Filing A Proper Mesothelioma Lawsuit

By Heidi Wingrain

A mesothelioma diagnosis comes as a shock to the victims and they face a plethora of social, mental and financial problems in its wake. The victims are entitled to file a mesothelioma lawsuit for compensation, the only criterion being developing the disease due to exposure to asbestos. Even if the victim is dead, the lawsuit can be filed by one of his or her family members or the executor of their will. If the family members have contracted the disease through the victim, they are also eligible for filing the lawsuit for compensation.

Mesothelioma lawyers are available are available to assist you in filing the lawsuit. Like in other procedures, the process can be lengthy in mesothelioma cases also. Still, with the help of an efficient lawyer, the cases can be sorted out at a fast pace. Adequate research is indispensable from the part of the lawyer to present the case in the best possible manner. It should also be remembered that there is a fixed time limit for filing the case and this time limit differs from State to State. Normally, it is found that the time limit is one to two years from the time of detection of the disease. If the lawsuit is not filed within the particular time, you will lose your eligibility to claim the compensation.

While filing mesothelioma lawsuit, it is important to know when and where you had been exposed to asbestos. This will definitely speed up the process. But a private investigator can be hired through the lawyer to do the necessary research to collect the required information, if you don't remember the details.

Since most of the lawyers in this field work on a no-win no-fee basis, filing the lawsuit would not bring financial burden on the family. Once you win the case, the lawyer will take a percentage of the amount allotted as his fee. Though you cannot foretell how2 much compensation you would get, you can rest assured to get a nice amount that is adequate enough to cover the financial burden incurred due to the disease.

There is no compulsion that the mesothelioma lawsuit should be filed in the State where you stay. In fact, your lawyer would help you to choose the State where there is a better chanced of getting the highest compensation. Money from both the sides can be saved if you go for out-of-court settlements. - 30286

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Sick Building Syndrome Look Into UV Furnace Filters

By Shaw U. Allard

Almost 80% of the constituents floating in the air are not good to or for our health. Simple as that. "Normal air" contains over 350 allergy producing air pollutants and contaminants, including cigarette, germs, bacteria, viruses, fungi, chemical gases, etc. Amazing isn't it. We take for granted that the air around is as pure as "the virgin snow". That is unless we are living in a well known smoggy city. Interestingly it is seldom appreciated that as a simple result, ordinary people may suffer from dizziness, coughing, irritability, sneezing, fatigue, and depression.

Scientists are now developing new ways to prevent illnesses due to air pollution. They found out that filtration itself does not lessen the air pollution and the negative effects and factors. Instead, filters only aid pathogens, like bacteria and molds, to even propagate, grow and even flourish. On the other hand, treatment and disinfectant via Germicidal Ultra-violet air clearly has demonstrated a means of avoiding the spread of infection, like measles, influenza, smallpox, and tuberculosis.

There are a lot of people experiencing what has come to be called "Sick Building syndrome". "SBS" has become termed as an illness mostly found on employees working in highly sealed air-conditioned modern office buildings, towers and skyscrapers. . However, SBS can be cured and even eliminated by the use and practice of UV light systems that are directly installed within in office ventilation systems.

It is well known clinically and scientifically, as well as in the heating and air conditioning ventilation trades - that UV light itself is harmful to bacteria, fungi and viruses such as influenza and Swine Flu and thus can destroy these germs and pathogens that are so present in the local office environment. It's all about prevention. Numerous diseases and environmentally spread illness and diseases can be snapped in the bud. Hence lower incidence and prevalence of diseases at work, such as headaches, sore throats, stuffy nose, and itchy eyes. The result less "sick time" and time booked off due to illness, and higher productivity and even business office profits and profit rates. Researchers from Montreal Chest Institute in Canada conducted an experiment using Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) on three offices in the city. They installed UVGI in ventilation system of the buildings. Study shows 20% reductions of all the symptoms when UV light is turned on. Yet, the remaining 40% were complaints on respiratory problem but there was a 30% reduction of stuffy nose cases. Scientists proved that Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) can kill bacteria and molds in ventilation system. Cheap installation cost but huge in effect, like sickness rate reduction among employees. UVGI can also help several companies to save cost in paying sick employees. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is approved by many government and private agencies like Centers of Disease Control, the Air Institute of Respiratory Education and the Air & Waste Management Association. It is also used by several health care facilities to sterilize operating rooms and medical equipments.

Installing UV on your ventilation system at home is necessary. It will prevent family members from spores and dust mites to avoid asthma. Today, Canadian homes are sealed to maintain heat, as well as the reducing heating cost. Dust mites usually occur in bedding. It can be killed through hot water washing. It might be said that the increases in asthma and respiratory conditions that are so prevalent today are not so much a medical condition as an environmental one. However, installing UV on your ventilation system can help in asthma prevention, as well as energy reduction used for washing the beddings. - 30286

Making Flawless Mesothelioma Claims

By Heidi Wingrain

Mesothelioma is a typical cancer caused by inhaled asbestos particles. Three types of people are mostly affected by this deadly illness. They are the workers involved in asbestos manufacture or application, those people staying near asbestos mines and family members of asbestos workers. On all these cases, mesothelioma occurs unsuspectingly and unheralded.

