"Nervous Breakdown'

A nervous breakdown can be described as an acute emotional or psychological collapse. The term nervous breakdown is not a medical term, but rather a colloquial term used by the general public to refer to and characterize a wide range of mental illnesses.

It generally occurs when a person is unable to function in social roles anymore, experiencing severe depression or feelings of being out of touch with reality. This often occurs after a long period of stress which has not been adequately dealt with.

This inability to function can occur in both work and personal arenas, resulting in difficulty in fulfilling obligations. It also causes the individual to develop physical, mental and emotional symptoms. A person experiencing symptoms of a nervous breakdown may feel extreme tiredness, weakness, episodes of uncontrollable crying, confusion, disorientation and feelings of worthlessness.

There may also be a loss of self-esteem and confidence, extreme weight loss or weight gain, disrupted sleep patterns and feelings of guilt and despair. In severe cases, an inability to move, called catatonic posturing, may result. This is a serious psychiatric condition and should not be taken lightly.
Other Disorders Associated with a Nervous Breakdown

* Depression
* Panic disorder
* Panic attacks
* Anxiety disorder
* Generalized anxiety disorder
* Acute stress disorder
* Post-traumatic stress disorder
* Trauma disorders
* Schizophrenia
* Psychotic disorders
* Mood (affective) disorders
* Biopolar disorder

Learning to manage stress and identify the early symptoms of a nervous breakdown such as anxiety, depression and panic disorders can help to prevent its onset. Many people have experienced being on the verge of a nervous breakdown, and it is this feeling of overwhelming helplessness that has forced them to revamp their lifestyles and has offered them the opportunity for growth and enlightenment.

Diagnosing a Nervous Breakdown

Your doctor will perform a physical examination to rule out any other medical conditions, and also ask you what symptoms you are experiencing. A course of medication may be prescribed as well as a referral to a psychologist or psychotherapist.
Symptoms of a Nervous Breakdown & Early Warning Signs

There are physical, emotional and behavioral warning signs and symptoms of a nervous breakdown. They include:




Physical symptoms of a nervous breakdown

* Sleep disruption - much longer periods of sleep or insomnia
* Diarrhea
* Constipation
* Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
* Breathing problems
* Migraine headaches
* Low libido
* Memory loss
* Disrupted menstrual cycle
* Extreme exhaustion/fatigue
* Feelings of persistent anxiety or panic attacks
* Significant changes in appetite, such as eating too little or too much (comfort eating)
* Visual/eye disturbances

Emotional symptoms
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Agitation and restlessness
* Indecision
* Loss of confidence and selfesteem
* Inability to stop crying
* Feelings of guilt, poor judgment
* Disinterest in social life and work or alienation from previously close friends and family
* Hearing voices
* Inability to pursue a normal life, normal activities or normal relationships
* Increasing dependence on alcohol or drugs
* Paranoid thoughts, such as the thought people are trying to harm you
* Seeing people who are not there
* Thoughts of dying or wish to die
* Thoughts of grandeur or invincibility
* Having flashbacks to a prior traumatic event
* Hearing voices

Behavioral symptoms

* Mood swings
* Strange behavior such as odd body movements or undressing in public
* Exhibiting strong or violent anger

In more extreme cases, psychosis can occur where the person will experience complete loss of contact with reality. The symptoms may include hallucinations or visions, feelings of victimization or persecution, strange speech patterns and behaviors as well as extreme guilt or grandiosity.




There is always a trigger or catalyst that sparks a nervous breakdown. Breakdowns usually stem from a change in a major life event such as a broken relationship, death of a loved one, a demanding job or financial difficulties. Factors that may contribute to a breakdown include:

* Stress
* Depression
* Alcohol and drug abuse, particularly cocaine
* Genetics (family history)
* Coexisting medical conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, movement disorders, skin and limb problems, etc.
* Anxiety surrounding major life changes or disorders, such as pregnancy/after birth/labor, menopause, etc.
* Schizophrenia
* Extreme guilt or emotional problems

Help for Nervous Breakdowns

There are many treatment methods and approaches for dealing with nervous breakdowns. Choosing the right one depends on the diagnosis of the individual case, as there is no standard cure. There are ways to prevent a nervous breakdown, conventional treatments, natural remedies, nutritional supplements and many other therapies to choose from.
Available Treatment Options for Nervous Breakdowns

Preventative

Obviously the best approach is to prevent the breakdown from occurring in the first place. Recognizing the warning signs of a nervous breakdown and reducing and managing stress levels can often produce excellent results and prevent the total collapse usually associated with a nervous breakdown.

