Homeopathic

Colds, Flu & Catarrhs

2009-11-03T11:53:00.001-08:00

28 Colds, Flu & Catarrhs

Common cold is a viral infection characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the upper respiratory passages and usually accompanied by malaise, fever, chills, coughing, and sneezing.
COLDS, FLU - Treatment & Homeopathic Medicines

#Aconite [Acon]
When the attack comes on suddenly after an exposure to a cold, dry wind, with chilliness, followed by fever, Aconite will be the remedy. It should be administered just as soon as the patient realizes that he is taking cold. There is as yet no discharge, but from the congestion the nose is swollen, hot, dry and stopped up, and this stoppage is apt to change from side to side; there is tingling and burning in the nose and a throbbing frontal headache; there may be sneezing also. These symptoms are all better in the open air. Nux vomica has colds caused by cold weather, with a dry, stuffed up nose and rough, scrapy throat. In Belladonna there is more cerebral excitement and swelling in the throat is a prominent symptom. China has headache with pains, worse in open air, not better, as in Aconite. Ferrum phosphoricum is very similar to Aconite and may be used when the onset is less sudden and violent and when there is no anxiety and restlessness. It is also, like Nux and Calcarea carbonica, excellent for predisposition to take cold.

#Arsenicum [Ars]
is especially useful in winter colds where there is a thin, watery discharge from the nostrils which excoriates the upper lip, yet in spite of this fluent discharge the nose feels stopped up. There is a dull, throbbing frontal headache and sneezing, photophobia,and contrary to what one would expect, the sneezing does not relieve in the slightest and the irritation continues as before and is worse on going into sir. It corresponds well to patients who are rarely without a cold. These symptoms of watery discharge and sneezing place Arsenic in the front rank in the treatment of hay fever. Catarrh based upon a malarial miasm in poorly nourished subjects calls for the remedy. Arsenic iodide may be found indicated when burning in nose and throat is marked. Allium cepa has this excoriating nasal discharge also, but, if and anything, there is more lachrymation, which, by the way, is bland. Sinapis nigra resembles Arsenicum in the heat in the nose, but with Sinapis there is dryness and no discharge. The discharge of Mercurius, though excoriating and acrid, is thicker. The cold of Arsenic always settles in the nose, that of Phosphorus in the chest. The Arsenic patient is chilly and wants to be near the fire all the time; the nose burns both externally and internally.

#Allium cepa [All-c]
One of our best remedies for cold in the head, indeed, is said by come to be the best, and probably it is when indicated. The discharge is profuse, thin and acrid, with great smarting in the nose and eyes, and the distinguishing feature between this remedy and Euphrasia is the profuse lachrymation which here is bland, and under Euphrasia is excoriating, while the opposite condition obtains in the nose. Under Allium the edges of the eyelids burn and the eyes are red and sensitive to light. The nasal discharge is thin and flows constantly, excoriates the upper lip, and there is prolonged sneezing. A peculiarity of Allium is that the discharge ceases when the patient goes into the open air, but returns when entering a warm room again. It is a drug Which should be given early, and if there be a splitting laryngeal cough, causing the patient to wince and crouch with pain, it is all the more indicated. Farrington, however, claims that Allium is apt to drive the trouble to the chest, and adds that when it reaches the chest Phosphorus is the remedy. Arsenic, too, is similar, but Arsenic has sneezing in the cool air after leaving a worm room, and it lacks the laryngeal symptoms so common in Allium. The Mercurius discharge is acrid, and not as thin as that of Allium.

#Euphrasia [Euph]
Here the upper part only of the respiratory mucous membrane is affected. Like Allium cepa it has a copious, fluent discharge from nose, and copious lachrymation, the latter being most acrid, excoriating the cheeks, and being so profuse as to keep them wet all the time. It differs from Allium, as we have seen, in the character of the discharge, from the eyes excoriating, from the nose bland. Euphrasia is often well indicated in the coryzas which precede measles, when there is a cough which sounds decidedly measly. Eruptions on the wings of the nose.

#Arum triphyllum [Arum-t]
Under Arum all of the secretions are acrid, and there is a discharge if ichorous fluid from the nose; the nostrils and lips are sore. There may be a discharge from both nose and eyes which is yellow and acrid. There is thirst, but drinking causes pain. The nostrils are sore, and there is constant desire to bore the finger into the nose. The nose may be completely stopped up, and at the same time there is a fluent acrid discharge. Drowsiness and an inclination to sneeze accompanies. Lycopodium has complete stoppage of the nose night and day, with some discharge, which may be excoriating. Dryness posteriorly and discharge anteriorly is also characteristic of Lycopodium.

#Gelsemium [Gels]
This remedy is often underestimated in the early stages of cold in the head. It will break up a cold at the beginning quicker than any other remedy with these indication: Fullness of the head, hot fever and chilliness, as if a cold were coming on. The patient is dull and weak, chills run up and down the back, with a watery, excoriating, or bland discharge form the nose and sneezing. There is also a marked inclination in the patient to hug the fire. Colds brought on by warm relaxing weather especially indicate Gelsemium, hence it seems to be most useful in spring and summer weather, and corresponds well to some epidemic colds. There is a predisposition to take cold on any change of the weather. It has been found specially useful in influenzas with fever. It is a remedy that must be used early in the cold. The 1X dilution will often suffice. Lachesis is often suitable for spring colds and catarrhs, with sensitiveness of throat. Quillaya. In the incipiency of a cold, with very sore throat, this remedy has been found to be of signal use. Sepia. Colds at onset of menstruation.

#Nux vomica [Nux-v]
The first stage of ordinary cold in the head may be met by Nux vomica, when it is brought on by damp, cold weather, or from sitting on damp, cold steps; associated with sneezing and stuffed up feeling in the nose. The nose is dry, there is very little discharge, the eyes water, and there is scraping in the throat, and dullness and oppression about the front sinuses; it should be given as soon as dryness and tickling in the nose begins; the nasal passages are alternately free and obstructed. These symptoms are worse in a warm room and better in the open air. It is of little use after the cold is established. Mercurius is similar, having rawness and soreness in the nose, but it is especially aggravated in damp weather. Pulsatilla is more for a ripe cold, and Arsenicum also has heat and burning in the nose, but the coryza is relieved by warmth and aggravated by cold, which is opposite of Nux. Another symptom indicating Nux is a fluent coryza during the day and a stuffed up sensation at night.

#Mercurius [Merc]
There is a profuse coryza which extends to the frontal sinuses, burning in eyes and nose, acrid discharge, violent sneezing, and tendency to perspiration which aggravates. When a cold begins with coryza, Mercurius is a valuable remedy. Kali iodatum has great distress in frontal region, worse at 3 A.M. Mercurius is especially aggravated in damp weather and the coryza is worse by heat of stove room; nose is sore; wiping nose is painful. Thin watery discharges belong to Allium cepa, Euphrasia, Arum triphyllum and Arsenicum. The Mercury discharge is thin mucus, not thick as in Pulsatilla, Hydrastis, and some other drugs, or it may be yellowish green in color.

#Pulsatilla [Puls]
Pulsatilla is more indicated in an advanced stage of cold in the head, what is known as a ripe-cold, hence it should not be given at the beginning of a cold, for it is never indicated. There is no sneezing or excoriating discharge with Pulsatilla. The discharge is thick, yellow, muco-purulent, and, above all bland. Penthorum sedoides. Coryza with raw nose and throat; later it has the thick, yellow discharge of Pulsatilla, but the keynote of this remedy is a sensation of wetness in the nose. Hydrastis is also similar to Pulsatilla, but there is no burning and rawness and tenacity to the discharge; sensation of a hair in the nostrils; constant desire to blow the nose, which feels raw and excoriated; the cold has settled in the back of the nose and throat. This remedy alone will cure more sinusites than any remedy because it is more often indicated. Thick, yellow, tenacious mucus in posterior nares, more distinctly yellow than Kali bichromicum and profuse. If you have a Pulsatilla cold, and in addition to it you have sneezing, give Cyclamen, also for attacks of sneezing without a cold. Chromico-kali-sulphuricum in the 2X or 3X is highly recommended in chronic rhinitis. With the pulsatilla cold there is usually loss of smell and taste, and there is relief in the open air, even though the patient be chilly. Magnesia muriatica. Loss of taste and smell after catarrh. Drosera suits the last of colds with a cough coming on by fits.

#Camphora [Camph]
First stage of cold in the head when nose is stopped up and is dry, and the inspired air feels cooler than usual. It will often check an incipient cold when the chill is first felt, and is a useful remedy in chronic or rather paroxysmal coryzas, which occur upon every change ;of weather; it may be used by olfaction. The patient feels chilly, frontal sinuses involved, dull headache. Increased secretion of watery mucus from nose, with and without sneezing. It really comes in along with or even before Aconite, but it has not the wide range of application that Aconite has.

#Kali iodatum [Kali-i]
Thin, excoriating and very profuse, scalding discharges from the nose and coryzas, which involve the frontal sinuses and antra ;of Highmore in scrofulous or mercurialized individuals, with profuse, watery discharges, call for this remedy. The eyes smart, lachrymate and become puffed. The throat is irritated and the no;se is apt to be red. Kali bichromicum. Discharge tough and stringy, sometimes extending to throat, causing choking. It often follows Aconite well, catarrhs involving whole respiratory tract. It is a frequently indicated remedy in chronic nasal catarrh, hypertrophic rhinitis, first fluent acrid coryza relieved by warmth, then tough, stringy, discharge; wants to blow nose; no discharge; feeling of dryness in nose. Lemna minor. Putrid smell, putrid taste. Nasal polypi, atrophic rhinitis, glairy mucus, post-nasal discharge.

#Natrum muriaticum [Nat-m]
Colds with watery, transparent discharges, causing vesicular eruptions about mouth and nose, with watery, clear frothy discharge, worse on going into colds air and on exertion; great dryness of posterior nares. There is entire loss of taste. This is the Schuessler remedy for coryzas, the watery exudations being the biochemic indication for coryzas, the watery exudations being the biochemic indication for its use. Dropping of mucus from naso-pharynx in the morning. It also removes the tendency to take cold. Sticta. Constant desire to blow the nose, though nothing escapes; stuffed feeling at root of nose. The leading and most annoying symptom is dryness of the mucous membrane of the nose ( Senega), secretion dries rapidly, forming scabs difficult to dislodge. Clarke considers Natrum muriaticum one of the most valuable remedies we possess for colds. The use of salt baths by the old school and the popular use of salt food would seem to verify this observation.

#Dulcamara [Dulc]
Dry coryza renewed by slightest exposure, worse after getting wet, in the open air and at night. It suits especially torpid phlegmatic constitutions, those who take cold when the weather changes to a lower temperature, and so it becomes of great use in nasal catarrhs and influenzas of autumn. The Nux coryza is worse in the house and better in the open air, which will easily distinguish. Colds which come on from change of weather and gradually involve the whole respiratory tract may indicate Dulcamara. "Cold sores" may accompany the colds. Colds which come on suddenly, with a discharge dropping at times like clear water from the nose, should call for Calcarea and it will be found of great service. Sanguinaria nitrate. Acute colds with sneezing, profuse discharge, burning and rawness in posterior nares. Chronic catarrh, thick, yellow discharge, with much burning and irritation, husky voice must clear throat before speaking.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

2009-11-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

27 Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

This is also known as the 'post viral syndrome' or 'myalgic enchphalomylitis;. This is a syndrome in which person suffering from an acute illness never seems to recover fully from it. Even after the acute illness is over, the patient does not feel well and complains of malaise, fatigue, myalgia, headache, and exhaustion.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - CAUSE

* Not known specifically. Usually occurs after an acute viral illness.
* Enteroviruses are implicated.
* Often occurs after mononucleosis.
* Overexertion (mental or physical) during an acute illness can predispose to it.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - MECHANISM - WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS?

Not known so far.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

* The most pronounced symptom is 'fatigue'. the person always feels very tired, sometimes so much that even going from one room to other may seem like a chore.
* Myalgia or body ache
* General malaise and headache

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS MADE?

* Diagnosis is usually done clinically.
* There is no specific test but in some cases antibodies to Coxsackie-B or Epstein-Barr viruses may be present.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - COMPLICATIONS

* Since the complaint is chronic in nature, depression, work inefficiency can occur.
* Many patients become chronically disabled.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - WHAT TO DIFFERENTIATE FROM?

Acute viral illness is often followed by a week or two of weakness and sleepiness. This should not cause unnecessary worry.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - HOMEOPATHIC Medicines & TREATMENT

Homeopathy is the only form of treatment that I have seen working in this condition. But even with homeopathic drugs it may take a few months to resolve this condition fully. But considering that there is no conventional treatment and most people suffer for years, a few months may be a very short period.

Some of the medicines that I have found of use in this condition are carbo-veg, china, mygale-l, sarcolactic acid, natrum-sal etc.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

* No specific treatment is available
* A few individuals partially respond to anti-depressant medication

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

* Deep breathing and walking in fresh air can increase the energy levels.
* A well balanced nutritious diet with ample fluids should be taken.
* Avoid mental and physical exertion during an acute illness. Try to take proper rest. DO NOT ' pop-a-pill and go-to work' if you are not feeling very well.

WHERE ELSE TO FIND MORE INFO? INTERNET RESOURCES

* http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/cfs/
* http://www.aacfs.org/
* http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/chronicfatiguesyndrome.html
* http://www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/cfs.htm

REFERENCE WORKS

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd revised ed., 2001, B. Jain

Select Your remedy, Rai Bahdur Bishambhar Das, 19th ed, 1999, Bishambar Free Homeo Dispensary

A Concise Repertory of Homeopathic Medicines, S.R.Phatak, 3rd ed, B. Jain

Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics, Dewey, reprint ed, 1993, B.Jain

Chorea

2009-11-03T11:50:00.000-08:00

26 Chorea

Chorea is an irregular, rapid, uncontrolled, involuntary, excessive movement that seems to move randomly from one part of the body to another. The affected child often appears fidgety or restless and unable to sit still. The word "chorea" comes from the Greek word for dance. The jerky movements of the feet or hands are often similar to dancing or piano playing. When chorea is severe, the movements may cause motion of the arms or legs that results in throwing whatever is in the hand or falling to the ground. Walking may become bizarre, with inserted excessive postures and leg movements.

The disease, known also as Sydenham's chorea (not to be confused with Huntington's disease, a hereditary disease of adults that is sometimes called Huntington's chorea), is usually, but not always, a complication of rheumatic fever. Sydenham's chorea, a disease of children, especially females, usually appears between the ages of 7 and 14. Facial grimacing and jerking movements persist for 6 to 10 weeks and sometimes recur after months or even years. Eventually the symptoms disappear.
Chorea - Treatment & Homeopathic Medicines

#Agaricus [Agar]
For true cerebral chorea Agaricus stands at the head of the list. It is, however, prescribed in a routine habitual way and hence has more failures attributed to it than cures. It has in its pathogenesis a long list of symptoms of muscular twitchings, among which are twitchings and spasms of the eyeballs and eyelids; it has angular choreic movements and spasmodic motions of the extremities, which are not confined to one side of the body, but affect the upper half on one side of the body and the lower half on the other. Tarentula has chorea affecting the right arm and the right leg. The spine in Agaricus cases is apt to be sensitive to pressure, especially in lumbar region, there is weakness and coldness of the limbs and unsteady gait, and as the disease progresses there is emaciation and an idiotic expression of the face. Cimicifuga is applicable to chorea affecting the left side, and when associated with rheumatism or myalgia, or occurring reflexly in uterine affections. The twitching in Agaricus also occur during sleep, but are more severe while awake. With this drug there is considerable congestion to the head, dilated pupils, flushed face, and the twitching is said to be worse during a thunderstorm. Bartlett, in Goodno's Practice,advises the 2X of Agaricine and uses no other drug in this disease; he claims that Agaricus is practically useless, a claim, however, that cannot be substantiated. It must be prescribed on homoeopathic indications, not applied as being "good" for chorea. In spasmodic twitchings of the eyes and lids, Agaricus will most frequently be the proper remedy. If there be itching spots on the skin resembling chilblains, or if the child have an idiotic expression of the face, then Agaricus is all the more indicated. Agaricus is especially useful in mild cases and in epidemic cases, and is a precise simile to the idiopathic form, according to some authors, though Cobb thinks it is more frequently called for in reflex choreiform movements and habit spasms than for idiopathic chorea, a proof to us that forms and stages of disease had best be ignored and the indicating symptoms relied upon each case.

#Tarentula [Tarent]
When the choreic movements affect the right arm and right leg, and when the movements continue even at night, and are brought on by fright, grief, etc., the Tarentula Hispana becomes the remedy. The patient is restless and compelled to keep constantly in motion, the spine is sensitive,and there is trembling. The patient can run better than he can walk, and in chorea major with rigidity it is the remedy when diversion of the mind, especially music, relieves. Ignatia is especially the remedy in chorea of young girls when of emotional origin, the marked impressionability of the nervous system is characteristic, especially in cases where fright or grief are the exciting causes. In very stubborn cases Arsenic will be found useful; it has much uneasiness in the legs, must change position and walk about for relief,and it corresponds to chorea in debiliated children. Zizia has restless choreic movements during sleep. Sepia, too, has relieved chorea-like symptoms. Laurocerasus is useful in emotional chorea after fright; there are fearful contortions when awake; sleep restless, can neither sit, stand nor lie down on account of incessant motions. Speech is indistinct. Crocus is also a remedy in chorea with hysterical symptoms, twitching of single muscles. It corresponds well to symptoms of hysteria.

#Zincum [Zinc]
Constant motion of the feet, which may continue during sleep,and it is especially the remedy when the chorea is brought on by suppressed eruption or by fright and the general health is involved, right side most affected, much depression of spirits and irritability, worse from wine. Zincum is more adapted to the chronic form, and Zincum valerianate has also been successfully used in chorea. Opium has emotional chorea with trembling and spasmodic jerkings of the flexors; the arms are thrown out at right angles with the body.

#Cimicifuga [Cimic]
When the movements affect the left side and are associated with myalgic or rheumatic ailments, or when reflex from uterine derangements, then Cimicifuga is the remedy. There is sensitiveness of the spine and entire muscular system, fugitive pains especially in the small joints and the endocarditis so often found in rheumatic cases, and if mental depression be present it is an additional indication. Cimicifuga is especially indicated in chorea in young girls, about the age of puberty, with menstrual disorders, especially suppression of menses. Fright chorea and chorea with loss of power of swallowing indicate the remedy. Sleeplessness is an important symptom.

#Calcarea carbonica [Calc-c]
Chorea is only local in its simplest form; there is always some constitutional dyscrasia underlying established cases, and therefore much reliance must be placed on constitutional remedies in most cases. Calcarea is a remedy to correct the malnutrition and is one of the best basic remedies; it often assists materially in securing a recovery. When chorea occurs in Calcarea children, and is brought on by fright or onanism, the remedy will be well indicated. Difficult speech, patient bites tongue when talking are good indications. Sulphur and Psorinum are also useful basic remedies in chorea. Phosphorus is the remedy for chorea in children who grow too fast; with tuberculosis as the basis of the attack. China corresponds to those enfeebled by masturbation or other loss of fluids.

#Cuprum [Cupr]
Baehr claims that Cuprum will cure most cases of chorea, and that the disease will rarely last more than three or four weeks under its administration. It is indicated where the choreic movements start in the muscles of the fingers and toes and extend to the limbs; the patient is better or more quite during sleep, but when awake the terrible contortions and awkward movements are excessive. Saltatoric spasm may occur. When spasms occur in choreic children, Allen recommends Cicuta 6th dilution,also in acute chorea with fever. Nux vomica is the remedy for the spinal chorea; there is unsteady gait and dragging of the feet; there are crawling sensations in the parts attacked and constipation. Cocculus follows well when paralysis remains.

#Natrum muriaticum [Nat-m]
Chronic cases of chorea due to fright,or to chronic eruption about the face, will sometimes indicate Natrum muriaticum. There are paroxysms of jumping up or jerking of the right side of the face, worse during the full moon. Pulsatilla may come in for chorea due to amenorrhoea or dysmenorrhoea, here the general hypersensitiveness, anaemia and chloro-anaemia are characteristic. Cobb thinks it more frequently indicated than any other remedy. Puberty with its awakening in sensitive boys and girls call for Pulsatilla. The digestive symptoms may be present, also the functional cardiac disorders. Sticta is a remedy for chorea complicated with hysteria, and the movements are confined to the lower extremities; the feet and legs jump and dance in spite of all efforts to prevent them.