Even though asbestos had been touted as a wonder material capable of withstanding chemical reactions, heat and had best insulation qualities of all materials available, it has the deadly quality of infecting the mesothelium, the protecting lining of vital organs like lungs, heart, abdomen etc. The workers handling asbestos are forced to inhale the airborne fibers of the mineral in ample quantities for prolonged periods. The intruding particles infect the mesothelium and cause its cells to malfunction. The deadly infection being caused by no fault of their own, all mesothelioma patients are entitled by law to seek compensation from those responsible by filing mesothelioma claims.

The government enacted many laws to alleviate the sufferings of those unlucky enough to get caught up in the quagmire of mesothelioma cancer in the form of monetary support. In addition, stringent security steps have been stipulated to be followed at asbestos mines and factories. Mesothelioma claims have been instrumental in extracting compensation from responsible defendants for their transgressions.

The patient needs to file his claim for compensation within the prescribed time limit after being diagnosed. In most states the period is under two years. In cases where the defendant is not identifiable or has gone bankrupt, litigants are helped through a special asbestos fund constituted for the purpose. Mesothelioma litigation is a very complex field where the defendant may try to save his skin by exploiting the minor fissures in the mesothelioma related laws and the lawsuit filed. Therefore, the lawsuit should be totally solid, factual and logically put together.

Most of the mesothelioma claims are brought to their logical conclusion due to the enthusiasm and toil of the attorney. Courts are also sympathetic towards the hapless victims at the mercy of thoughtless employers who put their lives at jeopardy for more profits. Punitive fines imposed by the court against such companies may often run to millions of dollars. Thus the remuneration amount depends on the strength of the claim. - 30286

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How To Get A Mesothelioma Settlement?

By Heidi Wingrain

There are two officially authorized choices available to Mesothelioma patients to gain mesothelioma compensation. Filing litigation and presenting arguments before a court of law is the most followed, but it entails lengthy court proceedings. However, many big business houses and some other defendants sometimes decide to arrive at a mutually agreeable mesothelioma settlement with the litigant without risking a trial because such a settlement has some visible advantages over litigation. The errant company can thus escape losing their reputation, can save lots money on litigation costs and employ their manpower used for this purpose for other creative purposes.

There is another major factor that pushes the defendant towards a Mesothelioma settlement. Courts, of late, have been severe on those defendants who had knowingly put their workforce into hazardous asbestos exposure. Such severe reprimands can result in severe erosion of clientele. Companies resort to mutually agreed settlements when they know very well that the litigant is absolutely right in pointing fingers at them and have all the necessary proofs. Litigants are also happy to evade hard-nosed arguments and counterclaims, which may take a considerable time to reach the logical end.

But it is not easy to bring a defendant to the negotiation table. Attorneys representing the litigant need to undertake exhaustive investigation into all aspects covering the case including the work history, health history and so on.

The defendant firm may try to escape retrospective penalty by arguing that there were no laws governing environmental, health and legal aspects in practice when the litigant was said to be exposed to asbestos. However, it is not easy to formulate a reasonable settlement with companies that ceased to exist or those who have filed for bankruptcy.

The amount obtained through mesothelioma settlement varies depending on the state in which the suit was filed, the severity of the case etc. The process becomes more difficult for the attorneys representing the litigant because the latency factor or mesothelioma. The first symptoms of the disease may show only after the expiry of several decades, thereby creating an escape route for the accused to wriggle out. But a properly prepared and impermeable mesothelioma lawsuit would invariably fetch the litigant a fair amount through mesothelioma settlement. - 30286

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Analysis Of Patients Who Undergone Mesothelioma Treatments

By Heidi Wingrain

The success of mesothelioma treatments depends on the stage of the cancer at the time of detection. Physicians follow several treatment methods, both traditional and modern. Conventional therapies include surgery, radiation and medications like chemotherapy or a combination of two or three of these. More than two-thirds of stage-1 and stage-2 mesothelioma patients usually get their lives extended by five years or more, and surgery itself has succeeded in doing the same in around sixteen percent of all cases. Surgery involves removing the cancerous growth through surgical incisions. The most common surgery here is the decortication or pleurectomy in which the chest lining is removed. The extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP), which removes the lining around the lung, inside the chest, the hemi-diaphragm and pericardium, is less common.

Radiation is best suited for patients with localized disease. Radiation is also resorted to post-operatively as a consolidating treatment. Sometimes the whole hemi-thorax is subjected to radiation in consonance with chemotherapy. This type of treatment has extended the lives of thousands of mesothelioma patients. Radiation can also act as a preventive measure against the spread of malignant cells.

If the disease is not widely spread, radiation is the best treatment option. It can also be given post-operatively. In consonance with chemotherapy, sometimes the entire hemi-thorax is made to undergo radiation. Thousands of mesothelioma patients have received added years due to this type of treatment. The spread of destructive cells can be further prevented through radiation. Among all the mesothelioma treatments chemotherapy is found to be the best. It is not a harsh treatment like radiation or surgery, though the process is lengthy. The patient finds it physically and emotionally difficult to tolerate.

Immunotherapy, which strives to improve the immune response, has yielded vacillating results so far. Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy, in which drugs are heated to a certain degree of temperature before being administered, helps improved penetration of anti-cancer drugs. Researches are on to find alternative and more effective mesothelioma treatments.

