Dr. Vikas Sharma MD, Author at Homeopathy at DrHomeo.com

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Burning In Eyes

Burning eyes means a burning sensation, irritation or stinging in the eyes.

It can be attended with other signs and symptoms depending on the cause behind it. These include itching in eyes, dry eyes, grittiness (feeling of some small particle like grain of sand in eyes), tears, red, sore eyes and discharge from the eyes. In some cases, nasal symptoms may also be present. These include runny nose, sneezing, nasal blockage and PND (post nasal discharge means dripping of mucus from posterior nares in the back of the throat).

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very effective in managing complaint of burning in eyes. Homeopathic medicines gradually reduce the intensity of burning and also manage its attending symptoms. Such symptoms include itching in the eyes, dry eyes, eye discharge, tearing and red eyes, runny nose, and sneezing. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine for this complaint under supervision of a homeopathic physician. In case bleeding/ pus discharge from eyes attends or when there is severe eye pain, sensitivity to light, sudden changes in vision, double vision, light flashes, spots or floaters (liquid or gel-like liquid) in front of the eyes along with burning sensation in eyes, then it is strictly advised to take urgent help from conventional mode of treatment as these can indicate some serious causes related to the eyes.

Homeopathic Medicines For Burning Eyes

1. Euphrasia – Top-grade Medicine

It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant Euphrasia Officinalis, commonly known by the name of ‘eye – bright’. It is a prominent medicine for managing cases of burning in the eyes. In cases needing it, watering from the eyes attends burning. Other than this, a sensation of dust or sand in the eyes may be felt. In some cases, dryness in the eyes is present. Itching may accompany. Other than this, there may occur swelling of the eyelids. Along with this, there is itching, burning, redness in the margins of eyelids. Sometimes nasal symptoms attend. These include sneezing, runny nose and nasal irritation.

2. Belladonna – For Burning In Eyes And Redness

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant ‘deadly nightshade’. This medicine works well in cases having burning and marked redness in the eyes. Persons who need it also feel pricking in the eyes. Itching and dryness in the eyes attend it. Itching and burning is also felt in the eyelids. Sometimes hot tears from eyes can flow. It is a very effective medicine for cases of conjunctivitis.

3. Pulsatilla – For Burning Eyes And Discharge From Eyes

This medicine is prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans, commonly known as ‘wind flower’. This plant belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is a well-indicated medicine for cases presenting with burning eyes and thick yellow discharge from the eyes. Along with this, eye itching is marked. The itching leads to rubbing and scratching. A pressing sensation in the eyes can attend. There may be grittiness in the eyes. Dryness of eyes occurs along with the above symptoms. It gets worse in the evening. Other than this, there is redness and swelling on margins of eyelids. It is a well-indicated medicine for iritis and conjunctivitis cases.

4. Apis Mellifica – For Burning, Stinging In Eyes

It is a prominent medicine to manage burning and stinging in eyes. Stinging sensation is also felt in eyes. The conjunctiva looks bright red. Profuse flow of tears accompanies it. Eye itching and soreness is the next attending symptom. The eyelids may be swollen and puffy along with these symptoms.

5. Sulphur – For Burning And Sensation Of Sand In Eyes

Sulphur is a beneficial medicine for those having burning sensation and grittiness in eyes. There may be inflammation in eyes or eyelids. Pricking pain in the eyes is also a major complaint. Itching in the eyes is also felt with these symptoms. There is watering from the eyes in the morning which is followed by dryness.

6. Aconite – For Burning Eyes With Dryness

This medicine is prepared from plant Aconitum Napellus, commonly known as ‘monkshood’. It belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is helpful for cases in which there is burning in the eyes along with marked dryness. There is relief by throwing cold water on eyes. Redness in eyes and inflammation is also present. Dryness and burning is also felt in the eyelids where this medicine is required. Eyes are sensitive to air along with above symptoms.

7. Natrum Mur – For Burning And Itching In The Eyes

Use of this medicine is considered when there is burning and itching in the eyes. The burning sensation is most marked in the evening. Sometimes grittiness in eyes is felt in the morning. It is a well-indicated medicine for cases of blepahritis. In such cases, the eyelids are red, sore with burning sensation.

8. Arsenic Album – For Burning In Eyelid Margins

This medicine is indicated when burning sensation is present in the margins of eyelids. Along with this, there is soreness on internal surface of lids. The eyelids can be swollen. The edges of lids are painful if you move them. There is grittiness in eyes in the evening causing rubbing of eyes. Next, the inner eyelid margin may be red. Dryness can attend it.

9. Allium Cepa – For Eye Burning And Nasal Symptoms

Allium Cepa is a valuable medicine when there is burning in eyes. With this a biting and smarting sensation (feeling like pin -pricks) in eyes may be felt too. It feels as if there is smoke in front of the eyes, there is desire to intermittently rub the eyes. Other than this, the eyes are red and watery. Along with these, there occur nasal symptoms like runny nose and frequent sneezing.

10. Merc Sol – For Burning And Profuse Watering From Eyes

Merc Sol is an important medicine when there is burning in the eyes along with profuse watering from eyes. Biting and burning in eyes is mostly felt in open air. The eyelids are sensitive to cold, heat, touch in cases that need it. The eyelids may be inflamed, red, swollen and thick where Merc Sol is required.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It can arise due to various reasons.

In many cases, it can occur due to environmental pollutants like dust, smoke, smog or from exposure to excessively cold or hot air. In some cases, it can arise from eye strain as after excessive screen time on computer or mobile. In such cases, additional symptoms that can arise include dry eyes or watery eyes, double vision, and sensitivity to light.

In other cases, it can occur from some medical reason as given below.

It firstly includes conjunctivitis, also known as ‘pink eye’. It means inflammation of the conjunctiva which is a thin clear layer that covers white part of the eye. It can occur from an infection that can be viral or bacterial or from an allergic reaction to pollen, chemicals, etc. In this condition, burning in the eyes can attend its other signs and symptoms that include redness of the eyes, discharge from eyes, itchy eyes, excessive tears and gritty sensation in eyes.

Second cause can be allergies. These can be triggered by exposure to allergens like dust, smoke, pollen, etc. Along with eye signs and symptoms like burning, itchy eyes, red eyes, watery discharge from eyes, it may be accompanied by nasal symptoms too. These nasal symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, PND, sore throat and coughing.

Next, it can arise in case of common cold and flu.

Burning in the eyes can also be due to dry eyes. It can arise from allergies, exposure to smoke, excessive screen time on computers, diabetes, use of certain medications (like anti-histamines, anti-depressants and some drugs used for treating high blood pressure) or from some types of arthritis. Dry eyes can occur either from decreased production of tears or from production of poor quality tears. In addition to burning eyes, it can cause light sensitivity, redness of the eyes, scratchy sensation in the eyes, mucus in and around the eyes.

Ocular rosacea can be also a cause. It refers to inflammation of the eyes affecting those having a skin condition called rosacea (rosacea affects the face which causes redness, flushed face with prominent blood vessels and pus-filled eruptions). In ocular rosacea, there is burning in the eyes along with other symptoms like itchy eyes, irritation in the eyes and eye redness.

Next reason is pterygium (a triangular-shaped tissue flap that grows on the conjunctiva of the eye)

Another cause is blepharitis (means inflammation of the eyelids). It can lead to burning in the eyes along with itching of eyelids, watery eyes, flakiness around eyes, light sensitivity and sticking of the eyelids.

Homeopathic Medicines To Get Rid Of Bad Taste In Mouth

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 12 Comments

A bad taste in the mouth is something that everyone experiences at some time or the other. It is temporary and tends to go away after brushing the teeth and cleaning the mouth. But in some cases, the bad taste in the mouth persists and doesn’t go away even after usual brushing and cleaning. In such cases, there may be some underlying cause that needs to be diagnosed and treated to get rid of this bad taste.

Every person experiencing it defines the bad taste differently. Some may say it is a metallic taste, while for some, it is a bitter taste, some others may describe it as foul, sour, salty or sweet taste.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines for treating this complaint are prepared from naturally occurring substances, so are very safe to use without any side effects and aid gradual recovery. The most suitable medicine for every case of bad taste in mouth is selected individually based on the case details. So it is advised to take medicines under the guidance of a homeopathic physician after detailed case evaluation.

Homeopathic Medicines To Get Rid Of Bad Taste In Mouth

1. Merc Sol – Top-Grade Medicine

Merc Sol is a very effective medicine for managing bad taste in mouth. It works well when there is metallic, putrid, bitter, or sweetish taste in the mouth. Excessive salivation may be present with this. Next, there may be complaint of offensive breath. It is a well-indicated medicine for managing many conditions like gingivitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, thrush, tooth decay, dental cavities, etc. So the cases that require it may also have sore throat, inflamed tonsils, swollen gums, mouth sores/ ulcers.

2. Pulsatilla – For Bad Taste Mainly In Morning

It is a natural medicine prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans, commonly known as ‘wind flower’. This plant belongs to family ranunculaceae. It is indicated for cases in which there is bad taste in the morning time. With this the tongue may be coated white. Next, there can be loss of appetite and nausea. Mouth dryness may attend it. In some cases, bitter taste, sweetish taste or burnt taste in mouth is present. Other than this, there may sometimes be greasy taste in mouth.

