Allergy | Fibromyalgia | Studies of Interest | Amazon Herbs | Articles | Contact Us

Allergy

Rhinitis and asthma (IGE mediated) are conditions common to up to 30% of affected Americans. Allergies are no longer believed to be just nasal, lung and skin conditions, but we know that as “systemic conditions” they more easily affect “Quality of Life.”

The table below shows the results health-related Quality of Life (QOL) in patients with asthma and rhinitis based on a test developed by Bousquet et. al. (Am. J. Respir. Crit. Care Med. 1194, vol. 149 & J. Allergy Clin. Immunol. 1194, vol 94). Both groups studied report a compromised QOL due to disease-related symptoms; those with rhinitis generally experienced greater impairment in all domains tested except physical functioning and pain.

Back To Top

Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, and “Candida Syndrome”

Fibromyalgia is a rheumatic condition classified by the presence of at least 11 of 18 specific tender points throughout the body and by widespread pain in at least three regions of the body. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a condition characterized by pervasive fatigue that will not go away and that interferes with daily life. This fatigue is accompanied by fevers and sore throats among other symptoms.

In our practices, we often see overlap of these three conditions. Frequently, when a person has one of these conditions, they also have some symptoms of the others. Additionally, persons with these conditions may have disturbed sleep patterns and/or insomnia, depression, anxiety, allergies, environmental sensitivities, chronic or recurrent yeast infections, gastrointestinal disturbances and thyroid problems.

Back To Top

Studies of Interest

Reduced vigilance and cognitive functioning is associated with allergic rhinitis. Recently, decrements in vigilance and cognitive functioning have been associated with ragweed-induced allergic rhinitis. Wilken JA, Berkowitz R, Kane R. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2002; 89:372-380.

High level of comorbidity in greater than 40,000 cases of allergic rhinitis included an increase in the incidence of migraines, depression, and anxiety. This supports the “systemic” effects associated with all rhinitis. Crystal-Peters J, Neslusan CA, Smith MW, Togias A. Health care costs of allergic rhinitis-associated conditions vary with allergy season. Ann Allergy Asthman Immunol. 2002;89:457-462.

The mechanisms are not clear but perhaps numerous “chemical” cytokines released with the IGE-allergen reaction may trigger conditions already present. In Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue for example, we’ve found that managing the allergies helps reduce the fatigue, depression, yeast infections and pain. Perhaps by rebalancing the immune function (TH1 and TH2 cells reducing inflammation etc…)

Available prescription medications that may be helpful:

1. Lexapro is the most selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. It has been very helpful in patients with the depression and anxiety that accompany chronic illness.
2. Wellbutrin SR seems to have both norepinephrine and dopamine modulating effects that help especially with fatigue, apathy, lowered productivity and trouble concentrating.
3. Effexor X-R has norepinephrine, serotonin and norepinephrine effects and has modulating effects.
4. Remeron has both serotonin and norepinephrine effects and has strong antihistaminic actions which help with sleep.
5. Serzone has both serotonin and norepinephrine effects and it helps anxiety.
6. NSAIDS (non-steroidal antinflammatory drugs) which can be non-prescription such as: Ibuprofen [Motrin, Advil], Naprosen [Aleve] and by prescription: Relafen, Volataren, Toradol, etc…These drugs help relieve inflammation.
7. Flexeril and Soma act as muscle relaxants.
8. Viox and Celebrex are newer NSAIDS which have fewer side effects than the earlier NSAIDS.
9. Some supplements may be of benefit such as: Magnesium, Malic Acid, Melatonin, Relora, Rhodiola, Fish Oils, Flax Seed, Stevia (which helps control blood sugar and yet is a natural sweetener), Turmeric (a natural antinflammatory), Chromium and various other antinflammatory prescriptions and supplements.

Hypnosis works quite effectively as a tool for pain management and reduction as well. Dyan uses her own protocols individually tailored to specific issues and problems for greatest effectiveness. Part of this technique does involve self-discipline in listening to audio tapes of the hypnosis session and activating oneself to heal.

