(PDF) PP119 Identification of immunoreactive proteins derived from different strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus; Abstracts from the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Meeting 2016
DR ELLIE: My Husband's Had A Runny Nose For Months And The Drug He's Been Given Didn't Work. Now I'm Worried That Nothing Will Stop It...
My husband has had an awful runny rose for several months. Our GP prescribed Beconase, but that hasn't worked. What advice do you have?
Dr Ellie replies: A constantly running nose must be assessed by a GP as there could be serious causes. However, the majority of cases are triggered simply by a cold or allergies.
These issues can inflame the nasal passages, which is called rhinitis, and can also be caused by irritants such as cigarette smoke and chemicals.
Drugs such as Beconase – a nasal spray – can help relieve rhinitis as it contains steroids, which fight inflammation. However, if patients don't respond to steroid sprays and the symptoms persist there are other possible causes.
A runny nose is a common side effect linked to several drugs, including medication for blood pressure, an enlarged prostate and erectile dysfunction Ironically, it can also be triggered by excessive use of nasal sprays, such as Beconase.
Nasal polyps – non-cancerous fleshy growths inside the nostril – could also be the culprit. Or rhinitis can be triggered by a cancerous tumour in the nose or sinuses. If polyps or tumours are suspected, patients may need a nasal endoscope, which involves threading a small camera up the nostril for a closer inspection.
The majority of runny nose cases are triggered simply by a cold or allergies, Dr Ellie says
Another reason for a runny nose could be a deviated septum. This is where the wall between the nostrils is askew, triggering a range of symptoms including infections and excess mucus.
If a deviated septum is causing severe issues, NHS patients may be offered surgery to fix it.
Last year I had surgery to fix a trapped nerve in my back. Since then my buttocks have become numb and cold, and I have a lot of pain in my legs. What could be the problem?
Dr Ellie replies: The nerves help control the movement of the body by sending messages from the brain to the limbs, but they are also crucial for sensations.
Sensory nerves – found in most parts of the body – send feelings such as pain and temperature to the brain.
A patient experiencing a change in temperature or numbness in certain parts of the body most likely has a sensory nerve problem.
If that patient has a history of nerve issues, such as trapped nerves in the back, then this could be the cause. Back surgery can also lead to nerve problems by causing swelling or accidental damage.
The good news is that, in most cases, these post-operation nerve problems pass on their own – though they can last for a year or more.
If these sensations are bothersome, a GP can prescribe nerve pain medicines such as amitriptyline or gabapentin, or a cream called capsaicin may help. It's important that patients always report any new symptoms to their GP.
At 65 I'm fit and healthy, but I've been told I have high cholesterol. It's surprising because I recently lost weight, which I put down to stress and moving house. I also have raised anti-TPO antibodies, whatever that means. Does this sound right to you?
Dr Ellie replies: Unless there is a very clear cause, weight loss over the age of 65 should always be investigated by a doctor.
Stress can sometimes lead to weight loss, usually from changes in routine or diet, but it's unlikely to be a significant amount.
High levels of anti-TPO (thyroid peroxidase) antibodies can point to a condition called Hashimoto's. This causes an underactive thyroid – the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck which produces the hormone thyroxine to regulate the body's metabolism, or how much energy it uses.
Hashimoto's is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, with symptoms including fatigue and constipation. It can also lead to raised cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol is a fatty plaque which can build up in the blood vessels and eventually trigger heart attacks and strokes.
An unfortunate side effect of thyroid problems is that they tend to raise levels of LDL 'bad' cholesterol – the form most likely to cause health issues.
But treating a thyroid problem should lead to improved cholesterol levels.
Thyroid conditions are often straightforward to treat, but require long-term use of tablets to replace the reduced levels of thyroxine.
Potty training has always been a big milestone for children, so I'm worried that many parents appear to be putting it off.
Research suggests that the average toddler is not able to go to the toilet on their own until the age of three. By comparison, the child's grandparents were, on average, doing it at a little over two years old. It's still unclear what is causing this delay. One theory is that modern nappies are, in fact, too effective – they no longer cause uncomfortable nappy rash, so children spend more time in them.
Another possibility is the lack of health visitors. When I began working as a GP 20 years ago it was normal for NHS workers to visit new parents and provide them with advice on infant diet, sleep habits and potty training. In most areas of the country today, that does not happen.
Have your grandchildren struggled to learn to go to the toilet? What do you think is the cause of the problem?
