Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired

Sorry for the delay in posting something new. We've been sick and tired. Twice as a matter of fact. First time was 4 weeks ago and the last time was just two weeks ago.

The first time was a cold with flu like symptoms, cough and bronchial blockage. It was hard to actually breath and I though I might have had Bronchitis. Took lots of herbs and everything went away. One week later it came back with a vengeance. It really took me out for a week, This time I broke down and went to the clinic. I had Bronchitis and Sinustitus and got a dose of antibiotics.

I am so glad for antibiotics. It cleared me up in two days. Now after this dosage I am going to have to build up my immune system again. and that is what I really wanted to share with you. What is it that antibiotics do to your system and how do you recover from an illness that requires the use of them?

The Virtual Museum of Bacteria reports that Antibiotics have frequently received negative publicity. Some people believe they are bad chemicals that should be avoided at all costs. It is important to know that they are our best tool to treat bacterial infections that would severely harm your body when left untreated, and that in the era before antibiotics were applied, infectious diseases were a major cause of death. Nevertheless, the use and misuse of antibiotics has negative side effects. They can remain in the body for some time after application.

Some people may develop an allergic reaction to antibiotics - especially penicillins. Side effects might include a rash, swelling of the tongue and face, and difficulty breathing. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antibiotic you must tell your doctor and/or pharmacist. Reactions to antibiotics can be very serious, and sometimes fatal - they are called anaphylactic reactions.

Kay Uzoma states that there are some helpful steps to rebuilding your immune system.

Start taking probiotics at the same time you begin a course of antibiotic treatment, which will help reduce symptoms such as antibiotic-related diarrhea and protect immune-boosting bacteria in your colon. According to Science Daily, a suggested dose of probiotics for adults is at least 10 billion colony forming units per day.

Get as much sleep as possible --- about seven to nine hours --- after your worst symptoms have subsided; sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Don't try to fight sleeplessness in the early stages of battling infection, however, as this may help produce a fever and speed recovery.

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables daily. These are foods rich in vitamins C, E, carotenoids and bioflavonoids --- all of which have antioxidant properties.

Exercise for at least 30 minutes five days a week as exercise stimulates the immune system to build cells, such as T cells and macrophages, that fight diseases and infections.

• Add garlic to your meals or take a garlic supplement, as garlic has strong immune-boosting abilities and triggers white cell production, according to AskDrSears.com. Eat foods rich in selenium daily. These foods include tuna, red snapper, shrimp, whole grains, brown rice, egg yolks, chicken breast, sunflower seeds and Brazil nuts.
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• Never take antibiotics without a doctor's prescription. If you are on a course of antibiotics, do not stop taking them without your doctor's advice. Taking the entire course of prescribed antibiotics is the only way to eliminate the harmful bacteria in your body, according to MayoClinic.com. Consult your naturopath or family doctor before taking any herbs to strengthen your immune system.

So there you have it. Be careful about reactions to antibiotics and make sure you let your body recover properly afterwards. Take care of your body. It's the only one you have.