#Belladonna [Bell]
Belladonna is useful in what the French term La Grande Choree, where there are constrictions, hyperaesthesias, and much bodily inquietude. The patient cannot remain in one position for any length of the time; the jerking is predominately backwards, the head is bored into the pillow. It is distinguished from all other remedies by the intensity of its symptoms. The patient frequently needs to be restrained to prevent self-injury. Veratrum viride is useful in chorea when in addition to twitching there is a violent congestion to the nerve centers and excited pulse. Belladonna suits also choreas reflex from dentition or pregnancy.

#Stramonium [Stram]
Stramonium is especially the remedy when the brain is affected. The movements, as in Belladonna, are characterized by great violence affecting the whole body; the patient leaps grotesquely- saltatoric spasm-rotates the arm, clasps the hands over the head. Hughes says that it rarely cures cases of any standing without the aid of minerals, such as Cuprum, Zincum, or Arsenicum is one of our chief remedies in chorea, and often cures intractable cases. Other symptoms of Stramonium are, a continual changing of the features-now he laughs, now he appears astonished, protrudes his tongue rapidly, head thrown alternately backwards and forwards, extremities in constant motion. Stammering may be present, patient easily frightened. Hyoscyamus has jerking and angular motion; the patient are weak; they have an abnormal perception of distances. Bartlett claims that Hyoscyamus gives better results in twitchings of the eyelids than Agaricus.

#Mygale [Mygal]
It is quite characteristic of the spider poisons to produce spasmodic diseases. Mygale, according to Farrington, is one of our best remedies in uncomplicated cases of chorea; the patient is low spirited and depressed, the muscles of the face twitch constantly, the mouth and eye open and close in rapid succession, the head is jerked to one side, usually the right control over the muscle seems to be lost. If the patient attempts to put his hand to his head it is jerked backwards violently, and words are jerked out in talking. The legs are in motion while sitting, and dragged while attempting to walk. Dr.Clarence Bartlett speaks of this remedy as especially valuable. I have many times verified the use of Mygale in the very worst cases.

#Causticum
Jahr, in his "Forty Years' Practice," lauds Causticum in chorea. The symptoms calling for its use are these: The right side is more affected than the left, the muscles of the face, tongue, arm,and leg are all involved; words are jerked out when talking,patient continually changes his position, throws himself about until he falls asleep exhausted. During sleep legs and arms "on the go;" the child is unable to articulate because of excessive nervousness; indisposition to talk because of weakness of the throat and tongue muscles. It is especially adapted to rheumatic cases brought on from cold or exposure.

#Cina
Chorea produced by a foul stomach, or by irritation form worms, calls for Cina. The movements often commence with a shriek. Asafoetida has chorea from irritation of abdominal nerves from gastric troubles,worms, etc. Chamomilla is useful in those children possessing the characteristic Chamomilla fretfulness. Magnesia phosphorica is a remedy that has cured many cases.

Cholera

2009-11-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

25 Cholera

Cholera is the illness caused by a bacterium called Vibria cholerae. It infects people's intestines, causing diarrhea, vomiting and leg cramps.

Cholera can be mild or even without symptoms, but a severe case can lead to death without immediate treatment. The diarrhea and vomiting brought on by the infection quickly leaves the body without enough fluid. The following dehydration and shock can kill a person within hours.
Cholera - Treatment & Homeopathic Medicines

#Veratrum album [Verat]
This remedy should be given early in the true cholera. It has profuse watery stools with a cold, blue surface and cold sweat on forehead and great prostration. Its characteristics may be summed as follows:

1. Pain in the abdomen preceding stool. 2. Profuseness of the stool and forcible evacuation. 3. Great prostration following stool. 4. The sense of inner burning. 5. The cold sweat. 6. Cold surface of the body.

There are sharp, cutting pains in the abdomen and great weakness, almost fainting with stool, at the same time there is vomiting and purging,cramps and rice water discharges. There must be pain for Veratrum to be well indicated. Stools are worse at night and the patient emaciates rapidly. It is our first remedy in cholera infantum with greenish stools,sometimes containing flakes like spinach. Jatropha. Cholera, vomiting of ropy, albuminous matters, great prostration ,vomiting and purging and rice water stools. Cramps and coldness. It pictures cholera perfectly.

#Camphora [Camph]
With this remedy the system seems overwhelmed by the violence of the poisoning even before the vomiting and diarrhoea appear; there is at once intense prostration,bluish, icy cold face, cold body, weak,squeaky voice, stiffness of muscles, coldness and collapse, burning in stomach and oesophagus. Coldness, dryness and blueness express its characteristics. The discharges are scanty, if present at all, the tongue is actually cold. It is an almost infallible remedy at the onset of cholera,and was so considered by Hahnemann. It corresponds to a dry cholera, where the patient is taken simply with coldness, has not the vitality to vomit and purge. It suits especially, therefore, the period of invasion. Relief by warmth is a characteristic Hydrocyanic acid. Marked collapse with sudden cessation of all discharges. Last stage of cholera with fainting spells and tetanic spasms. Dr. Sircar, of Calcutta, has good results in cases that seem past help by using this remedy. Sulphur. There are many symptoms of this drug that resemble cholera in its incipiency, and it has been recommended to put flowers of Sulphur in the stockings as a prophylactic.

#Cuprum
Intense spasms and cramps mark this remedy; there is coldness of the surface of the body, dryness of the mouth, thirst, blueness of the skin, cramps of the muscles of the calves, violent pains in the epigastrium and ineffectual efforts to vomit. It has vomiting and purging nearly as great as Veratrum, but not the cold sweat. Cramps are more prominent under Cuprum than any other remedy. It has also spasmodic twitchings, and has been used as a prophylactic. Probably the acetate is the better preparation of the use. Hale recommends Cuprum arsenicosum. The evacuations of Cuprum are choleric; they irritate more than they inflame, thus coming nearer to cholera than Arsenicum. Everything is spasmodic, and it is indicated only when vomiting and purging have set in. In the chest the cramps produce dyspnoea; there are cramps in extremities, even in fingers and thumbs.

#Arsenicum [Ars]
Arsenicum poisoning has been mistaken for cholera. There is intense vomiting and purging, brownish yellow, profuse, offensive yellow or green stools with thirst, cold body, and burning internally. It has more restlessness and less sweat than Veratrum. In cholera infantum with undigested stools, restlessness, and rapid emaciation. Diarrhoea when the child begins to eat and drink. Ptomaine poisoning calls for the remedy. It is distinguished from Veratrum by the scantiness of the discharges. Lachesis. Vomiting renewed by the least exertion.

#Carbo vegetabilis [Carb.v]
The remedy where reaction seems extinct; the prostration is so great that the patient lies quite, too weak to move, cold body, pulse rapid and thread-like and breath cold;when vomiting, diarrhoea and spasm or pain have ceased. Prostration from drain on the system, lips bluish, breathing weak, is an excellent indication group for Carbo vegetabilis.

#Secale [Sele]
Suits the stage of collapse with desire to keep cool; cholera infantum with profuse undigested stools, watery and offensive, followed by prostration; the movements are copious and come in spurts; the skin is wrinkled , dry and cold; patient is almost pulseless, cold, but averse to being covered, spasmodic twitching of muscles, spreads finger apart, eyes sunken, features pinched,are important indicating symptoms of Secale.

#Podophyllum [Podo]
This remedy pictures cholera morbus; there is a painless watery stool coming out with a gush and a loathing of food; undigested diarrhoea worse mornings may also be present. Iris versicolor. Watery, yellowish-green stools, worse in the morning at 2 or 3a.m. There is a vomiting of food, sour and bilious matters. Elaterium. Cholera infantum; olive-green watery stools, coming with a gush, indicate Elaterium. Croton tiglium has profuse yellow or watery stool provoked by eating or drinking. Ipecacuanha. Vomiting is a predominating symptom with this remedy, and comes on alternately with a watery, yellowish diarrhoea accompanied by colic.

#Calcarea carbonica [Calc-c]
Cholera infantum, craving for eggs; vomiting of milk in curds, diarrhoea, worse in the evening, of greenish, undigested, watery and sour stools are characteristic of this remedy. Aconite. This remedy has greenish or chopped spinach stools and inflammatory symptoms Hempel recommended Aconite tincture in cholera where there is a rapid collapse unattended with copious evacuations. A quiet,subdued, passive condition contraindicates Aconite. Aconite is one of the most important remedies in the active stage of cholera infantum. Argentum nitricum. Cholera infantum in thin, dried up, mummified children; slimy, noisy stools, stools like finely chopped spinach, especially in children who have eaten too much sugar. Aconite. Stools are like large choppings of grass and discharged with a blast of wind and water. Calcarea phosphoricum. Great emaciation, pale face, craving for bacon and ham are characteristics. Ferrum phosphoricum has proved most useful in summer diarrhoea which is undigested; a regular cholera infantum. Psorinum. Patient is nervous, restless; profuse watery stools, worse at night, of offensive putrid odor, clinging to clothing, are keynotes of this remedy.

Chicken pox

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24 Chicken pox

Chicken Pox, also called varicella, contagious viral disease that affects mainly children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4 million people develop chicken pox each year, and more than 95 percent of Americans will have had chicken pox by the time they reach adulthood.

Chicken pox - CAUSE

Chicken pox is caused by varicella-zoster virus, a type of herpes virus. The virus spreads through the air via infected droplets emitted from the nose or mouth while coughing or sneezing. Touching the fluid from a chicken pox blister can also spread the disease. Chicken pox is contagious for approximately seven days during a person’s period of infection. Contagiousness begins about two days before symptoms appear and continues until all blisters have formed scabs. Doctors recommend keeping the infected person isolated from others during those seven days.

Chicken Pox Sign and Symptoms

Typically, chicken pox begins with a low fever, headache, rash, and a general feeling of sickness, or malaise. The rash, which usually covers the face, scalp, and trunk of the body, starts as red bumps but quickly develops into small blisters. The rash and the blisters are extremely itchy. As the disease progresses, the blisters break open and form scabs, which fall off after about one to two weeks. The incubation period—the time between initial infection and the first appearance of symptoms—is approximately two weeks.
Chicken pox - TREATMENT & HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES

Antim tart., Rhus tox, Kali mur., Pulsatilla, Aconite, Ars-alb, Apis, Belladona, Sulphur etc are known to work in cases of chickenpox.

Chicken pox - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

Treatment of chicken pox is usually limited to bed rest, acetaminophen for relief of fever and discomfort, and measures that soothe the itching, including lukewarm baths and application of topical medicines such as calamine lotion. Excessive scratching can cause infection of blisters, which can lead to scarring. Acyclovir, an antiviral drug, is used to treat severe cases of chicken pox, particularly in patients with a weakened immune system.

REFERENCE WORKS

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed, McGraw-Hill

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd revised ed., 2001, B. Jain

Carbuncle

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23 Carbuncle

An infection larger than a boil and with several openings for discharge of pus. A carbuncle is an infection of the subcutaneous tissues involving the hair follicles, usually caused by staphylococci bacteria.

#Arsenicum album [Ars]
This is generally regarded as the chief remedy in carbuncle. The great indication is burning as if coals of fire were on the affected part. There are also cutting, lancinating pains with aggravation after midnight,and great irritability of the mind and body. Arsenic comes in later in the disease than Rhus. Rhus is an excellent remedy in the beginning of the trouble when the pains are intense and the affected parts are dark red. If Arsenic fails resort may be had to Anthracinum, which has precisely the same symptom as Arsenic,but far more intense. Warm application relieve the Arsenic pains. Anthracinum will often promptly relieve the burning, agonizing pains of carbuncle. Echinacea is a wonderfully good remedy in carbuncle, the septic state, the prostration and the pain are well met by it, and it may also be applied externally.

#Lachesis [Lach]
is a very useful remedy when the surface is swollen and pus forms very slowly. The parts are purplish-looking with evidences of blood poisoning; there is great burning, relieved by washing in cold water. Small boils surrounding the main sore is a valuable indication. Carbuncles which slough are very offensive call for Lachesis or,perhaps, Carbo vegetabilis. Tarentula Cubensis produces a perfect picture of sloughing carbuncle with great prostration, and it relieves the atrocious pains accompanying it. An indication is an early marked black core center. Hughes has repeatedly verified this remedy in carbuncle (use Succus Calendula, I to 6, as a local application).

#Silicea [Sil]
This remedy comes in to favor healthy suppuration and promote healthy granulations. Carbuncles on back between the shoulders. Nitric acid and Phytolacca have a disposition to carbuncles. Grauvogl recommends Arnica.

Candida/Candidiasis

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22 Candida/Candidiasis

Candida or Monilia is a skin rash caused by a yeast living on normal skin of 80% of all people. In most people, the presence of this yeast on the skin is not visible. In some people, for unknown reasons, the yeast grows more actively and causes a red, itchy, scaling rash. The yeast likes warm moist areas and usually grows in the skin folds under the breast, stomach, and arm pits.

Candida - CAUSE

Candida is caused by a yeast called Candida albicans.
Candida infection sometimes occurs as a result of antibiotic therapy.
People with diabetes are more prone to getting the rash of Candida, but the rash can occur in anyone.

Candida - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Red, itchy, scaling rash on skin, usually worse in the skin folds under the breast, stomach, and arm pits.

This vaginal infection occurs predominantly in reproductive age women. The main symptoms produced by a candida yeast vaginitis are vaginal and/or vulvar itching (pruritus), or even a vulvar burning sensation. There is a cheese-like (caseous) white to white yellow discharge. Also there can be swelling of the perineum or a redness (erythema) (1). The discharge is not watery and usually not odorous. Symptoms build up over 1-3 days.

Candida - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS DONE?

Gram stain showing yeast is an accurate method of diagnosis as is culture.

Candida - TREATMENT & HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES

Homeopathy is very well known for its effectiveness in skin-disorders. There are many homeopathic medicines which have been used clinically against fungal diseases and candida. The following homeopathic medicines may help in the treatment of Candida:

Sulphur, Sepia, Antim crud, Natrum mur, Natrum salicylicum, Petroleum, Medorrhinum, Thuja etc.

Candida - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

A common treatment regimen is anti-yeast cream applied to the affected area twice a day followed by hydrocortisone cream. Azole class of drugs are also commonly used.

Candida - WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

If you have recurrent Candida infections you should have a glucose tolerance test done to rule out diabetes mellitus.
If you are a diabetic and are frequently diagnosed with Candida infections your blood glucose levels are probably not in the normal range. You should contact your family doctor and have your treatment plan reevaluated.

REFERENCE WORKS

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed, McGraw-Hill

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd revised ed., 2001, B. Jain

Bronchitis

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21 Bronchitis

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the part of the respiratory system that leads into the lungs. There are two types of bronchitis -- acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis usually appears after a respiratory infection, such as a cold, and can be caused by either a virus or bacteria. Chronic bronchitis does not have a sudden onset and is most frequently caused by long term irritation of the bronchial tubes. A case if bronchitis is considered "chronic" if symptoms continue for three months or longer. (Chronic bronchitis is a type of COPD.) Bronchitis caused by allergies can also be classified as chronic bronchitis.
Symptoms and signs of acute bronchitis

Symptoms usually commence during epidemics of colds or influenza. They are frequently first noticed in the upper airways and are characterised by mucus drainage from sinuses, a burning throat and a general feeling of ill health. There may also be a raised temperature. A dry cough may herald the onset of bronchitis and this may be followed within hours to days by the production of small amounts of white and eventually yellow sputum. You may experience discomfort over the main airways (trachea or large bronchi), which will be accentuated by coughing or wheezing.

Symptoms of chronic bronchitis

Symptoms may not be immediately obvious for chronic bronchitis. They include:

Chronic productive cough (a cough that produces mucus) that increases in strength and frequency
Shortness of breath or wheezing, especially during exercise
Chest pain
Bronchitis - Treatment & Homeopathic Medicines

#Aconite [Acon]
The sphere of Aconite in bronchitis is limited to the onset of the affection, and here it must be distinguished carefully from other remedies also suitable to this stage. When, as a result of checked perspiration, exposure to cold, drafts or dry, cold winds,a cold is taken starting in with a coryza, frequent sneezing, chilliness,restless sleep,full,hard pulse, and the characteristic mental condition, Aconite will come in,though its stage is a brief one is usually over before the physician sees the case. It is of use, therefore,only before the inflammation is localized. Dr. Pope says that Aconite will often prevent the development of a thorough bronchitis. If the cases are characterized by lassitude and physical weakness and indisposition with a full flowing pulse and moderate congestion, then Aconite is supplanted by Gelsemium. Often times it is difficult to determine which of these remedies is indicated, when Ferrum phosphoricum must be considered, and more especially so in the bronchitis of children,where it will often check the trouble. It stands therefore,midway between Aconite and Gelsemium, with less restlessness and bounding pulse than the former and less flowing pulse and drowsiness than the latter remedy. It corresponds to cases where every little cold adds to trouble, the cough is short and dry, the lungs are sore, and the breathing is somewhat oppressed. Veratrum viride suits violent cases from the first where there is high temperature, full,hard rapid pulse, and great heat of the body. It differs from Aconite in having no anxiety and no restlessness. When the arterial turgescence is over its period of usefulness is past.

#Belladonna [Bell]
Belladonna suits cases of bronchitis with a violent fever, short,dry, continual,distressing cough,worse at night and on lying down,where the breathing is irregular and hurried, no expectoration, or,if present,it is apt to be bloodstreaked, fulness in chest without any pain,though children will cry when coughing,the skin is hot and inclined to moisture,not dry like Aconite or Veratrum viride. There is a tendency to drowsiness, the patient does not sleep, but dozes in semiconscious manner and starts frequently. Do not be too great hurry a change to another remedy when the cough is spasmodic and the child cries after each paroxysm. Belladonna is still the remedy.

#Bryonia [Bry]
Probably this remedy is seldom indicated in pure bronchitis,though very frequently given. It is of especial good service when the cough is very severe, hurting the head and distant parts of the body. The patient presses the hands on the sides of the chest while coughing to relieve the pain. There is great pressure over the sternum,dyspnoea, and a dry cough,which seems to start from the stomach. It is worse after a meal and there is but little expectoration. The cough is more the result of an irritation in the larger bronchi than in the finger tubes, and the hacking produces sore spots in the trachea and chest. Stitching pains in the sides, of course, further indicate Bryonia. The cough is aggravated by coming into a warm room from the cold air. Hughes says that it is the best remedy after Aconite for what is known as a cold on the chest. If the expectoration becomes copious,loose,thick and muco-purulent, Pulsatilla may be indicated; if accompanied by nausea and vomiting of mucus, then give Ipecacuanha, especially bronchitis following measles and whooping cough, Chelidonium is an excellent medicine.

#Phosphorus [Phos]
Especially suitable to sub-acute and lingering cases in delicate, tall, slender, overgrown or phthisical subjects. It thus suits non- resistant individuals. There is a paroxysmal cough with pain under the sternum, suffocative pressure in the upper part of the chest with constriction of the larynx, hoarseness,mucous rales,bloody and mucous sputum or purulent, having a salty or sweetish taste; patient better after sleep. The respiration is embarrassed and the tendency is toward pneumonia. Rumex has a tickling in the supra-sternal fossa; any change in breathing causes cough; must breathe warm air to avoid coughing. With Phosphorus the cough is worse after meals, and a guiding symptom is soreness and rawness of the chest; the cough is also worse going into the open air, being the reverse of Bryonia. Talking, or any use of the voice, aggravates the cough. Hepar sulphur. When the cough begins to loosen and becomes rattling, fatiguing and choking , with moist rales, Hepar will be the remedy. "Coughing into a choke" is a valuable indication for this remedy. It corresponds more closely to subacute cases. It is particularly adapted to dyscrasias, herein differing from Pulsatilla. Kali carbonicum is also valuable in capillary bronchitis with dyspnoea,a choking cough, and sharp stitches in the chest. The 12x potency is perhaps the best.

#Mercurius [Merc]
The sovereign remedy in inflammatory bronchial catarrh; there is roughness and soreness from the fauces down through the middle of the chest, a dry, raw concussive cough, which is very exhausting ;sputum watery, saliva-like,or yellow and muco-purulent. There is fever and alternation of hills and heat, desire for cold drinks, which aggravate the cough. and pasty sweat without relief. Kali bichromicum has for its indication the tough,tenacious,glutinous character of the expectoration; it can be drawn out in long strings. Hughes considers it useful when bronchitis lingers long in a sub-acute condition. The expectoration may also be of bluish lumps, and the cough is especially troublesome towards morning , the tightness seems to be at the epigastrium.