AdvertisementThe technology in hearing aids has changed a huge amount in recent years, with tiny devices that are incredibly discreet
I'm concerned that many people are putting off getting hearing aids out of embarrassment.
Loss of hearing is one of the most common problems we face in old age, but studies show that only half of people with it will get hearing aids.
And since roughly half of people over 55 have some sort of hearing loss, this means there could be millions in the UK needlessly suffering.
This choice is often out of pride. I regularly hear from patients who say they don't want hearing aids because it will make them look old.
That doesn't make sense, as the technology in hearing aids has changed a huge amount in recent years, with tiny devices that are incredibly discreet. But what hasn't changed are the real dangers of putting off fixing your hearing – and I don't just mean annoyed relatives who have to shout to be heard.
Research shows that people who fail to get hearing aids are more at risk of developing depression and even dementia, as they increasingly withdraw from social situations and become more and more isolated.
Dry, Crusty Nose? It Could Be Atrophic Rhinitis
A woman with cold blows her nose. [Getty Images]
Many people notice their nose feels dry and clogged with crusty lumps, especially after being in dusty or dry places, but few realize this could signal something more serious. What they don't know is that the lining of the nose can actually thin out over time, leading to a condition called atrophic rhinitis.
"Atrophic rhinitis is a chronic inflammation of the nose, leading to a progressive loss of the nasal mucosa and turbinate bones," explains Joseph Kioko, an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinician. This thinning not only causes crusting but can also result in dryness, irritation and a bad smell.
The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that causes range from infections to environmental factors, and without treatment, the discomfort can worsen over time.
Atrophic rhinitis is more common in developing countries, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia, where environmental and socioeconomic factors may increase the risk. Kioko explains, "The condition tends to affect females more than males, and its prevalence increases with age."
Globally, studies estimate it affects 0.3-1 per cent of the population in some regions. While data in Kenya is limited, the condition is likely under-reported, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare is a challenge.
The exact cause of atrophic rhinitis is not always known (idiopathic), but several factors may play a role in its development.
Kioko explains, "Theories suggest hereditary factors, hormonal changes starting at puberty that tend to affect females more and even racial differences, with white races being more affected than natives of equatorial Africa."
A lack of important nutrients, like vitamins A, D or iron, may also contribute to the development of atrophic rhinitis. Additionally, infections and autoimmune processes have been linked to the condition.
According to the WHO, environmental and socioeconomic factors can exacerbate these causes, particularly in developing regions.
Symptoms
Atrophic rhinitis presents with various signs and symptoms that can impact daily life. Common symptoms include nasal obstruction, foul-smelling nasal discharge and nosebleeds (epistaxis).
Kioko notes that patients may also experience crusts in the nasal cavity, a roomy nasal cavity and pale nasal mucosa.
Additionally, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery reports that individuals with atrophic rhinitis may suffer from loss of smell, frequent upper respiratory infections, sore throat, watery eyes and headaches. In tropical regions, some cases have even involved maggots living inside the nose due to the strong odour attracting flies.
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Atrophic rhinitis is divided into two main types: primary and secondary. Primary atrophic rhinitis, which has no clear cause, is the more common type. Secondary atrophic rhinitis, on the other hand, results from factors like nasal surgeries, granulomatous diseases, malignancy or radiation exposure. This type is more frequently observed in industrialized nations. The primary form remains the most common globally, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare.
Prevention of atrophic rhinitis involves maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring the early and correct management of nasal infections. "A balanced diet is essential for overall health, and managing nasal infections correctly can prevent further complications," Kioko advises. It's also important to avoid environmental factors that could irritate the nasal lining.
Symptoms
Kioko recommends seeking medical advice if symptoms like nasal obstruction or foul-smelling discharge appear, as atrophic rhinitis may require either medical or surgical intervention. "It's crucial to seek professional treatment, as improper self-treatment can lead to complications and more severe suffering," he warns.
Although home remedies may seem tempting, Kioko cautions that self-treatment can be risky, as other conditions may appear similar to atrophic rhinitis.
Atrophic rhinitis can lead to several complications if not properly managed. Kioko notes that these include "saddle nose deformity (a loss of the shape of the nose), septal perforation (a hole in the nasal septum), secondary rhinosinusitis (infection of the sinuses) and systemic spread to areas such as the pharynx and larynx."
