Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/77528
Embracing an Alternative Approach When you are experiencing a runny nose or itchy eyes, you may consider trying outside-the-box options to feel better. Kristie Gering, MD, Family Medicine Physician at Family Health Associates, weighs in on popular alternative remedies for colds and sinusitis. Complementary or alternative medicine and therapies are practices and supplements that do not fall under the umbrella of traditional medicine. Popular cold and sinus remedies that Dr. Gering recommends include: • acupuncture • gentle facial manipulation performed by a professional • herbal remedies such as Echinacea and ginseng • lactobacillus probiotics, healthy bacteria found in supplements or foods such as yogurt • mineral supplements including Emergen-C®, Airborne®, vitamin C, and zinc • Neti Pot, a nasal saline solution that rinses sinuses • reflexology Even with these remedies, Dr. Gering stresses that the keys to improving your health are through general wellness—getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, eating healthfully, and engaging in physical activity. Don’t Skip the Doctor While these methods may be effective, don’t forget to always keep your physicians in the loop. “Although alternative options are not obtained through prescriptions, it is important to let your physician know exactly what treatments or medications you are taking, even if they include herbal or over-the-counter remedies,” says Dr. Gering. “Although for most people, there is little risk, some medications or conditions may react negatively to alternative treatments.” For more information about complementary and alternative medicine, visit St. Joseph’s or Sacred Heart Hospital’s online health libraries at stjoeschipfalls.com/health_library.phtml or sacredhearteauclaire.org/health-library. Baby’s Day In It may sound like an exotic spa treatment, but infant massage can be extremely beneficial to your baby. You know how stress-relieving a good massage can be. As a parent or caregiver, you can apply that same healing touch to your baby. “Many people question why a baby would need a massage,” says Linda Benson, Physical Therapist and Certified Infant Massage Instructor at SPOTS (Speech, Physical, and Occupational Therapy Services) House at St. Joseph’s Hospital. “Everything a baby encounters is new, and it’s common for infants to become overstimulated. Massage can reduce fussiness from overstimulation, and help the infant relax and be less irritable the rest of the day.” Benefits for Baby and You Research has shown that specific massage strokes can: • aid digestion • develop muscle strength and tone • enhance immune function • improve blood circulation • promote neurological development • reduce colic symptoms • relieve discomfort from gas and constipation Infant massage also encourages parent-child bonding, though parents should seek instruction from a professional. “Infant massage can play a significant role in healthy development,” says Kelly Lauscher, Education Facilitator and Certified Infant Massage Instructor at the Center for Healthy Living at Sacred Heart Hospital. “It can enhance the physiological, social-emotional, and mind/body/spirit connections for the infant, as well as for the parents.” To register for an infant massage class, call 715.717.1600 (Center for Healthy Living) or 715.726.3447 (SPOTS House).