually in older women that are in menopause. This condition is preventable if a regime is started early in life. Monitor calcium levels throughout the lifetime and this will help. Stop smoking, caffeine and alcohol as these leach calcium from the body. Too much salt also is a contributor of osteoporosis. Reduce protein and get into a regular weight bearing exercise regime to stave off the effects.

Poison Ivy – This is a rash that leaves the skin red, swollen and blistered. The inflammation is due to touching the plant which leaves toxins on the skin. If the plants are burned; there air will be filled with the toxin and can do damage to the lungs. The best prevention is to avoid the plant. If exposed; wash the skin with soap and clothing with hot water and strong laundry detergent. Crushed plantain leaves, calamine lotion and baking soda should stop the itching if applied topically.

PMS – Premenstrual Syndrome was first diagnosed in 1931 and usually creates depression, mood swings or irritability and pain before a menstrual period. Natural approaches such as an exercise program, a healthy lifestyle of diet and vitamin supplements help with keep the symptoms at a tolerable level.

Rheumatoid Arthritis – This is a type of arthritis and it begins with inflammation of the fluid which lubricates the joints. This disease is chronic and affects mostly the hands, feet, ankles and knees. No cause has really been identified; however it is thought to be an issue with the immune system of the body. Foods may have an effect on the symptoms; so monitor foods eaten. Avoid food in the nightshade family such as potatoes, tomatoes, peppers etc. Possibly try a vegetable juice fast for 3 days and take fats out of the diet except for fish oil. Swimming seems to help as part of a regular exercise program.

Rosacea – This relatively common skin problem affects more women than men and can occur between 30 and 50. It usually affects the nose and cheeks and looks sort of like a sunburn. No one really knows what causes rosacea but it may be linked to food allergies or a digestive problem. Monitor food intake and eliminate things that will cause blood vessels to dilate, such as; alcohol, spicy food and caffeine. Acidophilus may assist with digestive problems also.

Shingles – This is caused by herpes zoster that is also the chicken pox virus. They appear as a burning, itching painful area somewhere on the body. This will last for one to two weeks but can be longer. The pain can continue long after the attack. If there has been exposure to chicken pox the virus can remain dormant and come up due to fatigue, stress, immune deficiencies, anti cancer drugs and more. Shingles are not contagious unless the person has never had chicken pox. Cold compresses, lysine cream or calamine lotion may stop some of the pain and be quite soothing. Vitamin E capsules directly onto the body may be helpful as well. If pain remains; acupuncture has been said to stop some of the pain.

Swimmer’s Ear – This is a bacterial or fungal infection of the outer ear. Contaminated water gets trapped in the canal. Early on the ear itches but then becomes more painful. Keep the ears very dry for prevention. Use ear plugs in the water if prone to swimmer’s ear. Swimming in lakes also is a problem because the water harbors more pollutants than chlorinated pools. Drops of equal parts white vinegar and rubbing alcohol into the ear may help in healing.

Tinnitus – A condition where noises arise in the ears. This could be buzzing, ringing, clicking or roaring. It is not known exactly why this happens and can be difficult to take care of. Loud noises, high blood pressure and too much ear wax can cause this issue. Eliminate foods with salicylates (anti inflammatory) such as almonds, prunes, apricots, apples, blackberries, cucumbers, cherries, oranges and peaches. Stop smoking and eliminate caffeine. A low-fat, low-cholesterol diet may also help.

Ulcers – Are perforations of the lining of the digestive tract. There are different types of ulcers; depending on where they form. The mucous lining of the stomach won’t protect the wall so corrosive acid damages it. Burning after meals and some chest pain are typical symptoms. Eat a high fiber diet with that is low in fat. Stop drinking alcohol, taking antacids or smoking. Practice relaxation and regular exercise. Do not take milk to soothe the pain and eliminate sugar.

Warts – Common warts will vary in size from a pinhead to the size of a dime and can occur anywhere on the body. It is rough, raised, and can be dry or moist with a pitted surface. Warts are a virus and are contagious. They are likely to go away if left alone but try vitamin E directly on the wart or crushed garlic and then bandage it. It should take about a week before the wart will fall off.

Wrinkle Prevention – This is the $64,000 questions. Preventing wrinkles on the face may be helped with some common sense prevention. Wear SPF 15 everyday, stop smoking, moisturize the skin, and drink 8 glasses of water a day. Take a supplement of vitamin C and A. Much of this is sun exposure and heredity.

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