How to Protect yourself from Swine Flu

As swine flu rampages across the globe, unsurprisingly people are becoming worried. It is a respiratory infection caused by influenza type A and the new strain that has emerged can be passed relatively easily from person to person.

Whilst facemasks are a protective method being used currently in Mexico and other parts of the world, they only reduce the risk of infection if worn continuously and in the correct way. In the UK, the government has stockpiled a great number for NHS staff but there are currently no plans to distribute them to the general public.

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to the standard flu such as coughing, a sore throat, fever, headache, aches and pains as well as chills and general fatigue. Diarrhoea and vomiting can also occur.

If you have recently travelled to Mexico or are living in a place where cases have been reported it might be wise to consult a doctor, however to minimise the chance of spreading the virus, let the medical professional come to you rather than heading to your local surgery.

The good news is swine flu is treatable with medications such as Tamilflu, and with swift treatment can rid yourself of the virus. A vaccine will not be available for several months however.

Advice includes taking precautions such as covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing with a tissue and then discarding it. Washing hands frequently can also help reduce the risk of infection. If you do feel under the weather stay indoors and contact a medical professional. Children should stay home from school if any symptoms materialise.

Try and give your immune system a boost if you can by eating more fruits and vegetables. It also might even be worthwhile taking some vitamin supplements too to ensure your body is in tip top condition and can more easily fight any possible infection of the virus.

It is important not to panic and remember that there is treatment available that has helped a great number of people so far. Always err on the side of caution and consult a doctor if any of the symptoms occur.

Everyday Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a very effective component of natural and complimentary medicine, with different scents and smells effectively able to alter our moods and help us in a many other ways. Did you know for example that the scent of a rose can prevent headaches and calm us in times of shock and grief?

The great thing about aromatherapy is that you don’t need special equipment to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. Adding a few drops of essential oils to a pan of boiling water on the stove or perhaps a few drops just added to your bath are all you need to do to reap the benefits. You don’t need burners or candles at all if you don’t want to, although oil burners are attractive items that can look nice in your house and are extremely popular.

You can experience aromatherapy in regular everyday situations. Often aromatherapy is associated with long and luxurious spa sessions, but this is not in fact the case at all! How about hanging an aromatherapy “air freshener” in your car? Sitting in heavy traffic or experiencing a long journey can really take it out of you, but having something that smells nice in your car can really help keep you calm or keep you awake depending on what essential oil you choose of course.

Washing up can also be an excellent place for some gentle aromatherapy. Just add a few drops of your favourite oil to the water and you get to experience all the benefits of the smells whilst simply washing the dishes!

These are just a few ideas of how aromatherapy can be easily interwoven into our everyday and very busy lives. Have any of you any other suggestions of how to administer aromatherapy in a simple and effective way? As always, send in your comments below.