The two deaths occurred in Louisiana, but can happen in Atlanta and the surrounding mountain areas. In fact, wherever freshwater lakes, rivers, unchlorinated pools and unheated tap water are found, deaths can occur.
The winter months are breeding grounds for sinus infection. One of the best natural treatments for keeping sinuses clear is the use of a neti pot. The neti pot irrigates the nostrils, forcing the thick mucous out of the sinus cavities. The sterile water goes in one nostril and out the other. Therein lies the key - the water must be sterile or previously boiled.
The amoeba swims up a swimmer's nose when the head is underneath the water. This bacteria grows in organic sediment. Diving into lakes or rivers can force the water up the nose. Water skiing also carries a risk.
Lukewarm tap water should never be used to irrigate the nose - less than 116 degrees F. Unless the water has been correctly chlorinated, bacteria can live in the water. The amoeba Naegleria fowleri is a brain-eating amoeba that causes primary meningoencephalitis(PAM). The amoeba prefers water temperatures around 80 degrees, it can live in the colder mountain streams, creeks, rivers and lakes.
It is still safe to practice natural medicine with the neti pot, just make sure the water used is always sterile. Rinse the neti pot afterward and allow it to air dry completely before putting it away.
Symptoms of PAM:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
Symptoms can begin from one to seven days after infection. Within one week to 12 days, death occurs. To date - Dec. 17, 2011 - only one person has survived this diagnoses. There have been only 32 deaths in the US from 2001 - 2010. According to the CDC and Georgia Public Broadcasting, it has been five years since the last case of this brain-eating infection in Georgia.
Although rare, it is wise to take precautions because the odds of surviving are rare and the later stages of the infection are quite painful.
Comments