#Antimonium tartaricum [Ant-t]
This remedy corresponds to two stages of bronchitis, an early one and a late one. In the beginning of capillary bronchitis in young infants, or in old people, this remedy stands most prominent. There are sub- crepitant rales throughout the chest, wheezing breathing, the cough sounds loose, but no phlegm is raised. In children the cough is infrequent, and the child becomes drowsy, the respiration is superficial, requiring labored efforts of the respiratory muscles, and vomiting of food and mucus may be present. In these cases carbon dioxide poisoning threatens, and the patient's own mucous secretion drown him. These are clear indication of Antimonium tartaricum. Ipecacuanha is the most similar drug; the rales are louder and coarser, there is much coughing, but the patient raises little phlegm of infants, the prostration not being as marked as with Antimonium tartaricum. There is great accumulation of mucus,spasmodic cough,nausea and vomiting, and difficulty in breathing. After its use the expectoration becomes less tenacious which permits it to be raised more easily. Baryta carbonica has loud rattling in the chest, but the patient cannot raise. Ammonium causticum has also a copious accumulation of mucus in the lungs with incessant cough. Another preparation of Antimony, namely, Antimonium iodatum, is praised by Goodno for a heavy, yellow, muco-purulent expectoration. It often acts promptly in relieving when other remedies fail. Antimonium arsenicosum is also a most useful remedy and corresponds to dangerous types of capillary bronchitis.

#Sulphur [Sulph]
Sulphur corresponds well to inveterate cases of chronic bronchitis, and brilliant results are here obtained. Its catarrh of the bronchial mucous membranes is accompanied with loud rales, a persistent, profuse, thick, muco-purulent expectoration and attended by suffocative attacks. Balsam Peru. Bronchial catarrh, with loud rales and profuse expectoration; both this remedy and Pix liquida have expectoration of purulent matter. Bacillinum is a remedy highly spoken of by some competent observers; it seems to suit especially individuals who are constantly catching cold, one is hardly gotten rid of before another is contracted. The irritation locates itself in the bronchial mucous membrane leaving troublesome cough. Arnulphy considers the remedy a most useful one.

#Carbo vegetabilis [Carb.v]
Bronchitis of old people with profuse, yellow, foetid expectoration, dyspnoea, much rattling in the chest, and burning calls for this remedy. Among other remedies suiting bronchial troubles in old people are Senega where the cough is irritating and the phlegm is especially adhesive and the patient complains of a pressing pain in the chest, when respiring, moving or coughing. Lachesis where the cough comes on when the patient is about to drop of to sleep; Arsenicum, fatiguing suffocative cough with violent dyspnoea; Scilla, obstinate chronic coughs with stitches in the chest, expectoration transparent or muco-purulent, easy at times, hard at others; Nux vomica, Rhus and Veratrum album. Dulcamara is a valuable remedy for bronchial catarrhs of old people with a very free greenish expectoration, worse from change of weather to cold and wet.

Mammary Glands,

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20 Mammary Glands,

Breast Related Complaints

#Conium. [Con]
This remedy has a specific action on the female breast, dissipating its engorgements and tumors and relieving its pains. Tumors of a suspicious nature in the mammae have been caused to disappear by the use of Conium. They are the seat of a piercing pains, worse at night, and the rest of the gland is tender. The 30th potency is one that can be relied on in these cases. Conium corresponds also to injuries of the breast from a blow or pressure or overuse of arms; the characteristics are the hardness and the extreme sensitiveness; the breasts are painful even to the touch of the clothes or the jar of walking. This remedy suits cases where the gland becomes inflamed after every little cold. Pruritus is a confirming symptom. Bryonia. Breasts become hard and painful. Mastitis commencing with a chill, stitching pains, tense swelling, headache and other general Bryonia symptoms.

#Phytolacca. [Phyt]
This remedy is suitable to irritable mammary tumors; the breasts are very sensitive during nursing, with an excessive flow of milk. There is tendency of the breasts to cake and suppurate; here no remedy is so useful; the pains seem to radiate from the nipple all over the body, especially down the arm from the axilla. Patient is chilly, rigors showing suppuration ; sore and fissured nipples; also Graphites and Hepar. Great aching all over the body with any of these condition is greatly characteristic. Croton tiglium. Pains shoot from nipple to the shoulders. Phellandrium. Stitching pain in nipple and pain along the milk ducts. Arnica. Tumors of the mammary gland from bruises. There is a discoloration of the parts and everything adds to the soreness; clothing, bandage, etc. Murex. Dr. Jousset has successfully used this remedy to quiet the pains of mammary tumors, especially when these pains are increased during menses.

#Calcarea fluorica. [Calc-f]
This remedy corresponds to hard indurated swellings in the female breast. It has an excellent clinical record in dissipating these growths. Silicea suits chronic cases of mastitis with fistulous openings and callous edges. It will often disperse hard lumps in the breast. Sabal serrulata is said to materially aid in growth of undeveloped mammary glands.

#Aconite. [Acon]
This should be used in the initial chill of acute mastitis, and it may be followed by Belladonna when red streaks radiate from a central point accompanied by pulsating pains, headache and a hardness of the breasts. Dr. E.S. Bailey thinks Belladonna has aborted more mammary neoplasms than any other remedy in the materia medica. Mercurius may be used when throbbing or transient chills indicate the beginning of suppuration. Sulphur may also be needed. Prof. Bailey further considers Sulphur as one of the best remedies for mammary neoplasms. Burning is mentioned as as indicating symptoms; also a history of former skin diseases and suppressed eruptions or of an infective leucorrhoea. Psorinum may also be mentioned in this connection.

#Pulsatilla [Puls]
is also an excellent remedy in scanty flow or absence of milk, the patient being gloomy or tearful. It is useful where mechanical irritation excites the flow of milk in young girls. Urtica urens. Non-appearance of milk, with no special symptoms, may be corrected by this remedy. Scrophularia nodosa, according to Dr. Cooper, of London, has an especial affinity for breast tissue. Adenoma and carcinoma come within its curative range.

Brain, Diseases of

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19 Brain, Diseases of

(Anaemia, Congestion, Inflammation)

#Aconite [Acon]
Aconite suits active cerebral congestion from heat of the sun or due to sudden emotional excitement. It suits the first stage of idiopathic inflammation of the brain,thirst,delirium and vertigo point to it. Any noise or light will aggravate the condition,and the eyes feel as if starting from their sockets.

#Belladonna [Bell]
This remedy has congestion and cerebral irritation with hot head, cold feet,throbbing carotids and headache. There are sharp, shooting pains in the head,which make the patient cringe. These pains are stabbing, come suddenly last indefinitely and cease suddenly, and they may be accompanied with vomiting. It is the prime remedy in the cerebral congestions of childhood. The child will bore the head into the pillow, have strabismus and convulsions. There is also a stupor out of the which the patient can hardly be aroused, and when aroused is very violent and delirious. Glonoine is very similar; it has a great rush of blood to the head and a sensation as if the head were enormously large and crowded with blood. It is aggravated by bending backward, relieved by motion and uncovering the head, while Belladonna is relieved by bending backward and by covering the head and is aggravated by motion.

#Hyoscyamus [Hyos]
Hyoscyamus is suitable for cerebral inflammation with pulsating waves through the head, relieved by shaking the head or sitting with the head bent forward, which is the opposite of Belladonna. Kali bromatum. This remedy has numb sensations in the head brought on by overwork.

#Stramonium [Stram]
This remedy suits inflammatory conditions of the brain with violent delirium or epileptiform seizures. Vertigo is a prominent symptom and also a transient blindness. It is especially useful in brain involvement in epilepsy. Veratrum viride suites the active form of cerebral hyperaemia. There is a full bounding pulse and symptoms of mania and convulsions

#Ferrum
A most valuable remedy for cerebral anaemia. There is disposition to faint, anaemic murmurs in the vessels in the neck; there is an appearance of full bloodedness, but the flesh is flabby and soft, and the patients are really very weak and anaemic. Arsenicum is especially indicated in cerebral anaemia due to malaria or as a result of excessive use of quinine. There is great depression of the vital forces, nausea, bloating of the hands, feet and face and other Arsenicum symptoms. Cinchona. Anaemia due to long-continued drains on the system indicate this remedy.

#Nux vomica [Nux-v]
Nux suits anaemia of the brain brought on by a long-continuous over- stimulation caused by spirituous liquors, mental overwork and dissipation in general. It suits also softening of the brain due to sedentary habits and intemperance. The headache characteristic of the drug is present, the gastric symptoms, the unsteady gait, and the vertigo. The memory is weakened, the patient is sleepless. Anacardium. This drug is especially to be thought of in loss memory. Opium. This remedy suits a passive cerebral congestion with great heaviness of the head and vertigo on rising. It produces a continual sopor, even insensibility, with dark redness of the face and coldness and paleness of the rest of the body. The pulse is slow and the breathing is stertorous; it suits hyperaemia of the brain dependent upon sedentary life.

#Phosphorus [Phos]
Phosphorus suits anaemic of the brain, the result of mental work or incident to the development of tuberculosis. It also suits softening of the brain with persistent headache, vertigo, formication and numbness in the limbs; the patients are weak, tired and have a great difficulty in walking. Jahr speaks warmly of its power in this affection. Baryta carbonica corresponds to premature loss of memory and childishness in old people, to sclerotic condition of the brain with excessive irritation of all the nerves; tumors in the brain may cause symptoms corresponding to Baryta.

#Zincum metallicum
A useful remedy in old chronic cases of cerebral anaemia, especially if brought about by the excessive use of the bromide of potassium. It is also a useful remedy for brain affection in the course of scarlet fever or summer complaints. Paralytic condition from cerebral softening may need Zincum. Rhus corresponds to senile changes in the brain. There is a swashing sensation in the brain when moving the head. It also suits paralytic troubles from brain diseases.

Bones, Diseases of Bone Disorders

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18 Bones, Diseases of Bone Disorders

#Aurum [Aur]
Caries of cranial bones and bones of the palate are especially met by this remedy. It is an antidote to mercury, and has violent pains at night. There is an offensive odor and discharge of small pieces of bone. Pains in the bones of the extremities. Given timely it may prevent caries, necrosis and exostosis. Platinum muriaticum. Caries especially of the tarsus. Mezereum. Periostitis before the stage of suppuration, worse from touch nodes, necrosis nocturnal bone pains. Exostosis of the tarsal bones.

#Asafoetida [Asaf]
Caries of bones with offensive discharges, intolerable soreness around the ulcers; caries of tibia with great soreness, so much so that dressings are intolerant. Pains are dull, drawing and boring, worse from rest. Strontiana carbonica. Caries of long bones with an exhausting diarrhoea. Ostitis discharging bone. Stillingia. Syphilis of the long bones, periostitis and otitis worse at night and in damp weather. It is of striking benefit in secondary syphilitic nodes.

#Calcarea fluorica [Calc.f]
Osseous tumors, enlargement of bones, with or without caries. Hecla lava. Osteomata of spongy nature are greatly improved and cured even by this remedy. Swelling of bones of jaw after extraction of teeth with violent pains. Caries of maxillary bones.

#Mercurius [Merc]
Ostitis, violent bone pains, swelling. Nitric acid. Mercurial ostitis, drawing, pressive pains with sensitiveness. Phosphorus. Non-syphilitic caries of vertebra and caries of lower jaw. in hip disease it is useful after Silicea, burning in the spine. The proving of Phosphorus gives the essential features of rickets. It is especially of use in cases marked by laryngeal symptoms. This is an important clinical observation and may be accepted as a guiding indication.

#Silicea [Sil]
Curvature of bones, rickets; here it is often the clearly indicated remedy; there is present offensive sweat. Hip-joint disease. Caries after inflammation, worse from cold. Potts disease. It is a slow acting remedy. Calcarea carbonica. Baehr claims that this remedy is superior to any in caries of the vertebra. Curvature of the spine. Rickets, sour sweat. Phosphoric acid. Hip disease and caries of the spine. Sensation in the bone as if scraped with a knife. It is a remedy which corresponds to the extreme debility found in rickets, and is a valuable remedy in that affection.

#Flouric Acid [Fl-Ac]
Dental fistula; caries of the bone, especially of the long bones, with thin excoriating discharges relieved by cold applications. Caries of temporal bones and mastoid processes. The pains are burning and intermittent, and the discharge is thin and acrid. Caries from syphilis or mercury. It follows Silicea well. Silicea is worse from cold, Flouric acid better. Dr. Luther Peck, of Plymouth, Michigan, relates a case of maxillary necrosis in which Silicea followed by Flouric acid and then Calcarea flourica completely cured. These three remedies are excellent jaw remedies.

#Calcarea phosphorica [Calc-p]
A great remedy for non-union of fractured bones when due to impaired nutrition. In the lower potencies it stimulates the formation of callus. The remedy for rickets, especially for the fat rachitic infant. Symphytum. An excellent remedy for injuries of bone where there is an irritability at the point of fracture, nervous in origin. Ruta graveolens oftentimes in fractures renders good service in causing callus to form. Especially useful where non-union results, because of deficient callus. Sulphur. Rickets, defective assimilation, great appetite, but poorly nourished.

BOILS, Skin abscess

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17 BOILS, Skin abscess

A boil, also referred to as a skin abscess, is a localized infection deep in the skin. A boil generally starts as a reddened, tender area. Over time, the area becomes firm and hard. Eventually, the center of the abscess softens and becomes filled with infection-fighting white blood cells that the body sends from the blood stream to eradicate the infection. This collection of white blood cells, bacteria, and proteins is known as pus. Finally, the pus "forms a head," which can be surgically opened or spontaneously drain out through the surface of the skin.

#Belladonna [Bell]
In boils with much swelling and redness Belladonna is the remedy to be used in the early stages. Boils recurring in the spring also indicate the remedy. Arnica produces a crop of boils all over, beginning with soreness, go on to suppuration, and another crop follows. When the boils partially mature and shrivel up Arnica is the remedy indicated. Calcarea picrata has achieved a clinical reputation in boils.

#Silicea [Sil]
This is a great boil remedy, and, in conjunction with Hepar sulphuris, prescribed for the general indications of abscess will cover many cases. It is a remedy to prevent boils. It produces inflammation of the connective tissue, and following the boil will be a plastic indurated and often inflamed lump, which Silicea will remove. Calcarea sulphurica is also a remedy to remove the tumefaction of boils. Arsenicum and Carbo vegetabilis come in boils of a low adynamic type.

#Sulphur [Sulph]
This remedy produces a tendency to boils and is applicable to scrofulous persons. Hughes recommends a course of Sulphur 12. Phytolacca is said to be specific in boils. Lycopodium. Evans says the trinity of remedies for boils is Belladonna, Arnica and Lycopodium. Berberis vulgaris hastens suppuration in boils and prevents their recurrence. Anthracinum is recommended by Clarke for succession of boils, with no other symptoms to guide. Arctium lappa and Echinacea are excellent remedies with which to break up the "boil habit". In the latter remedy profound prostration is an indication.

Hypotension, Low Blood Pressure

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16 Hypotension, Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure is an abnormal condition where a person's blood pressure (the pressure of the blood against the walls of the blood vessels during and after each beat of the heart) is much lower than usual, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness.

When the blood pressure is too low, there is inadequate blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organs.

A blood pressure level that is borderline low for one person may be normal for another. The most important factor is how the blood pressure changes from the normal condition. Most normal blood pressures fall in the range of 90/60 mm Hg to 130/80 mm Hg, but a significant change, even as little as 20 mm Hg, can cause problems for some people.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure or Hypotension

Conditions that reduce the volume of blood, reduce cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped by the heart), and medications are frequent causes of low blood pressure.

Causes of low blood pressure due to low blood volume

• Dehydration is common among patients with diarrhea who lose large amounts of water in their stool, particularly when drowsiness limits their drinking of fluids or is associated with nausea and vomiting. Dehydration also can occur with prolonged vomiting of any cause because of the loss of water in the vomitus. Other causes of dehydration include exercise, sweating, fever, and heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Individuals with mild dehydration may experience only thirst and dry mouth. Moderate to severe dehydration may cause orthostatic hypotension (manifest by light-headedness, dizziness or fainting upon standing). Protracted and severe dehydration can lead to shock, kidney failure, confusion, acidosis (too much acid in the blood), coma, and even death. For more, please read the Dehydration article.

• Moderate or severe bleeding can quickly deplete an individual’s body of blood, leading to low blood pressure or orthostatic hypotension.

• Severe inflammation of organs inside the body such as acute pancreatitis can cause low blood pressure. In acute pancreatitis, fluid leaves the blood to enter the inflamed tissues around the pancreas as well as the abdominal cavity, depleting the volume of blood.

Causes of low blood pressure due to heart disease

• Weakened heart muscle can cause the heart to fail and reduce the amount of blood it pumps. One common cause of weakened heart muscle is the death of a large portion of the heart’s muscle due to a single, large heart attack or repeated smaller heart attacks. Other examples of conditions that can weaken the heart include medications that are toxic to the heart, infections of the muscle of the heart by viruses (myocarditis), and diseases of the heart’s valves such as aortic stenosis.

• Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart). Pericarditis can cause fluid to accumulate within the pericardium and around the heart, restricting the ability of the heart to pump blood.

• Pulmonary embolism is a condition in which a blood clot in a vein (a condition called deep vein thrombosis) breaks off and travels to the heart and eventually the lung. A large blood clot can block the flow of blood into the left ventricle from the lungs and severely diminish the ability of the heart to pump blood.

• A slow heart rate (bradycardia) can decrease the amount of blood pumped by the heart. The resting heart rate for a healthy adult is between 60 and 100 beats/minute. Bradycardia (resting heart rates slower than 60 beats/minute) does not always cause low blood pressure. But in many patients bradycardia can lead to low blood pressure, light-headedness, dizziness, and even fainting.

One example of bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, occurs common in the elderly. This syndrome is due to degeneration of the sinus node (SA node), an area in the heart that generates electrical signals that cause the heart to beat regularly. In the sick sinus syndrome, the diseased SA node cannot generate signals fast enough to maintain a normal heart rate. Another condition that causes bradycardia is heart block. Electrical signals from the SA node must travel to the rest of the heart’s muscle to cause the heart to contract and pump blood. Normally these electrical signals are transmitted along special tissues in the heart. Heart block occurs when these specialized tissues are damaged by heart attacks, degeneration that occurs with aging, and medications. Heart block prevents some or all of the electrical signals generated by the SA node from reaching the rest of the heart, and this prevents the heart from contracting as rapidly as it otherwise would.

• An abnormally fast heart rate (tachycardia) also can cause low blood pressure. The most common example of tachycardia causing low blood pressure is atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation is a disorder of the heart characterized by rapid and irregular electrical discharges from the muscle of the heart (instead of the SA node), causing the ventricles to contract irregularly and (usually) rapidly. The rapidly contracting ventricles do not have enough time to fill maximally with blood before the each contraction, and the amount of blood that is pumped decreases, in spite of the faster heart rate.

Medications that cause low blood pressure

• Medications such as calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, and digoxin (Lanoxin) can slow the rate at which the heart contracts.

• Medications used in treating high blood pressure (such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and alpha-blockers) can excessively lower blood pressure and result in symptomatic low blood pressure especially among the elderly.

• Diuretics (water pills) such as furosemide (Lasix) can decrease blood volume by causing excessive urination.

• Medications used for treating depression, such as amitriptyline (Elavil), Parkinson’s disease, such as levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet), erectile dysfunction (impotence), such as sildenafil (Viagra) when used in combination with nitroglycerine, can cause low blood pressure

• Alcohol and narcotics also can cause low blood pressure.
Other condition s that cause low blood pressure

• Vasovagal reaction is a common condition in which a healthy person temporarily develops low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and sometimes fainting. A vasovagal reaction typically is brought on by emotions of fear or pain such as having blood drawn or starting an intravenous infusion.

• Postural (orthostatic) hypotension, as discussed previously, is a sudden drop in blood pressure when an individual stands up from a sitting, squatting, or supine (lying) position. When a person stands up, gravity causes blood to settle in the veins in the legs, hence less blood reaches the heart for pumping, and, as a result, the blood pressure drops.

• Another form of postural hypotension occurs typically in young healthy individuals. After prolonged standing, the individual’s heart rate and blood pressure drops, causing dizziness, nausea and often fainting. In these individuals, the autonomic nervous system wrongly responds to prolonged standing by directing the heart to slow down and the veins to dilate.

• Micturition syncope is a temporary drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness brought about by urinating. This condition typically occurs in elderly patients and may be due to the release by the autonomic nerves of hormones that lower blood pressure.

• Adrenal insufficiency, for example, due to Addison’s disease, can cause low blood pressure.