3. Nux Vomica – For Sour Taste In Mouth

It is helpful when there is sour taste in mouth. It can occur after eating or drinking. It may also be present in the morning. There may be mouth dryness with this. In some cases, small ulcers may be present in the mouth and throat with putrid smell. Sour or bitter belchings, regurgitation of food and heartburn are some symptoms that can accompany.

4. Arsenic Album – For Bitter Taste

Use of this medicine is considered for cases of bitter taste in mouth. This is mostly felt after eating and drinking. Other than this, it is also used for unpleasant or woody taste in mouth. Lastly, it is useful for cases having sweetish taste in the throat.

5. Nux Moschata – For Bad Taste And Dry Mouth

This medicine is prepared from powdered seeds of plant nutmeg. It belongs to family myristicaceae. It is beneficial for those who have a bad taste in mouth and a dry mouth. They may have a foul taste, earthy, chalky or slimy taste in mouth. Sometimes bitter or sour taste is present too. The mouth and tongue are very dry. Dryness is so marked that the tongue sticks to the roof of the mouth. Saliva feels like cotton in the mouth. Next, there is white-coated tongue and bad smell from mouth.

6. Natrum Phos – For Acid Taste In Mouth And Acid Reflux

This medicine works well for cases having acid taste in mouth. It is one of the best medicines for managing acid reflux also. Those needing it frequently complain of heartburn, sour belchings, sour vomiting and heaviness in the stomach. Along with the above symptoms, there may be yellow creamy coating at the base of tongue.

7. Borax – For Bitter Taste, Mouth Sores And Oral Thrush

This medicine is valuable for managing bitter taste in mouth, mouth sores and oral thrush. The food tastes bitter to the persons who require it. Even the saliva may taste bitter. They can have sores in the mouth especially in the cheeks and on the tongue. These are painful and may bleed easily. The tongue may be cracked. It is a very suitable medicine for managing cases of oral thrush.

8. Natrum Carb – For Metallic Taste In Mouth

It is an important medicine to manage metallic taste in mouth. A constant dryness of mouth and lips can be present where it is required. There is marked burning sensation on the tip of tongue. Next, there can be redness and soreness in mouth with painful blisters.

9. Belladonna – For Putrid Taste In Mouth, Sore Throat, Tonsillitis

This medicine is prepared from plant commonly known as ‘deadly nightshade’. It belongs to family solanaceae. This medicine is recommended for managing putrid taste in mouth. In cases needing it, there may be sore throat or tonsillitis. The throat and tonsils are inflamed, red, shiny and painful where it is required. There is pain in the throat and tonsils along with this. Throat may feel dry. Sometimes cough can attend it.

10. Calcarea Carb – For Salty, Sour Taste

This medicine is indicated to manage salty and sour taste in mouth. Dryness in the mouth at night can be present. There may be heat in the mouth. Its use is also indicated for a taste like that of ink or iron in mouth. An unpleasant taste in mouth with cough is another indication.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It can simply be arising from eating food having strong taste (for eg, garlic) or poor oral hygiene, but there are other reasons too including medical conditions.

Sometimes taking vitamins and supplements may bring metallic taste in the mouth. For example, calcium, iron, zinc and copper supplements.

Use of some medicines (like antihistamines, antidepressants, anti inflammatories, antibiotics) may cause metallic or bitter taste in the mouth.

Cancer treatment including chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also leave a bad taste in the mouth, including metallic and sour taste.

It can also occur in cases of dry mouth. Dry mouth is medically known as xerostomia that occurs from lack of saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps to decrease bacterial growth in the mouth and removes food particles from the mouth. In case of reduced saliva in the mouth, the bacteria overgrow and food bits may remain there leading to a bad taste in the mouth. Dry mouth can happen from various reasons like taking certain medications, advancing age and use of tobacco. But in some cases, it can arise from blocked nose leading to mouth breathing and some medical conditions like diabetes, nerve damage, and some auto-immune diseases.

There are other medical conditions that can lead to bad taste in the mouth.

First medical condition is dental problems. These include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), tooth decay, dental cavities, infection, dental abscess (a pocket of pus that can occur at different regions of the tooth). In cases of dental issues, other symptoms that can occur are swelling/ redness of the gums, bleeding gums, bad breath and sensitive teeth.

Second medical condition is oral thrush (an infection in the mouth with fungus known a candida albicans). It is also known as oral candidiasis. It can cause bad taste in the mouth in addition to its other symptoms. Such symptoms include redness, soreness, pain in the mouth, burning sensation in the mouth, cotton like feeling in the mouth, white sores in the mouth mostly on the tongue and inner cheeks, slight bleeding from these sores, cracks at the corners of the mouth and difficulty in swallowing.

Third cause is acid reflux (a condition in which the stomach acid rises up into the food pipe back from the stomach and flows upwards). It can cause sour taste in mouth along with its other symptoms, like heartburn, nausea, vomiting, pain in upper abdomen, sore throat and cough.

Fourth reason is respiratory infections mainly viral infections. These include colds, tonsillitis (inflammation of tonsils that are the two oval shaped mass of lymphatic tissue present at the back of the throat one on each side), sinusitis (inflamed paranasal sinuses which are air filled spaces in skull). Along with bad taste, the other symptoms of these conditions include sore throat, nasal blockage, PND (post nasal drip), headache, facial pain.

Hepatitis B (a viral infection of liver) can also result in bitter taste in the mouth along with other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, fever.

Next, it may occur from hormonal changes in women like during pregnancy and menopause.

Lastly, it may occur in some of the neurological conditions. For example, epilepsy (tendency to have recurrent seizures means fits), dementia (loss of memory and decline in thinking and other mental abilities), brain tumours.

FOOD ALLERGIES AND HOMEOPATHY

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 505 Comments

Ever heard of someone developing a life-threatening allergic reaction from something as small as a peanut? Someone suffering an asthma attack just after taking a spoonful of cooked mushrooms? Or a severe attack of migraine triggered by black pepper? These may sound strange, but true!

Food allergy is the reaction of the immune system that occurs immediately after eating a certain food. If one has food allergy, the immune system overreacts to a particular protein found in that food. Coming in contact with even a little amount of that particular food can trigger symptoms. Some people may experience severe symptoms from a food allergy, including the potentially fatal anaphylactic reaction (swelling of the throat, airways become narrow blocking breathing). Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening reaction that can impair breathing and send the body into shock; reactions may simultaneously affect different parts of the body (for example, a stomach-ache accompanied by a rash).

Many people think the terms ‘food allergy’ and ‘food intolerance’ mean the same, but they do not. Food intolerance is an adverse food-induced reaction that does not involve the immune system. Lactose intolerance is one example of food intolerance. A person with lactose intolerance lacks an enzyme that is needed to digest milk sugar. When the person eats milk products, symptoms such as gas, bloating and abdominal pain may occur.

Although an individual may be allergic to any food, such as fruits, vegetables and meats, these are not as common as the following eight foods which account for 90 per cent of all food-allergic reactions: Milk, egg, peanut, tree nuts (walnut, cashew, etc.), fish, shellfish, soya and wheat.

Homeopathic Treatment For Food Allergy

Homeopathic treatment of food allergies can be very beneficial as it treats food allergies by optimising the overcharged immune system. Though the treatment may require a more serious approach, most of the allergies can be treated with homeopathy. Homeopathy views food allergies as an expression of a disturbance in the patient’s healing system. Food allergies are not a disease to be cured in themselves, but a reflection of an underlying imbalance.

Food sensitivity or intolerance can be treated by homeopathic medicines that are specific to that particular problem. For example, homeopathic medicine Silicea for milk intolerance in infants, when even the mother’s milk disagrees; Zingiber for diarrhea that sets in after eating melons; Antim crudum for headache that comes after eating fruits.

Homeopathic Medicines For Food Allergies

1. Calcarea Carb – For Milk Allergy

Calcarea Carb is an important homeopathic medicine for milk allergy when there is vomiting after consuming milk. There is nausea, distension of abdomen, cutting pain and diarrhea. In some cases, there may be a cold sensation in the abdomen.

How And When To Take Calcarea Carb?

If symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and loose stools appear after consuming any milk product, calcarea carbonica can be taken. Low potency (30C), can be taken 2-3 times in a day. High potency 200C can be taken once in a day if expected results are not seen after taking low potency. It is advisable to consult an experienced homeopath before administering 1M or higher potency.

2. Colchicum – For Allergy From Egg

Colchicum is a well-known homeopathic medicine used for gastrointestinal ailments arising after eating eggs. It is the best remedy for distension of the abdomen with gas and loud flatus. There are frequent tasteless burps with pressing/ tearing/ cutting or stitching pain and cramps in stomach. The patient cannot bear the smell of food, it causes nausea and vomiting. The stool contains white large particles in large quantities with mucus-like rice water. All the symptoms of Colchicum are relieved by bending forward.

When And How To Use Colchicum?

It is used in case of stomach pain or feeling of pressure on the stomach with heaviness and continuous rumbling of gas. The recommended dosage in most of the cases is 30C which can be used up to 2-3 times in a day.

200C and 1M are considered very high potencies. The suggested dose of 200C is once in a day, not to be repeated frequently. It is best to consult an experienced homeopath as self-medication should not be done in high power dosage.

