How I got relief

[Guest guest]

This is my first post. I have read through some recent messages that don't seem

to mention how important a low salicylate diet can be for the relief of your

symptoms. Salicylates are what aspirin is made from so things high in

salicylates are almost the same as taking an aspirin which you should be very

sensitive to. That means those foods and drinks very high in salicylates can

set off congestion, coughing, wheezing, asthma symptoms, etc.

I really react badly to wines and it is on the Very High Salicylate part of the

chart. I try to avoid drinking any wines but if I am at a social event, I will

at least take an antihistamine and drink no more than 1 glass of it.

Everyone should read this information, yes nasal polyps are mentioned, and take

a good look at the chart. Even mint flavoured toothpastes used to make me cough

and wheeze so make sure to read all the info on that page which I found very

helpful.

http://www.sixwise.com/newsletters/06/02/08/what-are-salicylates-could-salicylat\

es-be-zapping-your-energy-and-making-you-feel-ill.htm

Here is another good chart regarding salicylates.

http://everydaywithadhd.com.au/user-assets/Info_Sheets/Salicylate_Food_Chart.pdf

There are many more charts and info all over the internet that explain what

foods, drinks, and products contain salicylates.

Here are some things to try which should help you cope with Samters:

1) Most important - Avoid foods and drinks high or very high in Salicylates,

especially wines. I stopped taking Singulair about 2 years ago since I now

avoid Salicylates as much as possible.

2) Take Singulair but you may not need it as I have been able to remove it from

my daily routine.

3) Use a nasal steroid but again you may not need to if you can carefully avoid

the high & very high Salicylate foods and drinks.

4) Nasal Rinse twice / day. You can make your own (cheaper) or buy various

products.

5) Try to exercise a few times per week. Even a fast paced 30 minute walk is

better than nothing.

6) Try to avoid artificial flavours & colours. Also, avoid benzoates.

7) Aspirin desensitization with a clinic that specializes in it - do not try it

at home. I have not tried it but read that it can help.

8) Try to keep your environment clean. You can use a good air cleaner in your

bedroom to see if that helps.

9) Some people find air conditioning helps on those hot and humid days. If you

are driving, use A/C with the recirulation setting in your vehicle so that you

are not breathing in the allergens, pollution, etc.

I am now thinking of adding Castor Oil which you apply on the exterior of your

nose each day and also take 1 teaspoon per day, possibly a few weeks as I heard

there are warnings if you take it for an extended time. I've read that this

should help shrink nasal polyps.

I am also thinking about taking diluted Apple Cider Vinegar (organic only with

the Mother... ie. Braggs) because of the many benefits. ACV is supposed to be

great for allergies and sinus infections.

An interesting website that mentions these two remedies and other natural

healing treatments.

http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/sinus_polyps.html

or for their list of ailments:

http://www.earthclinic.com/ailments.html

Hope this helps.