• Septicemia is a severe infection in which bacteria (or other infectious organisms such as fungi) enter the blood. The infection typically originates in the lungs (as pneumonia), bladder, or in the abdomen due to diverticulitis or gallstones. The bacteria then enter the blood where they release toxins and cause life-threatening and profound low blood pressure (septic shock), often with damage to several organs.

• Anaphylaxis (anaphylactic shock) is a potentially fatal allergic reaction to medications such as penicillin, intravenous iodine used in some x-ray studies, foods such as peanuts, or bee stings. In addition to a profound drop in blood pressure, individuals may also experience hives, wheezing, and a swollen throat with difficulty breathing.
Symptoms of Hypotension, Low Blood Pressure

When blood pressure is too low, the first organ to malfunction is usually the brain because it is located at the top of the body and blood has to fight gravity to reach the brain. Consequently, most people with low blood pressure feel dizzy or light-headed when they stand, and some may even faint. However, if blood pressure is low enough, brain damage can still occur.

Low blood pressure occasionally causes shortness of breath or chest pain due to an inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle (angina). All organs begin to malfunction if blood pressure becomes sufficiently low and remains low; this condition is called shock (see Shock).

Some symptoms occur when the body's compensatory mechanisms try to increase blood pressure that is low. For example, when arterioles constrict, blood flow to the skin, feet, and hands decreases. These areas may become cold and turn blue. When the heart beats more quickly and more forcefully, a person may feel palpitations (awareness of heartbeats).
Treatment of Low Blood Pressure, Hypotension

Conventional Treatment

Low blood pressure in healthy subjects without symptoms or organ damage needs no treatment. All patients with symptoms possibly due to low blood pressure should be evaluated by a doctor. The doctor needs to identify the cause of the low blood pressure since treatment will depend on the cause.

• Dehydration is treated with fluids and minerals (electrolytes). Mild dehydration without nausea and vomiting can be treated with oral fluids and electrolytes. Moderate to severe dehydration usually is treated with intravenous fluids and electrolytes.

• Blood loss can be treated with intravenous fluids and blood transfusions. If bleeding is continuing, it needs to be treated as well.

• Septicemia is treated with intravenous fluids and antibiotics or other medicines.

• Blood pressure medications or diuretics are adjusted, changed, or stopped by the doctor if they are causing low blood pressure symptoms.

• Bradycardia may be due to a medication. The doctor may reduce, change or stop the medication. Bradycardia due to sick sinus syndrome or heart block is treated with an implantable pacemaker.

• Tachycardia is treated depending on the nature of the tachycardia. Atrial fibrillation can be treated with oral medications, electrical cardioversion, or a catheterization procedure called pulmonary vein isolation. Ventricular tachycardia can be controlled with medications or with an implantable defibrillator.

• Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis is treated with blood thinners, intravenous heparin initially and oral warfarin later.

• Pericardial fluid can be removed by a procedure called pericardiocentesis.

• Postural hypotension can be treated by increasing water and salt intake, using compression stockings to compress the leg veins and reduce the pooling of blood in the veins. Increasing salt intake can lead to heart failure in patients with existing heart disease and should not be undertaken without consulting a doctor.
Homeopathic Medicines for Hypotension, Low Blood Pressure

Homeopathy can not just give symptomatic relief in cases of hypotension but can also address many root causes of low blood pressure like Bradychardia, Tachycardia, Pericarditis, Schock, Speticiemia, Vasovagal attack, inflammation etc.

The most commonly indicated homeopathic medicines in low blood pressure are:

Carbo-veg, Phos, Sepia, Thyroidinum, Baryta-mur, Aconite, Aranea, Cactus, Curare, Gelsemium, Halo, Histamine, Lachesis, Lyco, Naja, Rauwolfia, Reserprine, Visc., Radium, Theridion, Oleander, Laurocrasis, Acid flour, Adrenalin, Ars alb, Aurum mur, Bartya carb, Bryonia, Crataegus China, Conium, Ferrum met, lycopus, Nat mur, Pulsatilla.

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution etc.

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy BPH

2009-11-03T11:28:00.000-08:00

15 Benign Prostate Hypertrophy BPH

As the name suggests, it is a benign hypertrophy of the prostate gland, which is
situated just below the neck of urinary bladder in males.

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - CAUSE

Possibly diminished androgen secretion

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - MECHANISM

Histologically, the inner zone of the gland undergoes hyperplasia and hypertrophy,
and there is an increase in fibro muscular stroma. the enlarged prostate obstructs
the outflow of urine by compressing, displacing and elongating that part of urethra
which passes through the prostate gland.

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

* The stream of urine is poor
* There is difficulty in initiating micturation (hesitancy)
* There is difficulty in stopping it (terminal dribbling)
* Recurrent haematuria (blood in urine) may occur
* There may be aching pain in loins, sometimes aggravated by drinking
* Recurrent urinary tract infections may occur

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS MADE?

* Ultrasonography
* per-rectal examination

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - COMPLICATIONS

* Anuria (complete stoppage of urine flow)
* Uraemia (consequence of anuria)

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - WHAT TO DIFFERENTIATE FROM?

* Carcinoma prostate
* All other causes of urinary tract obstruction esp. vesical (urinary bladder)
calculus;
fibrosis following trauma, stone, instrumentation; urethral valves etc.

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT & MEDICINES

Homeopathy offers very good treatment for benign prostate hypertrophy. Some of the
medicines commonly used for this condition are thuja, ferrum-pic, conium, baryta-carb,
copaiva, populus-t, calc-carb, sabal-ser, selenium etc.

Benign Prostate Hypertrophy - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

Transurethral resection of the prostate tissue is the treatment of choice to relieve
the outflow obstruction

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO? - ACCESSORY MANAGEMENT

Regular exercise increases the level of androgens, so it may slow down the progression
of this condition.

WHERE ELSE TO FIND MORE INFO? - INTERNET RESOURCES

* http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/Mosby_factsheets/BPH.html
* http://www.uro.com/prostate.htm
* http://www.e-prostate.net/
* http://www.mdadvice.com/topics/bph/
* http://www.mdadvice.com/topics/bph/info/index.aspl
* http://www.mydr.com.au/default.asp?Article=2293
* http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/prostaticenlargement.htm

REFERENCE WORKS

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed, McGraw-Hill

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd revised ed.,
2001, B. Jain

A Concise Repertory of Homeopathic Medicines, S.R.Phatak, 3rd ed, B. Jain

A Clinical Repertory to the Dictionary of Materia Medica, J.H.Clarke, reprint ed,
1989, B. Jain

(BENIGN HYPERTROPHY OF PROSTATE GLAND)

One of the hot spots in the body. It is reddish brown, size of an English walnut.
It can disturb ones sleep by requiring several trips to the bathroom each night or
kill a man by producing uremic poisoning. In old age it can become a site for cancer too.
The prostate is a gland which contributes greatly to ones sexual life. It is a principal
storage depot for the seminal fluid, without which chances of pregnancy will be about zero.
At each ejaculation, testicles provide over 150-200 million sperms cells. The prostate
produces a fluid that dilutes them and this fluid contains proteins, enzymes, fats and
sugars to nourish the fragile sperm, alkalinity to overcome the deadly acidity of the female
tract and a watery medium in which the sperm can swim towards female egg.

It is very astonishing fact to know that the condition BPH has been explained in
Ayurvedic texts long back. The anatomical positon of the prostate gland, symptoms of BPH and
its remedies are explained in Acharya Sushruta.The anatomical position of prostate gland is
described in Ayurvedic classics as follows. In Yogaratnakara it has been described as

Naabheradhasthaatsanjaatha Sanchaari Yadi Vaachalaha
Ashteelaavad Ghano Granthiroodhwar Maayata Unnataha"

Which means Below umbilicus (NAABHI), there is a hard gland which is little bit bulged and
changes its place some times and some times stays stationary. This gland is like Ashteela
(A small stone used to sharpen swords). This gland when affected by vitiated vata causes a
disease called vataashteela (or benign prostate hypertrophy).

Sushruta explains the structure, anatomical position of prostate gland and the symptoms of
BPH as follows.

Shacranmaargasya Basheshcha Vaayurantaramaashritaha
Ashteelaavadghanam Granthimmoordhvamaayata Munnatam"

Which means - the place between rectum and bladder is occupied by vitiated vata it affects
the easy flow of urine, stools and semen by enlarging the gland Ashteela.

From the size of an almond in puberty, due to hormonal signals, it grows in size.
It has three lobes or sections, enclosed side by side in a capsule. The small urinary tube
that empties the bladder, passes over the middle lobe. Anything that happens there to swell
the prostate --- infection, inflammation, cancer, hypertrophy can enlarge these lobes and
thus obstruct the flow of urine , causing a wide spectrum of misery. With partial obstruction,
urine backs up in the bladder and becomes a stagnant pool; bacteria often invade the pool,
multiply and cause serious infection, retention, hydronephrosis etc. In an adult male, the
prostate usually weighs about 20 grams. Almost all of this mass develops during puberty in
response to hormonal changes associated with maturation. The prostate literally doubles in
size during puberty. If a man is lucky, and some are, the prostate never again undergoes
any changes in size. Unfortunately, for men between the age of 40 and 59, nearly 60% can
be shown to already be suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia. This usually does not
present a noticeable problem until after the age of 50. By the age of 80, however, some
85% of all men suffer from one or more symptoms of BPH. As the prostate enlarges, the layer
of tissue surrounding it stops it from expanding, causing the gland to press against the
urethra like a clamp on a garden hose. The bladder wall becomes thicker and irritable.
The bladder begins to contract even when it contains small amounts of urine, causing more
frequent urination. Eventually, the bladder weakens and loses the ability to empty itself
and urine remains in the bladder. The narrowing of the urethra and partial emptying of the
bladder cause many of the problems associated with BPH.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (formerly called hypertrophy) in some ways is the male
equivalent of menopause. The primary effect of BPH is a progressive decrease in the ability
to empty the bladder as the prostate enlarges and applies pressure to the urethra. Retained
urine from this obstruction at first can interfere with sleep as the sufferer wakes up in the
middle of the night. At other times, pressure may make it impossible to properly control urine
flow (incontinence). Retained urine in the bladder can allow bacterial growth and infection.
Urine may flow back up the tubules to the kidneys and cause infection there. In severe cases
of retention, urine even can find its way into the blood (uremia) with toxic consequences.

THEORIES FOR BPH

1. HORMONIC THEORY: As age advances , male hormones diminish, while estrogen does not. Tissues
are enlarged due to predominance of estrogenic hormone. This is involuntary hyperplasia like fibro
adenoma of breast.

2. NEOPLASTIC THEORY: Benign neoplasm. It is composed of fibrous tissues, granular tissues and
muscles and is known as fibro-myo-adenoma.

PATHOLOGY:

Prostate enlargement is strongly related to normal aging. Some of the factors involved are quite
well understood. Nevertheless, there also is substantial disagreement about other issues. BPH
can be called an aspect of male menopause because an increased ratio of estrogen to testosterone
is active in BPH just as, conversely, in women passing through menopause the ratio of testosterone
to estrogen increases. It is generally accepted that hormone ratios and hormone clearance are
involved in BPH, but the exact ways in which these lead to the enlargement has yet to be definitively
explained. Testosterone, the "male" hormone, is at its peak during adolescence. It decreases thereafter,
and the rate of decrease sharpens by about age 50. The decline in testosterone production typically
calls into play the compensatory release of other hormones which are stimulants to testosterone production.
These cannot prevent the decline in testosterone levels, but they can lead to an elevated rate of
transformation of testosterone into 5-alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and/or to the increased binding
and/or to the decreased clearance of DHT from prostate cells. Testosterone is converted to DHT by the
enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Ultimately, it is DHT's actions which cause the enlargement of the prostate.
DHT binds to specific receptors on the prostate cells usually referred to as androgen receptors. It then
is transported into the nucleus of these cells where it attaches to the DNA and ultimately turns on prostate growth.
As will be explored in more detail below, current research indicates that DHT is a necessary, but not a sufficient
cause in the etiology of BPH.

SECONDARY EFFECTS OF PROSTATIC ENLARGEMENT:

URETHRA

The portion of urethra lying above the prostate becomes elongated. Distortion of prostatic urethra .

BLADDER

Musculature of bladder hypertrophies to overcome obstruction. Urine is stagnant and may form stones.
Occasionally
haematuria

URETER AND KIDNEY

Pressure on ureteric orifice , gradual dilation of ureter, hydronephrosis, acending infection, nephritis

SEXUAL ORGANS

In early stages: increased sexual desire

In laterstages: Impotence

CLINICAL FEATURES

FREQUENCY

Earliest symptom

At first it is nocturnal

Later: day and night

Urgency due to stretched vesical sphincter

Dribbling

Cystitis

DYSURIA

Patient must wait for urination to start

Useless to strain

STREAM

Variable

Weak

Tends to stop

Starts and dribbles

PAIN

Only due to cystitis or acute retention of urine

May be dull

Feeling of fullness in lower abdomen

RETENTION

Acute retention of urine

Retention with overflow, constant dribbling

URINE

Occasional Haematuria

KIDNEY

Renal insufficiency

EXAMINATION

RENAL AREA

Tender

TONGUE

Brown, dry

RECTAL EXAMINATION

Absence of full bladder

Bimanual : Dorsal position : the enlargement can be felt

BLOOD

Blood urea increased, ESR increased

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA): It is a protein produced by the cells of the
prostate gland. The PSA test measures the level of PSA in the blood. The doctor
takes a blood sample, and the amount of PSA is measured in a laboratory. Because
PSA is produced by the body and can be used to detect disease, it is sometimes
called a biological marker or tumor marker. It is normal for men to have low
levels of PSA in their blood; however, prostate cancer or benign (not cancerous)
conditions can increase PSA levels. As men age, both benign prostate conditions
and prostate cancer become more frequent. The most common benign prostate
conditions are prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and benign prostatic
hyperplasia (BPH) (enlargement of the prostate). There is no evidence that
prostatitis or BPH cause cancer, but it is possible for a man to have one or
both of these conditions and to develop prostate cancer as well. PSA levels
alone do not give doctors enough information to distinguish between benign
prostate conditions and cancer. However, the doctor will take the result of
the PSA test into account when deciding whether to check further for signs of
prostate cancer>.

PSA test results report the level of PSA detected in the blood. The test results
are usually reported as nanograms of PSA per milliliter (ng/ml) of blood. In
the past, most doctors considered PSA values below 4.0 ng/ml as normal. However,
recent research found prostate cancer in men with PSA levels below 4.0 ng/ml (2).
Many doctors are now using the following ranges, with some variation:

o 0 to 2.5 ng/ml is low

o 2.6 to 10 ng/ml is slightly to moderately elevated

o 10 to 19.9 ng/ml is moderately elevated

o 20 ng/ml or more is significantly elevated

IVU

The shape and position of urethra will help in diagnosing, contraindicated in
case of renal insufficiency

URINE FLOW STUDY

Sometimes the patient is asked to urinate into a special device that measures
how quickly the urine is flowing. A reduced flow often suggests BPH.

OTHER

CYSTOURETHROSCOPY, ULTRA SONOGRAPHY

COMPLICATIONS

* Acute Retention
* Chronic Retention: The bladderis not completely emptied after passing urine.
Some urine remains in the bladder at all times. This is called 'chronic (ongoing)
retention'. This may cause recurring urine infections, or incontinence (as urine
dribbles around the blockage rather than large amounts being passed each time
goes to the toilet).
* Infection
* Uremia
* Hydronephrosis
* Renal Failure

INDICATION FOR OPERATION

Dysuria

Acute retention

Chronic retention

Complications: stone, infections

Hemorrhage

TREATMENT

Catheterization: In case of retention of urine

Transurethral microwave procedures. Prostatron, a device that uses microwaves to
heat and destroy excess prostate tissue. In the procedure called transurethral
microwave thermotherapy (TUMT), the Prostatron sends computer-regulated microwaves
through a catheter to heat selected portions of the prostate to at least 111 degrees
Fahrenheit. A cooling system protects the urinary tract during the procedure. Although
microwave therapy does not cure BPH, it reduces urinary frequency, urgency, straining,
and intermittent flow. It does not correct the problem of incomplete emptying of the
bladder. Ongoing research will determine any long-term effects of microwave therapy and
who might benefit most from this therapy.

Transurethral needle ablation. Transurethral Needle Ablation (TUNA) System for the
treatment of BPH. The TUNA System delivers low-level radiofrequency energy through twin
needles to burn away a well-defined region of the enlarged prostate. Shields protect the
urethra from heat damage. The TUNA System improves urine flow and relieves symptoms with
fewer side effects when compared with transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). No
incontinence or impotence has been observed

Transurethral surgery. A procedure called TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate)
is used for 90 percent of all prostate surgeries done for BPH. With TURP, an instrument
called a resectoscope is inserted through the penis. The resectoscope, which is about 12
inches long and 1/2 inch in diameter, contains a light, valves for controlling irrigating
fluid, and an electrical loop that cuts tissue and seals blood vessels. The surgeon uses
the resectoscope's wire loop to remove the obstructing tissue one piece at a time. The
pieces of tissue are carried by the fluid into the bladder and then flushed out at the
end of the operation. Transurethral procedures are less traumatic than open forms of
surgery and require a shorter recovery period.

Prostectomy . In the few cases when a transurethral procedure cannot be used, open
surgery, which requires an external incision, may be used. Open surgery is often done
when the gland is greatly enlarged, when there are complicating factors, or when the
bladder has been damaged and needs to be repaired. The location of the enlargement
within the gland and the patient's general health help the surgeon decide which of
the three open procedures to use.

Laser surgery. In March 1996, FDA approved a surgical procedure that employs
side-firing laser fibers and Nd: YAG lasers to vaporize obstructing prostate tissue.
The doctor passes the laser fiber through the urethra into the prostate using a
cystoscope and then delivers several bursts of energy lasting 30 to 60 seconds.
The laser energy destroys prostate tissue and causes shrinkage. Like TURP,
laser surgery requires anesthesia and a hospital stay. One advantage of laser
surgery over TURP is that laser surgery causes little blood loss. Laser surgery
also allows for a quicker recovery time. But laser surgery may not be effective on
larger prostates. The long-term effectiveness of laser surgery is not known.

SELF CARE

Making some lifestyle changes can often help control the symptoms of an enlarged
prostate and prevent the condition from worsening. The patient should be advised
the following:-

o Limit beverages in the evening. Stop drinking water and other beverages after
7 p.m. to reduce need to go to the bathroom at night. In particular, beverages
that contain caffeine will increase urine production, cause bladder irritation
and aggravate the symptoms.

o Empty the bladder. Avoid letting the bladder get full. Try to urinate all
that he can each time he goes to the bathroom. For some men, sitting on the
toilet is more effective than standing. Try following a daily time schedule for
urinating, such as on long trips.

o Limit alcohol. Alcohol increases urine production and irritates the bladder.

o Be careful with over-the-counter decongestants. They can cause the band of
muscles that control urine flow from the urethra (urethral sphincter) to tighten,
making urination more difficult.

o Keep active. Inactivity causes bladder to retain urine. Even a small amount
of exercise can reduce urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate.

Stay warm. Cold weather can lead to urine retention and increase your urgency.

HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT

As is obvious, any patient must be treated on its individuality and not on the
disease symptoms. BPH is a condition, which may mislead any physician due to
dominance of disease symptoms taking priority in the hands of patient. He is so
disturbed, so embarrassed that he will sometimes not give importance to his
particular, uncommon peculiar and constitutional symptoms. It is prudent for a
physician to take some symptoms for relief of the patient as palliative measure
but if he wants to give him permanent or long lasting relief, a proper
prescription on the basis of miasm, constitution, individuality, general and
particular symptoms is important. Sycosis plays an important part in this disease
whereas overall mixed miasm may be found in patients.

I would like to describe as therapeutics for a case of BPH depending on the
Physiological action, natural ingredients and clinical proving. Some of the most
important medicines are as follows:-

SABAL SERRULATA ( SAW PALMETTO)

Recently, medical literature has provided increased support for the use of
naturally occurring nutrients that prevent the progressive enlargement of the
prostate gland (BPH). Some of these nutrients have even been demonstrated to
reduce the incidence of prostate cancer! These nutrients that combat the
detrimental effects of DHT in the prostate can be utilized to combat the effects
of DHT in hair loss. The following discussion outlines multiple DHT fighting
agents.