3. Urtica Urens – Homeopathic Remedy For Shell Fish/Fish Allergy

Urtica Urens is a top-ranked homeopathic medicine for treating shell fish allergy. There is violent itching with burning and stinging pain on skin. Sometimes along with itching, swelling all over rashes are formed known as hives. The skin looks red, raised and requires constant scratching. The eruption and itching disappear as soon as the patient lies down and reappear immediately after rising. The complaints get worse by water, touch, air, rising up and disappear after lying down.

When and How to use Urtica Urens?

This remedy can be used in rashes or hives which arise after consuming fish/shell fish. Symptoms mainly categorise with intense skin itching, followed by burning. It can be taken 2-3 times in a day in 30C potency. Higher potencies such as 200C and 1M can also be used but it is best to seek professional help before using them.

4. Lycopodium – For Wheat Allergy

Lycopodium offers a homeopathic cure for wheat allergy when consumption of wheat products triggers a gastric reaction. It comprises of symptoms like bloating, burping (tasting sour) and flatulence. It is well indicated for weak digestion with burning burping and bitter taste in mouth.

When and How to take lycopodium?

It is a remedy that is used in wheat allergy with a much-bloated abdomen, heartburn, waterbrash (acid reflux from stomach upwards to the throat) and noisy flatulence. Both the lower and the highest potencies are credited with excellent results. But as it is a deep-acting remedy hence lower potency, 30C is usually preferred, 2-3 times in a day. Otherwise 200C potency or higher dose, has proved efficacious, but should not be taken too frequently.

5. Apis Mellifica – For Skin Issues In Food Allergy

Apis Mellifica is a wonderful medicine for treating Urticaria (rashes of round, red welts) on the skin where itching is severe. It is a great remedy when hives develop due to milk allergy. The body is covered with large, elevated bumps accompanied by stinging, burning, pricking or itching. The wheals (red, swollen marks) are painful, tender, hot and extremely sensitive to touch with stinging pain. There is also violent itching and burning in the wheals. The person needing Apis Mellifica may experience worsening of symptoms by warmth and relief by cold applications.

When and How to take Apis mellifica?

The symptoms such as hives/wheals/ bumps caused due to specific foods are largely benefitted by Apis. The complaints include rapid swelling of the affected area along with stinging pain, burning, itching and redness. The lower potency 30C works well in these conditions and can be repeated 2-3 times in a day. A careful analysis should be done before using it in 200C and 1M potencies and should not be frequently repeated if the symptoms doesn’t seem to get better.

Common Food Allergens

In adults, they include:

Peanuts

Tree nuts, such as walnuts

Shellfish, including shrimps, crayfish, lobsters and crabs

For children, the food allergens that most often cause problems are:

Eggs

Milk

Peanuts

Types Of Food Allergies

Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome

Also termed as oral allergy syndrome, pollen food allergy syndrome affects many people having hay fever. In this condition, a protein found in certain nuts, spices, fresh fruits and vegetables can trigger an allergic reaction that can cause itching in the mouth. In serious reactions, it can lead to throat swelling or anaphylaxis.

Proteins in certain fruits, vegetables or nuts cause the reaction as they are similar to allergy-causing proteins found in certain pollens. This is an example of cross reactivity.

Exercise-Induced Food Allergy Syndrome

In this condition after eating certain foods, there is itching, a person may faint and can get ‘hives’ or even anaphylaxis when body temperature goes up after exercising. One can prevent it by avoiding eating anything for a few hours before exercising.

Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES)

Also referred to as delayed food allergy, it is a severe condition causing vomiting and diarrhea after consuming food allergen, like milk, soy and grains. FPIES mostly develops in infancy when the baby is introduced to solid food.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis

In this condition, there is inflammation of esophagus (food pipe). It occurs due to allergy or sensitivity to particular proteins found in foods. Many people with this condition have a family history of asthma, rhinitis, dermatitis or food allergy.

Symptoms Of Food Allergy

The symptoms that the allergic individual produces are individual in nature. They can range from a mild asthmatic attack to a severe life-threatening allergic response anaphylaxis.

– If people are allergic to a particular food, for example, they may first experience itching in the mouth as they start to eat food.

– After the food is digested in the stomach, abdominal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or pain may start.

– When the food allergens enter and travel through the bloodstream, they can cause a drop in blood pressure.

– As the allergens reach the skin, they can induce hives or eczema, or when they reach the lungs, they may cause asthma.

– All of this takes place within a few minutes to an hour.

Other symptoms include

– Shortness of breath

– Wheezing,

– Repetitive cough

– Shock or circulatory collapse

– Tight, hoarse throat; trouble swallowing

– Swelling of the tongue, affecting the ability to talk or breathe

– Weak pulse

– Pale or blue colouring of skin

– Dizziness or fainting

Most food-related symptoms occur within two hours of ingestion; often they start within minutes. In some very rare cases, the reaction may be delayed by four to six hours or even longer. Delayed reactions are most typically seen in children who develop eczema as a symptom of food allergy and in people with a rare allergy to red meat caused by the bite of a lone star tick.

Pathophysiology Of Food Allergy

Our immune system uses two components to deal with food allergies. One of these is immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of blood-moving protein known as an antibody. The other is mast cells, which are found in all body tissues but are particularly prevalent in the digestive tract, nose, throat, and lungs. When you eat a food to which you are allergic to for the first time, certain cells produce a lot of IgE to counter the allergen in the food. IgE is released and adheres to the surface of the mast cells. Although you won’t have an allergic reaction just yet, your body is prepared to do so.

The allergen reacts with that IgE the time you consume the meal containing the allergen, causing the mast cells to release histamine and other substances. These compounds will produce different symptoms depending on the tissue they are in. Additionally, some food allergens can enter your bloodstream because they aren’t destroyed by the cooking heat, stomach acids, or other food-digesting enzymes. They can then spread throughout your body and trigger allergic reactions. The timing and the place are impacted by the digestive process. Your mouth can start to itch. Then, you can have symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain. Blood-borne food allergies can lower blood pressure. They can cause hives ( reddish bumps on skin) when they reach the skin.

Risk Factors Of Food Allergy

1. Family history: Risk of having food allergy increases if one has a family history of asthma, hives, eczema or allergies, like hay fever.

2. Age: Food allergies are more common in children, especially infants. As a child grow older, the digestive system matures and the body is less affected by the food that triggers allergy.

3. Asthma: Asthma and food allergy commonly occur simultaneously. When they occur symptoms of both are severe.

4. Other allergies: If one is having a particular type of allergic reaction like hay fever, one is more prone to risk of developing food allergy.

Dr. Vikas Sharma is a Chandigarh-based homeopathic doctor. He has been practicing homeopathy for the last 13 years.

Is Jaw Cracking, Jaw Pain Troubling You? Try Homeopathic Remedies

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

Jaw pain is a very common problem experienced by a number of people. It may be accompanied by some other symptoms depending on the case. These include stiffness in the jaw, swelling or tenderness around the jaw, burning sensation around the jaw, clicking sounds on opening or closing the jaw, pain on the face while moving the jaw, headache, the pain in the ear, ringing in the ears and toothache.

Homeopathic medicines are very effective in managing complaints of jaw pain. These medicines help in reducing the intensity and frequency of the pain gradually. They also help relieve the accompanying symptoms like stiffness in the jaw, swelling or tenderness around jaw, pain in the face, headache and pain in the ear. Homeopathic medicines for jaw pain are natural hence are completely safe to use.

Homeopathic medicines offer significant relief in cases of jaw pain by addressing the root cause and it thus offers long-term relief. This not only provides us with immediate relief but also ensures there is no recurrence. It effectively alleviates jaw pain related to various conditions like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder, arthritis, dental problems, sinus infection, cluster headache, trigeminal neuralgia.

Homeopathic medicines for jaw pain works wonders when administered as per the characteristic symptoms of each individual. Individualised medicines are administered carefully after detailed case analysis by a homeopath. These promote lasting effects and improve overall health of the patient. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine for jaw pain only after evaluating the reason behind it after consulting a doctor. These medicines can be taken only when the cause is mild to moderate. However, in case of a serious jaw pain caused by a heart attack, immediate intervention through conventional mode of treatment is non-negotiable. Some of the symptoms like chest discomfort, difficulty in breathing, nausea, sweating or fainting along with jaw pain signal urgent help for which one should consult an allopathic doctor.

Homeopathic medicines for jaw pain have no side-effects. These medicines are prepared from natural substances and offer relief in a gentle way and can be used among people of all age groups with promised safety.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Jaw Pain

The top seven medicines for managing jaw pain are Rhus Tox, Silicea, Causticum, Hecla Lava, Spigelia, Alumina and Phosphorus.

1. Rhus Tox – Top-grade Medicine

Rhus Tox is a leading medicine that helps manage jaw pain. A patient may report with stiffness of the jaw along with pain. There is a feeling as if the jaw would break. There is a cracking sound in the jaw joint and its movement is audible. There can be cramping pain in the lower jaw near the ear. It may get better by applying something warm and also by pressing it. Lastly, it is administered for pain in the teeth that extends to the jaw and the side of the head.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox is topmost medicine to manage cases of jaw pain along with stiffness of jaw with sensation as if the jaw would break.

How to use Rhus Tox?

From low to high potency it works well in all potencies. Initially, it is best to use 30C potency two to three times a day.

