Home Remedy Archives - Health Beat

How can using a humidifier affect your health ?

Posted on February 6, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

A humidifier works by adding moisture to the air, especially in cold weather when the air indoors tends to be dry. One of the benefits of having a humidifier is that when used properly they can lessen the risk of colds and flu germs. This is due to the fact that viruses tend to spread more easily in air that is dry, which is more common in cold weather.

Other benefits of having a humidifier include relieving:
• dry skin
• dry throat
• chapped lips
• irritation of the nasal passages
• nose bleeds
• headaches
• sinus problems

The proper room humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. This is important because too much humidity can cause respiratory problems, mold and mildew to grow, and allow the growth of dust mites.

There are risks of using a humidifier if not used properly. Burns can occur if a person comes in contact with the steam. If the water tank isn’t cleaned properly, bacteria can grow and spread throughout the home.

Speak to your doctor about using a humidifier in your home. You can also schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486 if you would like to discuss ways to keep healthy during the winter months.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Dark Chocolate and Other Home Remedies for Colds

Posted on May 19, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

Having a coughing fit? A piece of dark chocolate may calm your cough. In research conducted by London’s Imperial College, it was found that theobromine, an alkaloid found in cocoa, suppresses coughs. According to WebMD, “Researchers say theobromine appears to calm coughs by suppressing the vagal nerve activity.” In other words, the ingredient helps to protect the nerve endings in your throat which triggers your urge to cough.

In addition to eating dark chocolate in moderation, here are a few more home remedies that can help to quiet your cough:

Honey
Lemon
Sipping warm liquids such as soup, tea or warm apple juice
Hydration-drinking plenty of water
Saline rinses
Ginger (ginger tea recipe https://www.flushinghospital.org/)

It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before trying these remedies, as each person’s case and medical condition is unique.

Home Remedies for Foot Odor

Posted on March 7, 2017 by Xavia Malcolm

The medical term for foot odor is bromodosis. The main cause for this common condition is excessive perspiration. Sweaty feet create the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria to develop. Additional causes for foot odor may include stress, medication, hormonal changes, alcohol and drug use, fungal infections or poor hygiene.

Foot odor can be embarrassing and can affect anyone; however, there are simple and inexpensive remedies that can be used at home to help eliminate the smell. Here are a few:

Wash your feet twice a day with antibacterial soap
After a bath, use a cotton swab to dab between the toes with rubbing alcohol
Soak your feet in salt water or baking soda
Bathe your feet in vinegar
Clean and scrub feet with a pumice stone
Sprinkle corn starch into your socks
Wear fresh socks and change them regularly (moisture absorbing socks are best)
Change your shoes regularly to allow them to dry and air properly. Podiatrist recommend that you do not wear the same shoes for two consecutive days

If an odor persists after trying these remedies, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist. There are several courses of treatment your doctor may recommend. Depending on the severity of your case, prescription–strength products, the use of electrical devices to eliminate perspiration or a surgical procedure that helps to control sweating are a few of the options your podiatrist may explore.