This is by far the most commonly recognized and discussed herb concerning the
prostate. Saw palmetto is a plant (dwarf palm tree) native to the United States.
It has been used medicinally for over a century with its first use being described
in the medical literature in the 1800s. Early literature
concerning saw palmetto described it as relieving symptoms ranging from prostate
enlargement in men to gynecological problems in women such as menstrual discomfort.
Most of the substances found to be effective in treating benign prostatic enlargement
are found in the extract form. The extract form has been demonstrated to be more potent
than the dried berry form. The active constituents are volatile oil, steroidal saponin,
tannins, and polysaccharides. Saw Palmetto is one of the few herbal products that is
considered to be anabolic - it strengthens and builds body tissues. For men it treats an
enlarged and weakened prostate gland. It has shown significant action in treatment of
conditions associated with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). Saw palmetto extract works
to prevent testosterone from converting into dihydrotestosterone, the hormone thought to
cause prostrate cells to multiply leading to an enlarged prostate, and to increase male &
female pattern baldness. It is chiefly used as a diuretic and to tone the bladder by
improving urinary flow, and relieving strain. Regular use of saw palmetto may decrease
urinary frequency, especially during the night, by allowing complete bladder expulsion and
reducing inflammation of the bladder and enlarged prostrate. Saw palmetto inhibits androgen
and estrogen receptor activity and may be beneficial for both sexes in balancing the hormones
and stimulating healthy hair growth. Saw palmetto helps reduce high Dihydro-testosterone (DHT)
levels in the blood which can seriously damage hair follicle growth and is the main cause of pattern
baldness. Because of it's hormonal effect it can aid the thyroid in regulating sexual development
and normalizing activity of those glands and organs.

Unquestionable importance in BPH

Constant desire to urinate < night

Enuresis

Paresis of sphincter vesicae

Dysuria

Cystitis

Acts on membrano-prostatic part of urethra

THUJA OCCIDENTALIS ( ARBOR VITAE )

Acts on genito urinary tract producing sycotic dyscrasia.

Sycotic pains: pain muscles and joints

Hydrogenoid constitution

Rapid emaciation and exhaustion

Fixed ideas: as if a strange person is at his side, as if soul and body were
separated, as if something alive were in abdomen

BPH

History of gonorrhoea

Inflammation of glans and prepuce

Gonorrheal rheumatism

Swelling of urethra with split stream

Sensation of tickling in urethra after urinating

Desire sudden and urgent, can not be controlled

Frequent desire to urinate

Pain lower abdomen

PETROSELINUM ( PARSLEY )

Parsley is native to the Mediterranean region of Southern Europe. While it has
been cultivated for more than 2,000 years, parsley was used medicinally prior to
being consumed as a food. The ancient Greeks held parsley to be sacred, using it
to not only adorn victors of athletic contests, but also for decorating the tombs
of the deceased. The practice of using parsley as a garnish actually has a long
history that can be traced back to the civilization of the ancient Romans. The
flavonoids in parsley especially luteolin have been shown to function as anti-oxidants
that combine with highly reactive oxygen-containing molecules (called oxygen
radicals) and help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells. In addition, extracts
from parsley have been used in animal studies to help increase the anti-oxidant
capacity of the blood.

Burning , tingling from perineum throughout urethra

Sudden urging to urinate

Sudden irresistible desire to urinate

Intense, biting, itching, deep in urethra

Milky discharge

Associated with piles

HYDRANGEA ( SEVEN BARKS )

Hydrangea has been used for hundreds of years as a treatment for enlarged or
inflamed prostate glands, and is often combined with Horsetail for this purpose.
It is one of the best herbal remedies for treatment of pain related to kidney
problems, especially kidney stones, by reducing the size of the stones and
allowing them to pass painlessly. In Greek mythology, Hydra was a water monster
with nine heads, and if one was cut off, the monster grew back two. A water
"hydrant" also helps remind us that hydrangea has to do with the body's water.
Hydrangea is very high in silicon, needed to maintain flexible arteries,
especially important for good blood circulation through the filtering tubules of
each kidney. Manganese has only been appreciated the last few years in its ability
to strengthen nerves, the immune system, digestion of fats, blood sugar regulation,
growth and reproduction. These factors also impact demands on the urinary system.
Also found naturally in relatively large amounts is chromium, essential for proper
blood sugar levels and circulatory health.

Enlargement of prostate

Remedy for stones, profuse deposits of white amorphous salts in urine

Burning in urethra and frequent desire

Urine hard to start

Sharp pains in loins

Enlarged prostate with great thirst

SOLIDAGO VIRGA (GOLDEN ROD)

Pain in region of Kidneys, with dysuria

Kidneys sensitive to pressure

Difficult and scanty urine

Makes the use of catheter unnecessary

Associated with calculus

Kidney and urinary symptoms are more marked

Used when cystitis and kidney affections are present with BPH

Reddish brown urine with thick sediments

Pain in kidneys , extending to abdomen and bladder

Clear and offensive urine

Very helpful in case of retention, makes the use of the catheter unnecessary
at times.

PRUNUS SPINOSA (BLACK THORN)

BPH with retention symptoms

Hurriedly impelled to urinate

The urine seems to pass as far as the glans and then returns and causes pain
in urethra

Tenesmus of bladder

Useful in retention symptoms where patient has to press a long time before urine
passes

Neuralgic dysuria

Associated with ciliary neuralgias, left sided

Ineffectual urge to urinate

Dropsy and anasarca

FERRUM PICRICUM (PICRATE OF IRON)

One of the best medicine for senile prostatic hypertrophy

Good medicine to complete the action of other medicines (Boericke)

Frequent micturition at night

Full feeling and pressure in rectum

Retention of Urine

Smarting at neck of bladder

CANTHARIS (SPANISH FLY)

The Cantharis vesicatoria, or Lytta vesicatoria as the beetle is called nowadays
is widely known under its popular name Spanish Fly. Many of us know that this
little creature is used in love-potions to stimulate sexual arousal. Cantharidine
taken in large doses is poisonous; it causes vomiting and burning pain of the
urinary track, which shows in its symptomatology.

One of the best medicine for BPH with burning urination

Burning pain and an intolerable, constant urge to urinate while only losing a
few drops of urine

All pains are sore, raw, burning, cutting, biting and smarting.

Intense sexual desire arises from the inflamed pelvic region..

The urge to urinate is intolerable and constant; before, during and after the
painful urination.

Only a few bloody drops will pass at a time and the pain in the urethra and
bladder are intense burning, cutting and itching.

Symptoms get worse by drinking of water or coffee, urination, glittering objects,
the sound of water. The person feels better by warmth, rubbing and massage.

I have not necessarily covered all medicines, but this is my humble effort to make
the therapeutics slightly easier to help students, teachers and physicians to
deal with a very common problem of modern age.

EXTRA SHOTS
International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS)

International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS): Developed to quantitate and validate
responses to the questions asked, this set of 7 questions has been adopted worldwide
and yields reproducible and quantifiable information regarding symptoms and response
to treatment. Each question allows the patient to chose 1 of 6 answers indicating
increasing severity of symptoms on a scale of 0-5; the total score ranges from 0-35.
Questions concern incomplete emptying, frequency, intermittency, urgency, weak stream,
straining, and nocturia. The eighth question is known as the bother score and pertains
to the patient's perceived QOL. Scores can range from 0 (delighted) to 6 (terrible).
After calculating the total score for all 8 eight questions, patients are classified
as 0-7 (mildly symptomatic), 8-19 (moderately symptomatic), or 20-35 (severely symptomatic).
Specific IPSS questions are as follows (adapted from the recommendations of the International
Scientific Committee, 2000):

1. Incomplete emptying: Over the past month, how often have you had the sensation of not
emptying your bladder completely after you have finished urinating? (Not at all = 0,
less than 1 time in 5 = 1, less than half the time = 2, about half the time = 3, more than
half the time = 4, almost always = 5)

2. Frequency: Over the past month, how often have you had to urinate again less than 2
hours after you finished urinating? (Not at all = 0, less than 1 time in 5 = 1, less than
half the time = 2, about half the time = 3, more than half the time = 4, almost always = 5)

3. Intermittency: Over the past month, how often have you stopped and started again several
times when urinating? (Not at all = 0, less than 1 time in 5 = 1, less than half the time = 2,
about half the time = 3, more than half the time = 4, almost always = 5)

4. Urgency: Over the past month, how often have you found it difficult to postpone
urination? (Not at all = 0, less than 1 time in 5 = 1, less than half the time = 2, about half
the time = 3, more than half the time = 4, almost always = 5)

5. Weak stream: Over the past month, how often have you had a weak urinary stream?
(Not at all = 0, less than 1 time in 5 = 1, less than half the time = 2, about half the time = 3,
more than half the time = 4, almost always = 5)

6. Straining: Over the past month, how often have you had to push or strain to begin urination?
(Never = 0, once = 1, twice = 2, thrice = 3, 4 times or more = 4, 5 times or more = 5)

7. Nocturia: Over the past month, how many times did you most typically get up to urinate from the
time you went to bed until the time you got up in the morning? (Not at all = 0, less than 1 time in 5 = 1,
less than half the time = 2, about half the time = 3, more than half the time = 4, almost always = 5)

Bother score: This helps assess perceived QOL due to urinary symptoms, and the score ranges from 0 (delighted)
to 6 (terrible). How would you feel if you were to spend the rest of your life with your urinary condition just
the way it is now? (Delighted = 0, pleased = 1, mostly satisfied = 2, mixed = 3, mostly dissatisfied = 4, unhappy = 5,
terrible = 6)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. KNOW YOUR BODY: READERS DIGEST

2. HOMOEOPATHIC MAT. MEDICA: KENT, FARRINGTON & WILLIUM BOERICKE

Backache

2009-11-01T11:49:00.001-08:00

15 Backache

Lumbago is defined as mild to severe pain or discomfort in the area of the lower
back. The pain can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic if it has lasted more
than three months. Lumbago often occurs in younger people whose work involves
physical effort and is not uncommon in people of retirement age.

In the majority of cases, it is impossible to identify the exact cause of backache.
In about 25 per cent of cases, however, it is possible to identify the cause. Often,
these patients are suffering from conditions like a slipped disc, osteoporosis
(brittle bones), deformation of natural spine curvature (scoliosis) or more rarely,
skeletal damage due to tumours or infection. Muscle spasm produced by faulty posture,
injury or strain can itself cause pain.

#Rhus toxicodendron [Rhus.t]
A violent pain in the back, as if broken, is the greatest characteristic of Rhus in
the backache. It is more characteristic than the symptom "relief from motion," for
Rhus may be indicated where the patient is worse from motion. Rhus seems to be
especially suitable to affections of the deeper muscles of the back. There are
great pains,dull,bruised, and aching on attempting to rise, showing,thus, the
aggravation on commencing motion. It is more suitable to the chronic forms of lumbago,
while Aconite suits the acute forms, and will often times give prompt relief. Baehr
prefers Tartar emetic even to Rhus and Arnica in lumbago. The backache of Rhus is better
from pressure, but worse in bed. The Rhus patient likes to lie on sometime hard.
Natrum muriaticum has this same symptom--backache relieved by lying on something on hard.
The Rhus pains are relieved by bending backwards. Sulphur has lumbar pains, with sudden
loss of power to move; worse before a storm, reminding of Rhododendron. Petroleum and
Ruta have pains in the back in the morning before rising. In Staphisagria these pains
compel the patient to get up early and move about. This symptom is found also under
Kali carbonicum; it comes on about 3 A.M., and is accompanied by pains shooting down
the buttocks. Ledum has a stiffness in the back, similar to that experienced when one
sits still for a long time. Hypericum has aching in small of back and stitches, and is
especially useful in women who are forced to lift and strain and go up and down stairs
frequently. Bryonia. Suits a lumbago of a quiet type, with great aggravation on moving.
Gnaphalium will sometimes cure a chronic backache, a tired aching in the lumbar region
that saps one's strength and ambition. Worse from continued motion, better resting,
especially on the back. The more chronic the backache the better indicated the remedy.

#Calcarea fluorica [Calc.f]
This remedy has quite a clinical reputation for curing backache, and especially the backache
simulating spinal irritation. It has pain in the lower part of the back, with a fullness
or burning pain. Lumbago worse on beginning go move and relieved by continued motion, or
lumbago from stains, will find in Calcarea fluorica its remedy when Rhus fails. The temperament
and general constitutional characteristics of Calcarea may be present. It also follows Rhus well.
Kali phosphoricum, another of the tissue remedies, has a rheumatic lameness worse after rest, and
on just commencing to move; there is a paralytic tendency, worse on rising from sitting position.
Some remedies have a backache worse from sitting, notably Cobalt, Zincum, Sepia, and Cannabis Indica.
Lumbago worse when first beginning to move may call for Anacardium or Conium, as well as for Rhus.

#Nux vomica [Nux.v]
Another remedy in backache, especially if referable to spinal affections, is Nux vomica. It is in the
lumbar region is worse at night when lying in bed, of a drawing, lacerating or bruised character, with
perhaps sudden stitches in the back, and a characteristic is that the patient must sit up in bed to turn over.
It has also a morning backache, and the longer the patient lies in the bed the more the backaches. The backache
brought on by sexual excesses should lead to the consideration of both Nux and Staphisagria. Stiff neck and
torticollis may also be benefited by Nux. Phosphorus has intense burning pains in the spine between the scapulae,
with sensitive dorsal spines, and Secale has a sudden catch or kind in the back. Lycopodium. Burning as from coals
between the scapulae; stiffness and pain in the small of the back corresponds to this remedy.

#Oxalic acid [Ox-Ac]
has an acute pain in the back relived by change of posture; back seems too weak to support the body. The pains are
worse when thinking of them, accompanied by debility and numb feeling in the limbs, aching pain in lower part of the
back between shoulders, pain and tenderness, worse from any kind of movement or exertion; pain in spots. Picric acid
has heaviness. Oxalic acid numbness.

#Sepia [Sep]
Sepia is very frequently indicated in the backaches which are due to uterine disease. It is a general weakness in the small
of the back when walking, and is worse while sitting. Sudden pain in the back, as if struck by a hammer, relieved by
pressing back upon something hard. Aesculus is often a useful remedy in backache which, like Sepia's is worse when walking.
It is a severe, continuous, dull aching in the lumbo-sacral region, affecting the sacrum and hips, and the back "give out"
when walking. Backache during pregnancy will often be suggestive of Aesculus, when especially worse from walking or stooping.
Cimicifuga has violent aching in the back in women,dependent on uterine complaints, especially in rheumatic subjects. Aurand
says no remedy has served him so well for the relief of lumbago or "crick in the back" as Cimicifuga.

Back Injuries

2009-11-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

14 Back Injuries

Who hasn't injured their back? OK, you lucky people go sit in the corner. I
remember one time, for absolutely no reason, I fell over backwards and landed on
a mike stand, as improbable as that sounds, on my tail bone, with nothing to break
my fall, and let me tell you, I was out of commission for at least a week; unable to
lift anything or bend forward...if only I had known about homeopathy then, I could have
taken Hypericum and moved on! Yes, homeopathy really is that amazing! So, what are the
remedies for back injuries? Let's start with...

HYPERICUM (Hyp.)--Spinal injury, even for injections into the spine that result in headaches,
etc.; injury to areas rich in nerves, like the tail bone. Trauma with nerve pain, sharp
shooting pain, numbness, tingling; pains shoot upwards; spinal concussion, temporary
paralysis; always give Arnica first to prevent swelling and bruising--ARNICA is our main
trauma remedy. Severe pain, worse touch and pressure; you may have to repeat Hypericum
every few minutes depending on the severity of the pain.

NATRUM SULPHURICUM (Nat-s.)--Deep spinal aches, stiffness, sore and bruised feeling;
worse damp, cold-damp, hot-humid; spinal concussion when Arnica only palliates, the closer
the injury is to the head, the more it's likely to be Nat-s. Mental and emotional changes
after spinal injury, for instance--depression, even suicidal depression; when pain remains
after Arnica has been given for swelling.

RUTA--Back injury from twisting (also Rhus tox.) Lame feeling, weakness in the back since injury.
The person needing Ruta is afraid to do anything, afraid their back will give out. Stiffness.

CALCAREA FLUORICA (Calc-f.)--This is the "chronic" of Ruta. The lameness and laxness has become a
permanent feature of the case; degeneration of the vertebrae since spinal trauma and Ruta only palliates.

MAGNESIA PHOSPHORICA (Mag-p.)--Acute back spasms, sharp shooting pains, muscle spasms. We call this remedy
"homeopathic asprin", but the general symptoms must be present, namely: pains that are relieved by heat and
aggravated by cold, pains that are better from hard pressure.

BRYONIA (Bry.)--Sharp pain, slightest motion aggravates, even coughing aggravates. Irritable. Acute slipped
disc. Better for lying still and from hard pressure.

BELLIS PERENNIS (Bell-p.)--Deep aches in the spine and injuries to the periosteum (Ruta). Back injuries from
lifting and over-straining. The gardener's remedy--achy and stiff. Deep bruising. When Arnica has cleared the
bruising but a lump remains. Joint pain caused by being over-heated and then suddenly drinking something ice
cold or jumping into cold water. Injuries to the nerves, intense soreness, injuries to the tail bone. Remote
effects of injuries--in other words, you're injured here, but the effect is there. Nerve pains during pregnancy
because of pressure exerted by the baby.

RHUS TOXICODENDRON (Rhus t.)--Achy, sore and bruised pain with stiffness from falls, accidents, over-lifting,
twisting, over-doing in general, sitting in a draft and getting chilled. This is a major arthritis remedy and
sciatica remedy when the general symptoms of Rhus t. are present, namely: a great restlessness, can't get comfortable
in any position, so there is constant movement. Think of this as the exact opposite of Bryonia which doesn't want to
move at all. Rhus tox can't stop moving, though first-motion may be painful, continued motion seems to ease the pain
and loosen them up. Eventually, though, they will tire and will have to rest, which will begin the restlessness anew.
Next, better from heat, massage and stretching. Mag-p. and Rhus tox are both better from heat and want it as hot as
they can stand it--hot water bottles, showers, hot tubs, hot compresses, etc. Dampness and coldness will definitely
aggravate. They will tell you they know when a storm is coming because their pains get worse or their arthritis acts
up. Worse in rainy weather, cold wet weather, cloudy weather, foggy weather; they're so sensitive to cold that even
touching something cold or drinking or eating something cold can aggravate.

CICUTA (Cic.)--The worst of all back injuries. Severe trauma where all the muscles go into convulsions or bizarre
contortions. Convulsions after injury to the spine (Arnica, Hyp., Natrum sulph.), shrieking, jerks, spasms, twitching,
arching of the back, head drawn backward.

AESCULUS (Aesc.)--# 1 remedy for all sacro-iliac problems since an injury or a fall. Achy in lumbar/sacral area. Pains
are worse stooping, rising from stooping or rising from a seat; has to make repeated efforts at getting up. Ankylosing
spondylitis, arthritis, sciatica. Spine rigid, frozen. Degenerative hip disease. Walking aggravates. Spine feels weak
and stiff. Back and legs give out.

LYCOPODIUM (Lyc.)--Chronic low back pain with the concomitant symptom of gas and bloating. Back injury with gas and bloating.

AGARICUS (Agar.)--Back injury with extreme sensitivity of the spine to touch. Twitching.

TELLURIUM (Tell.)--Pain and weak feeling in back. Very sensitive to pressure and touch; afraid of movement or anyone approaching.
Right-sided sciatica. Pain worse coughing, sneezing, straining at stool.

TARENTULA HISPANICA (Taren.)
--Over-excitability of the nervous system. Spine is painfully sensitive, touch causes spasms and twitching.
A Taren. person in general is restless, fidgety, and in constant motion eventhough he's worse for walking. Pains are violent, painful
neuralgias as if a thousand needles were pricking.

Dosage: If you've got a dose of 30C--which means 1 to 3 pellets dissolved on the tongue. As soon as you can get a small bottle of spring water,
put 1-3 pellets in the water bottle for your next and subsequent doses, shaking the bottle before each dose. This raises the potency and prevents
antidoting of the previous dose. If this is a severe injury, you may want to repeat the remedy frequently until there's a sign that the discomfort
has been addressed. If the discomfort isn't severe, give three times a day. As soon as there's a striking improvement, stop the remedy and don't
repeat until there has been a relapse. If two days have gone by with no improvement, try a different remedy. If there's an aggravation, stop taking
the remedy and an improvement may follow after the aggravation has subsided.

Autism

2009-11-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

13 Autism

Autism is the common term for a range of disabilities medically classified as
Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). Autism/PDD is characterized by qualitative
differences in the development of cognitive, language, social or motor skills, and
these are usually apparent before age three. Research evidence suggests that autism
may result from an underlying difficulty with expressive movement and its regulation,
severely challenging the individual to keep body movements, including sensory responses,
in control. These sensorimotor problems can make it difficult to respond consistently
and productively to other individuals and to the environment.

