Asthma is a condition involving hypersensitivity of the immune system and of the airways (the tubes through which air passes between the nose and mouth to the lungs). During an asthma attack, the airways become obstructed due to muscle contraction, inflammation, and excess mucus production, resulting in wheezing and/or coughing symptoms.
The job of the immune system is to identify foreign substances such as viruses and bacteria and remove them. Normally, this response protects us from dangerous diseases. In a person with allergies or asthma, the immune system reacts to harmless substances such as plant pollen or animal dander and creates allergy (stuffy nose, watery eyes, etc.) or asthma (wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath) symptoms.
Asthma and allergies are closely associated because of the common systems involved — the immune system and the respiratory system. Often, an asthma attack can result from an allergic reaction. Asthma sufferers are also more susceptible to having colds develop into bronchitis, which can trigger an asthma attack.
How Cervical Care Relates to Allergies and Asthma
Many allergic and asthmatic reactions are due to hypersensitivity of the immune system and/or respiratory system. This means that the immune and respiratory systems initiate an exaggerated response (allergy attack, asthma attack, coughing attack, skin rash) to something in the environment such as dust, pollen, grass, foods, etc. Since the immune and respiratory systems depend upon normal communication from the brain and spinal cord to control and coordinate their functions, alterations in neurological function can contribute to malfunctions in these systems.
Specifically, an imbalance in autonomic nervous system function, caused by input from upper cervical spinal joint irritation (neck misalignment), can produce or exaggerate asthmatic and allergic symptoms via control over airway dilation and immune responses. While many asthma and allergy sufferers recall specific traumas such as head injuries, auto accidents or falls, which could have injured their upper cervical spines, some do not. In certain pediatric cases, the injury can occur from the normal birthing process. A cervical examination is necessary in each individual’s case to assess whether a cervical injury is present and whether benefit from cervical care can be achieved.
Thank you for your time,
Dr. Travis
We would love to hear from you with any questions or concerns. I urge you to check out our website at www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com or give us a call 918-935-3432
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Monday, April 25, 2011
CHIROPRACTIC CARE FOR CHILDREN
Doctors of chiropractic hear from parents that they appreciate the importance of regular check-ups for their child’s teeth, eyes and ears, but they draw a blank when it comes to a spinal check-up. Yet that could be one of the most important check-ups your child will ever have.
You might be surprised to learn that most adult problems chiropractors deal with actually have a start in childhood. For example, the growing pains of a 12-year-old boy can become crippling low back and leg pains in adulthood: the jolly jumpers used by a toddler can cause spinal curvatures (scoliosis) in the adolescent. Your child’s spine is his or her lifeline. Running through it is the spinal cord containing billions of nerves that send messages and information from the brain to every part of the body and back again.
Yes, we all have our very own Internet! As long as none of these messages is interrupted, your child should have optimal function and the best health possible. If, however, there is any interference with this information highway, the message sent by the brain will not reach the part of the body it intended to reach. As a result, the body starts to work improperly. Chiropractors call this a malfunction. It can be a serious threat to health. This interference will often affect the immune system, lower body resistance and leave your child prey to various bugs and infections.
THE FUNCTION OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
It is generally agreed that the immune system is very closely linked to the nervous system. As a matter of fact, Dr. Stephen Marini, who is both and immunologist and a chiropractor and who is on staff at the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, feels that the immune system is like a circulating nervous system. He also feels most diseases that children get are really the result of the improper functioning of that system. This interference in your child’s nervous system is what chiropractors refer to as a vertebral subluxation- small misalignments of the bones of the spine pinching delicate nerves.
HOW DOES YOUR BABY’S SPINE LOSE ITS NATURAL ALIGNMENT?
Vertebral subluxations have many causes. The major cause of most is actually the process of being brought into the world – birth. For an infant, it can be very stressful. Subluxations associated with birth trauma can cause hyperactivity, lowered resistance, ear infections, asthma and bed wetting, as well as signs of central motor impairment. According to Dr Gutman, a German specialist, a spinal check up after birth should be obligatory.
As a matter of fact, certain hospitals in Australia are having chiropractic doctors check the infant spine immediately after delivery to ensure a healthy spine and nervous system, free from subluxations.
As babies get older, they are often subjected to some uncomfortable traditions: wearing tight diapers that do not allow proper hip development; jolly jumpers which place an infant in an upright position long before the spine can deal with gravity; poorly designed school desks and poor mattresses, just to name a few. Then of course there is the usual process of crawling, walking and running. As your child matures, other incidents and activities can also create vertebral subluxations. For instance, falling off a bike or down stairs, hockey, football, skateboards and roller blades.
An example, the so-called growing pains I mentioned earlier that children often experience in their legs have traditionally been explained away as part of childhood. Worried parents hear such nonsensical statement as “it’s nothing-they’ll grow out of it”, or my very favorite, “it is because they are growing”. Many parents tend to buy these excuses. But when we really think about it, those explanations simply do not make any sense. After all, when did it ever hurt to grow? And why only the legs? Don’t the arms also grow? Why don’t they hurt?
From a chiropractic perspective, these growing pains are often called sciatica in adults. In other words, a vertebral subluxation in the low back affecting the sciatic nerve which controls the legs. These pains can also often be caused by a functional pelvic imbalance. In simple terms, it’s a subluxation of the pelvic bones which then changes the way a child walks. These pelvic imbalance subluxations can lead to the development of early Scoliosis (spinal curvature), knee problems and difficulty with balance. These are often the children who are wrongly labelled as klutzy.
If allowed to remain, subluxations are the starting point of nerve system and body malfunction. When a vertebral subluxation has existed for some time, it will eventually produce symptoms (pain is the most common) as a warning to let you know that something is simply not okay, that there is a threat to health and well-being.
One must remember that symptoms are similar to a fire alarm. They let you know that there is a fire. At this point you have a choice. You can put out the fire (correct the subluxation), or turn off the fire alarm (using medication) to make yourself feel better. Which is more logical?
