Vigour – Health and Sports Nutrition

Coccidiodomycosis, also known as valley fever and desert fever, is an infectious disease that is caused by fungi “Coccidioides immitis”.

The typical symptoms of valley fever include sputum production, shortness of breath, chest pain, low-grade fever, fatigue, chills, malaise, headache, night sweats and muscle pains. Most of these symptoms resolve in about three to five weeks on their own without any treatment. However, if symptoms persist, then valley fever may give rise to progressive pulmonary coccidiodomycosis that is characterized by lung volume loss, inflammation of lungs and scarring.

Desert fever is diagnosed with the microscopic examination of sputum, PCR test (to detect the genetic material of the fungus), skin tests, chest X-ray, CT scan and MRI.

Treatment options include antifungal drugs and surgical treatments (to treat pulmonary arteries, empyema and scarred tissues in lungs).

The people who are at risk of developing coccidiodomycosis include elderly, HIVers, cancer patients, residents of the endemic areas, pregnant women and individuals who do farm or construction work.

As this fungal infection mostly infects the immunosuppressed people, make sure that you regularly consume a supplement that helps maintain the health of your immune system. Natures Aid Immune Support + with Beta-Glucans is a popular brand on the market that stands tall among other competitors due to its amazing attributes. It makes use of Ester-C, Elderberry and Beta-Glucans in its formulation that help boost immune system and provide protection against a wide range of fungal as well as bacterial infections. You should take 1 tablet per day with a cold drink and food.

Bronchitis is a viral infection that affects sinuses and throat and causes the inflammation of the main air passage to the lungs. There are two types of bronchitis: 1) Acute bronchitis 2) Chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis lasts a short time, while chronic bronchitis is long-lived and often recurs. Chronic patients of bronchitis often experience a cough (for more than 3 months) that produces excessive mucus. Numerous factors such as infections, allergies and air pollution make bronchitis worse.

The symptoms of bronchitis may include cough that produces yellow-green mucus, low grade fever, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest discomfort, fatigue, tiredness, leg swelling and blue-coloured lips. Bronchitis can be diagnosed with an examination of sputum samples, chest x-ray and lung function tests.

As far as the treatment of bronchitis is concerned, you do not need antibiotics for acute bronchitis because infection will go away on its own within 10 days. Make sure that you take plenty of rest and do not smoke. You should drink fluids and use a humidifier in the bathroom. You should also use an inhaler to open your airways. Patients of chronic bronchitis should consume foods such as fruits and vegetables that help improve their immune system.

It also makes a good idea for them to use a supplement that supports the immune system. Rio Trading Pau dArco Lapacho 2500mg is a popular brand that is derived from the bark of a giant hardwood tree, also known as “Purple Lapacho”. The bark contains many actives that contribute to the immune system and is a source of antioxidants. This supplement helps support the body’s defence and boosts immune system.