Autism/PDD occurs in approximately fifteen out of every 10,000 births and is four
times
more common among males than females.

Autism - CAUSE

No one knows exactly what causes ASDs/Autism, but scientists think that both genetic
and environmental factors might play a role. While autism was once erroneously believed
to arise from stresses in a child's psychological environment, modern medical evidence
suggests that irregularities in the development of the brain and central nervous system
give rise to the syndrome of autism. Causes of this development are diverse and may include
chemical exposure, viral and genetic factors.

Autism - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) cover a wide range of behaviors and abilities.
People who
have ASDs, like all people, differ greatly in the way they act and what they can
do. No two people with Autism will have the same symptoms. A symptom might be mild in
one person and severe in another person. Some examples of the types of problems and
behaviors a child or adult with an ASD might have follow.

Social skills: People with ASDs might not interact with others the way most people do,
or they might not be interested in other people at all. People with ASDs might not make
eye contact and might just want to be alone. They might have trouble understanding other
people's feelings or talking about their own feelings. Children with ASDs might not like
to be held or cuddled, or might cuddle only when they want to. Some people with ASDs might
not seem to notice when other people try to talk to them. Others might be very interested
in people, but not know how to talk, play, or relate to them.

Speech, language, and communication: About 40% of children with ASDs do not talk at all.
Others have echolalia, which is when they repeat back something that was said to them. The
repeated words might be said right away or at a later time. For example, if you ask someone
with an ASD, "Do you want some juice?" he or she will repeat "Do you want some juice?" instead
of answering your question. Or a person might repeat a television ad heard sometime in the past.
People with ASDs might not understand gestures such as waving goodbye. They might say "I" when
they mean "you", or vice versa. Their voices might sound flat and it might seem like they cannot
control how loudly or softly they talk. People with ASDs might stand too close to the people they
are talking to, or might stick with one topic of conversation for too long. Some people with ASDs
can speak well and know a lot of words, but have a hard time listening to what other people say.
They might talk a lot about something they really like, rather than have a back-and-forth
conversation with someone.

Repeated behaviors and routines: People with ASDs might repeat actions over and over again.
They might want to have routines where things stay the same so they know what to expect.
They might have trouble if family routines change. For example, if a child is used to washing
his or her face before dressing for bed, he or she might become very upset if asked to change
the order and dress first and then wash.

Children with ASDs develop differently from other children. They might have large delays in
language, social, and cognitive skills, while their motor skills might be about the same as
other children their age. They might be very good at things like putting puzzles together or
solving computer problems, but not very good at some things most people think are easy, like
talking or making friends.

Autism - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS DONE?

The diagnosis is done clinically by assessing the presence and severity of above mentioned traits.

Autism - HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Homeopathic medicines are known to have deep effect on human economy and have been found effective
in various psychological and devlopmental disorders. The focus of homeopathy is not to treat the
isolated symptoms of Autism but to treat the child as a whole. Not only the symptoms of Autism but
also the general physical and mental constitution of the patient, past medical history, medical
history of parents, information about pregnancy and vaccination - all are used to find the probable
cause in a given case and based on the final analysis a remedy is chosen for a patient. The following
medicines may help in the treatment of Autism -

Autism - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

There is no known cure for ASDs. However, early and intensive education can help children grow and
learn new skills. The goal of these efforts is to help with the difficult symptoms of an ASD in a
child and to improve the child’s skills that help him or her talk, interact, play, learn, and care
for his or her needs. Medicines can relieve symptoms and be helpful for some people, but structured
teaching of skills (often called behavioral intervention) is currently the most effective treatment.

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

Join support groups.

REFERENCE WORKS

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed, McGraw-Hill

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd revised ed., 2001, B. Jain

Asthma

2009-11-01T11:40:00.000-08:00

12 Asthma

The word 'asthma' is derived from the Greek meaning ' panting' or 'labored
breathing'. Asthma is a condition characterized by a paroxysmal wheezing dyspnoea
(difficulty in breathing), mainly expiratory.

Asthma - CAUSE

According to the etiology, bronchial asthma is divided in the following groups:

1. Allergic (extrinsic/ atopic) - This type of asthma usually starts in childhood
and is often preceded by eczema. But most of the young adults (<35 yrs) developing
asthma also fall in this category. Genetic factors also play a significant role
ithis. In this type of asthma the allergen leads to production of excessive (IgE)
immunoglobulins.

2. Infective or Intrinsic - This is not hereditary or allergic, but may be caused
by, or at least associated with upper respiratory tract or bronchial infection which
is usually viral.

3. Psychological factors (like anxiety, emotional stress etc) are often considered
to be the sole cause of some asthmatic attacks, but it is still not certain whether
it can be the sole cause or is only a precipitating factor.

4. Occupational asthma - This can occur in certain industries in which there is
exposure to metallic dusts (esp. platinum salts), biological detergents, toluene
diisocyanate, polyurethane, flour and dust from grains etc.

Asthma - MECHANISM - WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS?

What ever may be the cause, it ultimately leads to paroxysms of bronchial
obstruction produced by widespread bronchial spasm accentuated by plugging of the
bronchi with excessive mucus.

Asthma - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

* Recurrent episode of paroxysmal dyspnoea (difficulty in breathing)
* The breathing is laboured, with a wheezing sound, mainly on expiration.
* Asthma attacks often occur in the early hours of morning (when there is no
immediate precipitating cause). During the attack patients often prefers to sit
then lie down.

Asthma - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS DONE?

Diagnosis can usually be made clinically by a competent doctor. Allergen sensitivity
tests, X-ray, spirometry, sputum and blood tests etc may be of use in finding the
cause and severity of the condition.

Asthma - WHAT TO DIFFERENTIATE FROM?

* Bronchitis
* Cardiac asthma
* Renal asthma
* Isolated attacks of non-paroxysmal dyspnoea.

Asthma - COMPLICATIONS

* Apart from chronicity, usually no complications.
* Pneumothorax, emphysema, or areas of consolidation or pulmonary collapse may
occur in very advanced cases.

Asthma - TREATMENT & HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES

General Approach - As far as I know homeopathy is the only system of medicine which
tries to 'cure' this disease, instead of trying to provide symptomatic relief.
While dealing with a case of asthma, a homeopath not only records the symptoms of
the disease but also studies the medical history, family history, physical and
psychological characteristics of a person. This helps to find the cause, the
precipitating factors, and the hereditary tendency etc. Of special interest
to a homeopath is the history of suppression of skin disease. Homeopaths
believe that when there is a tendency or predisposition for a disease -
it first manifests on the less vital organs, towards the periphery (like skin).
If this manifestation is suppressed than the disease shifts inwards, towards
the more vital organs (like lungs, heart, brain etc).

The fact that in children asthma is often preceded by eczema is observed by the
allopaths also. This fact is written in all their textbooks of medicine. They
say that children often 'move-out' of eczema and 'move-into' asthma. But they
are unable to make a correlation. Homeopaths believe that the suppression of
eczema with topical preparations, does not cure the disease/sensitivity of
the person, it merely drives it inwards.

Now after ascertaining the symptoms and the cause, the homeopath tries to
find a medicine which matches the symptoms as well as the general characteristics
of the person. The medicine so selected is administered to the patient.

It is often (not necessarily) observed by homeopaths that when a right medicine
is given, the asthma disappears but the old eczema (if it was there originally)
reappears for some time, before finally disappearing itself. This reappearance
of old symptoms is seen as a reversal of disease process and is considered a
very good prognostic sign by homeopaths.

MEDICINES - There are lots of medicines in homeopathy for asthma and it is
not possible to list them all here. Some of the common medicines are ars-alb,
ipecac, lachesis, pulsatilla, spongia, sulphur, ignatia, antim-tart, hepar-sulph,
nat-sulph, tuberculinum etc. The selection of medicine varies from patient to
patient.

Asthma - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

Bronchodilators, anti-allergic drugs, and corticosteroids are commonly used
to provide symptomatic relief.

Asthma - WHAT ELSE CAN I DO? - LIFESTYLE AND ACCESSORY MANAGEMENT

* Avoid the allergen you are sensitive to.
* Do regular light exercise like brisk walking or jogging. Heavy exercise
can precipitate an attack of asthma, so always do mild exercise without putting
too much strain on your body.
* Learn breathing exercises to improve your lung capacity. Of especial
use is 'pranayam', a yoga exercise.
* Learn some stress relieving exercises, meditation, or yoga to minimize
the psychological factors related to disease.
* Eat healthy, nourishing and well balanced diet.

WHERE ELSE TO FIND MORE INFO? - INTERNET RESOURCES

* http://www.aaaai.org/
* http://www.aafa.org/
* http://www.asthma.org.uk/
* http://allergy.mcg.edu/
* http://www.aanma.org/
* http://www.lungusa.org/asthma/
* http://asthma.about.com/mbody.htm
* http://www.lung.ca/asthma/
* http://www.cs.unc.edu/~kupstas/FAQ.html
* http://www.radix.net/~mwg/asthma-gen.html
* http://www.nationalasthma.org.au/
* http://www.walkers.org/

REFERENCE WORKS

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill
Livingstone

A primer of Medicine, M.H.Pappworth, 5th ed, 1993, Butterworths

Hutchinson's Clinical Methods, Michael Swash, 20th ed, 1995, W B Saunders

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd
revised ed., 2001, B. Jain

Select Your remedy, Rai Bahdur Bishambhar Das, 19th ed, 1999, Bishambar Free
Homeo Dispensary

A Concise Repertory of Homeopathic Medicines, S.R.Phatak, 3rd ed, B. Jain

Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics, Dewey, reprint ed, 1993, B.Jain

cause, Symptoms, Treatment, Cure of Bronchial Asthma

#Ipecac [Ip]
This remedy is a close homoeopathic simile to asthma, especially to the spasmodic
variety where the symptoms are great weight and anxiety about the chest; sudden
wheezing, dyspnoea, threatening suffocation, aggravated by motion; the cough
causes gagging and vomiting. The cough is constant, the chest seems full of phlegm,
yet none is expectorated, and the extremities are covered with cold perspiration.
Lobelia is a remedy which one usually classifies with Ipecac. It has the great
oppression of the chest and a weak sensation in the chest which seems to come from
the epigastrium, where there is a feeling of a lump; there is nausea, profuse
salivation; the attack is preceded by a pricking sensation through the whole system.
It is most useful in bronchial and septic asthmas. The breathing is exceedingly
difficult, and is relieved by moving about. A pain extending around the forehead
from one temple to other and a pain in the back at the last dorsal vertebra are
also useful indications. Arsenicum is quite similar to Ipecac in asthma, and
attacks coming on after midnight lead to the use of this remedy. With Ipecac the
expiration is especially difficult; vomiting when it occurs is apt to relieve the
attack.

#Arsenicum [Ars]
As stated above, Arsenicum has some similarity to Ipecac, but the time of attacks
is just after midnight. The patient has a great deal of anguish and restlessness;
he cannot lie down for fear of suffocation. There is anxiety and general sweat,
and if the patient drowses off he is awakened with burning pain and soreness in the
chest. It is especially the remedy if the disease be chronic and the dyspnoea
habitual and dry and the patient aged. Apis has a suffocative feeling, and the
patient does not see how he can get another breath, and the Bromine patient
breathes very deeply as it seems as if he could not get air enough into his
lungs,while under Grindelia robusta the patient on falling asleep ceases to
breathe and awakes with a start. Grindelia has been found clinically to benefit
humid asthmas and acute catarrhal asthmas, and Halbert states that 5 or 10 drops
of the tincture every hour during the paroxysmal state will greatly palliate.
Probably in higher potencies it would act curatively for its symptomatology
represents the typical paroxysmal features of this disease. It has a peculiar
symptom, a fear of going to sleep on account of loss of breath which awakens him.
Viscum album is also clinically recommended. It has weakness of the respiratory
and stertorous breathing. The asthma of Arsenicum is accompanied by great debility
and burning in the chest, and it follows Ipecac well,and is especially useful in
anaemic persons. Baehr and Jousset place this remedy at the head of our list for
asthma.

#Nux vomica [Nux.v]
Nux vomica is a useful remedy when the asthmatic attacks are brought on by gastric
disturbances; simple spasmodic asthmas; there is some relief by belching, the patient
must loosen the clothing. It must also be thought of in those who drink much coffee
or liquor. Irritable bilious temperaments also correspond to the drug. Zingiber is
also a remedy for asthma of gastric origin , and the attacks come on toward morning;
the patient must sit up; no anxiety. A good symptom calling for Nux is a constricted
felling at the lower part of the chest. Where there is much abdominal irritation
present with much flatulence, Lycopodium and Carbo vegetabilis should be thought of.
Carbo vegetabilis also corresponds to the asthma of the aged who are much debilitated;
they are greatly oppressed for breath and are relived by belching wind.

#Kali bichromicum [Kali.bi]
The potashes produce asthmatic condition, and under Kali bichromicum we find the attacks
coming on about three or four o'clock in the morning, compelling the patient to sit up
to breath; he sits up and bends forward which relives somewhat, as does also the
expectoration of stringy yellow mucus, which is characteristic of the remedy. It is
similar to Arsenicum except for this feature of tenacious mucus. Kali carbonicum has
asthma worse towards morning,with a feeling as if there were no air in the chest.
Kali phosphoricum has been successfully used in asthma, especially in the nervous variety.

#Natrum sulphuricum [Nat.s]
This remedy has established a record in curing asthma. Its general symptoms are worse on
change to damp weather. It was one of Grauvogl's hydrogenoid remedies. Its symptoms are
moist asthma, with a great deal of rattling in the chest. The symptom of looseness of
the bowels after each attack has been repeatedly verified; in one case the patient was
worse from aerated waters and alcohol. If symptoms indicating a sycotic taint be present,
it will be all the more strongly indicated. The attacks generally come on about 4 to 5 o'
clock in the morning with cough and raising of glairy slime; expectoration greenish and
copious. The asthma of hay fever finds one of its remedies in Natrum sulphuricum, and
another in Sabadilla, especially if much sneezing be present. Another symptom of Natrum
sulphuricum which is characteristic is that the patient must sit up and hold the chest
with the hands during the attack. Hypericum. Dr.T.F.Allen relates a severe case of asthma,
having the symptoms, "dryness of the throat always worse in foggy weather," cured by Hypericum.

#Antimonium tartaricum [Ant.t]
is a remedy used largely in some form by the allopathic school in asthma, and it is
homoeopathic to certain cases. The great keynote for the remedy is the presence of fine mucous
rales throughout the chest, finer and smaller rales than are found under Ipecac. With this
remedy the chest seems full of phlegm, with inability to expectorate it. There is great dyspnoea,
the patient must sit up, and there are suffocative attacks coming on as in the potash preparation
( and this contains potash ) about three o'clock in the morning. Like Ipecac, too, there is great
difficulty in the expiratory effort. Antimonium tartaricum is especially adapted to the extremes of
life, suiting the asthmatic attacks of the aged and the dyspnoea of the young children when due to
pulmonary affections. The sensation that the patient cannot get air enough is characteristic of the
remedy. Blatta orientalis has obtained a good clinical record in acute and chronic asthmas, and is
well worthy a trail in obstinate cases; precise indications are wanting.

#Moschus [Mosch]
Intense anxiety, intense fear and a smothering sensation. It suits those of a sensitive, highly
organized, nervous temperament; neurotic types when increased anxiety and nervousness predominate.
Ambra grisea. Dread of people, great desire to be alone. Silphium lancinatum. Dr.A.F.Schulz, for Fort
Wayne,Indiana, a very careful prescriber,uses this remedy very successfully in moist asthma with
expectoration of large quantities of stringy mucus; rapidly exhausting. It is light colored or yellow.
Hale states that horses are cured of the heaves by eating the leaves of Silphium. The 2x trituration is
recommended.

ARTHRITIS/Gout

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11 ARTHRITIS/Gout

The word "arthritis" literally means joint inflammation ("arthr-" means joint; "-
itis" means inflammation). It refers to more than 100 different diseases. These
diseases usually affect the area in or around joints, such as muscles and tendons.
Some of these diseases can also affect other parts of the body, including the skin
and internal organs. Arthritis usually causes stiffness, pain and fatigue. The most
common diseases mong arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout
and increasingly, fibromyalgia.

Many types of arthritis show signs of joint inflammation: swelling, stiffness,
tenderness, redness or warmth. These joint symptoms may be accompanied by weight loss,
fever or weakness.

When these symptoms last for more than two weeks, inflammatory arthritis, such as
rheumatoid arthritis may be the cause. Joint inflammation may also be caused by
infection, which can lead to septic arthritis. Degenerative joint disease
(osteoarthritis) is the most common type of arthritis; joint inflammation is not
a prominent feature of this condition.

#Colchicum [Colch]
This is the great old school remedy for gout; every case gets it in some form; and,
strange to say, in the homoeopathic school it is one of the first remedies thought of,
but not every case of arthritic trouble receives Colchicum from the careful
homoeopathic prescriber. The typical case calling for Colchicum is where the swelling
is red or pale, with extreme tenderness to touch, a tendency to shift about from joint
to joint, and pains which are worse on the slightest motion. If the general symptoms
of great prostration of the muscular system and abdominal bloating be present Colchicum
is the remedy. Gastric symptoms and cardiac complications also characterize. It is more
indicated when the smaller joints, fingers, toes, wrists and ankles are affected; the
pains are very violent, patient cannot bear to have the parts touched or to have anyone
come near him. Arnica has this fear that the part my be hit by anyone passing; it has
also arthritic pains in the foot, worse towards evening; and a red big toe joint which
feels as though it has been sprained, so Arnica may be indicated well in gout.
The Colchicum patient is apt to be exceedingly irritable and the gout is not apt to
decrease this irritability. Unless Colchicum be given according to these indications
it will do no permanent good. The habit of giving Colchicum to every case of gout in
order to palliate the trouble may cause it to attack the heart or fly to other parts.
Indeed in potency it is Homoeopathic to gout, with metastasis to the heart. Aconite is
most useful in acute attacks of gout in the joints of the feet. It corresponds only
to the onset and if continued for a day or two will cure many cases.

#Ledum [Led]
Ledum is a useful remedy in gout as well as in many articular troubles. We have the
symptoms that the ball of the great toe is swollen, sore and painful on stepping,
drawing pains worse from warmth, pressure and from motion. It has also gouty nodosities
in the joints, it differs from Bryonia in having a scanty instead of a profuse effusion;
it is, perhaps, better adapted to hot swelling of the hip joint than is Bryonia. All
the pains of Ledum travel upwards. Ledum is also useful after abuse of Colchicum.
It may be the first remedy to use when the patient comes from allopathic hands,
having been dosed with large doses of Colchicum, which is a very asthenic remedy,
producing great muscular weakness, as we have seen. Ledum, it must be remembered
is a cold remedy, and attending all the symptoms is a general chilliness and lack
of animal heat. Another drug having gouty nodosities in the joints is Guaiacum.
This remedy has tearing pains in the extremities and contractions ;of the muscles.
It is also especially useful for gouty inflammation affecting the knee joint.

#Ammonium phosphoricum [Am-p]
This is a useful remedy in constitutional gout where there are nodosities in the
joints. It is not so much a remedy for the acute symptoms, but for chronic cases
where there are deposits of urate of soda concretions in the joints and the hands
become twisted out of shape. Antimonium crudum has gouty nodes in the joints, but
it is easily selected from its gastric symptoms. Urinary symptoms, strong urine,
etc., would suggest Benzoic acid, and much red Lycopodium, both ;of which may be
found useful in gout. Staphisagria has a similar application to gout when it
becomes systematized, as has also Ammonium phosphoricum. Rhododendron has
enlargements of the joints not due to gouty deposits, worse during rest and on
approach of a storm. Urtica urens. This remedy is said to cure more cases of gout
than any other. Under its use pain and swelling subside and large quantities of
sand are passed. Picric acid. Halbert mentions this remedy as useful in
arthritis deformans, and thinks that treating the disease from the homoeopathic
standpoint will yield best results.

ARTERIOSCLEROSIS

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10 ARTERIOSCLEROSIS

Arteriosclerosis {ahr-tir-ee-oh-skluh-roh'-sis} is a term used to describe several diseases
that involve the cardiovascular system and the many arteries and vessels which make it up.
Atherosclerosis invades both the superficial and deep layers of the vessel walls.
Arteriosclerosis is often referred to as "hardening of the arteries."

Arteriosclerosis occurs over a period of many years during which the arteries of the
cardiovascular system develop areas which become hard and brittle. Vessels become thickened.
There is a loss of elasticity. It can involve the arteries of the cardiovascular system,
the brain, kidneys, upper and lower extremities. This occurs because of the deposition of
calcium in their walls.