Chiropractic care is for everyone who wants to experience wellness, but is especially important for children. It can make a huge difference in their lives. Conditions easily corrected by chiropractic care at an early age are often neglected and can be carried by a child as a burden throughout a lifetime.
I firmly believe that all children should be checked by a chiropractor to ensure a normally functioning nervous system and a healthy body.
Author: Dr. Ogi Ressel
I would love the opportunity to check your child's spine. Please visit my website at www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com for more information, or give me a call at 918-935-3432.
Your health advocate,
Dr. Travis
You might be surprised to learn that most adult problems chiropractors deal with actually have a start in childhood. For example, the growing pains of a 12-year-old boy can become crippling low back and leg pains in adulthood: the jolly jumpers used by a toddler can cause spinal curvatures (scoliosis) in the adolescent. Your child’s spine is his or her lifeline. Running through it is the spinal cord containing billions of nerves that send messages and information from the brain to every part of the body and back again.
Yes, we all have our very own Internet! As long as none of these messages is interrupted, your child should have optimal function and the best health possible. If, however, there is any interference with this information highway, the message sent by the brain will not reach the part of the body it intended to reach. As a result, the body starts to work improperly. Chiropractors call this a malfunction. It can be a serious threat to health. This interference will often affect the immune system, lower body resistance and leave your child prey to various bugs and infections.
THE FUNCTION OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
It is generally agreed that the immune system is very closely linked to the nervous system. As a matter of fact, Dr. Stephen Marini, who is both and immunologist and a chiropractor and who is on staff at the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, feels that the immune system is like a circulating nervous system. He also feels most diseases that children get are really the result of the improper functioning of that system. This interference in your child’s nervous system is what chiropractors refer to as a vertebral subluxation- small misalignments of the bones of the spine pinching delicate nerves.
HOW DOES YOUR BABY’S SPINE LOSE ITS NATURAL ALIGNMENT?
Vertebral subluxations have many causes. The major cause of most is actually the process of being brought into the world – birth. For an infant, it can be very stressful. Subluxations associated with birth trauma can cause hyperactivity, lowered resistance, ear infections, asthma and bed wetting, as well as signs of central motor impairment. According to Dr Gutman, a German specialist, a spinal check up after birth should be obligatory.
As a matter of fact, certain hospitals in Australia are having chiropractic doctors check the infant spine immediately after delivery to ensure a healthy spine and nervous system, free from subluxations.
As babies get older, they are often subjected to some uncomfortable traditions: wearing tight diapers that do not allow proper hip development; jolly jumpers which place an infant in an upright position long before the spine can deal with gravity; poorly designed school desks and poor mattresses, just to name a few. Then of course there is the usual process of crawling, walking and running. As your child matures, other incidents and activities can also create vertebral subluxations. For instance, falling off a bike or down stairs, hockey, football, skateboards and roller blades.
An example, the so-called growing pains I mentioned earlier that children often experience in their legs have traditionally been explained away as part of childhood. Worried parents hear such nonsensical statement as “it’s nothing-they’ll grow out of it”, or my very favorite, “it is because they are growing”. Many parents tend to buy these excuses. But when we really think about it, those explanations simply do not make any sense. After all, when did it ever hurt to grow? And why only the legs? Don’t the arms also grow? Why don’t they hurt?
From a chiropractic perspective, these growing pains are often called sciatica in adults. In other words, a vertebral subluxation in the low back affecting the sciatic nerve which controls the legs. These pains can also often be caused by a functional pelvic imbalance. In simple terms, it’s a subluxation of the pelvic bones which then changes the way a child walks. These pelvic imbalance subluxations can lead to the development of early Scoliosis (spinal curvature), knee problems and difficulty with balance. These are often the children who are wrongly labelled as klutzy.
If allowed to remain, subluxations are the starting point of nerve system and body malfunction. When a vertebral subluxation has existed for some time, it will eventually produce symptoms (pain is the most common) as a warning to let you know that something is simply not okay, that there is a threat to health and well-being.
One must remember that symptoms are similar to a fire alarm. They let you know that there is a fire. At this point you have a choice. You can put out the fire (correct the subluxation), or turn off the fire alarm (using medication) to make yourself feel better. Which is more logical?
Chiropractic care is for everyone who wants to experience wellness, but is especially important for children. It can make a huge difference in their lives. Conditions easily corrected by chiropractic care at an early age are often neglected and can be carried by a child as a burden throughout a lifetime.
I firmly believe that all children should be checked by a chiropractor to ensure a normally functioning nervous system and a healthy body.
Author: Dr. Ogi Ressel
I would love the opportunity to check your child's spine. Please visit my website at www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com for more information, or give me a call at 918-935-3432.
Your health advocate,
Dr. Travis
Thursday, April 21, 2011
God Made Dirt.... Dirt Don't Hurt
You are wondering why such a zany title. After all you hate dirt. As a matter of fact, so does our family, friends, and the vast majority of North Americans. We are obsessed with dirt and uncleanliness. We are fastidious, fussy and clean obsessed. Let me show you. How many of you take off your shoes when entering the house? Look at a glass before drinking? Wash your hands compulsively? Wash your clothes after wearing them only a few hours? The list goes on.
So why do we do this?
Well…we have been taught that germs are bad. That one can get germs from anything and everything. That germs should be eradicated, wiped out, killed. That no mercy should be shown. Take no prisoners our parents told us. So we do what we have been taught. This sterile obsession we then pass onto our children and the myth is propagated.
Our obsession with cleanliness is causing our own demise. I am not referring to personal hygiene; rather, I am referring to our “everything-spotless” mentality. More and more authorities are convinced that everyday dust and dirt is actually good for you. Our search and reach for sterility is actually harming us and our children. I realize this may sound a bit alarming for many of you, but read on!
Our health is based on a properly functioning nervous system, immune system and endocrine system. The new science connecting these components is called, pyschoneuroimmunology. Many feel that the immune, endocrine and nervous systems are one and the same. This new science investigates the relationships between these systems and how they integrate and interact together for the health and well being of the individual.
What has this to do with dirt you ask?
