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Recurrent ear infections
I am plagued by recurrent ear infections. I had hoped a recent operation to remove fragments of broken bone from the top of my nose would put a stop to the problem but it has not worked. (I broke my nose when playing rugby and my doctors thought this was causing a blockage in the airways which led to the ear infections.) Any ideas?
Kerrin Booth, a naturopathic practitioner who is based at the Apotheke 20-20 health and wellbeing centre in London’s Chiswick says your first step must be to strengthen your immune system. For that, she recommends you take Blackmore’s Echinacea Forte 3000, plus a daily dose of vitamin C.
Your next task is to remove any remaining congestion which may be harbouring bacteria and which may be creating pressure in the Eustachian tubes, giving rise to the discomfort and pain. According to Booth, natural remedies that will help achieve this decongestion include potassium chloride and the herbs, horseradish and garlic.
Environmental and food sensitivities can both increase mucous production and will also adversely affect the normal workings of the immune system which should, says Booth, protect against reinfection when working optimally. In most cases, both dairy products and wheat are the most common offenders so cut these out of your diet for a few weeks and monitor any improvements. To find out what other hidden food intolerances may be underpinning your problem, consult a qualified nutritionist who can properly arrange for testing.
*To find a qualified nutritionist in your area contact the Institute of Optimum Nutrition on 0181-877 9993. For details of Blackmore’s mail order products call 0181-654 5783.