Alternative Treatments for Inflammation

Inflammation is a very widespread condition. It may occur as a single symptom or along with other symptoms. Some signs that you may have inflammation are pain, swelling, fluid retention, blood clots or difficulty breathing. Inflammation can often occur when a cold or other illness is present. If that is the case it is easiest to treat the illness. However, if inflammation is the only symptom you may desire to treat the symptom alone. Below, we will discuss treatments that can be used in place of regular medical treatments.

If the inflammation is on the body's surface, such as muscular swelling, it can be controlled fairly easily. Most inflammation in the body's outer muscles is caused by injury, rather then disease. It is always important to access the situation and be sure no serious injury has occurred. If it is determined that no other treatment is needed you can use hot and cold compresses to control this form of inflammation. You will want to use ice for approximately fifteen to twenty minutes to help reduce swelling and increase movement. Hot compresses will work similarly. However, they will also provide longer pain relief.

If asthma or another allergy is the cause of inflammation you should seek medical attention immediately. Anaphylaxis may occur in severe allergic reactions and can cause brain damage due to lack of oxygen or possibly death. In the event this should happen and medical attention can not be reached right away you should drink as much very cold water as possible and take acetaminophen until the swelling subsides and always for easier breathing. This is only a temporary treatment and does not replace medical treatment. You should seek help right away.

Fish oil is often used to treat inflammation. This can be found at nearly any health food store or most stores that provide pharmaceuticals. The omega 3 acids in fish oil help our bodies run smoother in general. They increase cognitive function and can also improve mood and behavior. This treatment is helpful to many people because the average person does not take in the recommended amount of omega 3 provided in fish oil.

If inflammation is chronic and caused by bad posture or injury there are other therapies that may be used as treatments. Massage will help by relaxing the areas in which tension creates minor inflammation in the muscles. Many people suffer from chronic bad pain or hip pain and it is often accompanied by muscular inflammation. The best treatment for this is to treat the cause. Typically bad posture is the cause of hip and back pain. Stretching and yoga is a great treatment for bad posture and muscular pain. Always consult a physician and remember that injury can occur if the body is pushed too far.

Vitamins and minerals are also used to control inflammation. Normally a one a day multi vitamin is sufficient. However, there are many vitamin packs available that will address specific areas of concern. For inflammation you would want one that promotes a strong immune system and good bone health. These may lessen the chances of recurring inflammation.

Sources
http://www.jigsawhealth.com/articles/inflammation-recommendations.html
http://www.spineuniverse.com/article/back-pain-alternative-treatments-3908.html
http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec01/ch007/ch007b.html