The extent of the disease, the age of the patient and his or her overall health are taken into consideration before starting treatment. Before starting the process, the patient needs to find out the best suitable treatment, its costs, advantages or disadvantages of the treatment strategy followed, risk factors and chances of survival. In cases where aggressive mesothelioma treatments are impossible, palliative treatment, which treats only the symptoms and not the root cause, is followed. - 30286

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Lung Mesothelioma Survival Rate

By Heidi Wingrain

Cancer mesothelioma affects the protective lining of our internal organs called mesothelium and is a fatal disease. It is usually acquired as a result of prolonged contact with asbestos. Many workers have lost their lives and their families are shattered because of this disease. Asbestos has been banned at workplaces, though it has not produced many results. The reason behind this is that mesothelioma cancer develops only many years after the person is exposed to asbestos.

There are mainly three types of mesothelioma - pleural, peritoneal and pericardial. All these are potential threats to human life and are detected only after thirty or more years making it extremely difficult to claim for damages from the employer. This affects the effectiveness of treatment also.

The fight against this cancer has been a multi-pronged one. While many governments have banned the use of asbestos, the law stipulates stringent compensation measures, which enable the affected persons or their family members to claim some money as a solace. Medical researches are on to find better and more effective treatment strategies to counter the menace of cancer mesothelioma.

Symptoms like fever, fatigue, wheezing etc often herald the outbreak of this cancer. Once diagnosed with it, the patient is put through a series of medications, including chemotherapy. But chemotherapy is a painful experience with side effects like high fever, nausea, a feeling of numbness in fingers and toes, rashes developing on the skin on its own, sores in mouth or throat, continued fatigue, diarrhea or constipation making life hell for the patients. Sometimes surgery and radiation therapy are also employed.

With the advancement in medical technology newer tools and procedures are invented for early detection and treatment of cancer mesothelioma. Modern treatment methods include immunotherapy, angiogenesis, photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, complementary and alternative medicine etc. These days palliative care is becoming highly popular. This involves lessening the pain the patient has to endure.

Long term clinical care is required for cancer mesothelioma. Joined efforts of social workers, medical experts, nutritionists and psychologists can work wonders for the hopeless patients. They can provide comfort and a motivation for the patients assailing in despair. Ultimately this will provide them the will to live and respond positively to the treatment process. - 30286

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Nutritional Supplements Can Be an Effective Way to Control Your Asthma

By Kim Archer

In the U.S. there are over ten million individuals who are asthma sufferers, and many doctors regard asthma as an epidemic since it so rampant. Exposure to noxious chemicals in the air and environmental pollution are usually held responsible for contributing to this disease. There's an increase in the number of people dying from asthma, mostly because the warning signs are being disregarded.

When an asthma attack is happening, the lung's air passages start to swell and secrete mucus. Quickly they will begin to spasm. As the airways become narrower, it gets more difficult to breathe. The most frequent symptoms of an asthma attack are wheezing, breathlessness, coughing, congestion, fever, pain and dry mouth.

Pretty much anything can cause an attack. The most common cause of an attack are allergic reactions, and other causes include stress, a poor diet, overexertion, or a respiratory infection. A number of attacks are activated by way of exposure to irritants like exhaust fumes, smoke, the smell of gas, or pollen. An attack can also be brought on by certain foods including peanuts, corn, dairy or chocolate. Antibiotics, hormone therapy and tranquilizers are also potential issues.

There are a number of herbal, mineral and vitamin supplements that can be utilized to manage asthma. Vitamin B is the most important of these. Not only can it lower the severity of an attack, it also preserves the biochemical equilibrium in your body.

If you take vitamin A and E together, they can work to protect your lungs against air pollution. You can also take large doses of vitamin C, as it's very effective in combating asthma. Gingko biloba is another good choice, as it will improve your breathing and help with your bronchial reactions, as is odorless garlic, which contains an anti-inflammatory agent that will lessen the probability of an attack.

If you think you might have asthma, see your doctor as quickly as you can to get tested. Until then, eat a diet high in protein with lots of vegetables and fruits and steer clear of known triggers.

Asthma can be very distressing, but there are ways that you can fight back and help to manage it effectively. If your health care provider tells you that you in fact have asthma, ask him any questions that come to mind and get his advice on what you ought to be doing and what to avoid.

It's possible to prevent an asthma attack, so there is no reason for it to keep you from the activities you enjoy. It can generally be contained even if it does slow you down for a period of time. - 30286

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Was The Ionic Breeze Air Purifier Just A Deception That Eventually Hung The Sharper Image?

By Wilma Perkins

You remember the original Ionic Breeze air purifier, don't you? They were all over the TV with infomercials, and made brief appearances at Radio Shacks as well as The Sharper Image's retail stores, if you could find one. Then they were suddenly gone, and it seemed as if The Sharper Image went with them. Search the web and you'll find tons of negative commentary about how The Sharper Image supposedly lied in their claims about the Ionic Breeze. Yet, if you can actually find any reviews written by people that used them, they all have good things to say about the Ionic Breeze. We'll take a look at both sides of the coin and get to the truth of the Ionic Breeze air purifier.

