Treating Infections Naturally: Dr. Paul Stallone describes natural alternatives to using antibiotics.

Everyone has dealt with some kind of infection. Most of us will have mild cases that can be resolved with minor care, but some will require medical intervention. However, medical treatment doesn’t automatically mean an antibiotic prescription. The general consensus is that we need antibiotics to treat anything that resembles an infection—even conditions that aren’t caused by bacteria are often treated with antibiotics, such as the common cold which is caused by a virus, not bacteria.

Antibiotics are extremely over-prescribed and have contributed to many serious conditions like MRSA and can also lead to a vicious cycle of reoccurring infections. With many factors in play, today’s diet being the biggest contributor, the good-to-bad ratio of bacteria is already significantly compromised. When an antibiotic is introduced, almost all bacteria are wiped out, but the harmful kind repopulates much more quickly. This results in more infections unless precautions are taken during and after antibiotics. If someone is experiencing multiple infections, a naturopathic physician should be consulted prior to taking another round of antibiotics.

Acute infections, like sore throat and the flu, respond very well to natural therapies. Our body is very capable of treating infections like these on its own. It just needs the right tools. Don’t think the immune system can’t attack invaders without prescriptions. There are numerous supplements and natural therapies that can support, not suppress, our immune system to allow it to do its job. By compromising our immune system with harmful treatments, we’re actually setting ourself up for future illness and infections. Being conscientious about our immune system daily can help prevent infections and other diseases.

Chronic infections like hepatitis C require a different treatment plan than an acute infection, but they still do not necessitate the need for antibiotics and harsh therapies. However, treating a chronic infection will involve more than just supplements. Intravenous therapies can be naturally aggressive, even in treating serious infections like hepatitis. There is an abundance of vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants, minerals and homeopathic remedies that have an antibacterial and antiviral effect. They also may help detoxify the blood while boosting the immune system considerably.

Research has shown some correlation between infections and autoimmune diseases, and scientists are suggesting that some viral infections may cause the immune system to malfunction and start assaulting the body’s own tissue, creating an autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s. Our immune system produces antibodies to attack bacteria and viruses, and these antibodies can start attacking healthy tissue because they somehow resemble the bacteria or virus that caused the initial attack. Other experts say the damage from an infection can damage the immune system and lead to the development of an autoimmune disease.

This association is another important reason why a naturopath can be of significant help in the treatment of all infections and diseases. A naturopath will know and appreciate the need to address the past infections of anyone with an autoimmune disease. They will also treat any current infection or condition to best prevent complications in the future.

Paul Stallone, NMD, founded the Arizona Integrative Medical Center, located at 8144 E. Cactus Rd., Ste. 820, in Scottsdale. He combines natural/alternative/conventional treatments to best fit and benefit each individual patient’s needs. For more information, call 480-214-3922 or visit DrStallone.com.