Nasal Saline Solution More Effective Than Spray

By Stanley Lang

Recent research has looked at the question of whether it makes any difference in the treatment of chronic sinusitis when nasal saline solution irrigation is done as opposed to just using the solution as a spray. This article is a review of that research.

In this research the condition of interest was chronic sinusitis. This means that there is a low grade infection going on in the sinuses. In some cases this infection has actually been going on for more than a year which is a long time to put up with symptoms.

The reason that saline irrigation is even being studied is that the sinus infection really can't get better if the sinus openings can't be cleared of the stuff that is blocking them. This "stuff" might be secretions and often are very thick and hard for the body to move. The presumption is that these secretions can more easily be moved if the area is irrigated virorously.

The big question the researches were looking at was whether or not it actually made a difference in using a nasal saline solution in the nose, and, if it did make a difference, whether it was important that it be a saline solution that irrigated into the the nose or whether it would work just to spray the solution into the nose.

The research supported two different conclusions. First of all it is helpful to treat the symptoms of a chronic sinus infection with nasal saline solution irrigation. This helped with symptoms and treatment. But they also found that the nasal saline solution when used to irrigate was more effective than when used as a nasal spray.

So to recap. It does make a difference if you use a nasal saline solution to irrigate your nose if you have a chronic sinus infection. It not only helps to use this kind of nasal solution, it actually helps to use the solution as an irrigation tool compared to just using the spray. So if you have this condition, you likely have a real benefit in using the nasal saline solution as an irrigation.N - 31822

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Looking to find the best deal on saline nasal spray, then visit www.saline-nasal-spray.com to find the best advice on saline nasal solution for you.

Basic Air Conditioning Maintenance Tips

By Owen Jones

More and more people are discovering the benefits of a home air conditioning system, because prices have dropped in relation to to wages over recent years. However, most people's approach is 'out of sight, out of mind'. That is, until they get home from work on a sweltering hot summer's afternoon and the air con does not work.

The most common reason for this is years of no maintenance. The only way that you will get the most from air conditioning units, as with any mechanism, is to maintain it according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule and get it checked over by a professional every two or three years, whatever the instruction booklet says. You cannot completely eliminate the professional check up, but you can carry out the basic maintenance yourself, which will save you at least two years of fees.

Here then are my most essential basic air conditioning maintenance tips.

If you have a central air conditioner, wash or change the air filter roughly once a month during the hot weather season. This will help prolong the life of your air conditioning apparatus, increase its level of efficiency (thereby reducing running costs) and enhance the quality of the air in your home.

The two typical kinds of air filters are the washable steel mesh variety and the woven fibre glass kind which is disposable. These filters slide into the ductwork or blower compartment. You can further improve the performance of your central air conditioner by clearing all the grass, bushes, flowers and picking up the debris from around the outside compressor unit.

Furthermore, if the outdoor apparatus is ever in full sunlight when it is in use, build a small structure like a simple lean-to over it to keep it in the shade. Then it will not have to work so hard. It will also keep the snow and rain out of it during the winter. Get both the internal and external units looked at by an expert every two years.

Other basic air conditioning maintenance tips are to take the 'top' off your blower unit before the start of the summer and give it some attention. Gently scrape the build-up of dust and grease on the blades of the fan, Then lightly oil the fan's shaft and bearings so that it will rotate more freely. If your fan or blower is belt driven, check the fan belt for wear, tension and alignment. Correct as you would for a vehicle.

The motors on most recent blower units are totally sealed and self-lubricating, but the older ones have an oil reservoir which has to be refilled every year. Check that, clean the sump, if you have one and fill up with fresh oil.

You can also clean the coil, which is a loop of metal tubing. Vacuum it and then lightly clean it with a tooth brush and something like methylated spirits in order to degrease it. Wipe up any spillage. All of these routines can be applied to the outside unit too, because it also has a fan and a coil. Clean any cobwebs from the case's vents too. - 31822

About the Author:

Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on many topics, but is currently involved with central air conditioning systems. If you are interested in Home Air Conditioning Systems, please click through to our site.

What Are The Benefits Of Allergy Bedding And Hypoallergenic Bedding?

