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.

Topical formulations are available for use in wound care and maintenance of skin health. This is because colloidal silver has been found to help stimulate healing of the skin and mucosal surfaces. It has been used successfully to treat periodontitis (gum disease), burns and thrush. It also has strong anti-fungal action hence suitable for treating ring worm which commonly grows on the epidermis. Eczema and psoriasis are examples of other conditions treated with the colloid.

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.

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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