The WHO highlights that "older age, poor nutrition resulting in iron or vitamin deficiency and insufficient hydration" are major risk factors for developing atrophic rhinitis. Additionally, Kioko points out that "medical conditions including Sjogren's syndrome and autoimmune diseases" can increase the risk.
Understanding the causes, symptoms and risk factors helps in managing and preventing atrophic rhinitis effectively.
15 Home Remedies For Allergies
The best natural remedy for allergies is, when possible, avoidance.
For example, if you've had an allergic reaction to a sulfa drug, let your doctor know about your allergy. They'll most likely prescribe an alternate antibiotic if you ever need one.
That said, some allergens are hard to avoid, such as pollen in the spring.
In this case, after discussing your symptoms with your doctor, you might consider a home remedy to help manage the symptoms.
Saline nasal irrigation
Saline nasal irrigation involves using a saline solution to clear mucus, allergens, bacteria, and other irritants from your sinus and nasal cavities.
Its main function is to reduce allergy-related inflammation and nasal symptoms, such as a runny or stuffy nose and sneezing.
DirectionsAir filters
Consider using an air filter in your indoor environments.
One type of air filter to consider is high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
By trapping airborne irritants such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, HEPA filters reduce allergens in your home.
Butterbur (Petasites hybridus)
Low-certainty evidence found that butterbur, a medicinal plant often used for allergic rhinitis, may improve:
It's unclear, however, whether butterbur is more effective than typical antihistamines.
Bromelain
Acupuncture
A 2024 review suggests that treating allergic rhinitis with acupuncture has few side effects and good short- and long-term effects. It may help reduce nasal inflammation and mucus.
More high quality studies are needed, however, to look at the positive effect of acupuncture on allergies, especially in the long run.
Probiotics
But food allergies also depend on your environment, genetics, and diet, so supplementation shouldn't be considered a "cure."
Other 2022 research in humans and animals indicates that while probiotics don't eliminate allergies, they may help reduce allergy symptoms.
Speak with your doctor or an allergist before trying probiotic supplements, especially if you manage other health conditions. They should be taken with your doctor's guidance.
Honey
Although there's no scientific evidence to prove it, a popular theory suggests eating locally produced honey, as opposed to mass-produced honey, to improve allergies.
According to the theory, you'll lower your allergic reaction over time to the pollen that the bees collect in your area to make their honey.
Air conditioners and dehumidifiers
Air conditioners and dehumidifiers can limit the growth of mildew and mold, which may negatively impact allergies or be allergens themselves.
These devices remove moisture from the air, and mildew and mold thrive in moist or humid environments.
Spirulina
Not enough data in humans exist yet, but some recent research suggests that spirulina — a blue-green algae — may be:
But this research specifically looked at using supplemental spirulina on diseases, not allergies.
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.)
Stinging nettle is a plant traditionally used by ancient Egyptians and Greeks, as well as Indigenous Americans, to support respiratory health.
Other features of this plant include:
Because of this, it may be beneficial for those with allergic rhinitis or rheumatism.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a favorite of natural healing advocates who believe it stabilizes the release of histamines and helps manage allergy symptoms.
A 2022 study suggests that a quercetin-containing supplement may improve allergic symptoms such as:
To get this nutrient from your diet before reaching for supplements, look to:
Vitamin C
According to a 2018 observational study, vitamin C may reduce allergy-related symptoms when delivered at high doses intravenously (into your vein).
However, daily recommendations for vitamin C are much lower than in this study. For most adults over 18 years, it's recommended that:
Mentha piperita leaf essential oils
Common names for products made from this leaf are:
Research in mice from 2022 indicates that inhaling essential oils from the Mentha piperita leaf may decrease nasal inflammation in allergic rhinitis.
More research, however, is needed on the long-term safety of this strategy in humans.
Eucalyptus essential oil
If you're allergic to dust mites, you may want to consider using eucalyptus oil as an antimicrobial agent. Try adding a small amount to your next load of laundry.
Though washing rids your laundry of most dust mites and allergens, adding eucalyptus oil can kill the remaining cells.
A 2020 mouse model study found that eucalyptus oil may effectively treat allergic dermatitis when applied to the mice's skin. However, more human research is needed.
If you're allergic to eucalyptus or any eucalyptus products, you'll want to avoid this method.
Frankincense essential oil
Frankincense is another essential oil with possible antimicrobial effects.
You can dilute it in a carrier oil and use it behind your ears or inhale it by diffusing it into the air.
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