Arteriosclerosis differs from atherosclerosis, which involves the buildup of fatty deposits
in the innermost lining of large and medium-sized arteries. Atherosclerosis often leads to
coronary heart disease, strokes, and other disorders because of the occurrence of blood
clots which form in the narrowed arteries; hardening of the arteries, on the other hand
occur only in advanced stages.

#Baryta muriatica [Bry]
This drug produces lesions of arteriosclerosis of the large blood vessels and aorta,
similar
to senile atheroma. It would be difficult to find a drug having closer resemblances to the
phenomena of arterio- sclerosis than Baryta muriatica. It has the headache which is more or
less severe, but which is rather a heaviness, worse at night when lying down. Dizziness of
old people. Apoplexy or threatened apoplexy, with buzzing in the ears. It should be given
for a long pulmonary arterio- sclerosis. It should be given for a long time. The strengths
recommended are the 3, 6 s 30th. Dr. Askenstsedt, of Louisville, Ky;, has obtained excellent
results with the remedy. Baryta carbonica is sometimes used, but we believe better results
will follow the use of the muriate. It should not be forgotten in aortitis and especially
aortic aneurism. Here is our mainstay.

#Arnica [Arn]
This is a remedy of value in cerebral arteriosclerosis,vertigo of the aged, heaviness and
cerebral affections, plethoric people who have a tendency to haemorrhages.

#Plumbum [Plumb]
Hypertension and arterio-sclerosis. It seems to suit rather the pre- sclerotic states than
those of actual sclerosis, which latter are naturally unattackable by any drug. It has a
cramp like constriction of the peripheral arteries, a wiry pulse, and especially if the
symptoms be associated with a chronic nephritis it is all the more indicated. Patient feels
the pulse in the fingers. Slight motion causes fainting. Dr.Donner, of Stuttgart, says,
"I give Plumbum frequently in arterio- sclerosis in the higher dilutions. I am no friend
of high dilutions, but with this remedy I have seen wonderful results follow its use,
especially in cases complicated with granular kidneys." He uses the 30th dilution. It
suits the anaemic, pale, emaciated patients with extreme weakness which is the plumbum
constitution. Aconite. High tension is reduced by this remedy.

#Aurum muriaticum [Aur-m]
This is the most decided beneficial remedy in this affection says Dr. Gisevius, of Berlin.
He uses it in the 4th potency . It is indicated by hypertrophy of the heart, congestion to
the chest and head,strong palpitation. Paraesthesias about the heart, stitches and
heaviness. It corresponds well with ;old age and if the characteristic mental symptoms of
Aurum are present it will help promptly. It seems to have a special affinity to the
arteries of the head. It is probably more useful than Aurum iodatum; both are powerful,
deep-acting drugs.

#Ergotin [Ergot]
In ergot poisoning the arterial walls ares degenerated and stiffened there is a spasmodic
contraction of the vessels, the heart's action is increased and the cost of the vessels
ares hardened. In the beginning of arterio-sclerosis when only the cardiac irritation and
the hard heart sounds are present Ergotin 3x or 6x is the chief remedy. In more
progressive forms with endarteritic processes in the heart and arteries of the head, the
2x and 1x treacherousness are to be preferred. A curative action is frequently had in
these cases,. It corresponds to and should be used especially in early cases.

#Natrum iodatum [Nat-i]
Is useful in high arterial pressure in the 1x, especially in the beginning, and later in
the 3x an 4x when the pulses is softer, arterio-sclerosis with angina pectoris, vertigo
and dyspnoea. All the iodides are useful. Baryta iodide, Kali iodides and Strontium iodide
produces arterio- sclerotic changes. Arsenicum iodatum is very useful in senile hearts
with aortitis, myocarditis and fatty degeneration. Amyl nitrite and Glonoine are palliative
remedies in this affection.

#Strophanthus [Stroph]
Senile arterio-sclerosis, fatty degeneration, failing compensation, tendency to dropsical
accumulations.

#Adrenalin [Adren]
This medicine has been used successfully by the Dr.jousset father and son, given in the
3rd, 6th, and 12th centesimal dilutions in high arterial blood pressure and in arterio-sclerosis.
The most favorable results have been produced. Long use of Adrenalin can lead to arterial and
aortic lesions. Not so when given in the strengths above mentioned. Roaring in the ears due to
high blood pressure is often benefited by this remedy.

#Crataegus [Crat]
This remedy is claimed to have a wonderful solvent power upon crustaceous and calcareous
deposits in the lumen of the arteries, and will in arterio-sclerotic subjects prolong life.
Heart troubles after acute rheumatism.

APPENDICITIS

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9 APPENDICITIS

Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a finger-like glandular piece of
tissue
that connects to the beginning of the large intestine, usually at the lower right
side of
the abdomen. In older children, the classic symptoms of appendicitis are abdominal
pain,
fever, and vomiting. Abdominal pain usually begins in the center of the abdomen,
around the
area of the navel ("belly button"). Later, the pain may move downward and to the
right - to
an area called McBurney's point, roughly corresponding to the location of the
appendix in the
lower right portion of the abdomen.

After his abdominal pain begins, a child with appendicitis usually develops a
slight fever,
loses his appetite, feels nauseous, and may vomit. The fact that abdominal pain
begins before
nausea and vomiting, rather than after, is one clue to suspect appendicitis
rather than an
intestinal infection.

Other symptoms that may be seen in older children with appendicitis include:
diarrhea
(usually small stools with mucus); urinary tract symptoms (urinating very
frequently and/or
an uncomfortably strong urge to urinate); constipation; and, sometimes,
respiratory symptoms.

#Belladonna [Bell]
In the early stages of this affection where there is severe pain in the ileo-caecal region,
where the slightest touch cannot be borne,and patient lies on back,this remedy will be found
most useful. It corresponds to the pain, the vomiting , the paralysis of the intestine.
It comes in after the chill of the Aconite stage has passed off and the inflammation has
localized itself. Much pain contra-indicates Aconite. Ferrum phosphoricum and Kali muriaticum
have proved themselves clinically in inflammation about the ileo-caecal region and their
indications rest on clinical grounds only. Belladonna is especially useful in catarrhal and
recurring cases.

#Bryonia [Bry]
As in all inflammations about serous membranes, Bryonia will here find a place. It has
throbbing and sharp stitching pains confined to a limited spot and the patient is
constipated. The ileo-caecal region is very sore and sensitive to touch.
Any movement is painful and the patient lies perfectly still and on the painful side.
The febrile disturbance of the drug will be present. Mercurius being Homoeopathic
inflammation of the mucous membranes deserves consideration, especially has it hard
swelling, fever, flushed face,red,dry tongue, etc.

#Arsenicum [Ars]
When the condition points to sepsis Arsenicum may be the remedy. There are chills,
hectic symptoms, diarrhoea and restlessness,and sudden sinking of strength.
It relieves vomiting in these conditions more quickly than any other remedy. Dr.Mitchell
finds it more often indicated in appendicitis than Mercurius corrosivus, which may also
be a useful remedy. Arnica is a remedy suiting septic cases and it should be employed
after operations.

#Rhus toxicodendron [Rhus.t]
This remedy, with its great correspondence to septic troubles may be required, and
may be indicated by its peculiar symptoms; locally, took it has extensive
swelling over the ileo-caecal region and great pain, causing an incessant restlessness.
Dr.Cartier, of Paris, recommends Rhus radicans 6. in appendicitis of influenza origin at
the onset. Hepar has a deep-seated induration and Dioscorea has proved a valuable,
remedy when the pain is constant, the patient never being entirely free from pain.
One observer claims Dioscorea to be as important a remedy in appendicitis as is
Bryonia in hepatitis. It indications are bowels filled with gas and griping,
twisting pains. It may be given in hot water. It is a far more inflammatory remedy
than Colocynth, deeper acting, and its paroxysmal pains are an indication. Echinacea,
it is claimed, has acted brilliantly in septic appendicitis; the tincture, 1X and 3x
are the strengths used. No indications except septic condition; tiredness is
characteristic.

#Lachesis [Lach]
This is also a valuable remedy; its great characteristics of sensitiveness all over the
abdomen, and stitching from the seat of the inflammation backward and downward to the
thighs, will indicate it in this disease. The patient lies on the back with knees drawn up,
and other general Lachesis symptoms present. Plumbum has a tense swelling in the ileo-caecal
region, painful to touch and on movement; the abdominal walls are retracted, there are
eructations of gas and vomiting and both have a faecal odor. Ignatia is the remedy for the
nervous symptoms of the disease, and to be used in cases where operation has been performed
and no relief has resulted; also in those who become exceeding nervous from any abdominal
pain. Undoubtedly many cases of simple colic ares diagnosed as appendicitis and operated
upon. Therefore, purely colic remedies as Colocynth and Magnesia phosphorica should be
studied. The foregoing remedies will be found the most commonly indicated any may be used
in both operable and non-operable cases as well as in conjunction with the meritorious ;
oil treatment of the disease advocated by Dr.M.O.Terry, formerly of Utica, N.Y.

APOPLECTIC CONDITIONS

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8 APOPLECTIC CONDITIONS

A sudden loss of consciousness resulting when the rupture or occlusion of a blood
vessel
leads to oxygen lack in the brain. A sudden effusion of blood into any organ or
tissue can
also be termed apoplexy.

#Opium [Op]
The remedy undoubtedly most similar to the general symptoms of apoplexy is opium.
It has a
dark red flushed face, and the darker the better the indication. It has rattling
stertorous
breathing and unconsciousness, with sometimes a tetanic rigidity of the body and
paralysis.
The pulse is exceedingly slow and full, and there is drooping of the lower jaw;
apoplexy in
drunkards suggests this remedy, Nux vomica or Sepia. Marked venous congestion is
a mores
valuable symptom than profoundness of stupor. Ferrum phosphoricum. Dr.E.G.Jones
uses this
remedy in the 3x trituration in hot water when called during an apoplectic
seizure, stating
that it will usually restore the patient to consciousness in a short time and
also control
the haemorrhage. Here Aconite may be a better remedy if the mental anxiety is
very prominent.
Kali muriaticum. The same author uses this remedy to absorb the exudate and
believes that many
lives may be saved by its use.

#Arnica [Arn]
Is the remedy where there is soreness and aching all over the body, paralysis,
especially
of left side, full, strong pulse and stertorous breathing. Bed sores form rapidly
. It is a
remedy to prevent threatened apoplexy. Often attacks of apoplexy can be prevented
by
restoring the circulation to its equilibrium by means of such remedies as Aconite,

Belladonna, Glonoine and Arnica. Bayes attributes many cases of apoplexy in old
people to
the habit of taking medicines to keep their bowels open. This should lead us to
treat
carefully the constipation,and here opium may perform a double action. Apoplexy
due to
external violence calls for Arnica. It should be administered after acute symptoms
have
subsided to promote absorption of the clot, and here the 30th potency has acted
very
promptly. Dr.Wm.Morris Butler believes that we haves in Arnica30 a sheet anchor
for
dissolving blood clots in our own hands it has worked most favorably in a number
of cases.

#Belladonna [Bell]
Here we have red face, loss of consciousness, convulsive symptoms, dilated pupils,

difficult deglutition, involuntary emission of urine, coma and sopor. Hyoscyamus
is
similar, patients fall suddenly with a shriek and pass into a condition of sopor,
with
involuntary faeces. Glonoine is indicated buy high arterial tension and
co-existing kidney
disease. Severe and sudden congestion.

#Laurocerasus [Laur]
Hartmann claims that this is one of the most important remedies in treating
apoplexy
when it occurs suddenly without prodrome; the patient falls suddenly into a
comatose state
out of which he cannot be aroused; palpitation of heart, cold moist skin,
convulsions of
the muscles of the face are symptoms which should be present. The ensuing
paralyses due to
cerebral haemorrhage call for Baryta carbonica as the most useful medicine.

Anthrax

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7 Anthrax

Anthrax is a disease of domestic animals which become infected by inhaling or
ingesting
spores of Bacillus anthracis. In man anthrax is an occupational disease of
farmers,
butchers, and dealers in hides, hair, wool, and bone meal from endemic areas.
Now a days
there is fear and possibility of virulent anthrax spores being used as a means
of
bio-terrorism.

Anthrax - CAUSE

Bacillus anthracis

Anthrax - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

(a) Skin infection - Inoculation of spores subcutaneously is the commonest mode
of spread,
Incubation period is usually 1 to 3 days.

A cutaneous lesion begins as an itching papule which enlarges and forms a vesicle
filled
with serosanguineous fluid surrounded by gross edema - the 'malignant pustule'.
The lesion
is relatively painless and accompanied by slight enlargement of regional lymph
nodes. The
vesicle dries to form a thick black aschar surrounded by blebs.

In endemic areas patients may exhibit only slight constitutional symptoms and
little edema
but in the non-immune person high fever, toxemia and fatal septicemia may develop.

(b) Ingestion - When infected meat is eaten an ulcer with surrounding edema may
develop in
the throat. But often the infection causes a severe, fatal gastroenteritis.

(c) Inhalation - Spread through inhalation is not very common except in people
working with
animal hide and dander. But this is the way which is potentially most harmful and
is the
only way in which mass infection can be caused by terrorists. Such infection can
lead to
an acute laryngitis or a virulent hemorrhagic bronchopneumonia (wool-sorter's
disease)

(d) Occasionally anthrax may present as meningitis.

Anthrax - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS DONE?

The Bacillus anthracis can be shown in -

* a smear from the edge of a skin lesion
* laryngeal smear
* sputa (in pulmonary infection)
* stool (in gastroenteritis)
* CSF (in meningitis case)

Anthrax - HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Homeopathy offers many medicines which may help in anthrax. These include
medicines like
arsenic-alb, anthracinum, pyroginum, crot-h, lachesis, hippoz., echinecia,
tarent-c etc.
Many homeopaths consider anthracinum as a preventive medicine for anthrax.

Anthrax - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

Antibiotics like penicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol,
streptomycin etc
are used.

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

Once a person is infected there is little else one can do except to take
treatment.
But in endemic areas, those who work with animals and their products, need to
take some
measures like:

* Do not sleep on animal hide
* Do not eat meat of an animal which has died suddenly
* Do not take any sore throat or cough lightly.

REFERENCE WORKS

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed, McGraw-Hill

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill
Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd
revised ed.,
2001, B. Jain

Anorexia nervosa

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6 Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder affecting mainly girls or women, although
boys or
men can also suffer from it. It usually starts in the teenage years.

Anorexia nervosa - CAUSE

The cause of anorexia nervosa is unknown, although it is likely that both
inherent biological
factors and factors in the patient's social environment play a part. The disease
is mainly
encountered in the western world and is more common among women in certain
professions,
such as models and ballet dancers. Puberty, deaths in the family and other life
stresses
are all believed to be potential triggers of anorexia.

Anorexia nervosa - SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Weight loss of at least 15 per cent below the normal ideal body weight for a
person of the
same age and height.

Cessation of periods or delayed development in puberty.

Self-induced weight loss. Methods can include fasting, low food intake, excessive
exercise,
diuretic medicines (medicines that make you urinate more) laxatives, diet pills
or vomiting.
Sometimes people make themselves sick to lose weight. Others take excessive
exercise.

Sufferers have a constant fear of gaining weight, as well as a feeling of being
fat, even
when their weight is much less than that of other people of the same height.

Sufferers may feel bloated, even after a small meal.

They may lose interest in socialising with friends.

Other side effects include tiredness, feeling cold, constipation and stomachache.

Some patients also develop additional disorders such as bulimia.

Anorexia nervosa - HOW DIAGNOSIS IS DONE?

Body weight is maintained at least 15 per cent below that expected for a person's
height.

It is self-induced weight loss caused by avoiding fattening foods and may involve
taking
excessive exercise, using laxatives or diuretics or self-induced vomiting.

There is a strong, almost overwhelming fear of putting on weight, with sufferers
preoccupied with the shape or size of their bodies.

Rules are invented regarding how much food is allowed and how much exercise is
needed
after eating certain amounts of food.

Those suffering from anorexia pursue a very low 'ideal' weight.

The weight loss may cause hormonal disturbances and women with anorexia nervosa

may stop having periods.

Anorexia nervosa - HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT

Homeopathic medicines are known to have deep effect on human economy and have
been found
effective in various psychological and devlopmental disorders. The focus of
homeopathy is
not to treat the isolated symptoms of Anorexia but to treat the child as a whole.
Not only
the symptoms of Anorexia but also the general physical and mental constitution
of the
patient, past medical history, medical history of parents, information about
pregnancy and
vaccination - all are used to find the probable cause in a given case and based
on the
final analysis a remedy is chosen for a patient. The following medicines may
help in the
treatment of Anorexia:

Anorexia nervosa - CONVENTIONAL TREATMENT

Treatments used include individual psychological therapy, family therapy and drug
therapy
using antidepressants.

WHAT ELSE CAN I DO?

Join some support groups and get the disorder treated at the earliest.

REFERENCE WORKS

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed, McGraw-Hill

Davidson's Principles and Practise of Medicine, 17th ed, 1996, Churchill
Livingstone

New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica & Repertory, William Boericke, 2nd
revised ed.,
2001, B. Jain.

ANGINA PECTORIS

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5 ANGINA PECTORIS

Angina is chest pain or discomfort that occurs when your heart muscle does not
get enough
blood. Angina may feel like pressure or a squeezing pain in your chest. The pain
may also
occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. It may also feel like
indigestion.

Angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), the most common type of
heart disease.
CAD occurs when plaque builds up in the coronary arteries. This buildup of
plaque is called
atherosclerosis. As plaque builds up, the coronary arteries become narrow and
stiff. Blood
flow to the heart is reduced. This decreases the oxygen supply to the heart
muscle.

#Amyl nitrite [Aml-n]
In acute attacks of this disease Amyl nitrite is usually the remedy given, and
it is given
by olfaction of the crude substance, Its action is to produces a speedy dilation
of the
capillaries in the upper part of the body, the face becomes flushed, the heart's
action is
rapid and tumultuous, there is a feeling as of a band around the head,
constriction about
the heart and oppressed breathing. It is very useful in relieving the paroxysm,
and if the
symptoms correspond it will be found useful at other times. Aconite is especially
useful
during a attack of vaso-motor angina from exposures to cold, with intense
anxiety. Coldness
pain radiating from head in all directions, with numbness, tingling, paraesthesia.

#Glonoine [Glon]
or Nitro glycerine is a very similar remedy. It has been proved and its action is
fairly
well known. Its grand characteristic is throbbing all over the body in every
vessel, a
feeling of fulness in region of heart, and perhaps sharp pains radiating in all
directions
from heart, labored breathing, and fluttering of the heart, it feels contracted.
Arsenicum
has also proved useful especially in preventing the paroxysms.

#Crataegus [Crat]
Sudden, terrible pain in the left breast, radiating over the heart and down left
arm,
despondent and fearful of death. Use tincture in water, frequent doses.

#Cimicifuga [Cimic]
Has pains radiating all over the chest and a sensation as if the left arm were
bound to
the side The patient may become unconscious;us, the heart's action suddenly
ceases, there
is a sense of impending suffocation,l and the pulse is weak and feeble. Kalmia
has shooting
pains above the heart to the scapula, anguish about heart, pressure form
epigastrium to heart.
Kali carbonicum has stitches from heart to scapula and there is great weakness.
Magnesia
phosphorica 6x in hot water will frequently greatly relieve the paroxysms of
angina and
lessen their duration. It has contraction of the chest with pains radiating from
the heart
in all directions. Aurum produces a pressure on sternum as from a heavy weight.

#Spigelia [Sep]
Is a useful remedy in anguishing substernal pain which radiates to neck and arms,
irregular
pulse, tendency to syncope, palpitation and sharp stitches in heart, pulse weak
and irregular,
or full and bounding with aggravation from the least motion. Cuprum has a slow
pulse, and
clinically it has proved useful in angina, where there is an uneasy feeling about
the heart.
In cases ;of "tobacco heart," or uneasy pains about the heart due to tobacco,
Nux vomica,
Staphisagria and Tabacum have proved useful. Tabacum 3x has cured cases of angina
pectoris
in patients with arterio-sclerosis. Especially useful in anginas caused by
tobacco also in
the intermittent hearts of the aged. If organic disease of the heat be present as
a cause
of the angina, Cactus may be the remedy when the grasp of the "iron hand" is
present.
Arnica has a sudden pain in the heart as if squeezed and pain in left arm and
left arm and
left chest. If the sore, bruised feeling be present the choice is easy. An other
remedy
to be thought of in tobacco heart is Kalmia. a numbness of the right hand and arm
should
suggest Lilium, which is an excellent remedy in heart troubles. Latrodectus
mactans
deserves to be studied, as it has worked well in many cases.