2. Silicea – For Throbbing Toothache With Pain In Jaw

This medicine is administered when a person has a throbbing toothache with jaw pain. The jaw may have swelling too. It is also administered for rheumatic pain in the jaw that extends to the sides of the head.

When to use Silicea?

Silicea should be given to the patients who have jaw pain and along with it there is pain in the teeth and swelling in the jaw.

How to use Silicea?

This medicine gives excellent results in 6X potency that can be used two to three times a day.

3. Causticum – For Jaw Pain When One Has difficulty in Opening Mouth

Causticum is a medicine best used for patients who have jaw pain along with difficulty in opening the mouth. For using it, the pain can be tensive or dragging. It is also indicated for arthritic and rheumatic pain in the lower jaw. A sensation of tension and swelling under the jaw is also indicative for its use.

When to use Causticum?

This medicine is of great help to manage pain in the jaw with considerable difficulty in opening the mouth along with tense sensation and swelling under the jaw.

How to use Causticum?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. However, it is better to start with low potency like 30C once a day.

4. Hecla Lava – For Jaw Pain After Tooth Extraction

This medicine is beneficial for those who have pain in the jaw following tooth extraction. The accompanying symptom may be that the jaw becomes sore and swollen. Other than this, it is useful for managing toothache with sensitivity to pressure and swelling around the jaws.

When to use Hecla Lava?

Hecla Lava is an important medicine to help cases of jaw pain that occurs after tooth extraction.

How to use Hecla Lava?

This medicine can be used once or twice a day at 30C potency.

5. Spigelia – For Lower Jaw Pain Radiating To Ears

This medicine is recommended when there is pain in the lower jaw that extends to the ears. It may also extend to the temporal (sides) region of the head. In some cases, the pain may extend from the jaw to the neck. It is one of the best medicines for cases of facial neuralgia with above symptoms. Another indication for using it is pain in the lower jaw while chewing, with a feeling that the lower jaw has split from the joint.

When to use Spigelia?

This medicine works well for cases of pain in the jaw when pain radiates to the ears.

How to use Spigelia?

It can be used in low 30C potency once or twice a day. It can also be used in 200C potency but not more than once a day.

6. Alumina – For Jaw Pain While Chewing or Opening Mouth

It is one of the top medicines to help if jaw pain occurs while chewing or opening the mouth. Pain is tensive (stressful). Swelling of the jaw may be an accompanying factor. Along with this, there may be a sensation as if the lower jaw has shortened. Another indication for its use is, there is intense pain in the jaw and the cheeks.

When to use Alumina?

Alumina is administered to provide relief from the jaw pain that occurs while chewing or opening the mouth.

How to use Alumina?

It is advised to take Alumina 30C once a day.

7. Phosphorus – For Tearing Pain In Jaw Bones

Phosphorus is effective when there is a tearing type of pain in the jaw bones. The pain occurs mainly during the evenings. Those who need it feel enhanced pain while lying down. Jaw movement may offer relief in the pain.

When to use Phosphorus?

This medicine is useful for managing the tearing sort of jaw pain felt mostly during the evenings.

How to use Phosphorus?

Phosphorus can be used once a day at 30C power.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

Jaw pain can result due to various reasons. The most common cause behind the jaw pain is temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ disorder). TMJ is a hinge joint, one on each side of the jaw that connects the jawbone to the temporal bones of the skull. This joint helps in jaw movement while talking, chewing or yawning. Any problem with this joint or in the muscles around this joint is referred to as TMJ disorder. This disorder can lead to jaw pain. TMJ disorder has many causes and some of them include an injury to the jaw, teeth grinding, arthritis, and muscle inflammation around the jaw. Apart from jaw pain, other symptoms of this disorder include pain in the face or around the ears, clicking/popping sound while opening the mouth, ringing in the ears, headache and dizziness.

The second cause for jaw pain is trauma to the jaw. It can occur from a blow on the face or if one falls directly on the face. Trauma may result in dislocated or a broken jaw.

Thirdly, jaw pain may follow a dental surgery during recovery period.

The next cause can be the dental problems. These include tooth damage, cavities, crowded teeth, misaligned teeth, dental abscess (a pocket of pus that can occur in any part of a tooth), gum disease, teeth grinding and jaw clenching.

Another cause is sinusitis or sinus infection which is the inflammation of any of the para-nasal sinus, the air-filled spaces in the skull. In case of infection or inflammation of these sinuses, there is excessive production of mucus that puts pressure on the jaw joint and can result in pain in the upper jaw. Its main signs and symptoms are thick nasal discharge, nasal congestion, dripping of mucus from the back of nose at the back of the throat (also called PND, means post nasal drip), pain, tenderness and swelling around the forehead, eyes, cheeks, nose and decreased sense of smell and taste.

Arthritis may also cause jaw pain. In case arthritis affects TMJ, it can result in the jaw pain. It includes osteoarthritis (wear and tear of the protective cartilage at the ends of bones), rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease in which the immune cells mistakenly attack the lining of the membranes that surround joints and causes its inflammation and damage.)

Another reason is cluster headache. This type of headache mainly causes pain behind or around one eye and lasts for weeks or months, followed by a long period of no pain. In some cases, the pain can spread to the jaw.

Trigeminal neuralgia is also one of the causes for the jaw pain. It is a chronic painful condition affecting the trigeminal nerve and mainly arises when a blood vessel puts pressure on this nerve. Pain occurs on one side of the face, mainly on the jaw, cheeks, teeth, gums and lips.

Lastly, it can be a sign of heart attack. Though in case of heart attack, chest pain is the major symptom, in some of these cases, pain can be felt in the neck, back or the jaw. Jaw pain can occur on the left side during a heart attack, mostly in women.

What Is Rectal Tenesmus? Signs, Symptoms And Homeopathic Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Rectal tenesmus refers to a feeling of incomplete bowel movements. A person feels the urge to defecate even if he/she has already defecated. There is a feeling of incomplete defecation even when all contents in the bowels have been expelled. It can be attended with pain and hard straining to pass just a little more stool during bowel movements.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is very effective in managing cases of rectal tenesmus. Homeopathic medicines help in reducing the intensity and frequency of this complaint gradually. Along with tenesmus, these also bring improvement in its attending signs and symptoms. Use of homeopathic medicines is recommended in those cases where the intensity of the complaint is mild to moderate. In cases where symptoms are severe or point towards some serious cause (example colorectal cancer), it is advised to take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Rectal Tenesmus

1. Nux Vomica – Top-grade Medicine

It is one of the best medicines for treating cases of rectal tenesmus. Persons who need this medicine have frequent and ineffectual urge to pass stool. They go for defecation several times a day but have unsatisfactory stool and have a constant urge to pass stool. Soon after passing stool, they feel like going to the washroom again. It is a very effective medicine for tenesmus with constipation. The stool is very hard and dry in such cases. It can be blood-streaked too. Before passing stool, sometimes they have cutting pain around the navel. Sticking pain in rectum may occur after passing stool. Its use is also indicated when there is frequent urge to pass stool and the stool is slimy, watery and has blood. In such cases, small quantities of jelly-like mucus may also be present in the stool.

2. Merc Sol – For Rectal Tenesmus With A Never-Get-Done Feeling

This medicine is well indicated for cases in which there is rectal tenesmus with a never-get-done feeling. Persons requiring it have to nidulge in excessive straining for stool with relatively scanty stool being passed. The stool is also slimy, bloody and has mucus in it. It can be greenish. In some cases, undigested food is passed as stool which has sour smell. It is accompanied by pinching and cutting colic. Pain and burning in anus can also attend. Nausea and vomiting sometimes accompany. Lastly, it is indicated for ineffectual urge to pass stool with protruding piles.

3. Aloe – For Rectal Tenesmus And Excessive Passage Of Gas During Stool

It is prepared from the gum of the leaves of plant Aloe Socotrina. It belongs to family Liliaceae. It is a very effective medicine for rectal tenesmus and excessive passage of gas during stool. In cases needing it, there is a continuous urge to pass stool, and gets worse soon after eating and drinking. Along with this, a feeling of fullness and weight on the pelvis is felt. A constant bearing down in the rectum occurs. Rumbling and gurgling in the rectum with the urgency to pass stool is also felt. Stool is lumpy, watery in cases needing it. A lot of mucus may pass in stool.

4. Merc Cor – When Mucus And Blood In Stool Attends

This medicine is well-indicated for cases in which tenesmus is attended with mucus and blood in the stool. The tenesmus is excessive and the stool is hot, scanty and contains shreds of mucous membrane. It also has an offensive smell. The colour can be yellow or green. Cutting and colicky pains may occur along with the above symptoms. The desire to pass stool is frequent and ineffectual with violent pain. Anal burning occurs while passing stool. Weakness is marked with the above symptoms.

5. Arsenic Album – For Tenesmus With Diarrhea

Arsenic Album is a beneficial medicine for cases in which there is tenesmus with diarrhea. For using it, the stool is loose, green, slimy and foul-smelling. Pieces of mucus may pass with it. Cutting pain in anus attends it with marked weakness. Besides, rumbling in intestine occurs. In some cases, the stool passes involuntarily. The last indication for using it is piles which is painful, and swollen along with tenesmus. The pain in piles is stitching type.

