Inflammation verses Edema
Inflammation is a histamine response in the body, a defense mechanism. The swelling causes the circulation of blood to slow, in case of injury, to prevent excessive internal bleeding, which is evident as bruising when close to the surface of the skin. Inflammation also to slows down the distribution of toxins, by the blood stream, through out the body. An example of this is swelling caused by a bee sting, bug bite, or abdominal bloating in the case of food allergies.
Edema is swelling caused by the accumulation of fluid under the skin.
For swelling on the surface of the body, pressing the skin can determine whether it is inflammation or edema. Edema has a tendency to leave a depression with pressure, as opposed to inflammation which leaves no depression. Edema is often evident by marks left by the top of socks on the legs.
While chronic swelling should be medically checked, occasional swelling can be dealt with at home. Bromelain is a digestive enzyme, available in Health Food Stores. Enzymatic Therapies is a good brand. Used with meals, it just digests food. One to two pills, 500 - 1,000 mg, between meals (an hour before or after) is incredible for inflammation and swelling. If stools become loose reduce or discontinue dosage, as it is an indication that the inflammation is resolved and so the food is being overly digested.
Bromelain should not be used for head trauma, until concussion, or internal bleeding is ruled out. For other types of inflammation it is often more effective than other anti-inflammatory medication, and is now being used by plastic surgeons to quickly reduce swelling and speed recovery in their patients.
Cucumber is good for edema, if eaten without salad dressing or other condiments. One whole cumber, sliced up and eaten through out the day is a good remedy for mild edema.
Health and Happiness'
Nancy Burton, L.Ac.
No comments:
Post a Comment