The Ionic Breeze Air Purifier Is Not As Effective As a HEPA Air Purifier

The Sharper Image made no claims that their Ionic Breeze could clean polluted air as effectively as a True HEPA purifier. They avoided that subject, actually, just as all good business people do with stats that don't really benefit their product. It was Consumer Reports who first mentioned the efficiency of the product, saying that it only cleaned 30% of the air pollution. They neglected, however, to take into consideration the fact that the unit was intended to be run 24/7, therefore cleaning the same air repeatedly. No, it would never reach 100%, but then neither does any other air purifier. They're not as efficient as a True HEPA air purifier, but after time, it will get the job done. Ionic purifiers are also much less expensive to maintain, as well as to operate and purchase in the first place. It's also worth mentioning that Consumer Reports compared the ionic air purifier to True HEPA air purifiers, not the more common, and much cheaper HEPA-type air purifiers. HEPA-type purifiers don't have to adhere to any specific rules, but True HEPA machines aren't affordable to all.

The Ionic Breeze Actually Makes The Air Unhealthy

The theory is that ionic air purifiers release a ton of ozone when cleaning the air. But that's just not the case. The best explanation for this misconception is that people don't know the difference between ionic air purifiers and ozone generators, which are somewhat similar, but do use ozone to clean the air. There is no factual data stating that ionic air purifiers put out unsafe amounts of ozone, and Consumer Reports even said that the Ionic Breeze air purifier passes HEPA guidelines in regards to ozone. Actually, the Ionic Breeze silent air purifier passes every HEPA guideline except for efficiency.

Some Say The Ionic Breeze Air Purifier Killed The Sharper Image

The Sharper Image did end up filing for bankruptcy in 2008, but not due to lack of sales. The reason they went under is because The Sharper Image was a publicly traded company, and their reputation had been so badly damaged that the price of their stock plummeted to well under a dollar per share. Even at the time of bankruptcy, the company actually had over $50 million equity, not including liquid cash. They simply couldn't overcome the bad publicity, regardless of the quality of their products.

Have Ionic Air Purifiers Improved Since Then?

Newer ionic air purifiers aren't significantly different from the original as the concept behind was not only simple, but effective, and wouldn't be easy to improve. Simply put, ionic air purifiers effectively, though slowly, clean air pollution just fine, and they do it quite cheaply. The original Ionic Breeze itself might be hard to find, but newer versions of it as well as the Ionic Pro air purifier and various generics are still easily obtainable. - 30286

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Mesothelioma Legal Recourse

By Heidi Wingrain

The most dragging and expensive of all the health related lawsuits is the mesothelioma litigation. Though there are several reasons behind this the most important one is that the disease lies inactive for many years before the symptoms are revealed. The passage of time makes it difficult to decide whether the infection is caused by the negligent attitude of the defendant or from some other source.

Another reason is that many companies try to wash their hands off what their executives did decades ago by arguing that none of their present employees are affected by the deadly disease. In addition, thousands of fraudulent applications for compensation had also been filed by unscrupulous individuals. So the court has to examine threadbare all the claims and counterclaims before arriving at a fair decision. Mesothelioma legal advice is therefore highly essential for the litigants to understand the nuances of the process and bring up a flawless case full of justifiable facts so as to gain the sympathy of the jury.

Many mesothelioma legal firms are there which deal exclusively on mesothelioma compensation. Asbestos, being a naturally occurring highly useful product has been put to use extensively in manufacturing cement, insulation material, ship building etc. But the connection between asbestos and mesothelioma was discovered very late. Asbestos has the capacity to cause other diseases also.

Many unfortunate workers in the asbestos companies and quarries inhaled the air borne fine particles thereby exposing them to the risk of mesothelioma cancer. Unwashed cloths and hair of the workers made the family members also susceptible to the disease. Till strict laws were implemented by the authorities many companies chose to hide the health aspect of asbestos. Many governments have banned the use of certain kinds of asbestos and some have enacted preventive measures. Also the people who contracted the disease through asbestos exposure were given the right to seek compensation from the former employers.

The increase in the number of mesothelioma cases and the heavy amount of compensation involved have developed mesothelioma litigation compensation into a legal business. The claimants can rely up on mesothelioma legal experts to handle the legal process. An expert professional can definitely help the client to earn a handsome compensation within a short period of time. - 30286

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Effective Asthma Herbal Remedies

By Andrew Vargas

All asthma sufferers can commiserate with the feeling of helplessness that can be brought on by an asthma attack. When I continued to struggle with my asthma even after the doctors has tried multiple medications and therapies on me, it was obvious that I needed to start doing my own research and find a method of treatment that would work for me. This is when I discovered asthma herbal remedies.

Anyone who has dealt with asthma for any length of time is familiar with the different medications that are supposed to help. Now, these medications are helpful for some, but others do not get relief or if they get relief, it can come at a great cost. For example, I've had times in my life when my asthma was being treated with three different medications at the same time, a steroid, an inhaler and allergy medication. I can tell you this really messed with my brain. I finally called a stop to the madness when I realized that my memory was failing me. And I mean really failing me. I would be driving down the road and not remember how I got to where I was. That was pretty scary!

Using asthma herbal remedies has been my own little miracle. I feel like the treatments are so gentle and the herbs work with my body, not against it. It has been my experience and the experience of countless others that asthma herbal remedies, if used consistently, can vastly improve your quality of life because asthma will no longer be an uncontrollable factor in your life.