Bart Classen MD, of Classen Immunotherapies in Maryland, a vaccine researcher, told me in a personal communication, that the immune system of today’s child is in serious trouble. He feels that because of our search for cleanliness and sterility, our immune system is no longer being exercised as it has been in the past. These thoughts are echoed by Steve Marini D.C., a chiropractor and immunologist, Philip Incao MD, and countless others. More and more scientists are realizing that most of the childhood diseases are innocuous and are there in order to exercise a young immature immune system of a child. You probably think that a child having measles, chickenpox, etc., is a terrible thought. Not so. These diseases actually teach the immune system how to deal with the myriad of viruses and bacteria of the world. This is a good thing.
I tell my patients that even the common cold and flu has a place; they teach the immune system how to fight! This is good. Just because you feel sick when you have the flu doesn’t mean you are. It simply means your body is doing exactly what has been programmed to do. This is not sickness. This is an expression of health! I am not saying you have to like it, but it is ultimately for your benefit. To circumvent this system is not in your best interests.
Let some dirt in your life. You’ll be a healthier person for it.
I look forward to hearing from you to set up your complimentary consultation. I can be reached at 918-935-3432, or you are more than welcome to visit my website.
Thank you for reading,
Dr. Travis
www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com
So why do we do this?
Well…we have been taught that germs are bad. That one can get germs from anything and everything. That germs should be eradicated, wiped out, killed. That no mercy should be shown. Take no prisoners our parents told us. So we do what we have been taught. This sterile obsession we then pass onto our children and the myth is propagated.
Our obsession with cleanliness is causing our own demise. I am not referring to personal hygiene; rather, I am referring to our “everything-spotless” mentality. More and more authorities are convinced that everyday dust and dirt is actually good for you. Our search and reach for sterility is actually harming us and our children. I realize this may sound a bit alarming for many of you, but read on!
Our health is based on a properly functioning nervous system, immune system and endocrine system. The new science connecting these components is called, pyschoneuroimmunology. Many feel that the immune, endocrine and nervous systems are one and the same. This new science investigates the relationships between these systems and how they integrate and interact together for the health and well being of the individual.
What has this to do with dirt you ask?
Bart Classen MD, of Classen Immunotherapies in Maryland, a vaccine researcher, told me in a personal communication, that the immune system of today’s child is in serious trouble. He feels that because of our search for cleanliness and sterility, our immune system is no longer being exercised as it has been in the past. These thoughts are echoed by Steve Marini D.C., a chiropractor and immunologist, Philip Incao MD, and countless others. More and more scientists are realizing that most of the childhood diseases are innocuous and are there in order to exercise a young immature immune system of a child. You probably think that a child having measles, chickenpox, etc., is a terrible thought. Not so. These diseases actually teach the immune system how to deal with the myriad of viruses and bacteria of the world. This is a good thing.
I tell my patients that even the common cold and flu has a place; they teach the immune system how to fight! This is good. Just because you feel sick when you have the flu doesn’t mean you are. It simply means your body is doing exactly what has been programmed to do. This is not sickness. This is an expression of health! I am not saying you have to like it, but it is ultimately for your benefit. To circumvent this system is not in your best interests.
Let some dirt in your life. You’ll be a healthier person for it.
I look forward to hearing from you to set up your complimentary consultation. I can be reached at 918-935-3432, or you are more than welcome to visit my website.
Thank you for reading,
Dr. Travis
www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Foods That Fight Sickness
Foods That Fight Sickness
Prevent sickness by stocking up on these items the next time you’re at the grocery store.
Nobody plans to get sick. On the contrary, your efforts to avoid it sometimes seem borderline OCD: Don’t sneeze into your hands, always cook your chicken to exactly 170 degrees, and hose down every germ-carrying preschooler in sight with soap and water. And yet, no matter how many times you gargle with salt before bedtime or coat yourself in antibacterial hand cleanser, now and again the inevitable rumble in your tummy or tickle in your throat hits. Hard. Suddenly, you’re down for the count and up to date on the daytime soaps. What are you doing wrong? Probably nothing. But you can do a few more things right. Certain foods and drinks have a natural immunity boost; to tap their benefits, just open up and say, “Ahh.”
Tea Off Against Colds
Not just any hot tea, though. Chamomile, according to researchers from London’s Imperial College, is the one that’ll help prevent sickness. In a recent study, they found people who drank five cups of the brew a day for 2 weeks had increased blood levels of plant-based compounds called polyphenols, some of which have been associated with increased antibacterial activity. Levels remained high for 2 weeks after subjects stopped drinking the tea, says lead researcher Elaine Holmes, Ph.D. (Bonus: chamomile tea also raised levels of glycine, a mild nerve relaxant and sedative.)
More ways to boost your immune system so you never get sick again
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/immune-boosters?cm_mmc=MSN-_-Foods%20That%20Fight%20Sickness-_-Article-_-Never%20Get%20Sick%20Again
Knock ‘em Dead
There’s a killer living in all of us. Known as a macrophage and produced deep in your bone marrow, it’s a white blood cell that roams the body, picking fights with bacteria, viruses, or any other intruders. But it only works if you help it. These killer cells are activated by beta-glucans, a component of fiber foods. The best source? Oats, says David Grotto, R.D., director of nutrition education at the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care in Evanston, Illinois. So eat your oatmeal. The steel-cut oats, like McCann’s Irish Oatmeal, have double the amount found in the rolled, quick-cooking kind.
Dressing for Success
Eating a salad for lunch is smart. Drowning it in fat-free dressing isn’t. A recent study from Iowa State University found that without dietary fat, your body doesn’t absorb some of the disease-fighting nutrients in vegetables. Researchers fed seven people salad for 12 weeks and tested their blood after each meal. Those who topped their salads with fat-free dressing consistently failed to absorb carotenoids, antioxidants that have been linked to improved immunity. Fat is necessary for the carotenoids to reach the absorptive intestinal cells, says lead researcher Wendy White, Ph.D. Choose dressings with healthy fats from olive or nut oils, such as Many Seeds of Change (available at Whole Foods or in the crunchy section of your neighborhood market) and many Annie’s Naturals dressings. If you’re feeling adventuresome, try making your own. For an Italianate, try 2 or 3 parts extra virgin olive oil to 1 part balsamic vinegar; for something with an Asian influence, go 3 parts sesame oil to 1 part rice wine vinegar.
