Hiccups is a condition when the diaphragm is malfunctioning or irritated. The major function of the diaphragm which is a dome shaped muscle in the chest is to pull and push air in and out of the lungs while inhaling and exhaling respectively. This condition generally last from few minutes and in extreme conditions it can last for days or weeks. Hiccups is not a serious condition however is is an indication for some medical problem in the body.

The common symptoms are contraction of the diaphragm and a continued “hic” sound from the throat.

Causes of hiccups are overstretching of the neck, laryngitis, heartburn, irritation of the eardrum, general anesthesia, surgery, bloating, tumor, infection, diabetes, drinking too much alcohol, consumption of hot and spicy food, smoking and eating fast.

Home remedies to cure hiccups instantly are holding your breath for few seconds, gargling with water, placing an ice bag on the diaphragm for sometime, sipping ice water quickly, closing the eyes and gently pressing the eye balls, drinking a glass of soda water quickly, eating some sugar or eating a tablespoon of peanut butter.

It is recommended that patients suffering with regular hiccups should avoid hot and spicy food as this can irritate the lining of the esophagus.

Furthermore, it is also recommended that patients should avoid over eating as this can overload the digestive system. Hiccups is not at all serious, however if the condition is persistent for over 24 hours it is advisable that the patient visits the doctor but the condition worsens.

Hemorrhoids are a condition of inflammation and swelling of the veins that are located in the anus and lower rectum. This condition occurs because of the pressure exerted on the veins from straining to evacuate the bowels and also due to pregnancy or obesity. Hemorrhoids are very painful and can be a symptom for other diseases.

There are of two types of Hemorrhoids based on where it is located.

• Internal or external hemorrhoids

Symptoms for Hemorrhoids

1. Painless bleeding when passing stools is the most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids.

2. Itchiness, irritation and discomfort in the anal region.

3.  Pain when passing stools.

4. Protrusion of hemorrhoids from the anus or a swelling or painful, sensitive lump around the region.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

1. Straining to evacuate the bowels.

2. Sitting on the toilet bowl for prolonged periods.

3. The presence of chronic constipation or diarrhea.

4. Physical changes as in pregnancy or obesity.

5. Anal intercourse.

6. Weakening of tissues that support the veins as a result of aging.

7. To some extent the risk for hemorrhoids can be inherited.

Remedies for Hemorrhoids

• Drink water boiled with Pomegranate peels The water must then be drunk, and this practice should be done twice a day.
• Consume of figs that are soaked overnight in water.
• Add some peppercorns, rock salt, and ginger to buttermilk. Drink this at least twice a day for some quick relief.
• Crush black mustard and mix it thoroughly with a bowl of yogurt. Chew the mustard thoroughly and wash it down with a glass of buttermilk once done.

Diet for Hemorrhoids.

• Increase fluid intake and follow a healthy balanced diet plan, with adequate fiber content. Also include plenty of leafy vegetables and fruits.
• Eat a lot of fresh fruits as they are rich in natural fiber.
• Avoid refined, processed, and fast foods.

Head Congestion

The congestion can be developed in any one’s head. However those with allergies are more likely to develop congestion in their sinuses. Factors such as over exposure to chemicals and pollutants smoke can cause head congestion.

The congestion is developed when there is too much of phlegm and the commonest cause of phlegm production are infections and inflammation in the air passage. The air passage becomes infected because the friction caused by the particles in the lungs.

Home Remedies for Head Congestion

Head congestion can lead the person to a discomfort state. Fortunately there are many home remedies that can aid to overcome the symptoms and effects of head congestion. Firstly never leave your hair wet if you are prone to head congestions.

Keep your body hydrated by consuming lots of liquids which is the simplest home remedy for any type of congestion which will wash out your mucous from the body. Drinking lots of fluid can help loosen the hard phlegm and mucous which will allow you to cough it out easily.

Humidifiers can also be installed in your home which will help to clear out your air passage. Another method to loosen up the phlegm is to inhale steam by heating up a large container of water, when water comes to a boil, remove from heat, covering your head with a thick cloth/towel and bed over the container to inhale the steam. Few drops of eucalyptus oil can be added for best results.

Diet for Head Congestion

Immunity levels should be improved by consuming a diet rich in vitamin C which will make you less prone to common cold and other disorders which are originators of head congestion.

Hay fever is an allergy caused by dust, pollen or dander in the air, this causes allergy to eyes and nose. Hay fever is seasonal but can last throughout the year. Hay fever is also referred to as nasal allergy. Spring and fall are the seasons for hay fever.