ANAEMIA, Anemia

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4 ANAEMIA, Anemia

Anemia is a lower than normal number of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the
blood,
usually measured by a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the red
pigment
in red blood cells that transports oxygen.

Although there are many different forms of anemia, the most common are:
iron-deficiency
anemia, vitamin B12 anemia and folic acid deficiency.

Anemias can also be caused by such conditions as external bleeding, chronic
disease,
pregnancy, alcoholism, bleeding disorders, infection and hereditary conditions.

Symptoms of Anemia
The symptoms of iron deficiency anemia (if any) are:

Paleness
Weakness
Tiredness
Chest pains (in severe cases)
Shortness of breath (in severe cases)
Heart palpitations (in severe cases)
An increased heart rate especially during exertion (in severe cases)
Rapid breathing
Low blood pressure

The symptoms of vitamin B12 anemia can also cause:

Jaundice
Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
Equilibrium difficulties
Confusion
Personality changes and depression

#Ferrum metallicum [Ferr]
Iron is the great allopathic remedy for anaemia from almost any cause. It is also
a great
homoeopathic remedy, but it will not cure every case of anaemia; careful
individualization
is necessary. When the patient has an appearance of full bloodedness or plethora,
which is
followed by paleness or earthiness of the face and puffiness of the extremities,
then
Ferrum will benefit. It is not the remedy for the anaemia resulting from loss of
fluids;
that is Cinchona, or perhaps Natrum muriaticum. When Ferrum is indicated the
mucous
membranes are pale, more so than with Cinchona, and there is apt to be an anaemia
murmur
in the veins of the neck. The patient is easily exhausted. Vomiting of food after
eating
may occur. The patient is constantly chilly and perhaps has an afternoon or
evening fever
simulating hectic fever. In very stubborn cases sometimes Ferrum phosphoricum may
serve
better than Ferrum metallicum. Schuessler recommends first Calcarea phosphorica,
then
Ferrum phosphoricum. In simple, uncomplicated chlorosis Ferrum is one of our best
remedies.
Hughes recommends Ferrum redactum 1x or 2X. Ludlam praises Ferrum et strychnia
citrate 3X,
Dr.Jousset, Ferrum aceticum or the Ferrum protoxalate, and Dr.Holcombe. of New
Orleans,
used Ferrum phosphoricum. All these preparations of Iron may benefit cases of
anaemia
and chlorosis; if so, it is by virtue of their similarity to the symptoms of the
case,
and not because one or the other preparation of Iron is a tonic in the allopathic
sense.
By giving the indicated preparation of Iron it removes the underlying dyscrasia
giving
rise to the anaemic or chlorotic conditions and cures the trouble.

#Pulsatilla [Puls]
Pulsatilla is the great antidote to Iron, and hence is indicated in the anaemic
condition
produced by large or continued doses of it. The system is relaxed and worn out;
the
patient is chilly and suffers from gastric and menstrual derangements. Thus the
symptoms
resemble closely those calling for Ferrum. The cause of the anaemia must be
sought for,
and if the case comes from allopathic hands it is safe to infer that much Iron
has been
given and Pulsatilla will surely be the remedy. The Pulsatilla patient feels
better in the
open air. Dizziness on rising, absence of thirst, and the peculiar disposition
will lead
to the remedy. Cyclamen, which is similar in many respects, differ from
Pulsatilla in
dreading the fresh air. Cinchona is the chief remedy for anaemia resulting from
loss of
fluids,as in lactation or haemorrhage, or from all exhausting discharges, such as
menstrual
flow, long-lasting diarrhoea, and sexual excesses and loss of semen. The quality
of the
blood is actually poorer in cases calling for Cinchona. Special symptoms are
heaviness
of the head, loss of sight,fainting and ringing in the ears, pale sallow
complexion,
sour belching, poor digestion and bloated abdomen. The patient is sensitive to
draughts of
air yet wants to be fanned. Dr. George Royal thinks many physicians err in giving

Cinchona
too low in symptomatic anaemia when much time has elapsed since the drain was
made on the
system. He finds the 30th. productive of better results than the lower
preparations.
NATrum muriaticum is also a remedy for anaemic and debilitated conditions due to
loss of
fluids, especially in women who suffer from menstrual disorders and in chronic
cases with
a dead, dirty-looking skin. Chininum arsenicosum is sometimes prescribed for
anaemia, not,
however, on the totality ;of the symptoms, but because it is said to be "good for
it." It
has been found curative in certain cases ;of pernicious anaemia. Acetic acid
suits anaemic
nursing women, with waxy skin, and thirst.

#Calcarea carbonica [Calc]
Almost any of the deeper acting constitutional remedies may be of use in anaemic
and
debilitated conditions, and especially are the Calcareas useful. Thus we have
Calcarea
phosphorica as the remedy for the "green sickness," chlorosis of young girls,
with a
complexion like wax, alabaster lips and ears, a bright eye, and when they smile
or laugh
it is a sickly one. The face sometimes has a true greenish hue or a sallow one.
In such
cases the menses are apt to be too early and then calcarea phosphorica is well
indicated
for this condition. Calcarea carbonica is indicated by the psoric, scrofulous or
tubercular
diathesis and the general symptoms of the drug, by disgust for meat, craving for
sour and
indigestible things, swelling of abdomen, vertigo and palpitation ;on going
upstairs. The
patient is in a state of worry. Constantly imagining calamities. Alumina is also
a remedy
for chlorosis due to the scrofulous diathesis and from improper nourishment, such
as occurs
in some children brought up on artificial foods. Nux vomica, too, may be
indicated in
anaemic
conditions when due to gastro-intestinal derangements. Plumbum has been
recommended for
inveterate chlorosis with obstinate constipation. Alumina also, being an
antipsoric, is
the
remedy for anaemic conditions about puberty, with abnormal craving for
indigestible
substances,
such as slate pencils, chalk, etc.

#Arsenicum [Ars]
This being a direct poison to the red blood corpuscles takes first rank in cases
of pernicious
anaemia or in anaemias due to a malarial of ;toxic influence. Dr.Blackley, of
England, reported
four cases of pernicious anaemia cured with small doses of the remedy. It does
not correspond to
simple anaemias so well. It indications are excessive prostration considerable
oedema, violent
and irregular palpitation,marked appetite for acids and brandy, extreme anxiety
and rapid
emaciation . There is irritable stomach and intense thirst. When the allopathic
school uses
Arsenic as a blood tonic, and Dr.Bartholow says, "it is one of the most valuable
remedies in the
treatment of chlorosis and anaemia," it does so on strictly Homoeopathic
principles. Picric acid.
The extreme prostration of pernicious anaemia, with a heavy tired feeling all
over the body,
burning pains along the spine and aggravation from excitement indicate this
remedy.

#Helonias [Helon]
An excellent remedy in anaemia and chlorosis. It suits especially anaemia from
prolonged
haemorrhage in women enervated by indolence and luxury, or such as are worn out
with hard work;
they are too tired to sleep and the strained muscles burn and ache A
characteristic modality is
that the patient is better when the attention is engaged, hence better when the
doctor comes.
This anaemia is associated with disturbances in the urinary and sexual organs.
Tired,anaemic,
backachey females need Helonias, "It is one of the best blood makers that we
have.
" (E. G. Jones.)

#Aletris [Alet]
Chlorosis. "The China of the uterine organs." (Hale.) Tired dull, heavy,confused.
Debility of
females from protracted illness; no organic disease. Power and energy of mind
and
body are weakened.

#Secale [Sec]
This remedy produces a progressives general anaemia. It is shown by the peculiar

cachexia of anaemia,
pale, bloodless, jaundiced color. By its effect on the blood corpuscles it
produces a
general anaemia,
threatening not only the life of a part, but vitiating the whole life of the
bodily economy.
It is a
sort of a mechanical anaemia.

#Natrum muriaticum [Nat-m]
This is one of our best remedies in anaemic conditions. There is paleness, and,
in spite of
the fact that the patient eats well, there is emaciation. There are attacks of
throbbing
headache and dyspnoea, especially
on going up stairs, constipation ands depression of spirits, and consolation
aggravates.
With these symptoms
there is much palpitation, fluttering and intermittent action of the heart.
The
hypochondriasis in these cases
is marked. Scanty menstruation is frequently an indicating symptom. Kali
carbonicum is
one of the most important
remedies in anaemia, weak heart, sweats backache, especially with female
complaints.

AMENORRHEA

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3 AMENORRHEA

Amenorrhea means the absence of the menstrual period. Apart from during childhood,

pregnancy, breastfeeding or menopause, the absence of the menstrual period may
indicate
a problem with the reproductive system. One of the most common causes of
amenorrhea is
hormonal disturbance. The interplay of female sex hormones can be disrupted by a
wide range
of events, including diseases of the reproductive organs, weight loss, emotional
stress or
overexercising. Frequently, there is no worrying cause found.

#Pulsatilla [Puls]
Comes first to mind as the homoeopathic remedy for menstrual suppression. It is
indicated
where the menses flow by fits and starts, or when the suppression is due to
wetting of the
feet; also, in delayed first menses in chlorotic girls. It must be carefully
distinguished
from Dulcamara, which has menses suppressed from getting the feet wet, but whose
temperament
is not that of Pulsatilla. Bayes remarks that in amenorrhoea with anaemia "great
judgment is
required in the selection of the dilution, which ought to vary from the 30th to
the 1st,
according to the sensitiveness of the patient, " Jahr ranks Sulphur with
Pulsatilla for
insufficient pale menstruation. The Pulsatilla patient is disinclined to exertion,
with
poor appetite and longing for acids,is apt to faint easily and suffers from a
tremulous
anxiety. Senecio is useful also in amenorrhoea with chlorosis.

#Calcarea carbonic [Calc]
This remedy is also, like Pulsatilla, indicated in amenorrhoea when the first
menses are
delayed, but with Calcarea there is apt to result congestion to the head or
chest, giving
rise to lung troubles. It is typically indicated in fleshy, scrofulous girls
with fair
complexion, perspiring easily about the head and subject to acidity of
stomach.
Menstrual suppression in those decidedly scrofulous, or with lung affection,
especially
indicates Calcarea. Belladonna has menstrual suppression with congestion to the
head,
but its chief use is in amenorrhoea appearing suddenly due to cold, with bearing
down and
throbbing pains in the hypogastrium and painful urination. Gelsemium. Here the
drowsy
apathetic state is prominent and neuralgic pains of the head and face accompany.
Glonoine.
Intense throbbing of head and albuminous urine occurring when the menses do not
appear.
It will act promptly if at all. If the menses are suppressed from fright, Aconite,
Actea
spicata and Lycopodium must be thought of. Opium and Veratrum also have this
symptoms.
Further symptoms indicating Calcarea in amenorrhoea are palpitation of the heart,
dyspnoea
worse ascending, cold damp feet, etc. Lilium tigrinum. Of use when amenorrhoea
causes,
by reflex action, heart symptoms.

#Ferrum metallicum [Ferr-m]
This is another useful remedy for delayed first menses where there is debility,
languor,
palpitation, sickly complexion and puffiness about the ankles. It corresponds to
weakly,
chlorotic women with flushed face, or pale and livid with blue margins about the
eyes.
It is especially useful in those who have been dosed with quinine and nervines.

#Sepia [Sep]
Insufficient or tardy menstruation occurring in the feeble and debilitated, those
of dark
complexion, delicate skin and who are sensitive to all impressions. In delay of
first
menses where a leucorrhoea occurs in their stead with determination of blood to
the chest
and pale face, the remedy is well indicated. Bryonia has nosebleed instead of
menses
frequently accompanied with bursting headache, and Phosphorus has haemoptysis and

haematemesis instead of menses.Lachesis should not be forgotten here. Nosebleed
and
headache relieved by menstrual flow.

Graphites. Here, when the menses are suppressed, delayed or scanty, and
accompanied with
obstinate constipation, and indurated ovaries, it comes in especially well after
Pulsatilla.
It holds the same relation to the menopause that Pulsatilla does to puberty and
youth.
A sallow complexion, frequent paroxysms of headache, felling of abdominal
emptiness and ball
like constipation, which are marked Sepia symptoms, will easily distinguish this
remedy.
Cimicifuga. Cowperthwaite praises this remedy highly in amenorrhoea, giving it
when no
special indication are present, in nervous women subject to rheumatism or
arthritic attacks,
with aggravation of mental symptoms when the menses should appear.

Alopecia Areata

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2 Alopecia Areata

What Is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is considered an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system,
which is designed to protect the body from foreign invaders such as viruses and
bacteria,
mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, the tiny cup-shaped structures from which
hairs grow.
This can lead to hair loss on the scalp and elsewhere.

In most cases, hair falls out in small, round patches about the size of a
quarter.
In many cases, the disease does not extend beyond a few bare patches. In some
people,
hair loss is more extensive. Although uncommon, the disease can progress to cause
total
loss of hair on the head (referred to as alopecia areata totalis) or complete
loss of hair
on the head, face, and body (alopecia areata universalis).
Alopecia Areata - What Causes It?

In alopecia areata, immune system cells called white blood cells attack the
rapidly growing
cells in the hair follicles that make the hair. The affected hair follicles
become small
and drastically slow down hair production. Fortunately, the stem cells that
continually
supply the follicle with new cells do not seem to be targeted. So the follicle
always has
the potential to regrow hair.
Is My Hair Loss a Symptom of a Serious Disease?

Alopecia areata is not a life-threatening disease. It does not cause any physical
pain,
and people with the condition are generally healthy otherwise. But for most
people, a
disease that unpredictably affects their appearance the way alopecia areata does
is a
serious matter.
The effects of alopecia areata are primarily socially and emotionally disturbing.
In alopecia universalis, however, loss of eyelashes and eyebrows and hair in the
nose
and ears can make the person more vulnerable to dust, germs, and foreign
particles
entering the eyes, nose, and ears.

Alopecia areata often occurs in people whose family members have other
autoimmune
diseases, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, systemic
lupus
erythematosus, pernicious anemia, or Addison's disease. People who have
alopecia
areata do not usually have other autoimmune diseases, but they do have a higher
occurrence of thyroid disease, atopic eczema, nasal allergies, and asthma.
Will My Hair Ever Grow Back?

There is every chance that your hair will regrow, but it may also fall out again.
No one can predict when it might regrow or fall out. The course of the disease
varies from person to person. Some people lose just a few patches of hair, then
the hair regrows, and the condition never recurs. Other people continue to lose
and regrow hair for many years. A few lose all the hair on their head; some lose
all the hair on their head, face, and body. Even in those who lose all their hair
, the possibility for full regrowth remains.

In some, the initial hair regrowth is white, with a gradual return of the
original hair color. In most, the regrown hair is ultimately the same color and
texture as the original hair.
Alopecia Areata Treatment

Conventional Drugs

The following are some commonly used medicines for alopecia areata. Keep in mind
that while these treatments may promote hair growth, none of them prevent new
patches or actually cure the underlying disease.
Corticosteroids, Minoxidil (5%), Anthralin (Psoriatec), Sulfasalazine , Oral
cyclosporine
Homeopathic Medicines for Alopecia Areata

Homeopathic medicines are known to give very good results in cases of alopecia
reata. The medicines most commonly found useful are –
Acid-flouricum, Phosphorus, Graphites, Apis, Ars-alb, Calcarea, Hepar-sulph,
Psorinum, Kali-carb, Rhus-tox, Sepia, Psorinum, Calc-phos, Carbo-animalis,
Selenium, Kali-phos, Lycopodium.

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment
focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The
homeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and
case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and
mental constitution etc.

For more information about symptoms of these medicines:

Alopecia - Homeopathic Medicines, Treatment & Cure

Hairloss Baldness - Cause, Homeopathic Treatment & Cure

INTRODUCTION

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Homeopathy is an alternative system of medicine that was founded in the early 19th century
by a German physician, Dr. Hahnemann 200 years ago.
Classical Homeopathy rests on three principles: the law of similars, the single medicine,
and the minimum dose. The law of similars states that a disease is cured by a medicine
which creates symptoms similar to those the patient is experiencing in a healthy person.
Hence an important part of the prescription of a Homeopathic medicine is a lengthy
interview to determine all the symptoms the patient is experiencing. The Homeopathic
physician then determines which medicine best matches the symptoms that the patient is
experiencing and prescribes it.
Let's look at an example: If your child accidentally ingests certain poisons, you may be
advised to administer Syrup of Ipecac to induce vomiting. Ipecac is derived from the root
of a South American plant called Ipecacuanha. The name, in the native language, means "the
plant by the road which makes you throw up." Eating the plant causes vomiting.
Such an experiment, using healthy volunteers, is called a proving, and it is the Homeopath's
source of information about the action of a drug.
Of what use could this plant be? If a person were suffering from a gagging cough after a
cold, or a woman were experiencing morning sickness with incessant nausea that is not
relieved by vomiting, then Ipecacuanha, administered in a minute dose, especially prepared
by a Homeopathic pharmacy in accordance with FDA approved guidelines, can allay the
"similar" suffering.
When a group of healthy volunteers took this substance to determine the effects of this
drug, they found that the drug induced other symptoms as well. The mouth retained much
saliva. The tongue was very clean. There was a cough so severe that it led to gagging and
vomiting. There was incessant nausea. While it is expected that vomiting would usually
relieve the nausea, this was not the case.
Samuel Hahnemann described this principle by using a Latin phrase: Similia Similibus
Curentur, which translates: "Let likes cure likes." It is a principle that has been known
for centuries. Hahnemann developed the principle into a system of medicine called
Homeopathy, and it has been used successfully for the last 200 years.
The principle of the single remedy states that a single medicine should cover all the
symptoms the patient is experiencing: mental, emotional, and physical. A classical
Homeopath would not prescribe one medicine for a headache and another for an upset stomach,
he or she would find a single medicine that covered both symptoms.
The principle of the minimum dose has two parts. First the Homeopathic physician only
prescribes a small number of doses of the Homeopathic medicine and waits to see what effect
the medicine has. Second, the medicine is given in an infinitesimal dose. Homeopaths have
discovered that the effect of Homeopathic medicines is strengthen upon successive dilutions as
long as the medicine is violently shaken between each dilution. Medicines are typically
used in very high dilutions such as 30C (1 part in 10^-60) or 200C (1 part in 10^-400).
It is the use of infinitesimal doses that is the most controversial aspect of Homeopathy
and the reason why most conventional doctors claim it functions only as a placebo. However,
a number of controlled studies have been performed which show the effectiveness of
Homeopathic medicine in treating a number of diseases. The best summary of this research
is a study published in the British Medical Journal. The authors of this study are not
Homeopaths but medical school professors asked by the Dutch government to review the
existing research. P>If you suffer from a chronic health problem, you should be aware that
Homeopathic treatment will take time and patience. You should be prepared to commit to
six months or more of treatment before the problem is resolved. Also, a Homeopathic doctor
may suggest changes to diet and lifestyle as part of the treatment. If you are unable to
commit to this, you should consider another form of medical practice.

ALOPECIA / Hair-Loss

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1 ALOPECIA / Hair-Loss

Baldness typically refers to excessive hair loss from your scalp and can be the
result of
heredity, certain medications or an underlying medical condition. Anyone — men,
women and
children — can experience hair loss.

The medical term for hair loss is alopecia. The most common type is pattern
baldness
(androgenetic alopecia). It accounts for about 95 percent of hair loss from the
scalp.It's
typically permanent and can be attributed to heredity. Another type of alopecia,
alopecia
areata,can be temporary. It can involve hair loss on your scalp or your body.
Its specific
cause
is unknown.

#Natrum muriaticum [Nat-m]
Has the symptoms of easy falling out of the hair; it falls out when touched or
combed.
This is quite frequently seen in nursing home. Carbo vegetabilis has falling of
hair after
parturition or severe illness. Sepia has losing of hair after chronic headaches.

#Phosphorus [Phos]
Bald spots on the head, which are dry and scaly, are characteristic of Phosphorus.
Dandruff, roots of hair get gray and the hair comes out in bunches.
Graphites cures bald spots on the sides of the head. The head sweats easily.The
most
important remedy in alopecia areata.

# Phosphoric acid [Ph-ac]
Falling of hair from general debility. Fluoric acid. Falling of hair from
syphilis.As near
specific as is possible. Arsenicum. Bald spots near the forehead;
the scalp is covered with dry scales. Vinca minor.Falling of the hair with
great itching of
the scalp.