By Pete Malcolm

Every year, millions of people struggle to manage the unpleasant physical affects caused by allergies. If you suffer from allergies, then you know how uncomfortable and stressful it can be to get a good night's sleep. One major cause of allergy afflictions can be found in our bedding. Dust mites found in bedding can cause such health problems as difficulties breathing, wheezing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, chest congestion, coughing, and stuffy nose. Dust mites are tiny organisms that make their home in warm and moist fibrous environments such as bedding, carpets, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. When the dust mites secrete waste, they dry out and can begin to float in the air. Dust mite excretion will trigger allergic reactions when inhaled. If you are allergic, the reaction will be instant. Dust mites are particularly harmful for people who have respiratory conditions such as asthma. If you are continually finding it difficult to sleep, tossing and turning throughout the night, as well as finding yourself waking up with nose and chest congestion, it is likely that you have dust mites in your bedding. Fortunately, allergy sufferers can get relief from allergens by using hypoallergenic bedding.

Hypoallergenic bedding is specially designed to be allergen-resistant. Allergy bedding uses natural occurring hypoallergenic material such as silk. Natural silk is an excellent hypoallergenic material because it does not support dust mites as it has a tighter fabric weave. People who are allergic to dust mites will see their health greatly improve from sleeping in hypoallergenic bedding because it promotes a dust mite free environment. One can purchase various types of allergy bedding that includes: bed sheets, pillow protectors, mattress covers and pads, mattresses, and duvet covers. Not only does allergy bedding like allergy pillow protectors (one of the most important since your face rubs against it all night), eliminate dust mites, but it creates a healthier environment by improving breathing and sleep.

When you use manufactured products for bedding, you are more prone to sleep disruptions, breathing problems, headaches, and skin irritations. Chemical sprays from manufactured bedding can releases toxins in the air and can also be absorbed into the skin. Hypoallergenic bedding is chemical-free and made of natural material. As well, using regular manufactured bedding and linens makes it much easier for dust mite waste, dust, dead skin cells, and pet dander, to become embedded in the loosely woven fibers. By using hypoallergenic bedding, you will sleep soundly and peacefully knowing that you are not only breathing better, but also improving your own health.

Due to the numerous amounts of harmful pollutants and toxins in the products we use on a daily basis, more people are becoming sensitive to such conditions as allergies and toxin related illnesses. Because we can spend 7 - 8 hours a night in bed, it is important to sleep in a healthy environment. Without a peaceful uninterrupted sleep, people can suffer from irritability, fatigue, concentration problems, and even depression. Using hypoallergenic bedding is an important way of improving sleep, reducing allergies, and improving our overall health and well being.

One of the top manufacturers of allergy bedding products is SmartSilk, a Montreal company whose mission really summarizes how dedicated they are to their products (visit their website at www.smartsilk.com) :

"With the rise of asthma and sleep allergies amongst adults and children, with the growing numbers of woman and men suffering with night sweats as well those of us dealing with life's everyday stresses causing sleep issues, Smartsilk(TM) is committed to providing a clean, healthy, natural, comfortable sleep that will protect you while you sleep and allow you wake up fresh, well rested and invigorated."

Due to the unique properties of Smartsilk(TM) and its patent pending technologies Smartsilk(TM) has also been tested and certified by Allergy Standards Ltd to be the only all natural bedding products to receive the coveted asthma & allergy friendly(TM) certification in association with The Asthma Society of Canada (ASC) and The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

At the end of the day, it's important that you find a good allergy bedding solution in order to improve your overall health and well being! Considering sleep is one of the most important functions of the human body, you really shouldn't take it too lightly if you happen to be suffering from any of the symptoms described in this article. - 31822

About the Author:

Certified asthma & allergy friendly(TM) bedding products from SmartSilk, the leader in allergy and hypoallergenic bedding products. Allergy pillow protectors, duvet covers, dust mite bed covers and more!

Prefer Normal Cures For Asthma Attack

By Paul Kramer

Asthma is often a chronic disorder which is characterized by an individual continuously experiencing difficulty in breathing or an individual facing shortness of breath. In case you are also suffering from this ailment then this article may serve you far better. In this article I will explain some of the indicators of this sickness as well as some normal cures that may possibly aid you in this illness.

Asthma isn't only shortness of breath but it further alleviates the condition. The patient might experience dry cough and also the state of anxiety all the time. Severe cough and dryness are also considered as early signs and symptoms of this ailment.

Nevertheless, these are only few signs. There could be a lot more complications just simply because of this illness. Furthermore, it truly is not important that each and every patient experiences same kind of indicators. Signs of this illness may possibly vary from one individual to a further.

It can be incredibly important to treat asthma as soon as feasible until or unless it becomes worst. In case you are genuinely wondering and searching for some suitable pure treatment then go via this piece of writing. It mostly happens that persons think about their doctors first when they pass by means of a severe attack.