Fight Bugs this Whey
A shot of whiskey might be one way to feel better, but whey protein is a much more effective immune-boosting cocktail. Whey is rich in an amino acid called cysteine, which converts to glutathione in the body. Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that fortifies cells against bacterial or viral infection. For the highest concentration of protein, try something called powdered whey protein isolate, which is more pure—and more expensive—than concentrate. Fortify your morning smoothie with whey protein powder or try another source: yogurt. The clear liquid that forms on top of most cartons of yogurt is pure whey protein—so don’t drain it off, just stir it back into the yogurt.
Thank you for reading our recent post. You can reach us with any questions, or to schedule an appointment to get your spine checked by calling 918-935-3432 or you can visit our website www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com
Sincerely,
Dr. Travis
Prevent sickness by stocking up on these items the next time you’re at the grocery store.
Nobody plans to get sick. On the contrary, your efforts to avoid it sometimes seem borderline OCD: Don’t sneeze into your hands, always cook your chicken to exactly 170 degrees, and hose down every germ-carrying preschooler in sight with soap and water. And yet, no matter how many times you gargle with salt before bedtime or coat yourself in antibacterial hand cleanser, now and again the inevitable rumble in your tummy or tickle in your throat hits. Hard. Suddenly, you’re down for the count and up to date on the daytime soaps. What are you doing wrong? Probably nothing. But you can do a few more things right. Certain foods and drinks have a natural immunity boost; to tap their benefits, just open up and say, “Ahh.”
Tea Off Against Colds
Not just any hot tea, though. Chamomile, according to researchers from London’s Imperial College, is the one that’ll help prevent sickness. In a recent study, they found people who drank five cups of the brew a day for 2 weeks had increased blood levels of plant-based compounds called polyphenols, some of which have been associated with increased antibacterial activity. Levels remained high for 2 weeks after subjects stopped drinking the tea, says lead researcher Elaine Holmes, Ph.D. (Bonus: chamomile tea also raised levels of glycine, a mild nerve relaxant and sedative.)
More ways to boost your immune system so you never get sick again
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/immune-boosters?cm_mmc=MSN-_-Foods%20That%20Fight%20Sickness-_-Article-_-Never%20Get%20Sick%20Again
Knock ‘em Dead
There’s a killer living in all of us. Known as a macrophage and produced deep in your bone marrow, it’s a white blood cell that roams the body, picking fights with bacteria, viruses, or any other intruders. But it only works if you help it. These killer cells are activated by beta-glucans, a component of fiber foods. The best source? Oats, says David Grotto, R.D., director of nutrition education at the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care in Evanston, Illinois. So eat your oatmeal. The steel-cut oats, like McCann’s Irish Oatmeal, have double the amount found in the rolled, quick-cooking kind.
Dressing for Success
Eating a salad for lunch is smart. Drowning it in fat-free dressing isn’t. A recent study from Iowa State University found that without dietary fat, your body doesn’t absorb some of the disease-fighting nutrients in vegetables. Researchers fed seven people salad for 12 weeks and tested their blood after each meal. Those who topped their salads with fat-free dressing consistently failed to absorb carotenoids, antioxidants that have been linked to improved immunity. Fat is necessary for the carotenoids to reach the absorptive intestinal cells, says lead researcher Wendy White, Ph.D. Choose dressings with healthy fats from olive or nut oils, such as Many Seeds of Change (available at Whole Foods or in the crunchy section of your neighborhood market) and many Annie’s Naturals dressings. If you’re feeling adventuresome, try making your own. For an Italianate, try 2 or 3 parts extra virgin olive oil to 1 part balsamic vinegar; for something with an Asian influence, go 3 parts sesame oil to 1 part rice wine vinegar.
Fight Bugs this Whey
A shot of whiskey might be one way to feel better, but whey protein is a much more effective immune-boosting cocktail. Whey is rich in an amino acid called cysteine, which converts to glutathione in the body. Glutathione is a potent antioxidant that fortifies cells against bacterial or viral infection. For the highest concentration of protein, try something called powdered whey protein isolate, which is more pure—and more expensive—than concentrate. Fortify your morning smoothie with whey protein powder or try another source: yogurt. The clear liquid that forms on top of most cartons of yogurt is pure whey protein—so don’t drain it off, just stir it back into the yogurt.
Thank you for reading our recent post. You can reach us with any questions, or to schedule an appointment to get your spine checked by calling 918-935-3432 or you can visit our website www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com
Sincerely,
Dr. Travis
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Fever Phobia
The Importance of Fever
-Sherri Tenpenny, DO
Childhood fevers can be frightening, mostly because they are misunderstood.
A fever is an increase in body temperature above the “normal range.” But the definition of “normal” can vary from person to person. Body temperature also varies with different levels of activity and at different times of the day. Medical texts differ in their definition of the highest “normal” body temperature, which can range from 98.6 to 100.4°F. It is generally accepted that a fever is defined as an “early morning temperature greater than 99°F or a temperature greater than 100°F at any time of the day.” REF: Harvard Medical School’s Inteilhealth. http://www.intelihealth.com/ IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/9339/9991.html
There are several causes of fever, but it is most commonly associated with dozens of different viruses, bacteria and parasites that cause upper respiratory infections, pneumonia, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections. When infectious micro-organisms invade the body, it is fever that gets our attention. Yet, despite its universal recognition, little is known about how is occurs. The currently held view is that when an infectant enters the body, the body activates its innate immune responses, which include the release of a complex mediators with equally complex names: cytokines, pyrogenic molecules that including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin (IL-1β) and interleukin (IL-6). These substances signal the part of the brain called the hypothalamus to raise the body’s thermostat, which in turn leads to chills and shivering to increase the metabolic rate. Heat loss is minimized by restricting blood flow to the skin, giving it a pale appearance. Fever sufferers may lose their appetite and most feel lethargic, achy, and tired.