One of the first things I discovered in my research is that there is actually a way to clean your blood with herbs. Now, I'm into cleaning so this really peaked my interest. Many things can be helped and alleviated with cleaning your blood which is like detoxing. Asthma can often be controlled by getting on an herbal regimen that will cleanse your blood. If you think about it, this really makes sense because if your body is busy trying to work with "dirty" blood, it won't be able to fight effectively against the things that trigger your asthma.

There are two types of asthma herbal remedies to try; herbal combinations and single herbs. Herbal combinations, or herb combos as I like to call them, are simply two or more herbs used together. When you make an herb combo simply mix them together and run the herbs through a coffee grinder. This breaks down the herbs enough to fit into a gel capsule. Gel capsules are nice because you won't have to taste the herb or try to mix them in a juice or some type of drink.

Using single herbs has the obvious benefit of being less expensive because you only need to purchase one herb. If you are new to asthma herbal remedies, I suggest you start with one herb such as alfalfa. Alfalfa is great for allergies and because asthma can often be triggered by allergies, this herb goes a long way in relieving asthma. To use alfalfa simply run it through a coffee grinder and put it in gel capsules for easy swallowing. You can also add the alfalfa powder to green smoothies, tea, or any drink you would like.

It really was a relief to use asthma herbal remedies and get off some of the prescription medications I was taking. Obtaining gentle and effective asthma relief truly is a blessing and I can guarantee you won't regret looking into alternative methods of treating your asthma. - 30286

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Medicinal Mushroom Alcohol Extract vs. Hot Water Extract

By Dr. Markho Rafael

For two millennia, medicinal mushrooms have been mainstream in Asia. Now, America is taking notice and interest is rapidly "mushrooming." With the sprouting of this new industry follows issues of ethical quality claims between competing brands.

This information applies to all species of medicinal mushrooms. For practical purposes, this article will focus on the most popular medicinal mushroom species, red reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), over which the most intense battle of conflicting claims is being fought.

The first and perhaps obvious caution is to stay away from cheap mass-produced brands of medicinal mushrooms that may only contain dried and pulverized mushrooms, in which case the medicinal compounds are still inaccessible behind the mushrooms' cell walls.

Then there are the real therapeutic grade red reishi brands, which are produced with much more care. But even here there are big differences between brands. Each claims to be the best, of course, because they want to sell their product. So lets set the facts straight and be independently informed consumers.

Following are the three primary ways of creating reishi extracts. Each method yields different medicinal compounds, all of which are shown in scientific studies to have important properties.

1. Water (Hot) Extraction (polysaccharides, etc.)

2. Alcohol Extraction (triterpenoids, sterols)

3. Fermented (arabinoxylanes, etc.)

The most important hot water extracted compounds are the polysaccharides. Studies have shown them to possess strong anti-tumor properties, help boost immune system and be powerful antioxidants. [1]

The alcohol soluble compounds are mainly triterpenoids, a large group of related compounds. Scientific studies suggest they help stabilize cholesterol, blood pressure and clotting. Most importantly, they are the anti-inflammatory compounds so critical to many of reishi's suggested uses, including arthritis, allergies and asthma. [1]

And then there are the new and unique medicinal compounds that get created when reishi is fermented. These "secondary metabolites" have their own therapeutic properties, different from the first two groups, including anti-tumor, immune support and blood-sugar balance. [2]

Since this article is not intended to elevate any one brand over another, no brand names will be mentioned. Nevertheless, the author does know of two highly reputed brands (American and Japanese) that claim only hot water extracted red reishi is of any value and that alcohol extracts are useless.

They do that, of course, because they wish to sell their products. However, there is no scientific validity to those claims. All three extraction methods listed above yield important medicinal compounds.

When looking for the best reishi extract, find one that uses at least the first two extraction methods in combination: Hot Water and Alcohol Extraction. Even better may be a brand that includes all three methods listed.

An additional point to keep in mind is the form the reishi comes in. Reishi that dissolves completely in a water-based liquid such as coffee probably only contains reishi from hot water extraction. As a substitute for regular coffee, this would be a superb health-choice. However, it will not contain the water-insoluble triterpenoids so valued for their anti-inflammatory properties.

On the other hand, alcohol tinctures can actually contain both water soluble polysaccharides and alcohol soluble triterpenoids. The way you know is that the polysaccharides will fall out of solution because of the alcohol, and will make the tincture cloudy. That's alright though; you just need to shake before you take. Capsules and tablets may be one or the other or both. The only way to know is ask the manufacturer or read their information.

[1] Boh B, Berovic M, Zhang J, Zhi-Bin L. "Ganoderma lucidum and its pharmaceutically active compounds." Biotechnol Annu Rev. 2007;13:265-301.