Furthermore, they prefer to get several medicines in this regard. This may well be a very good option for you but I will advise you to look for some herbal remedies and resources that could serve you much better. Normal healing is quite essential since it has no side effects.

On the other hand, medicines and antibiotics have various disadvantages or side effects. Numerous herbs are utilised for the treatment of this disorder. These particularly include garlic and ginger. You can also get these herbs on normal basis to avoid or minimize the risk of asthmatic attack.

One more normal remedy that's well known and applied by numerous patients is often a single teaspoon of honey on normal basis. During asthma attack these herbs may possibly offer you relief and comfort to a wonderful extent. - 31822

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Treatments For Asthma .

Activated Carbon in HEPA Air Purifiers

By Harry Pinello

Are you an aquarium hobbyist, or own a water purification system? If not, chances are you have no idea what activated carbon is, or what it could possibly do in HEPA Air Purifiers. Even if the concept itself isn't totally foreign, you probably still don't know exactly what it does.

How Is Active Carbon Used In HEPA Air Purifiers?

Choosing HEPA air purifiers is often the first time most people encounter activated carbon. They begin their search because of allergies or asthma, but they have no real idea how these machines work. As they look deeper, they'll start to learn that odors and chemicals are what's actually causing the vast majority of the issues they're trying to remedy. Most quality HEPA air purifiers are designed to eliminate allergens as well as odors and chemicals in the air. This is where the activated carbon comes in.

Was Active Carbon Used Before HEPA Air Purifiers?

Activated carbon has actually been around for quite a while, and though it sounds quite scientific, our ancestors have made good use of it for at least the last two centuries. Back then, they already knew of activated carbon's extraordinary absorption qualities. In the early 1900's, the stuff was produced and sold commercially in the form of a powder. At the time it was only used to remove color from sugar or taste or smell from water. Although we didn't know it at the time, that was barely the tip of what this stuff is capable of. In World War I, the military discovered that they could use activated carbon in gas masks, filtering chemical agents from the air for the soldiers. The soldiers also used it for water purification, just like their ancestors. By this point, it was also available commercially as a granular form instead of just powder, which was when it began finding uses in even more situations.

What Does "Activated" Mean?

You're probably wondering why we're referring to this carbon as "activated." Is there such a thing as non-activated carbon? Well, the heat used in "activating" the carbon is what drives out the impurities in the carbon itself. This leaves a place for the impurities in whatever it is the carbon is cleaning to reside. So activating carbon is kind of like emptying a sponge, only with head instead of pressure. After activated carbon becomes full, it can actually be reactivated by re-heating it. This is, however, not a good idea, and is considered dangerous and impractical. Non-activated carbon is basically charcoal or soot.

Are There Different Types Of Activated Carbon?

There are a variety of types of activated carbon, and it is described in a variety of ways, but generally activated carbon includes a wide range of amorphous carbon-based materials. These materials have a high degree of porosity (lots of holes) and a relatively large surface area. Basically, this means it has excellent absorbent characteristics. These absorbent characteristics are why activated carbon works so well filtering air and water both. - 31822

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Want to learn more about HEPA Air Purifiers? Check out HEPA Air Purifiers Info.

Considering Hunter HEPA Air Purifiers To See If They Are The Fitting Choice For Your Situation And Your Family

By Arwyn Yelf

There's a bunch of companies that are making things with HEPA labeling on them. There are all sorts of products out there ranging from HEPA vacuum cleaners to HEPA air conditioner filters, and you can generally find many of them in any retail department outlet. With all the different manufacturers that use this term, it's sometimes difficult to know what you need to be looking for when buying a HEPA air purifier. Let's examine Hunter HEPA air purifiers to see if they're your best choice.

A Quick Background Of Hunter

Hunter is certainly not a new name on the marketplace. Nowadays, the products that they manufacture require electricity for operation, but Hunter was innovating even before electricity was commonplace. The first product that they created and distributed, way back in the late 1800s, was a water-driven ceiling fan. How innovative is that? Electric thermostats and electric ceiling fans are their mainstay now. And obviously HEPA air purifiers.

Price

There are three groups Hunter HEPA air purifiers. HEPAtech purifiers are the bargain basement of air purifiers. As of this writing, they are no longer being made, but are still available as new from quite a few retail outlets. If you're looking for a cheap HEPA air purifier with a proven name, then Hunter's HEPAtech is definitely the way to go. As with all HEPA filter air purifiers, you will have to change the HEPA filter occasionally. Many Hunter HEPA air purifiers are actually cheaper than the replacement filters of their competing devices. Hunter's replacement filters are also quite reasonable, and generally come in packs. Their current series, the QuietFlo, are also very aggressively priced.