Back To Top

Amazon Herbs

When we first used the Amazon Herbs in 1996 we were astonished at their immediate effectiveness in reducing allergy symptoms, maximizing mental focus and alertness, and enhancing stamina. We traveled to the Peruvian Rainforest with John Easterling, founder of Amazon Herb Company in June 1997; John is a man of utmost integrity and consciousness who has dedicated his life to the preservation of the Amazon Rainforest and to the purity of the herbs from there. He has worked extensively with the native tribes to harvest the herbs and bring them to the West using a Spyagric process; the Spyagric process preserves the integrity of the herbs and provides us their benefits as though we are actually eating the whole herb. Natives harvest the Amazon Herbs in ritual and in prayer; the trees and plants remain in tact and enhance the productivity of the area. A percentage of each sale of the herbs is paid to the indigenous people for preserving their land and to enhance their life and work. When we visited the Rainforest with John, we were extremely impressed with the respect the tribes have for him and the love. He has introduced and provided them and us with a true gift. We would not start our day without our Amazon herbs. And Chocamaca is now available; it is an organic chocolate from the Rainforest laced with herbs. It is delicious and low calorie (1 weight watcher point per piece).

Back To Top

Articles

Homocysteine and Hip Fractures (Nutritional)

Finding: Higher levels of Homocysteine is associated with higher levels of hip and other bone fractures common in the elderly.

Cause: In test tube studies Homocysteine interferes with the cross-linking of collagen fibers which enhances bone strength.

Solution: By increasing Folate and Vitamin B12 levels Homocysteine can be reduced.

Comment: High levels of Homocysteine have been proven to be risk factors for Coronary Disease, and are correlated with Alzheimers Disease as well.

Ref: New England Journal of Medicine. Vol 350:2042-2049 May 13, 2004.

Allergens and Indoor Mold (Fungi)

Recently reported studies confirm that indoor molds (fungi) can produce asthma. A myriad of other systemic symptoms may also be caused by molds but has not yet been proven.

Breast Cancer and Aspirin (Breast Cancer Prevention)

In addition to preventing heart attacks and strokes, studies have shown when Aspirin was used at least 4 times per week (why not since it’s cheap and safe) it can reduce the incidence of hormone “sensitive” breast cancer. More studies are needed.

Ref: Wall Street Journal May 26, 2004

Study Challenges Beliefs On Menopause

New information suggests that socio-economic and racial factors are more important than estrogen levels and body weight in predicting the degree of hot flashes. In perimenopause, variable estrogen levels is associated with heavy menses, sleep problems, and forgetfulness.

Government Advises Against Eating Too Much Tuna

The FDA, and the EPA have advised children and pregnant women to limit the ingestion of canned tuna to 12 oz., and albacore tuna to 6oz. Per week. Prof. Aposian of U. of Arizona is against eating any Albacore because of the mercury content.

Allergy Season Brings More Than Allergies

Anxiety, depression, fatigue and migraine headaches were found to increase during the allergy season. The study also suggested that allergen levels might affect other conditions in the absence of allergic rhinitis.

Dr. Portner Says: Histamine is the most commonly known mediator in allergies, but there are dozens of others being studied which have different effects and are probably released variably in different patients with IGE mediated diseases.

For Type 2 Diabetes, Dash Of Cinnamon May Help (Also For Cholesterol, Triglycerides, And As An Antioxidant)

Studies done in humans and rats support these significant findings, with only 1/4 tsp. Of cinnamon needed for the effect.

Dr. Portner Says: Perhaps we should eat more buttery, sugary Cinnabons.

Cognitive Effects Of Allergic Rhinitis

Patients were challenged with Ragweed pollen during the off season; and using extensive performance tests, were compared to non-challenged allergic rhinitis patients. The challenged patients showed evidence of decreased cognition, vigilance, response time, accuracy, memory, reasoning, calculating, and coordination. There was also increased sedation, drowsiness, and lethargy. Most patients with these effects were UNAWARE OF THESE EFFECTS.

Dr. Portner Says: The newer antihistamines may help, but in my experience more extensive treatment is needed such as nasal steroids, and or prevention of the release of the mediators by allergen immunotherapy.

Back To Top

Contact Us

Portner Medical Corporation
Phone: 310-454-6226
Fax: 310-454-5318
email: webmaster@portnermedical.com

Back To Top

Revised: Monday, June 14, 2004
http://www.portnermedical.com/info.html
email: webmaster@portnermedical.com