The Benefits Colloidal Silver Confers

By Joseph Green


Silver is an element that is used in a number of industries. It is integral to the manufacturing, health and cosmetic industries. Colloidal silver, which is the form that is most important to the pharmaceutical industry, has been used for centuries. Preference for the element as a therapeutic agent dropped sharply at the beginning of the twentieth century when breakthroughs in antibiotic manufacture were made. There are still many other benefits colloidal silver confers hence it is still available in some 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.

The oral forms of the colloid have been found to be effective in treating some gastrointestinal conditions. They are recommended for conditions affecting the small intestines (as opposed to the large intestines) because they are rapidly absorbed once taken. Some of the conditions that have been successfully managed include inflammatory bowel syndrome, diverticulitis and food poisoning among others.

There are many instances in which the colloid has been used. For instance, it is available as a spray to be used successfully for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. The spray also yields good results in the management of the common cold. In a study conducted in 2011, close to 90% of patients in the study reported improvement. There are ongoing trials on its effectiveness in managing bronchitis and viral pneumonia.

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.

Another major complication is the tendency to accumulate in various internal organs such as kidneys, the heart and the liver among others. The result of this is impairment of function for all the affected organs. This complication is most likely to occur if the colloid is used for a prolonged period of time or if very high dosages are involved. No form of treatment has been approved yet for this complication.

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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