Conventional Medicine

Conventional treatments once signs of a nervous breakdown are observed usually consist of anti-depressants or other psychiatric medications. These can have serious side effects as they are high schedule drugs. Prescription drugs alone do not offer a comprehensive treatment for any psychiatric or stress related condition. It is important to seek help in managing the conditions that led up to the breakdown. This is best done by consulting a psychologist.


Herbal and Homeopathic remedies have the potential to address many of the symptoms of nervous distress and have the advantage of being safe and effective, without many of the side effects and potential for addiction commonly associated with the psychiatric drugs. By incorporating these remedies into your lifestyle, you are not only being proactive but also improving your physical, mental and emotional health.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies commonly recommended include ingredients such as St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), Passiflora incarnata, Lavender, Valerian and Melissa officinalis. Homeopathic remedies may also be very beneficial in addressing the underlying causes of the psychological distress and are very useful along with psychotherapy.

Nutritional Supplements

Signs of a nervous breakdown include stress which often means that the individual becomes deficient in certain vitamins and minerals especially if appetite is also affected. A good multivitamin can be very beneficial and special attention should be paid to taking extra vitamins in the B complex, particularly Vitamin B6 and B12. .

Other therapies

Aromatherapy, yoga, reflexology, Reiki and massage therapy can all be useful adjuncts to treatment and can greatly assist in aiding relaxation and stress management.

Prevention & Treatment Tips for Nervous Breakdowns

Taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally is very important, especially with the hectic demands placed on our daily lives. These useful tips include:

* Eating a healthy diet and improving food choices
* Exercising regularly
* Actively seeking professional help for better coping mechanisms or help with emotional issues
* Taking a break from work and going on vacation
* Practicing deep breathing exercises and meditation
* Incorporating fun and laughter into your life
* Allowing more time for a good nights rest
* Limiting alcohol and tobacco intake
* Avoiding drugs
* Learning to relax by taking time for yourself
* Maintaining contact with family and friends
* Treating yourself regularly by playing a round of golf, or spending the day at the spa

Herbal Remedies


Nutrition & Diet Tips for Preventing Nervous Breakdowns

While a holistic lifestyle that ties diet, exercise and natural remedy will give you the best results for supporting mental health and therefore helping prevent nervous breakdowns, the benefits of a healthy diet cannot be emphasized enough the old adage you are what you eat can really hold true, as foods are not only fuel but stress fighters, too!

* Complex carbs boost levels of serotonin, a brain-calming chemical. While all carbs actually boost levels of serotonin, complex carbs are best, which are digested more slowly. Good sources include whole-grain breakfast cereals, breads, and pastas, as well as old-fashioned oatmeal. Complex carbs also stabilize blood sugar levels, helping support mood.
* Avoid simple carbs like candy and soda, as are they are digested quickly, leading to a spike and subsequent crash in serotonin.
* Vitamin C has been studied and shown to reduce levels of stress hormones while strengthening the immune system.
* Magnesium helps regulate cortisol (stress) levels. Spinach, cooked soybeans, tuna and salmon are all high in magnesium.
* Almonds contain vitamin E and a range of B vitamins, which may make the body more resilient during bouts of stress.
* Calcium has been shown to soothe tension, ease anxiety and mood swings.
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Tips to Avoid Overindulgence

Many people are all too familiar with overindulging in food, nicotine and alcohol whether it is for a special occasion or because we simply enjoy it. When you eat, smoke and drink excessively over the holidays, at parties, over the weekends or go on a binge, you are often rewarded with a hangover, headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation or stomach ache. Eating too many rich foods such as fried chicken, creamy pastas, pastries, cakes and sweets as well drinking large amounts of wine, beer and alcohol gradually takes its toll on the body and mind. You start to feel tired all the time, sluggish, gain weight, are unable to concentrate and damage may be caused to your digestive organs.