However, contrary to the reflex need to give an aspirin to make a fever stop, an elevated temperature can be an expression of the immune system working at its best. The number of white blood cells is increased and cascades of molecules to flood the blood stream, in rapid pursuit of the host’s invaders. Fever impairs the ability of bacteria and viruses to replicate, creating an inhospitable environment for the invading organisms. By turning up the heat, invading microbes cannot replicate and by definition, die off. Fever results in winning the war against a wayward microbe.
Fever phobia
Fever is certainly one of the most common reasons that parents seek medical attention for their children. In 1980, a paper published by Barton Schmitt, MD contained the results of a survey in which 81 parents were asked their understanding of fever. All parents were inappropriately worried about low-grade fever, with temperatures of 102°F (38.9°C) or less. Most parents (52 percent) believed that fever with a temperature of 104°F (40°C) or less could cause serious neurological side-effects. As a result, almost all parents in the study treated fever aggressively: 85 percent gave anti-fever medications and 68 percent sponged the child with cool water temperatures far below 102°F (39.5°C). Their over concern was designated by Schmitt as “fever phobia.” REF: Am J Dis Child. 1980 Feb;134(2):176-81. “Fever phobia: misconceptions of parents about fevers.”
In 2001, a follow-up study was conducted to see if the trends in “fever phobia” had changed. The study sought to explore current parental attitudes toward fever and to compare these attitudes with those described by Schmitt in 1980. The results of the study were disturbingly worse than the fever phobia reported by Schmitt twenty years earlier:
Of the 340 caregivers who were interviewed, 56 percent reported that they were “very worried” about the potential harm that fever could cause to their children. Compared with 20 years ago, more caregivers listed seizure as a potential harm of fever, woke their children and checked temperatures more often during febrile illnesses, and gave anti-fever medications or initiated sponging more frequently for possible normal temperatures. Forty-four percent considered 102°F (38.9°C) to be a high fever, and 7 percent thought that a temperature could spiral out of control and reach temperatures greater than 110°F (43.4°C) if left untreated. Almost all of the caregivers (91 percent) believed that even a low-grade fever could cause harmful effects. The worst concerns listed were brain damage (21 percent) and death (14 percent.)
Strikingly, 25 percent of parents admitted giving anti-fever medications for fevers less than 100°F (37.8°C) and a full 85 percent would awaken their child to give fever medications. The survey revealed that 14 percent chose acetaminophen, and 44 percent opted for ibuprofen; however, both were given at too frequent dosing intervals. When it came to baths to cool children, 73 percent stated that they sponged their child to treat a fever. However, 24 percent sponged at temperatures less than 100°F (37.8°C) and nearly 20 percent used alcohol in a cool bath. REF: Pediatrics Vol. 107 No. 6 June 2001, pp. 1241-1246.
Fever Phobia Revisited: Have Parental Misconceptions About Fever Changed in 20 Years?”
The study also revealed that nearly one quarter of those surveyed alternated the use of acetaminophen and ibuprofen during their child’s febrile illness. This is a common practice despite a lack of evidence to support the efficacy and safety of this practice. A study by Mayoral et al in May, 2000 reported that 50 percent of pediatricians surveyed stated that they advised parents to alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen using various regimens despite being no evidence to support this protocol.REF: Pediatrics Vol. 105 No. 5. May 2000, pp. 1009-1012. “Alternating Antipyretics: Is This an Alternative?”
Troubling, yet not surprising, was that 46 percent of caregivers listed doctors as their primary resource for information about fever. When obtaining a history about a child’s illness, pediatric health care providers often are quick to ask about the importance and value of an elevated temperature. Discharge instructions to parents after a visit with the physician often include calling or returning if the child’s temperature rises beyond a certain level or if a fever persists. But placing emphasis on the child’s temperature without providing information about when a fever should be of concern and allowing a fever to persist to aid the body in healing heightens anxiety and serves to perpetuate fever phobia.
Caregiver anxiety about fever may be heightened by the lack of knowledge regarding the importance of fever in illness. In fact, fever phobia is most likely fostered by the medical community itself. When doctors tell parents to give medication when a temperature rises above a certain level, say 101°F, many parents automatically assume that a fever is “dangerous” at that level. The result is to give children drugs to keep them from harm. In reality, the purpose of anti-fever methods is to provide comfort as the body fights off the infection. If doctors were clear about this, there would be a lot less “fever phobia” around.
Confirming the problem with misinformation about fever, May and Baucher published a study in Pediatrics revealing that instructions given to parents about the management of fever are often dismally incomplete and lack consistency. The study which reviewed information given to parents during sick-child visits, found that 10 percent of providers almost never discussed the definition of a “high fever”; 25 percent almost never discussed the dangers of fever, and sadly, a full 15 percent almost never discussed the reasons for fever, assuming that parents understood the importance of fever. REF: Pediatrics. Vol 90. Issue 6, pp. 851-854, 12/01/1992. “Fever phobia: the pediatrician’s contribution.”
If parents understood the importance of fever and how to appropriately support their child during a fever, parents would acquire a comfort level with caring for an ill child. They would rid themselves of unnecessary stress, unnecessary doctor and emergency room visits and most of all, their child would benefit from infection-fighting fevers. The concern of parents about fever is not justified but is understandable without appropriate information. Health education to counteract “fever phobia” should be a part of routine medical care for children.
When is fever harmful?
In addition to the beneficial effect of fever on the immune system, it is important to note that the body has a way to protect itself from excessively high temperatures. Many parents are unaware of this process and believe that temperatures will continue to rise to potentially lethal levels if left untreated. In the absence of overwhelming factors, such as extreme dehydration and unsafe circumstances, such as being locked in a closed automobile, a normal children’s temperature will not rise out of control to potentially lethal levels. Therefore, it is exceedingly rare for a child’s temperature to exceed 107°F (41.7°C) in the event of a routine infection.
