Infections Health Article

Dietary modifications

A healthful balanced diet and lifestyle are important supports of the immune function. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), shiitake (Lentinus edodes), and maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms are renowned for their ability to strengthen the immune system and their antimicrobial properties. Regular supplementation with vitamin C, vitamin A or beta-carotene, zinc, and bioflavonoids is also recommended to boost the immune response.

Sugary foods, including honey, may depress the immune system. Very high levels of fat in the diet may also interfere. Alcohol decreases the functioning of the immune system. All of these substances should be avoided during the course of an infection. Food allergies should be considered, especially in the case of chronic colds, throat infections, and ear infections. Once allergens have been identified, they should be avoided. Patients should increase their intake of fluids, including soups, teas, diluted fruit and vegetable juices, and pure water.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy may be a useful supportive measure in infectious conditions. An essential oil of cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) is recommended in fungal infections; essential oils of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) and patchouli are also recommended. It should be remembered, however, that essential oils are very concentrated, toxic to the liver and kidneys, and should be used only in very small doses (drops).

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is helpful in stimulating the immune system. It reduces the effects of stress, improves circulation, and increases the production of RBCs and WBCs. It has been used for thousands of years to treat infectious diseases.

Hydrotherapy

Constitutional hydrotherapy is the use of applications of hot water alternated with cold. It is effective in respiratory infections and in stimulating the immune system. For proper administration of hydrotherapy, a naturopath or other healthcare provider familiar with its techniques should be consulted.

Allopathic treatment

Minor infections are often relieved by over-the-counter medications. A high fever or joint pain may be a sign of an infection spreading throughout the body. A physician should be contacted. Infections from bites and puncture wounds should also receive medical attention and possibly a tetanus injection.

Serious infections may be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are effective against many parasitic and fungal infections as well as bacteria. Antibiotics may also be given during a viral infection even though they have no effect on viruses. This measure is taken to prevent bacterial infections, which may occur due to the weakened state brought on by the virus. In the case of viral infections, antiviral drugs are used to reduce symptoms. Their usefulness, however, is limited because viruses quickly mutate and develop resistance to them.

Antifungal drugs are often applied directly to fungal infections. They may be taken orally, applied topically, or injected. Fungal infections often require several weeks of treatment and repeated courses of the drug. Both antifungal and antiviral drugs tend to be somewhat toxic to people as well as to the pathogens.

Expected results

Most minor infections resolve within a week. Chronic infections may last for years. Serious infections need to be attended by a physician, as tissue damage and death may be an imminent outcome. Anemia may result from severe infections, since RBCs or their production may be affected.

Prevention

Various vaccines are available to prevent major infections. These vaccines are made from deactivated parts of viruses or bacteria that confer future immunity to infection by those pathogens. Vaccinations for mumps, measles, chicken pox, tetanus, hepatitis, diphtheria, whooping cough, and pneumonia are widely available in the United States. They are routinely given to infants and children to provide lifetime immunity from these diseases. An anthrax vaccine is available but as of early 2002, reports say that a new, improved vaccine is needed in the United States, since the vaccine requires six doses over 18 months for full protection, with a booster every 12 months.

Good hygienic practices should be maintained. They include keeping the body clean as well as keeping food, utensils, and areas of preparation clean and free of contamination. Meat, seafood, and dairy products should be properly refrigerated. Breaks in the skin should be cleaned and disinfected to avoid further infection. Direct contact with people known or suspected to have infections should be limited, depending on the nature of the disease.

The health of the immune system should be maintained. A positive mental outlook is important, together with appropriate amounts of sleep, relaxation, and stress reduction. A healthful diet should be followed, with decreased sugar, salt, saturated fats, and chemical additives. Good lifestyle habits, such as giving up smoking and taking regular physical exercise, should be cultivated.