The liver, especially takes a beating when you overindulge as this organ is responsible for the metabolism of fats, removes wastes, and detoxifies the body’s system. It is the liver’s job to get rid of the excess fat, protein and all the unnatural chemicals found in food, the environment, cosmetics and water supply. If the liver cannot eliminate these toxins, they are stored in the body’s fat and the result is weight gain. Other organs that are also affected when you overindulge include the gallbladder, pancreas, small intestine, nervous system, endocrine system, heart and lungs.




Although it may sometimes be tempting to overindulge in food, alcohol and nicotine, keep in mind that moderation is key and that you can still allow yourself to indulge ever so slightly but at the same time make the effort to stay healthy.

There is Help for Overindulgence

Natural and Holistic treatments such as herbal and homeopathic remedies have proven to be highly effective in providing relief for symptoms associated with overindulgence or an alcohol hangover. Herbal remedies are safe, gentle to use on the body’s system and non-addictive.




Powerful herbs such as Silybum marianus (Milk thistle), Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow) and Ulmus fulva (Slippery elm) supports the liver and promotes balance and equilibrium in the body during times of excess and overindulgence.

Homeopathic remedies help the body restore balance at a cellular level, thereby helping the body to transition back into equilibrium naturally. Carefully selected ingredients such as Lupulus humulus, Lobelia inflata and Nux. vomica is the homeopathic hangover remedy to reduce the side effects of a dry mouth, dry eyes, headache and nausea. There are also numerous natural remedies to help your body to detox after periods of excess!




There are several things that you can do to stay healthy and still overindulge once in a while and these include:

Herbal Remedies

* Start eating healthy, well balanced meals that contains all the essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients
* Eat in moderation with smaller portions throughout the day – try not to skip meals!
* Reduce your intake of carbohydrates such as bread, rice, pasta and cereals at lunch and dinner
* Have a bowl of vegetable soup before you go out to eat – foods with a high water content help to stave off hunger
* Drink eight glasses of water per day to flush out all the unwanted toxins and to avoid dehydration especially when you are drinking alcohol
* Avoid a hangover by drinking water in between alcoholic beverages
* Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and keep physically fit and strong
* Detox to clean out the body’s system and get rid of excess waste
* Manage your stress levels effectively by indulging in healthier outlets such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, going away for a weekend or listening to soothing music
* Stop smoking naturally – your energy levels will increase, food tastes better, your skin starts glowing and your risk of heart and lung disease will be reduced dramatically
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German Measles (Rubella)

Rubella, more commonly known as German measles, is an infection caused by the rubella virus. Rubella is highly contagious and primarily affects the skin and lymph nodes. Rubella is usually spread through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While the symptoms of Rubella are similar to those present in measles, the illnesses are caused by two totally different viruses and Rubella comes with an added danger to pregnant women.

While it is generally considered a mild illness in children, Rubella can pass through a pregnant woman’s bloodstream to infect her unborn child (a congenital infection) making it a potentially devastating disease for pregnant women to contract.




Congenital rubella syndrome can cause severe consequences such as miscarriage, growth and mental retardation, deformities of the heart and eyes, deafness and even liver, spleen, and bone marrow problems.

Once infected with Rubella, it can take between 1 and 2 weeks before symptoms develop. Starting with a mild fever and swollen and tender glands, a characteristic itchy pink rash develops along with flu-like symptoms. Other symptoms include:

* Headache
* Sore throat
* Stuffy or runny nose
* Red or inflamed eyes
* Enlarged and tender lymph nodes at the base of the skull, the back of the neck and behind the ears
* Aching joints, a symptom common in young women
* Loss of appetite
* Conjunctivitis




For many children, the symptoms of Rubella are mild and may even go unnoticed. Adults however tend to get more ill with Rubella and may experience more severe symptoms as well as a longer recovery time.
Diagnosing Rubella

It is important to contact your medical practitioner if you think you or your child has been exposed to rubella, or are showing symptoms that may indicate rubella. While medical attention may not be necessary, if your doctor confirms Rubella, it is essential to stay clear of those people who may spread the virus to a pregnant woman. Your doctor will be able to make a diagnosis by examining the rash and sending a blood sample off to the lab.