6. Nitric Acid – For Tenesmus With Rectal Pain

It is a useful medicine for tenesmus with rectal pain. Mostly the pain in rectum is sharp splinter-like in nature with ineffectual urge to pass stool. The stool is putrid, loose with undigested food, along with passage of gas. It is mostly green with mucus, blood in stool may appear too. There is excessive straining to pass stool but little of it passes. It feels as if stool still remains in the rectum that could not be expelled. The anus feels raw and sore with this. Sometimes, cutting pain in anus and rectum is also felt. While passing stool, colic and nausea also occurs. Excessive exhaustion is felt along with these symptoms.

7. Lycopodium – For Tenesmus Of Rectum, Gas And Bloating

Lycopodium is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum, commonly known as ‘club moss’. This plant belongs to family lycopodiaceae. It is a prominent medicine for managing cases in which there is rectal tenesmus, gas in abdomen and bloating. Persons needing it have straining while passing stool and tenesmus. With this, they have gas and bloating which is felt soon after eating even if they consume small quantity of food. The gas leads to pain in abdomen. While passing stool, they have burning, stinging sensation in rectum. A distressing pressure and pain in rectum is also felt.

8. Colchicum – For Scanty Stool With Tenesmus

This medicine is prepared from the bulb of plant Colchicum autumnale, commonly known as ‘meadow saffron’. It belongs to family melanthaceae of the liliaceae. It is valuable for cases having scanty stool with tenesmus. The stool may be greenish, yellowish or reddish. It contains white shreddy particles. Along with this, pain in anus occurs.

9. Capsicum – For Frequent, Small Stool With Tenesmus And Rectal Burning

This medicine is helpful for cases in which a person has frequent, little stool with tenesmus and burning in the rectum. The stool is greenish, frothy and may have blood and mucus in it. Before passing stool, there may occur cutting pain and colic due to gas, and twisting pains around the umbilicus. After passing stool, burning sensation occurs at the anus. Burning pain in rectum is well marked. Biting and stinging pain in anus may also accompany. Sometimes the tenesmus of rectum and bladder may be felt at the same time in cases needing Capsicum.

10. Colocynth – For Rectal Tenesmus And Colicky Pain In Abdomen

This medicine is prepared from the pulp of fruit Citrullus colocynthis, also called cucumis colocynthis and ‘bitter apple’. This plant belongs to family cucurbitaceae. It is beneficial for persons having rectal tenesmus and colicky pain in abdomen. Along with this, there is watery stool which is copious and strong smelling. Nausea and vomiting may also occur.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

It may arise from various reasons. First among them is IBD – inflammatory bowel disease (an autoimmune disease that causes long-term inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract). IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In case of Crohn’s disease, inflammation can occur in the lining of any part of digestive tract from mouth to anus. In this, deeper layers of the digestive tract are involved. In case of ulcerative colitis, there occurs inflammation and ulcers in the large intestine and rectum. In this, superficial lining of large intestine and rectum is involved.

Other than IBD, inflammation in the colon from infection (like a bacterial or viral infection), any non-infectious condition or radiation exposure can also lead to tenesmus. Another cause for it is diverticulitis; diverticula are small pouches that can form in the lining of the digestive system mostly in the lower part of the large intestine. When inflammation occurs in one or more of the pouches, then this condition is known as diverticulitis. Rectal tenesmus can also occur in case of ischaemic colitis (inflamed colon from decreased blood flow to it).

IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) which is a disorder affecting the large intestine that leads to cramping, pain in abdomen, gas, bloating, diarrhea or constipation or both, is another cause behind it. It can also arise in cases of diarrhea and constipation. An abscess in the rectum, prolapsed hemorrhoid, sexually transmitted proctitis which is rectal inflammation (example of sexually transmitted infections that can inflame rectum are gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia) may be some of the other causes of rectal tenesmus. Lastly, it can be a symptom in case of colorectal cancer.

What Are The Other Signs And Symptoms?

It can be accompanied by some other signs and symptoms depending on the cause behind it. These include rectal pain, pain in abdomen, diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool, mucus in stool, gas, bloating, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, weakness fever and chills.

Treatment Of White Tongue In Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

White tongue means white coating on the tongue. The coating may occur at some places on the tongue or on the entire tongue varying from case to case.

It may simply arise from poor oral hygiene, not cleaning the tongue properly, eating soft foods in excess but in some cases, it may occur from some medical reason (for example, oral thrush). In most cases, it is a harmless sign but rarely may indicate some serious issue.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be very effective in managing the cases of white tongue. With use of homeopathic medicines, the coating on tongue gradually decreases. Along with this, if there are any attending symptoms, these help to provide relief. As the reasons for white-coated tongue vary from mild to serious ones, it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under supervision of homeopathic physician after complete case evaluation. Use of these medicines is recommended only when the cause is mild, but in case of serious causes like cancer, it is advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For White Tongue

1. Antimonium Crudum – For Thick White Coating

It is a very effective medicine for cases having thick white coating on the tongue. The tongue looks milky white. There is excessive salivation that may have a salty taste. There may be pain, soreness and redness on the edges of the tongue. Sometimes there is bitter taste in the mouth. In some cases, slimy mucus is present in the mouth.

2. Merc Sol – For Tongue Coated White Like Chalk

It is a well-indicated medicine for cases in which tongue is coated as white as chalk. It appears as if covered with white fur. The tongue is moist and may be swollen. This is attended with a bad, putrid, slimy or metallic taste in the mouth. Bad breath may also be there. Excessive salivation attends the above symptoms. The saliva is fetid, thick, soapy and stringy. Sores or ulcers may be present in the mouth and on the tongue. It is one of the prominent medicines for managing cases of oral thrush with thick white coating.

3. Pulsatilla – For Coated Tongue With Bad Taste In Mouth

This medicine is prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans commonly known as ‘wind flower’. It is useful for cases having white tongue in the morning accompanied by bad taste in the mouth. Tongue may be dry in morning. In some cases, a burnt taste is present in the mouth. The edges of the tongue may feel sore and scalded. Other than the above, mucus may cling to the mouth or tongue. In some cases, painful blisters are present on tongue.

4. Nitric Acid – For White Tongue With Sore Spots

Nitric Acid is a beneficial medicine for cases of white tongue with sore spots. The tongue is sensitive even to soft food. It is dry especially in the morning. In some cases, blisters with burning type of pain are present on the tongue. A foul smell attends the above symptoms. Next, there may be ulcers in the mouth with splinter-like pain.

5. Bryonia – For White Tongue With Red Edges

It is prepared from root of the plant Bryonia Alba, commonly known as ‘wild hops’. This medicine is indicated for cases having white coated tongue with red edges. In most cases needing it, the tongue is dry. There is bitter taste in mouth. The breath is offensive. Little ulcers on tip of tongue may be present.

6. Kali Mur – For Thin White Coating On Tongue

Use of this medicine is considered when there is thin white coating on the tongue. Along with this, the taste can be sour, bitter or salty. Coldness may be felt on the tongue. In some cases, the tongue is inflamed. Sometimes, blisters occur on the tongue with burning, stinging sensation.

7. Borax – For White Fungus Like Growth On Tongue

It is a helpful medicine for a white fungus-like growth on the tongue. It is a very suitable medicine for cases of oral thrush. Persons who need it may have dryness and cracks on the tongue. Next, they can have ulcers in the mouth and on the tongue. These are painful, tender and may bleed easily.

8. Arsenic Album – For White Coated Tongue As If Painted White

In cases requiring it, the tongue is white coated as if painted white. The taste of mouth is also bad. It can be sour, metallic, putrid or woody. The tongue is dry. Violent burning sensation is felt on the tongue along with the above complaints.

9. Petroleum – For White Tongue In The Centre

It is an important medicine when there is white coating in the centre of the tongue. There are dark streaks along the edges of the tongue. The taste of mouth is slimy, sour or putrid. The mouth smells like odour of garlic. The mouth and throat are very dry.

10. Taraxacum – For White Patches On Tongue

This medicine is used when there is white patchy coating on the tongue. It is a prominent medicine for geographic tongue (loss of papillae on the tongue’s surface forming geographical shapes).

Geographic tongue

The white spots may clear off leaving behind dark red, tender spots. These spots are very sensitive. Sour or bitter taste in the mouth accompanies it. Lastly, rawness, smarting, burning in the mouth can be felt.

11. Rhus Tox – For White Tongue On One Side

This medicine helps cases having white coated tongue only on one side. The tip of the tongue is red and triangular. Tongue is sore and dry. Taste of mouth can be metallic or bitter.

12. Phosphorus – When Tongue Is Coated Like Fur

This medicine is indicated for cases in which the tongue is coated like fur. The tongue is uniformly white, it is also dry and sometimes cracked. A stinging pain on the tip of the tongue can attend. Aphthous patches (small shallow lesions) may be present on the roof of mouth and tongue. The taste in the mouth is bitter, sour, sweet or salty in nature.

13. Chamomilla – For Coated Tongue And Burning Sensation On Tongue

It is prepared from a plant Matricaria chamomilla. It works well in cases having white tongue and burning sensation on the tongue. In some cases needing it, the tongue is white only on the sides and red in middle. Sometimes blisters on tongue are present attended with stinging pain.

What Are The Causes Behind It?