[2] Tang YJ, Zhang W, Zhong JJ. "Performance analyses of a pH-shift and DOT-shift integrated fed-batch fermentation process for the production of ganoderic acid and Ganoderma polysaccharides by medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum." Bioresour Technol. 2009 Mar;100(5):1852-9. - 30286

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True HEPA Air Purifers Truly Are Superior

By Heath Plunger

You will probably see items that are labeled "True" HEPA if you shop for HEPA air purifiers. So, I'm sure you're wondering, does that mean there's a false one? Of course you would never find a product that boldly proclaimed to be a sub-standard HEPA air purifier, but to be called a True HEPA air purifier, there are some differences. As with any other purchase, it's left to the consumer to figure out the differences and know if they need to look for one or the other. Let's examine True HEPA air purifiers and why some products may not claim this.

True HEPA Air Purifiers Are Different

A True HEPA air purifier, also known as an absolute HEPA air purifier, is different even from other HEPA air purifiers. When companies reference the effectiveness of HEPA air purifiers as stated by government entities such as the EPA and OSHA, they are generally referring to the True type, even if they do not blatantly say so. Although there are other types of air purifiers out there, True HEPA air purifiers are the only ones that are used in sensitive areas such as hospitals and laboratories.

True HEPA Air Purifiers Stop Particles Of DOOM

Of the different specifications that True HEPA air purifiers have to meet, the most important is probably the 97% of all 0.3 micron particles. This stat is incredibly important, and not as technical as it may sound. Of all the different pollutants floating around out there, it's been found that 0.3 micron particles generally are the hardest to filter, even including those that are smaller. They also are the most likely to cause problems in the human body, and have no problem scooting right past our natural defenses. See, 0.3 micron particles are more scary than nerdy, aren't they? If you want an idea of the size we're talking about, compare 0.3 microns to the human hair. Human hair is generally anywhere between 70 and 100 microns thick.

True HEPA Air Purifiers Actually Work Better When Dirty

This part of our discussion is where you will see both the main difference between true HEPA air purifiers and others and also where the terms "Absolute" and "True" become one and the same. Designed to be more effective dirty than when clean, the absolute filtration system's trapped particles will actually increase the power of the true HEPA air purifier's filtration. Very simple in reality, the explanation is that the spaces for the the air to pass becomes smaller as the dirt builds up.

Is There A Way To Tell If A HEPA Air Purifier Is True?

Look for products that actually advertise that they are True HEPA air purifiers. The alternative is the HEPA-type air purifier, which is really just an imitation, and is not held to any particular standard. If you find a purifier that doesn't say either HEPA-type or True HEPA, you can also reference other specifications on the box. Look for one that filters 97% or more of the 0.3 micron particles if you want a True HEPA air purifier. - 30286

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Can One Still Procure An Ionic Air Purifier Somewhere?

By Irene Polaski

Many of us remember The Sharper Image and their stores that were in many major cities. As is normal with store closures, most people that knew of those retail outlets probably think that ionic air purifiers are no longer obtainable. This is not necessarily the case, although ionic air purifiers sold under then name "The Sharper Image" are no longer being manufactured. If you're looking for an ionic air purifier, you have a few options.

Ionic Pro Ionic Air Purifier

The Ionic Pro works much like the Ionic Breeze from Sharper Image did, but is quite a bit cheaper. The maintenance, or lack thereof, is the same. When it starts buzzing lightly, remove the filter element, wipe it off, and replace it. That's really all there is to it. Since it doesn't use a fan, it's more energy efficient and quieter than a HEPA air purifier, although less effective. Still, if you're looking for a cheap way to clean a 500 ft room without having yet another noisemaker in your home, this ionic air purifier might be a good choice for you.

Generic Ionic Air Purifiers

There are also other ionic air purifiers that don't have any branding at all. These are generally available for around a hundred dollars, and can be found in dollar or bargain stores as well as some websites. Be wary of a lack of warranty though as whatever return policy the retailer has may be your only safety net if it doesn't work right. However, these cheap off brands can be considered at least somewhat safe since the tech that they use is pretty simple.

Noisy Ionic Air Purifiers

Generally speaking, an ionic air purifier doesn't use a moving fan. Instead, it will use the motion of the air particles that are magnetically pulled toward the machine to create a very slight breeze. Consumer Reports did not feel that this was enough, however, and only certified one that did use a fan. This might not work for some people, though, since they may be considering an ionic air purifier simply because it is silent, even though it's less effective. The advantage of cheaper, filterless maintenance still stands, though.

Buying A HEPA Air Purifier Instead

Instead of an ionic air purifier, you may want to purchase a HEPA air purifier. The main difference lies in the maintenance and filtration. With a HEPA air purifier, you have a filter element that needs to be thrown away every so often and replaced, sort of like your air conditioner. With an ionic air purifier, you have no filters since the offending pollutants just get stuck to the cleanable bar that can just be wiped off. HEPA air purifiers are widely accepted to be more effective than ionic air purifiers, however. - 30286

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Kinds, Immediate Causes and Prevention of Allergy Asthma

By Henry Lewis

Asthma is a disorder impacting on the airways of the lungs. Replying to certain triggers the mucous surfaces of the lungs of a patient swell up causing the bronchial tubes to go into spasm. This makes breathing complicated. The muscles may tighten up and inappropriate mucus might be produced leading to trouble breathing and panting. Unlike any other respiration conditions like protracted bronchitis and obstructive pulmonary illness, the redness due to asthma is reversible and often replies well to medicine.