Symptoms for hay fever include:

• Coughing, headache, itching of nose, mouth, eyes, throat, ear and skin. Redness and watery eyes, running and stuffy nose, impaired smell, sneezing, sore throat, wheezing, fatigue and trouble while sleeping are some common symptoms of hay fever.

Causes of hay fever include:

• The entry of allergens into the body through mouth, nose, throat and lungs. These allergens enter the body and react with the immune system.

Home remedies to cure hay fever are:

Honey boiled with minced grapefruit and lemon taken three times daily will stop the irritation of nose. Apply petroleum jelly inside the nose. Chamomile boiled in water and then fumes inhaled in will relieve the itching.

Maintain a clean healthy and balance diet, consume more fruits and vegetables as these may increase the fiber content of the body which helps soothen the bowel movements. Include vitamin C in your diet. Avoid flour, sugar, salt and dairy product. Drink plenty water and herbal tea. Eat food rich in protein.

Avoid going out early morning and late evening as the pollens are released during this time of the day. Avoid using nasal spray as it my increase nasal congestion. Avoid smoking and air pollutants.

Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach’s linning. Acute or chronic gastritis causes inflammatory lesions.

Symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, pain and discomfort in the stomach region.
• Coated tongue, foul breath, bad taste in the mouth, increased flow of saliva, scanty urination, uneasiness and mental depression are other symptoms of gastritis.
• In chronic conditions patient experience as feeling of fullness in the abdomen. They might also experience diarrhea or constipation.

Causes of gastritis are:

• Irregular or excessive eating, eating badly combined food, excessive intake of strong tea, coffee or alcoholic drinks, large quantities of condiments and sauces.
• Worry, anxiety, grief, prolonged tension, certain drugs, strong acids and caustic substances cause gastritis.
• Improper bowel movements and improper diet can also cause gastritis.

Home remedies to cure gastritis are:

• Coconut water gives the stomach rest and provides the necessary vitamins and minerals to return to its normal condition.
• One cup of rice gruel is recommended twice daily as they can induce greater flow of gastric juices.
• Potato juice taken twice or trice daily helps relief gastritis discomfort.
• Marigold herb taken twice daily is also very beneficial to treat gastritis.

Diet for gastritis includes:

• Consuming lots of fruits and vegetables to soothe bowel movements. Recommended fruits include pears, apples, grapes, grapefruit, oranges, pineapple, peaches and melons.
• Having curd and cottage cheese along with lots of water will help dilute the gastric juices.
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, spices, meat, sweet, strong tea and coffee as these can aggravate gastritis.
• Fasting for two to three days and only having warm water during this period will relax the stomach causing the inflammation to subside.
• Well balance diet is very essential; include all seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables and fruits.

Warm water enema done daily for one week will help clean the bowels. Hot water compress on empty stomach or two hours after meal will also be beneficial. Avoid physical exertion, stress, mental strain etc. Practice breathing exercises as it can be very helpful. Walking, swimming and golf can also benefit.

Gingivitis also referred to as bleeding gums is caused due to inflammation of the gums. This inflammation is mainly caused due to bad oral hygiene. Gingivitis is a periodontal disease which affects the surrounding gums and tissues. If not treated in time it can lead to serious problems like periodontitis eventually causing destruction of the bone and lose of teeth. However at early stages gingivitis is not very painful.

Symptoms of gingivitis include painful gums, bleeding while brushing, red gums, swollen gums, tender gums, bad breath and bad taste in mouth.

The common cause of gum inflammation is the local irritant. Plague, bacteria and food particles accumulating between the gums cause gingivitis due to the toxic chemicals produced by the bacteria.

Other causes that cause gum inflammation are drugs, viral and fungal infections, hormonal changes during pregnancy and puberty, poor nutrition, medication, lack of hygiene etc.

Home remedies to cure gum inflammation include usage of products that contain essential oils, gargling with saline water daily twice, rubbing clove oil on the gums or keep clove in the mouth, usage of anti-bacterial mouthwash etc. Other remedies to cure gingivitis are usage mouthwash containing sage oil, peppermint, menthol and chamomile tincture. Toothpaste containing sage oil, peppermint oil etc. are also highly recommended.

The diet suggested to patients suffering with gingivitis includes

• Consumption of low saturated fats.
• Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Food rich in fiber.
• Vitamin C is very essential to improve gum conditions.
• Avoid sugar, fruit juices, white flour, white rice, soft drinks and syrups.

If the condition is very serious it is recommended that the patient visits a dentist as he will thoroughly clean the mouth and gums and remove plague etc. Oral hygiene is very essential to prevent this condition from reoccurring. Using dental floss is advisable; also avoid stress as it contributes to plague accumulation.