Mostly white tongue is a result of poor oral hygiene, poor brushing of teeth and not properly flossing the teeth. Initially, there may occur overgrowth, swelling and inflammation of the papillae (tiny bumps) on the tongue surface. Following this, debris, dead cells, dirt, germs, bits of food get trapped between these papillae. Lodging of all these particles gives white-coated appearance to the tongue. White tongue can next arise from dry mouth that may arise from mouth breathing or some medical condition. Smoking or chewing tobacco, regular alcohol intake may also lead to it. It may arise in case of fever, dehydration or from irritation from sharp edges of the teeth or braces etc. Sometimes, use of certain medications may cause it (like prolonged use of antibiotics).

Apart from the above, in some cases a white tongue may arise from some medical conditions.

It firstly includes oral lichen planus (OLP). It is an inflammatory condition of autoimmune origin that affects mucous membranes inside the mouth. In this disease, the tongue, inside of the cheeks, gums, inner surface of the lips or palate can be affected. White, lacy patterned lesions or sores occur in the mouth in this condition.

Next is oral thrush (oral candidiasis). It is an infection in the mouth caused by a fungus called candida albicans. In this, there occur white or creamy yellow patches in the mouth. These patches may form on inner cheeks, tongue, gums, roof of mouth or on the tonsils.

Third condition is leukoplakia. In this condition, thick, white patches form inside the cheeks, on gums, and on tongue. This condition is thought to arise usually from chronic irritation as from tobacco and alcohol use.

It may also arise in case of geographic tongue. It is an inflammatory condition of tongue characterised by appearance of island-shaped patches on the tongue giving it a map-like or geographic appearance.

Syphilis is yet another condition linked with it. It is a STI (sexually transmitted infection) caused by bacteria Treponema pallidum. It can cause white patches on the tongue if the infection is not treated.

Lastly, in rare cases it may arise from cancer of tongue or mouth.

What Are The Symptoms?

In many cases, there is just a white coating on the tongue. But in some cases, there may be a bad taste in the mouth or bad breath. In some case, white lacy thread-like patches in the mouth, sores in the mouth or tongue, pain, soreness and burning sensation in mouth or tongue may occur depending on the cause behind it.

How To Deal With Puffy Eyes In Homeopathy?

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

Puffy eyes means swelling around the eyes medically known as periorbital puffiness. Puffy eyes may be due to various reasons. In many cases, puffy eyes is a temporary condition (for example, from excessive crying, lack of sleep) and resolves on its own without any treatment but in some cases, it can be an indication of a medical condition (for example, allergies, conjunctivitis) that requires treatment or orbital cellulitis which needs immediate medical attention.

Homeopathy is very beneficial to treat cases of puffy eyes. Homeopathic medicines work to reduce the swelling around eyes by targeting the root cause behind it. Side by side it also attends well any accompanying symptoms present in a particular case. The cases of mild to moderate intensity where no serious cause is linked with puffy eyes respond wonderfully to homeopathic medicines. But homeopathy does not offer help in cases where swelling is intense, or occurs along with certain symptoms (like high fever, eye pain, sudden vision changes / vision loss, bleeding from eyes, sudden swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue, breathing problem and bulging eyes) indicating a serious ailment or when it is linked with a serious cause (like eye injury, cellulitis, anaphylaxis, cancer). In these cases, it is strictly advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment on urgent basis.

Homeopathy fights the underlying cause

As the causes vary for puffy eyes from case to case, homeopathic medicines target the cause behind it which brings excellent results. Relief appear gradually with homeopathic treatment in cases of puffy eyes but it results in long-term management of complaint rather than temporary help. The duration of complete treatment varies from case to case. It is advised to take homeopathic medicine under the guidance of a homeopathic doctor and never self-medicate. He will decide whether the case is within the treatable parameters of homeopathy depending on the cause, if not, he will guide you toward timely conventional treatment.

Prescription after detail case evaluation

In homeopathy, not every case is provided with the same medicine always. Rather the best medicine that will suit a given case is decided for every case individually. For this homeopathic doctor evaluates the case deeply to finalise the medicine from the long list of homeopathic medicines recorded in homeopathic therapeutics for treatment of puffy eyes. This way the properly selected medicine serves best help to provide relief. To get top results, a complete course of treatment needs to be followed under the guidance of a homeopathic expert.

Natural homeopathic treatment mode

As widely known, homeopathy is a natural healing science so it has zero side effects. Homeopathic medicine works naturally to treat the root cause of puffy eyes to bring great relief. These work very gently in the most harmless manner in all the cases.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy is very beneficial to treat cases of puffy eyes. Homeopathic medicines work to reduce the swelling around eyes by targeting the root cause behind it. These medicines are recommended for mild to moderate cases where no serious cause is linked with puffy eyes. In cases where swelling is intense, or occurs along with certain symptoms (like high fever, eye pain, sudden vision changes, vision loss, bleeding from eyes, sudden swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue, breathing problem and bulging eyes) indicating some serious ailment or when it is linked with some serious cause (like eye injury, cellulitis, anaphylaxis, cancer), it is strictly advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment on urgent basis.

As the causes vary for puffy eyes from case to case, it is advised to take homeopathic medicine under the guidance of a homeopathic doctor and never self-medicate. Homeopathic doctor can prescribe medicine after evaluating the case. He will decide whether the case is within the treatable parameters of homeopathy depending on the cause, if not, he will guide you toward timely conventional treatment.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Puffy Eyes

1. Apis Mellifica – Top Grade Medicine

Apis Mellifica is a leading medicine in homeopathy for managing cases of puffy eyes. In most cases needing it, the eyelids are swollen, puffy and red. It is accompanied by a burning sensation and tight skin around the eyes. Though the swelling may be present around or under the eyes, mostly swelling is marked under the eyes like under-eye water bags. It is one of the best medicine for puffy eyes in case of allergies. In some cases needing it, there may be inflammation of conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is red and hot tears flow. Sensitivity to light may also be there. Other than the above, it is well indicated for puffy eyes in case of blepharitis. The eyelids are swollen and become thick with stinging pains.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica is a top medicine to manage puffy eyes with swelling especially under the eyes that can be attended with burning sensation in eyes.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

It works well in both low and high potencies. Initially, it is best to take it in 30C potency one to two times a day.

2. Kali Carb – For Marked Swelling Above The Eyes

This medicine is prominent for managing swelling above the eyes. It is present between the eyebrows and the upper lid. It is also helpful in managing cases of swelling of eyelids from blepharitis. In some cases, along with swollen eyes, there is redness on the edges of eyelids. There may be watering from eyes also. The eyelids may be sticky in the morning.

When to use Kali Carb?

Kali Carb is a wonderful medicine for puffy eyes with most prominent swelling above the eyes.

How to use Kali Carb?

Kali Carb can be taken once a day in 30C power.

3. Euphrasia – For Swollen Lids With Watery Eyes

Euphrasia works well for swollen eyelids with watery eyes. Besides, conjunctiva can be red. Burning may be felt on the margins of the lids . A feeling of dryness on the margins of the eyelids is another accompanying symptom. Nasal discharge may also be present.

When to use Euphrasia?

Its use is recommended for cases of swelling of lids attended with marked watering from eyes.

How to use Euphrasia?

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. In 30C potency, it can be used two to three times a day. While if using 200C potency, then only one dose per day is recommended.

4. Rhus Tox – For Puffy, Itchy Eyelids

It is a very beneficial medicine for cases in which there are puffy eyes along with itching of lids. A biting and prickling sensation in lids can attend it. There is also shooting type of pain around the eyelids. Sometimes there is dryness in the eyes and heat in the eyelids.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox suits well cases of puffy eyes when there is itching on eyelids in addition to swelling.

How to use Rhus Tox?

In the beginning, it is suggested to use it in 30C potency once or twice a day. Its higher potencies are also available but they should be used under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor.

5. Allium Cepa – For Swelling Around Eyes And Allergies

It is an important medicine for cases in which there is swelling around the eyes as a part of nasal allergies (allergic rhinitis). The symptoms of allergies that are present include excessively itchy eyes, watering from eyes, sneezing and runny nose. Next, there can be pain in the forehead.

When to use Allium Cepa?

This medicine should be selected for puffy eyes associated with allergies with symptoms like itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose.

How to use Allium Cepa?

Usually it is utilized in 30C potency two to three times a day.

6. Merc Sol – For Swollen Lids Along With Eye Watering And Burning

This medicine is indicated for cases in which there are puffy eyes along with blue rings around eyes. Frequent itching is felt in the eyes. Next, there can be sensitivity to light. In some cases, inflammation of eyes may be present with pressing burning pain.

When to use Phosphorus?

Phosphorus should be considered to manage cases of puffy eyes with bluish rings around eyes along with itchy eyes and sensitivity to light.

How to use Phosphorus?

It is advised to take Phosphorus 30C once a day.

7. Phosphorus – For Puffy Eyes And Blue Rings About Eyes

This medicine is indicated for cases in which there are puffy eyes along with blue rings around eyes. Frequent itching is felt in the eyes. Next, there can be sensitivity to light. In some cases, inflammation of eyes may be present with pressing burning pain.

8. Pulsatilla – For Swollen, Red Eyelids

Stye

It is a natural medicine that proves helpful when the eyelids are swollen and red. Along with this, there can be sensation of dryness and burning heat in eyes. In cases needing it, there is a tendency of formation of stye (a localized infection of an oil gland in the eyelid margin) mainly on the upper lid.

