The Home Doctor is a guide that teaches readers how to use DIY medical procedures and the most basic medical supplies. These tips can help you treat common illnesses and take care of yourself during times of emergency when you cannot see a doctor. The book covers everything, from the importance and use of a stethoscope, to how to use a listrine. These are the most important things to know before you begin reading.
Leeches are used for treating illnesses
Leeches were used to treat nervous system abnormalities in ancient Egypt. Today, leeches are used to treat dental issues, skin diseases, and infections. Though it has less widespread use than in the past, leeches are still widely used in plastic surgery. The insects secrete proteins, anticoagulants, and peptides that can be used to treat a variety illnesses. While the FDA approved leeches for use in medicine in 2004, the practice of using them is slowly gaining popularity.
Leeches were used in ancient times to treat a variety ailments such as rheumatic pains and gout. Many ancient doctors believed that leeches were capable of healing any illness. They would bleed patients to help them restore their bodily humours, which were believed to contribute to their overall health. This treatment was also common in medieval Europe. It was used to treat a variety of illnesses, including eye and laryngitis.
Because of the antibacterial effects of leech saliva, the therapy can be effective in alleviating painful conditions such as shingles. Many species of leech saliva are considered medicinal and can be used to treat autoimmune diseases and gastrointestinal tract infections. It is also used to treat a variety of skin ailments, including psoriasis, a common skin disease in which skin cells replace themselves too quickly. Chronic plaque psoriasis is one of the most common forms of psoriasis.
Antibiotics can prevent the progression of a cold into pneumonia
A healthy immune system can help people with a cold avoid antibiotics. Although antibiotics cannot treat the actual cold, they can help prevent its progression to pneumonia. While antibiotics can be effective against certain types of bacteria, they are not effective against Mycoplasma pneumae. Several recent antibiotics have been developed that target Mycoplasma and can be used to treat a cold.
The symptoms of pneumonia and the duration of the cough are longer than those of a cold. However, you can try treating yourself at home with more rest, increased fluid intake, and over-the-counter medicines. If you have severe symptoms, you should immediately see a healthcare provider. Children suffering from pneumonia-like symptoms should consult a doctor immediately. The illness can cause permanent damage to their lungs.
A variety of bacteria can cause pneumonia, among other things. Bacteria that cause colds and influenza can grow resistant to antibiotics. In hospitals, bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics over time. This makes them less effective. In addition, bacteria in hospitals can spread antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Patients who are dependent on breathing machines are also at higher risk for hospital-acquired pneumonia. Another source of pneumonia is long-term care facilities.
If you have hidden inflammation, your body will tell you.
Hidden inflammation can interfere with your health and function and is often hard to recognize. Hidden inflammation symptoms can vary from person-to-person, but they are indicative of a potentially serious condition. People often stop listening to their bodies until symptoms become chronic or become common. Here’s a list with common symptoms and how to spot them. Once you know if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you can take steps to alleviate your discomfort and improve your health.
Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism that protects the body against infection and foreign substances. It produces white blood cells that fight infection. However, some people may experience serious health problems and a decrease in quality of life. It is important to recognize signs of hidden inflammation and regularly check your hsCRP levels. You may feel the need to visit a doctor to be checked for hidden inflammation.
Listrine is a natural remedy for sore throats
Herbal remedies are available over the counter and may be effective in treating a sore throat, though some of them may interact with prescription drugs or be dangerous if you have a medical history. You might also try marshmallow root, slippery-elm, or licorice root. You can gargle with salt water to loosen mucus and sooth a sore throat.
Sliding elm is another natural remedy that can ease sore throats. Brew two tablespoons of slippery elm bark powder in a cup of hot water and allow it to steep for five minutes. Honey is an effective remedy for sore throats. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and immune-boosting qualities. You can also use diluted peppermint essential oil to make a throat spray or mouthwash.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid reaches the throat. Acid from the stomach can make the sore throat more severe by prolonging symptoms and making coughing more painful. Foods rich in acid, such as soda, fried foods, and citrus fruits, should be avoided just before bedtime. If your sore throat is due to acid reflux, an antacid can help relieve the symptoms. You can also try an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
Gargling with licorice root and warm water is another effective home remedy for a sore throat. Licorice root has natural antibacterial properties that boost the immune system. Avoid licorice root if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Another effective home remedy is honey, which is soothing to the throat and increases antioxidant levels. To get even more benefits from honey, you can add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to it. If none of these remedies work for you, try taking raw honey every two hours for fast relief.
Wild edibles can be found around your home
Wild edibles are available right at your doorstep. Elderberry, for example, is an edible plant that grows in lawns and gardens. It has a distinctive tusk that is deeply notched and contains bitter alkaloid. Elderberry roots, bark, and leaves can also be eaten. The young leaves of the elderberry can be eaten raw or fried like zucchini flowers. Another wild edible is the cattail, also known as bullrush. It produces green male heads in spring. These can be harvested by removing the husk. Cattail heads can be prepared in the same way as corn on the cob.
Garlic mustard is another wild edible that is native to the UK and the US. Young garlic shoots and leaves taste similar to parsley. To prevent seeds forming, remove the flowering stems from garlic mustard plants. Young garlic can also be eaten, but you should be cautious about picking similar plants. If you are unsure of the safety of a plant, it’s always best to consult a physician before using it.
Chickweed can also be used medicinally. Chickweed can be used as a salad green or made into an alcohol-tincture. It can help to remove cysts, tone your thyroid, and aid weight loss. Chickweed can also be used to make a delicious coffee substitute. Its leaves, stems and roots can also be enjoyed as a tasty treat. Chickweed is also used in traditional medicine for digestive disorders.
Taking expired medication is dangerous
If you have a medical condition that requires a continuous dose of the drug, it is not a good idea to use expired medication. Although it may be harmless for minor symptoms, expired medication can have serious side effects. It is important to verify the expiration date of any medication before you take it. Here are some reasons to throw it away if you don’t know when it expired. Expired medications won’t work and could make you sicker.
Expired medicines have a lower potency than the fresh ones. If you take an antibiotic after its expiration date, it may not treat your infection, and could actually make it worse. This is because the medication has been exposed to bacteria. These bacteria may cause bacterial growth, which can lead to further infection and antibiotic resistance. Even if you are able to eliminate your illness using expired medications they can still pose serious dangers.
Although expired medication is not necessarily dangerous, its potency has decreased over time. A U.S. Department of Defense study found that drug potency remains a factor even one year after expiration. Moreover, when storing expired medications, keep in mind that they should be stored in a cool and dry place. Avoid storing them within your bathroom medicine cabinets, as they are hot and humid. Keep them out of your car as they can heat up even in moderate temperatures.