Some Benefits Colloidal Silver Provides

By Joseph Green


Silver has always had a wide range of applications which range from the pharmaceutical industry, the cosmetic industry and manufacturing. In the medical industry, colloidal silver is the form that bears the greatest significance. It has been used for many centuries in the management of varied medical conditions. Its use reduced significantly when cheaper, more effective antibiotics were discovered. There are still a number of benefits colloidal silver provides hence it is still found in some health centers.

Combining the colloid with salts such as nitrate, sulfadiazine, chloride and so on increases its spectrum of activity. The nitrate compound (silver nitrate) is the main ingredient in the eye ointment that is given to newborn babies to prevent allergic conjunctivitis. It is also effective in treating a wide range of skin conditions that include corns and warts.

There are a number of topical formulations that are used in the management of various skin conditions. Colloidal silver has been shown to be effective for the management of burns, thrush and periodontitis. Due to its high potency against fungal organisms, it has been used in various cases of ring worm, a common skin infection. Other skin infections that have also shown a positive response include eczema and psoriasis.

When taken orally, the colloid is said to help in a number of gastrointestinal conditions. In general, it is more effective for conditions that found in the small intestines than those in the large intestines. This is because it is rapidly absorbed and may not reach the large intestine. Some of the conditions for which it has been used include diarrhea, food poisoning, inflammatory bowel disease and diverticulitis among others.

The colloid has been used for a long period of time in the management of upper respiratory infections. For the treatment of sinusitis and some forms of allergies that manifest with respiratory symptoms, a nasal spray containing the compound may be used. Similar benefits have been seen with the common cold. Studies show that it relieves symptoms in up to 90% of patients. It is also being tried for viral pneumonia and bronchitis.

The most feared complication of this treatment is a condition known as agyria. This comes about when there is sustained deposition of the compound below the skin after many years of use. The parts of the body that have been affected usually have a blue gray color. The effects are most pronounced in the face and on hands. The main form of intervention available is laser therapy.

When there is prolonged use or if excessive dosages are administered, the colloid may accumulate within internal organs such as the brain, the liver, the heart and the kidney. This is likely to lead to failure of the affected organ and may even lead to death. There is no treatment for this condition at the time.

Just as is the case with other medications, it is wise that you consult with your doctor before using this agent. Not only will the doctor help you make a diagnosis of your disease but will also give the right dosages. In some circumstances, there may be better alternatives in the market.




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