When to use Pulsatilla?

Pulsatilla is useful for puffy eyes accompanied with redness of lids and dryness, heated sensation in eyes.

How to use Pulsatilla?

One may take this medicine once a day in 30C potency.

Cause Behind Puffy Eyes

Puffy eyes are common in aged people. As a person ages, there occurs weakening of the tissues and muscles around eyelids. It results in falling of the normal fat (that helps to support the eyes) in the lower eyelid. This makes lids look puffy. There can be accumulation of fluid in lower eyelid with ageing which increases swelling. Next temporary cause is excessive crying. In the process of reabsorbing excessive liquid from the eyes, some of it is retained in the tissue under the eyes which makes it look puffy temporarily.

Other than the above reasons, it can simply occur from not taking enough sleep, excessive rubbing of eyes, poor diet and sun exposure. Puffy eyes can be hereditary. Mostly puffy eyes happen due to fluid retention in tissue around the eyes.

Following are the medical conditions that are related to it.

1. Allergies: The first medical condition that can lead to it is hay fever also known as allergic rhinitis. It can cause swollen under-eyes in addition to other symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, itchy nose, red eyes, watery and itchy eyes, cough and post-nasal discharge. Allergy may also be from reaction to some food, chemical, insect bite, etc.

In some cases, it may occur from a severe life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that needs immediate medical help because it can be fatal if not attended to immediately. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that causes swelling of the throat and tongue, difficulty in breathing, sudden drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and loss of consciousness mostly along with hives, which is a skin condition characterized by itchy, raised bumps on skin.

Hives

2. Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the transparent membrane called conjunctiva lining the white part of the eyeball and eyelid. It can cause swelling of eyelids along with other symptoms, like redness in eyes, itching in eyes, eye discharge, excessive tears from eyes and grittiness in eyes (feeling of particle of sand in the eye).

3. Dermatitis is also one of the cause. In dermatitis there occur inflammation of the skin with red, itchy rash.

4. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the edges/margins of eyelid. Swollen eyelids can attend other symptoms like itchy eyelids, red eyes, watering from eyes, burning or stinging in the eyes, grittiness in the eyes, and sticking of the eyelid.

5. Orbital cellulitis is a serious condition in which there occurs infection of the soft tissues and fat within the eye socket. It needs urgent medical help as it can result in permanent vision loss and other severe complication like meningitis which is inflammation of the protective membranes that covers the brain and spinal cord.

6. Droopy eyelids (ptosis) is also a cause for it.

7. Another cause is nephrotic syndrome which is a kidney disorder in which excessive protein leaks in the urine.

8. It may also occur in case of grave’s eye disease (thyroid eye disease) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

9. Next it may happen from stye. Other causes are black eye from an injuryand fracture of bony orbit.

10. It may also arise in cases of sinusitis (inflammation of mucous membranes lining the paranasal sinuses).

11. In females, it may be a fallout of PMS (premenstrual syndrome).

12. Apart from the above, in rare cases it can be from eye cancer.

What Other Symptoms May Occur With Puffy eyes?

Puffy eyes may occur along with other eye symptoms depending on the cause. These include itching in eyes, eye discharge, dry eyes, sensitivity to light, excessive tears from eyes, redness of eyes and dark circles around eyes.

In some cases, puffy eyes occur along with nasal symptoms as in allergic rhinitis. These include sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, post-nasal drip. In some cases, sore throat, fatigue, headache and cough may also be present.

There are some serious symptoms which accompany puffy eyes that need urgent medical care, like high fever, bleeding from eyes, eye pain, sudden vision changes, vision loss, sudden swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue, breathing problem and bulging eyes with pain, redness and fever.

Suffering From Jet Lag? Manage It With Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD Leave a Comment

Jet lag, also known as jet lag disorder and time zone change syndrome, is a temporary sleep condition that results when sleep-wake patterns are disturbed from travelling rapidly across multiple time zones.

Managing Its Symptoms With Homeopathic Medicines

Homeopathic medicines can help to ease the symptoms of jet lag. They help to manage its symptoms in a natural and safe way. The symptoms that can be managed with these include fatigue, tiredness, lethargy, drowsiness, disturbed sleep, sleeplessness, excessive sleepiness, irritability, mood changes, depressive symptoms, problem in focus and concentration, feeling confused, head heaviness/headache, dizziness and stomach issues like constipation and diarrhea. The medicines for jet lag in homeopathy are selected based on an individual’s symptoms. So it is advised to take homeopathic medicines prescribed by a homeopathic doctor for best results.

Homeopathic Medicines for Jet Lag

1. Kali Phos –To Manage Fatigue And Sleeplessness

It is a very beneficial medicine to manage fatigue and sleeplessness. It helps people when they feel weak and tired. They have low energy levels. The smallest of work appears like a Herculean task to them. Next, it is useful to manage sleeplessness issue. Here, a person has loss of sleep and wakefulness. Other than this, it is helpful to manage irritability and depressive feelings.

2. Gelsemium – For Drowsiness, Weakness, Dizziness

This medicine is prepared from bark of the root of plant Gelsemium Sempervirens, commonly known as ‘yellow jasmine’. This plant belongs to family Loganiaceae. Firstly, it is beneficial to manage drowsiness, dullness and weakness. Persons needing it have the desire to lie down all the time. Secondly, it is indicated for managing complaint of dizziness which is most marked when walking. Other indications for using it are irritability, heaviness in the head, concentration issues, and confusion in the mind.

3. Arsenic Album – To Manage Fatigue (Exhaustion)

It is a valuable medicine in homeopathy for managing fatigue. Persons who need it feel tired from the least exertion. They feel weakness in their limbs with a need to lie down. Besides, anxiety and restlessness may be felt.

4. Cocculus Indicus – For Loss Of Sleep And Fatigue

It is prepared from a plant commonly known as ‘Indian cockle’. It is effective to manage loss of sleep and fatigue. Along with this, dizziness can be there. This is accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

5. Coffea Cruda – For Sleeplessness Management

This medicine is very effective to manage sleeplessness. Persons requiring it are restless at night which prevents sleep. They keep on tossing and turning from side to side in bed. They feel drowsy but are unable to sleep. It is also indicated when the person is restless with frequent waking up during sleep.

6. Belladonna – For Managing Head Heaviness And Headache

This medicine is prepared from plant named ‘deadly nightshade’. It is a very useful medicine for managing heaviness in head and headache. The pain is felt especially on the sides of head. It is usually a throbbing type of pain. Heated sensation in head attends it. Some relief may be felt by pressing the head.

7. Ignatia – To Mange Irritability, Mood Changes, Depression Symptoms

It is prepared from plant Ignatia Amara also known as ‘St. Ignatius Bean’. It is well indicated for cases in which there is irritability, mood changes and depressive feelings. Those needing it may feel sad all time or there may be mood changes with alternate feeling of happiness and sadness. Along with this, there may be dullness of mind.

8. Nux Vomica – For Managing Constipation With Frequent Unsatisfactory Stool

Use of this medicine is considered highly beneficial in cases of constipation. In such cases, frequent, ineffectual urge for passing stool is the key indicating symptom for using it. The person needing it goes for passing stool many times a day but has unsatisfactory stool. Immediately after passing stool, he/she again has the urge to pass stool.

9. Bryonia Alba – For Constipation With Hard, Dry Stool

It is prepared from the root of the plant Bryonia Alba also known as ‘wild hops’. This medicine is prominently indicated when the stool is hard and dry. It seems as if it is burnt. The stool is passed by excessive straining.

10. Nux Moschata – For Excessive Sleepiness

It is prepared from powdered seeds of a plant Myristica Fragrans, commonly known as ‘nutmeg’. This medicine can be used to manage excessive sleepiness. Persons needing it have irresistible drowsiness. They may have mood changes ranging from laughing one moment and crying the next. They can have confusion in the mind and slow pace of application of mind.

11. Aloe – For Managing Diarrhea

It is prepared from the gum of the leaves of plant Aloe Socotrina. It belongs to family Liliaceae. It is an important medicine to manage diarrhea. Those requiring it have watery stool. Excessive passage of gas during stool also occurs. There is urge for passing stool immediately after eating and drinking. There is feeling of fullness and a constant feeling of pushing down in the rectum.

12. China – To Manage Diarrhea And Weakness

This natural medicine is prepared from dried bark of plant Cinchona Officinalis, commonly known as ‘Peruvian bark’. It offers help in cases having diarrhea and weakness. The stool is loose, profuse, frequent, and frothy. It has an offensive smell. Fetid smelling gas may pass with stool.

Reason Behind Jet Lag

In our body there is an internal clock called circadian rhythm. It regulate sleep-wake cycle and controls the schedule for sleeping and waking. Jet lag happens when there is disruption in this internal body clock. This is because, firstly when a person travels across multiple time zone, the body clock is not immediately able to sync with the new location time as it is still in sync with the original time zone to which it is accustomed. Second reason for the disrupted clock is excessive sunlight in the plane. Changes take place in the level of melatonin hormone (it is a hormone that makes the body ready to fall asleep) which is regulated by light exposure. It is released when lights are dim at night, while in the day, the production of melatonin is slowed down to keep a person awake.