Almost All Hunter's Are True HEPA Air Purifiers

Excepting the old HEPAtech purifiers, every one of Hunter's machines are a true HEPA air purifier. The fact that they are true indicates that they will filter at least 99.7% of those air particles that have been shown to be the most dangerous. HEPA air purifiers without the "true" label aren't held to specific standards, which means they could, theoretically, not filter air in any way. That doesn't mean every HEPA-type machine is total trash, but you're totally dependent on the quality control of the manufacturer.

What Makes Hunter Different?

Hunter HEPA air purifiers stand out in a couple of ways. First, there's the low price. Like mentioned earlier, if you compare a Hunter HEPA air purifier with a similar device from a competitor, the Hunter will likely be less expensive. The other obvious difference are the features. Although not the most cutting edge, Hunter does include most of the tried and true features, and their models are quite scalable. For instance, in the current QuietFlo series, you have more than a dozen models to choose from, differentiated mostly by the feature sets, meaning you won't have to pay for what you're not going to use. Can we say that Hunter makes the best HEPA air purifier out there? When it comes to value, probably. - 31822

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Still not sure that a Hunter HEPA air purifier is for you? Visit HEPA Air Purifiers Info for answers to all of your questions.

Ionic Pro Compact Air Purifier

By Irene Polaski

If you're looking at ionic air purifiers, then you've certainly seen the Ionic Pro air purifier. Even if you're not looking to buy one, you've probably seen the Ionic Pro Ionic Air Purifier on TV at some point. They seem to have taken the infomercial crown from The Sharper Image, at least when it comes to ionic air purifiers. You've probably also seen all the negative publicity that has assailed the Ionic Breeze air purifiers, and are wondering if the same applies to this newer player.

Who Makes The Ionic Pro Air Purifier?

The Ionic Pro Air Purifier is built and sold by a company named Ionic Pro, LLC. They're not owned, in part or whole, by another company. Actually, until recently, they had sold the Ionic Pro air purifier only on TV. Now, though, you can find these all over the place, Wal-mart included. That this company only makes air purifiers can be seen in a few different ways. Logically, as they only make various sizes of the Ionic Pro Air Purifier, they would easily be able to make a high quality product. Of course, being so small would make it easy for them to vanish as well.

Compared Against The Ionic Breeze Air Purifier

Ionic Pro air purifiers have all the same advantages of the Ionic Breeze Air Purifier. The biggest, and sometimes only difference, is the shape and design of the machines themselves. The Ionic Pro Compact Air Purifier is about the same size as some of the smaller Ionic Breeze machines. The Ionic Pro is generally bit cheaper, though. Since ionic air purifiers aren't terribly complicated devices, it's probably safe to go as cheap as you can find.

Compared Against HEPA Air Purifiers

The comparison between HEPA air purifiers and ionic air purifiers is not as simple as you might think. Ionic air purifiers do roughly the same job as a true HEPA air purifier, just not quite as efficiently. They make up for this by silently running 24 hours a day while using very little power. In addition, there are no filters to change, only a bar to wipe off every week or so. HEPA air purifiers are limited by their filter element. They stop what cannot physically pass through that filter. With a true HEPA air purifier, that's 99.7% of the most dangerous particles. With a HEPA-type air purifier, there's no standard at all. Ionic air purifiers all work the same, and are limited only by how much air they can move. Since they electronically attract particles, they will eventually clean the air of just about everything, while a HEPA-type air purifier will never catch whatever passes through the holes. Keep that in mind when comparing. The ionic air purifier is limited to particles that are 1 micron or bigger, though. True HEPA air purifiers stop particles that are 0.3 microns in size, which are proven to be some of the worst on the human respiratory system.

The Ionic Pro Compact Air Purifier Compared Against The Other Ionic Pro Air Purifiers

The differences between the various ionic air purifiers offered by Ionic Pro, LLC aren't generally feature related. Capacity is the biggest difference between them. In small offices and rooms in your home, the Ionic Pro Compact Air Purifier is a good buy. It does lack the "Medium" speed on its fan, utilizing a Lo and High only, although I have no idea why you wouldn't want it on high. At about half the price of the standard unit, it may even make sense to purchase an Ionic Pro Compact Air Purifier for each side of a regular sized room, instead of one standard unit. - 31822

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Want to learn more about the ionic air purifier? Visit Ionic Air Purifier Info.