If blood tests reveal the presence of rubella antibodies, it is likely that you have rubella or have previously been inoculated against it. If pregnant, you should contact your doctor immediately if you think you may have been exposed to the virus. Blood screening tests will be able to determine if you have had the illness as a child or had the vaccination which should mean that you are immune to the virus.




What causes Rubella?

As mentioned, Rubella is caused by the rubella virus which is transmitted through droplets in the air or direct contact. This makes rubella highly contagious as an infected individual only has to sneeze, cough or yawn to send these infected droplets into the air which are then breathed in by others.

People with rubella are most contagious from 1 week before they even know that they are ill, until 1 week after the rash appears, and so they should make sure to stay clear of people in contact with pregnant women during this period. An infected person who does not show any symptoms at all can still pass the virus to others.

Because most children are now vaccinated against Rubella, it has become fairly rare in the United States, and complications resulting from congenital rubella are not as serious as they used to be.

Rubella is one of those illnesses that doctors can do little about, and unless complications arise, the best thing you can do is to get plenty of bed rest and wait for the virus to run its course. Rubella cannot be treated with antibiotics because they are ineffective against viral infections and so your doctor may simply recommend over-the-counter medications to help deal with your symptoms such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

A common misconception is that these OTC medications are all safe for your child, but be sure to research all side-effects and precautions. It is also not advisable to give your child aspirin during a viral infection as complications have been documented. Bed rest, fever monitoring, a healthy diet and plenty of fluids are still the best treatment.

Fighting off any illness requires a strong and efficient immune system, and so it makes perfect sense to dose up with a few ingredients from nature’s first aid box when illness strikes. Some herbal and homeopathic remedies have long been known for their immune boosting qualities such as Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceous, Inula helenium and Withania somnifera.




These herbs are commonly used to strengthen and assist the immune system to promote faster recovery and are well known for their antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. By boosting the immune system naturally, the body is able to quickly and effectively kill off the rubella virus making recovery time faster and symptoms less disruptive.

Herbal Remedies


Rubella can be easily prevented with a rubella vaccine. While you may think that Rubella is not too serious for your child, immunization is critical in order to control the spread of the disease and the incidence of congenital rubella syndrome.

The vaccine is generally given to children between 12 to 15 months of age as part of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) immunization, although a single rubella vaccination can be requested if you are hesitant about the MMRI.

Be sure to research the advantages and disadvantages of all vaccinations. There is a great deal of controversy and contradictory scientific evidence and so it is important that you research the facts and make an informed choice as to what is the best option for your child’s health.

Tips for caring for your child with Rubella:

* Rubella like most of the childhood illnesses requires lots of love and attention, bed rest and immune boosting measures. Make sure your child gets sufficient nutrients and plenty of liquids while ill.
* Keeping a sick child in bed is not always easy, so arrange for some quiet activities that do not require running about. DVD’s, books, puzzles and coloring/activity books always work wonders!
* Use a warm moist towel over your child’s neck to soothe swollen glands.
* If you notice your child scratching the rash, make sure that nails are trimmed short to prevent injury. Apply calamine lotion or another soothing lotion to the rash if it is itchy or uncomfortable.
* Keep your child isolated from friends and family members who have not been inoculated. This is especially important for pregnant mothers.

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Causes of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks (also known as striae) are extremely common and affect a vast majority of women during their pregnancy. They appear as raised red, pink, purple or dark brown lines or streaks in the skin. In the beginning, stretch marks are quite visible but over a period of time they fade into flat, silvery lines.

The skin is made up of three layers – the epidermis (top layer), dermis (middle layer) and subcutaneous layer (inner layer). The dermis consists of elastic fibers of tissue that allow the skin to stretch to a certain point. When the body expands rapidly over a short period of time, the fibers weaken and break and stretch marks begin to develop.

Stretch marks generally appear on a woman’s belly during pregnancy from the end of the second trimester onwards. The abdomen expands quickly to accommodate the baby growing inside and as a result the skin is stretched on parts of the body where fat is stored.




