Pneumonia
By Louise Tenney
Pneumonia used to be one of the most dreaded disease known. Though it is still a serious illness, it is rarely fatal except in those with severely weakened immune systems.
It involves inflammation and infection of the lung tissue resulting in fluid filling the tiny air sacs.
Pneumonia usually begins with a respiratory infection from a flu or cold. It can progress quickly or gradually. It generally causes a fever, headache, malaise, chills, cough rapid breathing, nausea, vomiting, sweating and chest pains. The cough is usually not productive until the later stages of the disease. There may be a bluish-tinge to the skin.
A virus infection may progress to a bacterial infection if it is left untreated. Bacterial pneumonia comes on suddenly often following another illness. It can be very serious. The child will feel sick, have a high fever, difficulty in breathing, chills, pain, and a cough. Recovery may take two to three weeks. And a cough and fatigue may continue for up to two months.
Causes
Pneumonia can be caused by a bacteria, virus, fungi, or mycoplasma. They enter the lungs and cause inflammation. When the epiglottis, which protects the lungs, becomes weakened, as in cases of surgery, loss of consciousness, or seizure, microbes can invade the lungs increasing the risk of infection. A weakened immune system can increase the risk of pneumonia.
Other factors include exposure to smoke, asthma, malnutrition, kidney failure, and respiratory infections. It is a common secondary infection with influenza and AIDS. Viruses known to cause pneumonia are Adenovirus, the Syncytial virus and Coxsackievirus.
Bacterial pneumonia is often caused by Pneumococci, Staphylococci and Chlamydia. If the kidneys and colon are weak, toxins will be eliminated through the lungs causing irritations.
Air pollution can cause respiratory illnesses such as asthma, allergies, bronchitis and pneumonia. It can also cause scarring in the lungs which can leave an individual more susceptible to conditions such as pneumonia.
Home Care
A child with pneumonia needs extra fluid intake.
This will thin the mucus secretions and encourage a productive cough. Increase moisture by using a cool air humidifier. Do not suppress the cough as it helps bring up the mucus.
A hot water bottle on the chest can help relieve pain.
Rest is necessary to aid in recovery.
Dietary Guidelines
Offer the child large amounts of pure water, diluted fruit juice, vegetable juice, vegetable soup, and herbal tea.
Avoid refined sugar, fatty foods, and caffeine.
Avoid dairy products which can increase the production of MUCUS.
Encourage the child to eat natural foods when ready to eat. It won't hurt them to take only liquids for a few days. This can help cleanse the body. The child will usually ask for food when they are ready.
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Suggested Remedies
Pneumonia-Pleurisy:
medical
care needed.
Nutritional support can be taken with Rx medicines especially
viral pneumonia.
Herbals
Dr. Christopher's remedy: (*
Lobelia - 4 capsules;
Capsicum - 1 capsule
- every hour until obstructive phlegm is vomited up.)
Lung Support - Chinese
for weakened lung - up to 6 daily
VS-C if viral pneumonia - 1 tsp hourly
Bone Skin Poultice &
Rosehips - every two hours until crisis
is over
Bifidophilus - 2 capsules 3x a day on empty stomach
Olive Leaf
Colostrum
Vitamins& Minerals
Large amounts of
A,
C,
E,
Zinc (Ot take
Rosehips above)
Diet
Eliminate dairy, sugar, white flour, coffee, tea, soda, meat.
Drink plenty of water.
Aromatherapy
Breathe Free
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