The fear most parents have about a high fever—defined as a sustained temperature of greater than 104°F for several days—is the concern about developing seizures. A febrile seizure manifests as abnormal jerking movements all over the body without evidence of central nervous system infection. Febrile seizures occur most commonly in children between the ages of three months and five years of age and usually last five minutes or less). About 3 percent of all children experience a febrile seizure sometime during childhood. Febrile seizures occur most commonly due to a sudden rise in temperature and not due to a prolonged fever, unless the child is dehydrated.
This susceptibility is not well understood. Of those children who have a first-time febrile seizure, about one-third experience a recurrence. Risks for recurrence are elevated for children who experienced the first seizures at age 16 months or younger, and who have a family history of febrile seizures. In general, 30 to 40 percent of children who have had a febrile seizure are likely experience one more. If a child has had two febrile seizures, there is a 50 percent chance that an additional episode will occur at some time in the future. Although frightening, febrile seizures are almost always benign. Nonetheless, if a child experiences a febrile seizure, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. In addition, if your child is under six months of age or if an older child has had a fever of more than 104°F for more than four or five days, a healthcare provider needs to be consulted.
How best to treat a fever: home management
So, what can you do at home?
1. Encourage drinking lots of water. Fever increases fluid loss, and dehydration cause fevers to remain high. Often, children with fevers do not feel thirsty, or by the time they do want something to drink, they’re already dehydrated. Keep offering water or an electrolyte-based drink such as Gatorade. Every drop and teaspoon counts. Small, frequent sips are often best, especially if the child feels nauseated. If necessary, use a plastic medicine dropper that can be readily purchased at the drug store to gently insert water into your child’s mouth.
2. To dress lightly or bundle up? The answer depends on your children’s perception of temperature – follow her cues. If your child looks pale, shivers, or complains of feeling chilled, bundle her in layers of breathable fabrics but be sure that the layers are easily removed. If the fever is low-grade, dress her snuggly and give warm liquids to assist the body’s fever production. If he complains of being too hot, use light close and sheets for comfort.
3. Starve a fever? Children with fevers generally don’t have much appetite and it is much more important to remain hydrated than to consume foods. Let your child determine when and what she wants to eat. Try light foods such as chicken broth or Cream of Wheat cereal for calories and easy digestion.
4. Avoid white, refined sugar. It has been documented that refined white sugar can suppress the immune system. In a study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition as far back as 1977 reported the adverse that sugar has on the immune system. Blood was drawn from subjects and the activity of the white blood cells that neutralize viruses and bacteria was observed and calculated. The white blood cell activity was calculated before and after subjects were given various doses of sugar: 6, 12, 18 and 24 teaspoons, respectively. Each subsequently higher dose of sugar created a corresponding decrease in the activities of the subject’s white blood cells. The group that had consumed the largest amount of sugar had essentially nofunctioning white blood cells within an hour after consuming the sugar. The immunosuppression occurred for up to two hours after consuming that sugar, but the adverse effects of no blood cell activity persisted in some instances for up to five hours.REF: Am J Clin Nut 1977;30:613 “Depression of lymphocyte transformation following oral glucose ingestion.”
Why is this important? White blood cells eliminate viruses and bacteria that invade our defenses. Without the efforts of these cells, susceptibility to infection is increased and recovering from infection can be stalled. Therefore, do not offer children with fevers Coca-Cola, 7-Up, or Ginger Ale for an upset tummy and ice cream to soothe a sore throat. Unaware, these hefty doses of sugar can further drag down the immune system at a time when it needs to be at its strongest.
To medicate or not to medicate?
A rule of thumb when treating a fever is “First, do nothing,” meaning that observation is a better choice than running for the medicine cabinet. Is your child drinking fluids well? Urinating at least once every eight hours or wetting at least eight diapers per day? Does your touch console her? Is he attempting to play? If the answer to these questions is yes, this is probably not a serious illness, despite the number on the thermometer.
Medications for fever can act as a screen. Here are some pros and cons regarding giving your child over-the-counter medication to ease a fever:
The good news: Medications such as acetaminophen should be used for comfort. If your child feels miserable because of a fever, a trial of one or two doses can be given as a “screening test.” If you child looks and acts much better within a short period of time, it is likely that the infection is not a serious one. He may be more likely to drink fluids, nibble food, and sleep if he is a little more comfortable. This means keeping the fever around 100 or 101°F.
The not-so-good news: Several studies have shown that by suppressing the fever, the body needs a longer time to recover.
• In a study of children with chickenpox, acetaminophen prolonged itching and the time to scabbing compared to placebo treatment. REF: J Pediatr 1989; 114:1045-1048. “Acetaminophen: more harm than good for chickenpox?”
• A study of adults found that aspirin and acetaminophen suppressed production of the patient’s antibodies and increased cold symptoms, with a trend toward longer viral shedding and prolonged symptoms. REF: J Infect Dis 1990; 162:1277-1282. “Adverse effects of aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen on immune function, viral shedding, and clinical status in rhinovirus-infected volunteers.”
The bottom line
Use anti-fever medicines sparingly when your child suffers discomfort from a fever over up to 104°F (40°C). Ask yourself whether you are administering the fever-reducing medicine to make your child more comfortable or to decrease your own anxiety. Drug-free approaches can go a long way toward helping your child feel better. If the situation does not seem urgent, consider a trial of echinacea tea, lavender oil, Vitamin D 5000-50,000IU/day and Vitamin C (10mg per pound) before you pull out the fever drugs.
Feel free to give us a call to see how we can help you. 918-935-3432 or visit our website www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com
-Sherri Tenpenny, DO
Childhood fevers can be frightening, mostly because they are misunderstood.