Women may also develop stretch marks on the breasts, thighs, hips, buttocks, upper arms and lower back. Stretch marks also affect women who are not pregnant, men, adolescents, athletes and body builders who have gained excessive weight or experienced rapid spurts of growth.

What Causes Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are caused by the loss of elastic tissue in the skin due to overstretching during periods of rapid weight gain such as pregnancy and adolescence. Several factors may also contribute to the development of stretch marks and these include:

* Family history
* Ethnicity – African American women are less likely to develop stretch marks
* Production of the hormone, corticosteroid
* Poor nutrition
* Weight gain or weight loss may also worsen stretch marks
* Multiple pregnancies
* Stretch marks may develop after a previous pregnancy and become temporarily darker or a lighter extension of the stretch mark

There is Help for Stretch Marks

Over time (about 6 to 12 months) stretch marks do eventually fade and become less noticeable. This is because the pigmentation fades and lightens. In cases where the appearance of stretch marks is more severe, you may need to consult with a dermatologist where topical creams such as Retin-A and glycolic-acid may be prescribed. Keep in mind that these creams should not be used during pregnancy or nursing as they may cause some negative side effects.




Cosmetic treatments such as laser treatments and microdermabrasion may also help to improve the appearance of stretch marks and restore the skin’s elasticity. These treatments are however quite costly and can be harsh treatments on the skin – so consider whether you absolutely need to have them done.

Alternative treatments may contain elastic, collagen as well as vitamins E and A, cocoa butter extracts, wheat germ oil or lanolin to help maintain the skin’s elasticity and also keep it supple. Simply massaging moisturizers into the skin daily helps increase circulation and promote the rejuvenation of the skin’s layers.

Herbal Remedies

People with stretch marks may feel very self-conscious regarding their ‘scars’. A variety of moisturizers, creams and oils containing natural ingredients are available to reduce and prevent the appearance of stretch marks. More and more women are choosing to use natural and holistic treatments during their pregnancy because they are gentle on the body and support healthy skin from the inside out.

Biochemic salts such as Calcium Fluoride, Natrium Muriaticum and Calcium Phosphate restore tone and elasticity to muscles, connective tissue and skin and help to maintain the body’s water balance. Keeping your belly well moisturized throughout your pregnancy will help to reduce dryness and itching that often accompanies stretch marks. There are also many natural ingredients to promote healing of the skin, if such as Rosehip oil that has the ability to rebuild damaged skin tissue and can reduce the appearance of current stretch marks.
More Information on Stretch Marks
Tips to prevent stretch marks

There are a number of precautions that can be taken to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and prevent them from occurring, and these include:

* Eat a well balanced diet that will help you to maintain a healthy weight throughout your pregnancy
* It is recommended that you gain no more than 25 to 35 pounds of weight. Gaining weight slowly will also minimize your risk of getting stretch marks.
* Increase your intake of supplements such as vitamin C and E, zinc and silica to keep the skin healthy
* Exercise regularly
* Drink plenty of water to keep the skin well hydrated
* Moisturize your liberally throughout your pregnancy with a stretch mark prevention cream or oil
* Massage areas where you have stretch marks with a body brush or wash cloth to increase circulation
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Canine Distemper

What is Canine Distemper?

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects the gastrointestinal, respiratory and nervous systems of puppies and dogs. This virus also infects other wild animals such as foxes, raccoons, skunks, wolves, coyotes and ferrets. It is very important that you keep your dogs away from other wildlife to avoid the virus from spreading.

Causes of Canine Distemper

Canine distemper is transmitted through the exposure of airborne viral particles in the respiratory secretions of dogs and puppies. Outbreaks of canine distemper tend to be sporadic. Dogs and puppies younger than six months that have not been immunized are at an increased risk of developing this infection.

Diagnosing Canine Distemper

The diagnosis of canine distemper is based on the symptoms, your dog’s vaccination history and certain laboratory tests. Various tests such as blood tests, x-rays, CT scans, cerebrospinal fluid, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunofluorescence assay may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of canine distemper.
Symptoms and Signs of Canine Distemper

The symptoms and signs of canine distemper include:

* Eye discharge (initially watery and then turns pus-like)
* Nasal discharge
* Coughing
* Fever
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Loss of appetite
* Lethargy

In advanced stages, seizures, twitching, partial or complete paralysis may occur if the virus attacks the nervous system.