There are basically two types of asthma:

1. Intrinsic - occurring as a result of an infection or later in life.

2. Extrinsic - caused by allergies.

Common allergens include several food types which can result in an immediate asthmatic response. These include seafood, nuts and eggs. While other foods such as wheat, chocolate and certain food coloring and additives may result in a delayed response. Asthma may also be triggered by allergy to dust mites, pollen, dust, insect sprays or other pollutants.

The degree of severity of asthma varies widely, with some patients suffering only occasional symptoms while others may have a constant underlying level of inflammation and consequent impairment of breathing.

Evidence of protracted underlying asthma include difficulty breathing during exercise, persistent cough and the continuing urge to clear the throat, tightness of chest and panting. Exacerbation of asthma can lead to what's typically called an asthma attack. In this example the patient experiences trouble breathing even during rest, fast heart beat, puffing and chest constriction, rhonchus or loud respiring and coughing. Depending on seriousness of the assault air intake be could be so limited the patient may turn blue and even lose consciousness.

Info about causes and the development of asthma is some distance from complete. studies appear to suggest that it is closely linked with the body's immunological responses. Incidence is understood to change noticeably between racial groups, wealthy and poorer areas of the planet and also based totally on environmental components for example. Research has demonstrated links with the following :

Exposure to tobacco smoke seems to be related to higher prevalence of asthma

Kids born through caesarean section seem to have noticeably higher levels of asthma than those born by vaginal delivery. It is said this is due to assorted levels of bacterial exposure during delivery and it's result on development of the immunological system.

Extreme levels of environmental contaminants have also been associated with higher incidence.

Stress has long been suspected of triggering asthma. It is hypothesized that stress may affect the functioning of the immune system and therefore indirectly influence the incidence of asthma.

Regular exposure to antibiotics particularly at a young age as well as being raised in an intolerably hygienic environment, to explain not being exposed to the common adolescence breathing infections etc may leave the immunological response compromised and lead to larger possibility of developing asthma. On the other hand evidence implies that children who grow up in bigger families and are exposed to the common infancy sicknesses are way more resilient when it comes round to keeping asthma in check.

Treatment and control over asthma may involve a couple of approaches including life changes, medication and dietary changes and include :

Eliminating or reducing exposure to the trigger factors in the the environment or diet.

Giving up smoking and avoiding exposure to 2nd hand smoke.

Reducing or eliminating dairy products from diet as dairy products promote the production of mucus.

Medicine including short term or long-term Bronchodilators could be used to deal with bronchospasms related to asthma.

Vitamin C and Cod liver oil could also be used to reduce seriousness of reactions and redness. - 30286

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Methods To Get Rid Of Asthma

By Eddy Kong

Getting rid of your asthma may not be as easy as you think; in fact it's not possible to totally rid yourself of this condition. Since asthma is a chronic disease; meaning recurring and long lasting, there is no cure for it. No medication has been developed that will totally eliminate this condition. But with the advances in medical technology a lot of effective medicines have been produced and methods introduced that help asthmatics deal with their condition.

Even if there is no cure for asthma, there is another thing that asthmatics can count on - control. Having total control or near total control over your asthma allows you to leave your life more freely without worrying about having asthma attacks. Of course, you can't go running around asthma triggers. That's just asking for it. Achieving control can take months, or even years. This will require persistence, perseverance, and patience as this will require you to understand everything about your own condition and its triggers. You have to have the will to stick to your medication long enough to achieve control.

Along with regular medication, there are therapies and exercises safe enough to try for dealing with asthma. Breathing techniques such as the Buteyko Method, Papworth, and Pranayama have all done wonders. They have had their share of clinical trials and have been proven to work despite the lack of medicine involved. Besides these three, there are other techniques you may want to try out. Some of them really work but science cannot explain why. Remember to do your own research before using those methods and ask a second opinion from your doctor.

There are alternative medications and home remedies out there as well. The most popular is the herbal medicines. If you would like to try them out, do some research first. Most of them have not passed FDA standards and may have adverse side effects; not to mention they're probably a scam. Not all home remedies should be avoided, though. Safe ones include, but are not limited to, coffee, honey, and ginger. To be perfectly sure, research.

Controlling your asthma is not a joke. It can take a lot of time and effort before any improvement can be seen. Live your life as healthy as you can. A lot of people have learned to control their asthma. You can too. - 30286

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4 Asthma Symptoms That You Should Be Aware When Exercising

By Johnson Star

Asthma is delicate and unpredictable condition. Episodes of asthma can quickly manifest, sometimes without warning. For those interested in engaging in physical activities, asthma can drive them to frustration. We all know the importance of exercise, whether you are an asthmatic or not.

Doctors never advise asthmatics that they should stop exercising. In fact, it is encouraged. Exercise promotes general well being and strengthens immunity to inhaled allergens. The problem is that asthma attack can occur out of exercising, which is supposed to be beneficial for them. Exercise induced asthma is one of the reasons why a lot of asthmatics avoid physical activities.

There are ways that asthmatics can still do your workouts without having to worry about your asthma. Having the knowledge of various symptoms and being proactive enough when your run to these symptoms, it is possible to prevent them from becoming a full blown asthma attack. Here are some of the exercise induced asthma symptoms that you should be aware of:

Chest pains: Chest tightness and sharp chest pains are some of the most common asthma symptoms. When you exercise, this is usually what you would feel first. This symptom is often followed by a feeling of numbness to other parts of the body. If you feel your chest getting a little heavy during exercise, stop for a moment and take your medication. Postponing your workout would be a good idea. Scheduling your workout as an every other day affair is better.