A fever is an increase in body temperature above the “normal range.” But the definition of “normal” can vary from person to person. Body temperature also varies with different levels of activity and at different times of the day. Medical texts differ in their definition of the highest “normal” body temperature, which can range from 98.6 to 100.4°F. It is generally accepted that a fever is defined as an “early morning temperature greater than 99°F or a temperature greater than 100°F at any time of the day.” REF: Harvard Medical School’s Inteilhealth. http://www.intelihealth.com/ IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/9339/9991.html
There are several causes of fever, but it is most commonly associated with dozens of different viruses, bacteria and parasites that cause upper respiratory infections, pneumonia, diarrhea, and urinary tract infections. When infectious micro-organisms invade the body, it is fever that gets our attention. Yet, despite its universal recognition, little is known about how is occurs. The currently held view is that when an infectant enters the body, the body activates its innate immune responses, which include the release of a complex mediators with equally complex names: cytokines, pyrogenic molecules that including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin (IL-1β) and interleukin (IL-6). These substances signal the part of the brain called the hypothalamus to raise the body’s thermostat, which in turn leads to chills and shivering to increase the metabolic rate. Heat loss is minimized by restricting blood flow to the skin, giving it a pale appearance. Fever sufferers may lose their appetite and most feel lethargic, achy, and tired.
However, contrary to the reflex need to give an aspirin to make a fever stop, an elevated temperature can be an expression of the immune system working at its best. The number of white blood cells is increased and cascades of molecules to flood the blood stream, in rapid pursuit of the host’s invaders. Fever impairs the ability of bacteria and viruses to replicate, creating an inhospitable environment for the invading organisms. By turning up the heat, invading microbes cannot replicate and by definition, die off. Fever results in winning the war against a wayward microbe.
Fever phobia
Fever is certainly one of the most common reasons that parents seek medical attention for their children. In 1980, a paper published by Barton Schmitt, MD contained the results of a survey in which 81 parents were asked their understanding of fever. All parents were inappropriately worried about low-grade fever, with temperatures of 102°F (38.9°C) or less. Most parents (52 percent) believed that fever with a temperature of 104°F (40°C) or less could cause serious neurological side-effects. As a result, almost all parents in the study treated fever aggressively: 85 percent gave anti-fever medications and 68 percent sponged the child with cool water temperatures far below 102°F (39.5°C). Their over concern was designated by Schmitt as “fever phobia.” REF: Am J Dis Child. 1980 Feb;134(2):176-81. “Fever phobia: misconceptions of parents about fevers.”
In 2001, a follow-up study was conducted to see if the trends in “fever phobia” had changed. The study sought to explore current parental attitudes toward fever and to compare these attitudes with those described by Schmitt in 1980. The results of the study were disturbingly worse than the fever phobia reported by Schmitt twenty years earlier:
Of the 340 caregivers who were interviewed, 56 percent reported that they were “very worried” about the potential harm that fever could cause to their children. Compared with 20 years ago, more caregivers listed seizure as a potential harm of fever, woke their children and checked temperatures more often during febrile illnesses, and gave anti-fever medications or initiated sponging more frequently for possible normal temperatures. Forty-four percent considered 102°F (38.9°C) to be a high fever, and 7 percent thought that a temperature could spiral out of control and reach temperatures greater than 110°F (43.4°C) if left untreated. Almost all of the caregivers (91 percent) believed that even a low-grade fever could cause harmful effects. The worst concerns listed were brain damage (21 percent) and death (14 percent.)
Strikingly, 25 percent of parents admitted giving anti-fever medications for fevers less than 100°F (37.8°C) and a full 85 percent would awaken their child to give fever medications. The survey revealed that 14 percent chose acetaminophen, and 44 percent opted for ibuprofen; however, both were given at too frequent dosing intervals. When it came to baths to cool children, 73 percent stated that they sponged their child to treat a fever. However, 24 percent sponged at temperatures less than 100°F (37.8°C) and nearly 20 percent used alcohol in a cool bath. REF: Pediatrics Vol. 107 No. 6 June 2001, pp. 1241-1246.
Fever Phobia Revisited: Have Parental Misconceptions About Fever Changed in 20 Years?”
The study also revealed that nearly one quarter of those surveyed alternated the use of acetaminophen and ibuprofen during their child’s febrile illness. This is a common practice despite a lack of evidence to support the efficacy and safety of this practice. A study by Mayoral et al in May, 2000 reported that 50 percent of pediatricians surveyed stated that they advised parents to alternate acetaminophen and ibuprofen using various regimens despite being no evidence to support this protocol.REF: Pediatrics Vol. 105 No. 5. May 2000, pp. 1009-1012. “Alternating Antipyretics: Is This an Alternative?”
Troubling, yet not surprising, was that 46 percent of caregivers listed doctors as their primary resource for information about fever. When obtaining a history about a child’s illness, pediatric health care providers often are quick to ask about the importance and value of an elevated temperature. Discharge instructions to parents after a visit with the physician often include calling or returning if the child’s temperature rises beyond a certain level or if a fever persists. But placing emphasis on the child’s temperature without providing information about when a fever should be of concern and allowing a fever to persist to aid the body in healing heightens anxiety and serves to perpetuate fever phobia.
Caregiver anxiety about fever may be heightened by the lack of knowledge regarding the importance of fever in illness. In fact, fever phobia is most likely fostered by the medical community itself. When doctors tell parents to give medication when a temperature rises above a certain level, say 101°F, many parents automatically assume that a fever is “dangerous” at that level. The result is to give children drugs to keep them from harm. In reality, the purpose of anti-fever methods is to provide comfort as the body fights off the infection. If doctors were clear about this, there would be a lot less “fever phobia” around.
Confirming the problem with misinformation about fever, May and Baucher published a study in Pediatrics revealing that instructions given to parents about the management of fever are often dismally incomplete and lack consistency. The study which reviewed information given to parents during sick-child visits, found that 10 percent of providers almost never discussed the definition of a “high fever”; 25 percent almost never discussed the dangers of fever, and sadly, a full 15 percent almost never discussed the reasons for fever, assuming that parents understood the importance of fever. REF: Pediatrics. Vol 90. Issue 6, pp. 851-854, 12/01/1992. “Fever phobia: the pediatrician’s contribution.”
If parents understood the importance of fever and how to appropriately support their child during a fever, parents would acquire a comfort level with caring for an ill child. They would rid themselves of unnecessary stress, unnecessary doctor and emergency room visits and most of all, their child would benefit from infection-fighting fevers. The concern of parents about fever is not justified but is understandable without appropriate information. Health education to counteract “fever phobia” should be a part of routine medical care for children.
When is fever harmful?