The best way to prevent canine distemper is ensuring that your puppy or dog receives the distemper vaccination. Puppies that have not been vaccinated are more prone to viral infections because their immune systems are still weak. Treatment usually involves addressing secondary infections, as there are no medications available to kill this particular virus.

Medications are aimed at controlling symptoms, and intravenous fluids may be administered. Once you have taken your pet home, avoid contact with other dogs, keep him warm and provide good supportive care. It is vital that excellent hygiene is maintained to avoid transferring the infection to other dogs.

Herbal Remedies


Natural and Holistic remedies have also proven to be highly beneficial in supporting the immune, respiratory and digestive systems. These remedies are safe and gentle to use for your pet without the harmful side effects of conventional medications.

One of the most well known herbs known as Echinacea purpurea helps to support the immune system. Homeopathic ingredients such as Distemperinum and Bryonia supports the immune, respiratory and digestive systems by keeping the chest clear, maintaining digestive functioning and keeping the body temperature within normal range.


There are several ways to prevent canine distemper and these include:

* Feed your pet high quality commercial food or an all natural diet containing essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients
* Make sure that your dog’s vaccinations are updated regularly
* Avoid contact with raccoons, foxes, skunks and other potentially infected wildlife if possible
* Always provide fresh, clean water for your dog to prevent dehydration and flush out toxins
* Disinfect food and water bowls as well as sleeping areas and bedding
* Wipe away eye and nose discharge and keep these areas clean
* Limit your puppy’s contact with other dogs until he has received his complete series of vaccinations – avoid places such as parks, grooming parlors and obedience classes where dogs typically congregate
* Strengthen your pet’s immune system with immune-boosting supplements
* Visit your vet annually for routine check-ups
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Horse Rhino Flu (Big Pets Get Sick Too!)

What is Rhino Flu?

Rhino flu, also known as rhinopneumonitis in horses, is an upper respiratory disease caused by the equine herpes virus. It affects the mucous membranes of the nasal cavities and lungs. Although this disease is not life-threatening, it can cause serious health complications which affect the respiratory, reproductive and nervous system of the horse.

What Causes Rhino Flu?

Most adult horses are exposed to the equine herpes virus during their first months of life. The virus usually affects the horse’s respiratory system but remains dormant for the rest of his life with the help of the immune system.

If the immune system is compromised in any way, the virus will cause respiratory symptoms. Rhino flu can also cause abortion in a pregnant mare if infected with the virus. The virus can also attacks the spinal cord and cause neurological symptoms. If treated early, symptoms can be reduced and managed.
Diagnosing Rhino Flu

The diagnosis of rhino flu is based on the symptoms, a complete physical examination and review of the horse’s medical history. Certain diagnostic tests such as x-rays, thoracic ultrasound, endoscopic examination, fine needle aspiration and lung biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Symptoms and signs

The common symptoms and signs of rhino flu include:

* Fever
* Loss of appetite
* Lethargy
* Nasal membranes and eyes redden and tear
* Nasal discharge
* Dry, hacking cough
* Stocking up and heat in the lower legs
* Swollen, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

Treatment of rhino flu involves certain medications, supportive care and adequate rest. Medications such as antibiotics may be prescribed to treat secondary infections. A vaccination program is very important to protect against infection.

Pregnant mares require the rhinopneumonitis vaccine at least three times during the gestation period (months 5, 7 and 9) to prevent abortion. If your horse lives in isolation, an annual vaccination is usually sufficient.



Young horses should also receive the vaccine every 2 to 3 months while horses that move around a lot should be vaccinated at least 4 times per year. These vaccinations, however, are not that effective and cannot protect against neurological disease.

Avoid giving your horse human cough syrups or decongestants as these are potentially dangerous. In order to speed recovery, a comfortable, dry but well ventilated barn or stable, adequate rest, palatable foods as well as plenty of fresh, clean water and tender loving care are essential.