Lightheadedness: This tells you that your body cannot keep up with the activities that you are currently doing. Tone down your regimen a little or pause for a few minute breaks in between to rest. To be on the safe side, keep your medications close, and take them if you see fit.

Persistent coughing: Coughing is a strong signal that you are going to be soon out of breath. Coughing during workouts can only mean one thing: you are not getting enough air due to your airways becoming narrowed. This happens when airborne particles get in contact with the lungs, or you just exerted too much force that you put a little strain on your body. Keep in mind that if your body can't keep up with what you're doing, it will shut down on you to put your activity to a stop.

Wheezing: Wheezing is the most obvious sign that you are starting to have an asthma attack, whether you're exercising or not. When you start whistling involuntarily, immediately drop whatever you are doing and observer your condition. Take a puff from your inhaler if you see fit. It would be safe to continue your workout another day. Sometimes you can resume once the wheezing stops.

Monitor your body closely during exercising so as to avoid unwelcome asthma attacks. Do not push your body to the limits, as the next bed you may be sleeping in would be a hospital bed. - 30286

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Benefits Of Different Breathing Methods For Asthmatics

By Jamie Sue Tan

With the increasing number of children getting affected with asthma every year, the condition has gained more and more attention from the masses. Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by the tightening of the chest muscles, inflammation of the lung linings, and accumulation of mucus. The constriction of the airways allows little air to pass through; making it hard to breathe. Asthma is defined in a number of ways. You can find information in allergic asthma, bronchial asthma, and cardiac asthma on the web. While the names may be different, all of them work the same way.

A lot of sites on the internet contain information on drugs and therapies claiming to "cure" asthma. To make it perfectly clear, asthma can be controlled to a point where it is almost nonexistent, but that doesn't mean that its not there or it has been cured. It can still resurface if left unmonitored and untreated; there is no cure for it. But not having a cure does not mean that you won't be able to achieve relief from this condition as well.

There are a lot of alternative medication, therapies, herbal products, and home remedies that you can possibly try. The only setback with alternatives is that you are not assured of safety. Since most of the herbal products do not pass FDA regulation, side effects are rarely listed and fewer pharmacological companies mention or place it in the labels. Some of the home remedies on the other hand have scientific explanations behind what makes them effective and others would just seem to have irrational and ridiculous rationalization as to why they are effective against the condition.

Alternative medicine is not evidence-based, so they are not generally trusted by the people who have been used to mainstream medicine. Actually, not all alternative methods are bad. Breathing exercises boast three effective techniques, namely Papworth, Buteyko, and Pranayama, which negate the use of inhalers.

Learning how to breathe correctly can improve your condition without the fear of having any side effects. You can start on your own or you can ask for professional help to get more out of every session. With practice and mastery, a lot of clinical trial result shows general improvement in the condition of asthmatics, lowering attacks and medication intake. If you are interested in taking any of the breathing exercises that are being offered, you can search the internet or your local library for more information. Just remember to notify your doctor first before starting; they can give you more advice on what you need to look out for and how you will be able to get the most out of it. - 30286

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Asthma Herbal Remedies That Completely Works

By Jonathan Park

The increasing number of herbal remedies is both good and bad news to the consuming public. The good news is, there are more choices for individuals, and the prices will go down because of the competition. The bad news is, the large number of new products makes it difficult to tell which ones are effective and which one are to be avoided. The slightest miscalculation of the formula in herbal medicines and the confusion with the name (since Chinese give similar sounding names to different products) can result in a poisoned asthmatic.

While there is no doubt about the ability of herbs to help promote physical wellbeing and strengthen immunity, more and more cases of hospitalization due to side effects from certain herbal products have somewhat scarred its image. But it would be unfair to generalize as some herbal products can really help you achieve the long term relief and greater control that you yearn for. Here are a few examples of those safe, effective, and proven asthma herbal remedies:

Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper is widely recognized as a cooking ingredient or a condiment. The truth is, it is actually regarded as one of the purest and oldest in the herb kingdom. Cayenne contains capsaicin which promotes circulation to any organ it comes into contact with. It helps break down mucus in the lungs and prevents inflammation. If you are open to making a choice with alternative medications for asthma, you can not go wrong with cayenne.

Ginger: Ginger is another kitchen mainstay. It is one of the most common and widely used herbal remedies in the world. People in India, as well as in most parts of Asia, have been using ginger to treat different kinds of illnesses, including asthma. Science has also attested to the fact that ginger has medicinal qualities. The active components found in ginger acts both as an expectorant, and a bronchodilator during asthma attacks.

Chamomile: Chamomile extracts called terpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help you prevent other respiratory problems because of the large amounts of antioxidants it contains. If the name sounds familiar but you can't really put your finger on it, chamomile is popular in tea form. Taken daily, it helps boost your immune system, and it's also delicious.

If you have noticed, not all of the herbal alternatives out there are dangerous. Most of them are quite common and you may be surprised to find more just sitting in your own kitchen. Do more research of your own and you can find the herbal treatments that will do wonders for you. - 30286

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