In addition to the beneficial effect of fever on the immune system, it is important to note that the body has a way to protect itself from excessively high temperatures. Many parents are unaware of this process and believe that temperatures will continue to rise to potentially lethal levels if left untreated. In the absence of overwhelming factors, such as extreme dehydration and unsafe circumstances, such as being locked in a closed automobile, a normal children’s temperature will not rise out of control to potentially lethal levels. Therefore, it is exceedingly rare for a child’s temperature to exceed 107°F (41.7°C) in the event of a routine infection.
The fear most parents have about a high fever—defined as a sustained temperature of greater than 104°F for several days—is the concern about developing seizures. A febrile seizure manifests as abnormal jerking movements all over the body without evidence of central nervous system infection. Febrile seizures occur most commonly in children between the ages of three months and five years of age and usually last five minutes or less). About 3 percent of all children experience a febrile seizure sometime during childhood. Febrile seizures occur most commonly due to a sudden rise in temperature and not due to a prolonged fever, unless the child is dehydrated.
This susceptibility is not well understood. Of those children who have a first-time febrile seizure, about one-third experience a recurrence. Risks for recurrence are elevated for children who experienced the first seizures at age 16 months or younger, and who have a family history of febrile seizures. In general, 30 to 40 percent of children who have had a febrile seizure are likely experience one more. If a child has had two febrile seizures, there is a 50 percent chance that an additional episode will occur at some time in the future. Although frightening, febrile seizures are almost always benign. Nonetheless, if a child experiences a febrile seizure, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. In addition, if your child is under six months of age or if an older child has had a fever of more than 104°F for more than four or five days, a healthcare provider needs to be consulted.
How best to treat a fever: home management
So, what can you do at home?
1. Encourage drinking lots of water. Fever increases fluid loss, and dehydration cause fevers to remain high. Often, children with fevers do not feel thirsty, or by the time they do want something to drink, they’re already dehydrated. Keep offering water or an electrolyte-based drink such as Gatorade. Every drop and teaspoon counts. Small, frequent sips are often best, especially if the child feels nauseated. If necessary, use a plastic medicine dropper that can be readily purchased at the drug store to gently insert water into your child’s mouth.
2. To dress lightly or bundle up? The answer depends on your children’s perception of temperature – follow her cues. If your child looks pale, shivers, or complains of feeling chilled, bundle her in layers of breathable fabrics but be sure that the layers are easily removed. If the fever is low-grade, dress her snuggly and give warm liquids to assist the body’s fever production. If he complains of being too hot, use light close and sheets for comfort.
3. Starve a fever? Children with fevers generally don’t have much appetite and it is much more important to remain hydrated than to consume foods. Let your child determine when and what she wants to eat. Try light foods such as chicken broth or Cream of Wheat cereal for calories and easy digestion.
4. Avoid white, refined sugar. It has been documented that refined white sugar can suppress the immune system. In a study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition as far back as 1977 reported the adverse that sugar has on the immune system. Blood was drawn from subjects and the activity of the white blood cells that neutralize viruses and bacteria was observed and calculated. The white blood cell activity was calculated before and after subjects were given various doses of sugar: 6, 12, 18 and 24 teaspoons, respectively. Each subsequently higher dose of sugar created a corresponding decrease in the activities of the subject’s white blood cells. The group that had consumed the largest amount of sugar had essentially nofunctioning white blood cells within an hour after consuming the sugar. The immunosuppression occurred for up to two hours after consuming that sugar, but the adverse effects of no blood cell activity persisted in some instances for up to five hours.REF: Am J Clin Nut 1977;30:613 “Depression of lymphocyte transformation following oral glucose ingestion.”
Why is this important? White blood cells eliminate viruses and bacteria that invade our defenses. Without the efforts of these cells, susceptibility to infection is increased and recovering from infection can be stalled. Therefore, do not offer children with fevers Coca-Cola, 7-Up, or Ginger Ale for an upset tummy and ice cream to soothe a sore throat. Unaware, these hefty doses of sugar can further drag down the immune system at a time when it needs to be at its strongest.
To medicate or not to medicate?
A rule of thumb when treating a fever is “First, do nothing,” meaning that observation is a better choice than running for the medicine cabinet. Is your child drinking fluids well? Urinating at least once every eight hours or wetting at least eight diapers per day? Does your touch console her? Is he attempting to play? If the answer to these questions is yes, this is probably not a serious illness, despite the number on the thermometer.
Medications for fever can act as a screen. Here are some pros and cons regarding giving your child over-the-counter medication to ease a fever:
The good news: Medications such as acetaminophen should be used for comfort. If your child feels miserable because of a fever, a trial of one or two doses can be given as a “screening test.” If you child looks and acts much better within a short period of time, it is likely that the infection is not a serious one. He may be more likely to drink fluids, nibble food, and sleep if he is a little more comfortable. This means keeping the fever around 100 or 101°F.
The not-so-good news: Several studies have shown that by suppressing the fever, the body needs a longer time to recover.
• In a study of children with chickenpox, acetaminophen prolonged itching and the time to scabbing compared to placebo treatment. REF: J Pediatr 1989; 114:1045-1048. “Acetaminophen: more harm than good for chickenpox?”
• A study of adults found that aspirin and acetaminophen suppressed production of the patient’s antibodies and increased cold symptoms, with a trend toward longer viral shedding and prolonged symptoms. REF: J Infect Dis 1990; 162:1277-1282. “Adverse effects of aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen on immune function, viral shedding, and clinical status in rhinovirus-infected volunteers.”
The bottom line
Use anti-fever medicines sparingly when your child suffers discomfort from a fever over up to 104°F (40°C). Ask yourself whether you are administering the fever-reducing medicine to make your child more comfortable or to decrease your own anxiety. Drug-free approaches can go a long way toward helping your child feel better. If the situation does not seem urgent, consider a trial of echinacea tea, lavender oil, Vitamin D 5000-50,000IU/day and Vitamin C (10mg per pound) before you pull out the fever drugs.
Feel free to give us a call to see how we can help you. 918-935-3432 or visit our website www.easternoklahomachiropractic.com
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