Herbal Remedies


Natural and Holistic Remedies have also proven to be highly effective in providing symptomatic relief for upper respiratory diseases. Homeopathic treatments safely support the respiratory system in horses and also maintain overall health and well-being.

Carefully selected ingredients such as Aconitum napellus, Belladonna and Hepar sulph are soothes the throat, clears congested noses and chests and strengthens the immune system. Silicea, Merc sol and Sulphur support respiratory health and acts as a tonic for the immune system.

Ways to prevent rhino flu

There are a number of things that horse owners can do to prevent an episode of rhino flu affecting their horse and these include:

* Feed your horse high quality hay or grain
* Always ensure that your horse has access to fresh, clean water
* Make sure that your horse’s stable is well ventilated – always keep the top half of the stable door open
* Reduce exposure to dust and allergens to facilitate easier breathing
* Boost your horse’s immune system with immune-boosting supplements and antioxidants
* Separate young horses from older horses if rhino flu has developed amongst the herd
* Change bedding regularly and check for bedding soaked with urine – use fresh shavings or shredded paper in peat instead of straw
* Ensure that horses are kept warm and dry in cold and wet conditions as well as after exercise
* Make sure that your horse’s vaccinations are updated to prevent infections
* De-worm your horse regularly
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Toenail Fungus

What is Toenail Fungus?

The term toenail fungus is also referred to as onychomycosis of the nail plate, and tinea of the nails. Fungal nail infections can occur on both toenails and fingernails, but the toenails are more commonly affected. A fungus is a living organism that breeds in moist, dark and warm environments such as shoes and socks underneath and around the nails, which is why the toenails are more susceptible than fingernails, and most commonly it is the big or small toe that is involved.

What Causes Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus can be contracted in damp environments such as public showers, gyms, locker rooms, spas or swimming pools. People who wear tight-fitting shoes or hosiery that is too tight are not only more susceptible to a fungal toenail infection but also to candida or thrush. Nail fungal infections can spread from one person to another and from one toe to another, or to other parts of the body.

Diagnosing Toenail Fungus




The symptoms and signs of toenail fungus may be mild or severe. The affected nail may have a yellowish or brownish discoloration, swelling, thickening or crumbling of the nail. In addition, streaks or spots may appear on the side of the nail, and debris may collect underneath the nail. The nails appear unsightly and may also be painful.
Factors that increase contracting a fungal toenail infection

There are certain factors that increase your chances of contracting a fungal toenail infection:

* Poor hygiene of the foot
* Not drying feet after washing or exercising
* Physical trauma to the nail
* Abnormal pH (acid balance) of the skin
* Weakened immune system
* Underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or Candida

Treating toenail fungus is difficult because it is generally a recurring condition. There are a wide variety of over-the-counter anti-fungal creams available, but some can be overly harsh and rid the body of the ‘good’ bacteria needed for systemic balance thus increasing vulnerability to fungal infections in the future.
Your health practitioner or podiatrist may prescribe oral anti-fungal medication to stop the infection. While these medications may work in the short-term, they may also rid the body of intestinal flora and bacteria that are beneficial to the body, creating further problems.

Herbal Remedies


Natural treatments such as herbal and homeopathic remedies have proven to be highly effective in treating fungal infections. Herbs such as Cymbopogon citratus (lemon grass) are well known for its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties while Calendula officinalis acts as an anti-inflammatory. In addition, herbs such as Melaleuca laterifolia, also known as Tea Tree Oil and Lavendula officinalis (Lavender) have excellent anti-fungal and healing properties and can also do a lot to help soothe irritated areas.




Ways to prevent fungal toenail infections

The best way to eliminate persistent toenail fungus is through prevention. Follow these helpful tips to prevent fungal toenail infections:

* Wear protective shoes or sandals in public facilities
* Wash your feet regularly and remember to dry them thoroughly
* Wear cotton socks so that your feet are well ventilated
* Eat a high protein diet so that you can maintain healthy, strong nails
* Do not share socks, shoes or sandals
* Trim toenails but do not cut them too short
* Avoid wearing nail polish on toes if you have developed toenail fungus
* Disinfect pedicure tools

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