Other than this, excessive screen time while on the plane can affect this clock. Next fatigue from travelling is also a factor linked with jet lag. Not drinking enough water during air travel can make a person dehydrated because the humidity levels are low in an airplane and dehydration can contribute to a few jet lag symptoms. Lastly, changes in cabin pressure and high altitudes are also linked to cause some of the jet lag symptoms.

The chances of jet lag increase with the number of time zones crossed during air travel. Flying towards the East raise the chance of severe jet lag symptoms as compared to flying West. Elderly people take more time to recover from its symptoms as compared to other age groups. Lastly, persons who fly frequently (like pilots) have more chances to suffer jet lag.

What Are Its Symptoms?

The symptoms of jet lag include fatigue, tiredness, lethargy, drowsiness, disturbed sleep (it may include sleeplessness or excessive sleepiness or early waking), irritability, mood changes, mild depression, problem in focus and concentration, feeling confused and disoriented, head heaviness/ headache, dizziness, an unwell feeling and mild stomach issues like constipation or diarrhea.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Ranula, A Cyst In The Mouth

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Ranula is a cyst (fluid-filled sac) that forms on the floor of the mouth under the tongue. It arises from blockage of the salivary gland (that makes saliva) in the mouth. It is filled with saliva that comes out from the damaged salivary gland. The fluid in the ranula has a viscous, jelly-like consistency like white of an egg. It is a benign (means non-cancerous) growth which grows slowly. In some cases, the cyst can by itself empty into the mouth and again fill up slowly within weeks.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy is highly effective in treating cases of ranula. Homeopathic medicines are natural and safe to use in such cases. There is gradual reduction in the size of the cyst and surgical incision and drainage can be prevented in most of the cases. The results vary from case to case depending on the size and duration of the cyst. There are numerous medicines in homeopathy for its treatment and the prescription varies from case to case as per the individual’s signs and symptoms. It is advisable to take any homeopathic medicine under guidance of a homeopathic physician.

Homeopathic Medicines For Ranula

1. Calcarea Carb

Calcarea Carb is a leading homeopathic medicine for treating ranula. In cases needing it, a semi- transparent cyst is present on the floor of the mouth under the tongue. It is a big growth that pushes the tongue upwards. Along with this, there is swelling in the sublingual glands (major salivary glands that produce saliva). Dryness in the mouth alternates with excessive salivation where this medicine is required.

2. Ambra Grisea

It is the next prominent medicine for cases of ranula. It is useful for small growths under the tongue. There may be an offensive smell in the mouth. Bitter taste may be felt in the mouth in the morning.

3. Thuja

It is a natural medicine prepared from fresh twigs of plant Thuja Occidentalis, commonly known as ‘arbor vitae’. This medicine is well indicated for cases in which the cyst is bluish-red. Though it can be present on any side of the tongue, it is most likely to develop on the left side in cases needing it. For using it, the cyst can be transparent or semi-transparent. It is soft and painless, however, there is difficulty in speech.

4. Merc Sol

This medicine is valuable to treat cases of ranula that appear on the right side. The persons who need it may have complaints of recurrent ranula. The sublingual glands are swollen, hard and painful where this medicine is required. Excessive salivation may attend it. An offensive odour from mouth can be there along with above complaints.

5. Natrum Mur

Natrum Mur is the next prominent medicine for cases of ranula. This medicine is indicated for cases in which there is swelling under the tongue accompanied with a stinging type of pain. Along with this, long-term inflammation of salivary glands is present. There may be copious salivation that tastes salty.

6. Nitric Acid

Persons requiring it have a very foul smell in the mouth. They can either have a dry mouth or profuse salivation. The salivary glands may be swollen too.

7. Mezereum

This natural medicine is prepared from fresh bark (gathered just before the flowers appear) of plant Daphne Mezereum commonly known as ‘spurge olive’. This medicine works well in cases of swelling under the right side of tongue. It tends to gradually increase in size. At its apex, it is red and bluish. It is painless in cases that require Mezereum. There may be leaking of watery fluid from the cyst while talking or chewing food.

8. Chromicum Acidum

It is a rare medicine that is indicated for periodical (that occurs from time to time) ranula. It is attended with dryness of the mouth. While chewing, soreness is felt in it.

9. Sacharum Album

The last homeopathic medicine in the list to treat these cases is Sacharum Album. This medicine is helpful in cases in which there is cyst under the tongue and there is inflammation of the salivary glands.

What Is The Reason Behind It?

Mostly these occur from trauma to the floor of the mouth. In our body saliva is formed by three glands — parotid glands, submandibular glands and sublingual glands. In case any of these glands (mostly the sublingual gland) gets injured (as from an oral surgery), blocked or diseased, then saliva is not able to enter the mouth but gets swallowed. In such cases, the saliva leaks from the injured gland and accumulates in the tissue around the gland to form a cyst. The plunging ranula forms due to rupture of simple ranula. In some cases, the reason behind ranula is not known.

What Are Its Signs And Symptoms?

Ranula appears as a growth on the floor of the mouth. It can be clear or bluish or pink, depending on how deep-rooted it is. Its size also varies from case to case. It is not fixed and is soft to touch. It is not painful but in rare cases, can cause a little pain.

The cyst can be simple or plunging. In case of simple ranula, the cyst is confined to the mouth under the tongue.

But in case simple ranula ruptures and a pseudocyst forms that extends down the neck and result in a mass in the submandibular space, it is referred as plunging ranula. It is also known as diving ranula or cervical ranula in which the swelling occurs in the neck rather than the floor of the mouth. In case of a plunging ranula, symptoms like problem in swallowing or speaking can occur. It may also cause compression of the trachea.

What Are Its Complications?

The complications that can occur in case of ranula is rupture of cyst when it becomes large. Next complication that can arise is difficulty in swallowing. Other than this, there may be problem in speaking. There are also chances of infection developing in the ranula. Lastly, bursting on its own, reformation and recurrence of these cysts after draining is another possibility.

More About Paresthesia And Its Homeopathic Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 4 Comments

Paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations like tingling, prickling, burning, numbness, sensation of pricking by pins or needles that occur mostly in hands, fingers, arms, legs, feet and toes. Everyone might have experienced it once in a while, like one may have felt it from sitting cross-legged for too long or from sleeping with the arm under the head. It happens because of the pressure on nerves. It is temporary and vanishes by removing the pressure on the affected nerve. However, in some cases, paresthesia is persistent and may be due to some medical health condition that requires treatment.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can help in effectively managing complaints of paresthesia. Homeopathic medicines can manage well the symptoms like numbness, tingling, pin needle sensation, burning and weakness in limbs in such cases. With use of these medicines, gradual relief occurs . Homeopathic medicines are recommended in these cases when the symptoms are mild to moderate and no serious cause is linked with it. In case the symptoms are intense, or these symptoms are attended with other symptoms like difficulty in walking, loss of bladder/bowel control, slurred speech, difficulty in breathing, confusion, dizziness, loss of consciousness, paralysis or in case some serious cause like stroke, immediate help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken. It is recommended to take any homeopathic medicine for paresthesia under supervision of a homeopathic physician who can guide the best suitable medicine after complete case evaluation, or in case he finds some serious ailment where homeopathy cannot help, he can refer conventional treatment. In no case should self-medication be done.

Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Paresthesia

1. Kali Phos – To Manage Numbness

It is a top-grade medicine to manage numbness in the hands and feet. The numbness may be marked in the finger tips, may also be present in arms and legs. This medicine is also beneficial to manage prickling sensation in hands and feet. Lastly, it offers help for cases having burning sensation in soles of feet and toes.

2. Zincum Met – For Numbness And Tingling

It is a helpful medicine for cases having numbness and tingling sensation. The tingling is present in one of the limbs in cases needing it. It is useful when numbness occurs in lower limbs. Excessive weakness can accompany it.

3. Hypericum – For Numbness, Tingling And Burning Sensation

It is prepared from a plant Hypericum Perforatum with the common name ‘St. John’s Wort’. This medicine is very effective in managing numbness, tingling, burning sensation in limbs. It is one of the best medicine for managing cases of nerve damage from trauma/injury. Along with above symptoms, a person needing it may also have sharp, excruciating pain. Besides, it is a well-indicated medicine for managing cases of carpal tunnel syndrome(CTS).

4. Arsenic Album – For Managing Burning Pains And Weakness

This medicine is firstly very helpful in managing burning type of pain in the limbs. Secondly, it is useful for cases having weakness in limbs. Other than above, tingling in fingers is also indicative of using this medicine.

5. Agaricus – For Prickling In Toes

This medicine works well in cases of prickling in the toes. A crawling sensation may also occur. Shooting pain in toes can sometimes attend it.

6. Causticum – To Manage Weakness In Limbs

This medicine is prominently indicated for managing weakness in limbs along with heaviness in the limbs. Other than this, it is helpful in managing numbness in hands. Lastly, it is a suitable medicine for managing carpal tunnel syndrome.

7. Gnaphalium – To Manage Sciatica And Numbness

It is prepared from plant Gnaphalium polycephalum commonly known as ‘old balsam’, a sweet-scented everlasting flower. Use of this medicine is recommended to manage numbness attending sciatica pain. Persons who need it have cutting or darting pain along sciatic nerve. They have worsening of pain by walking and relief by sitting.

8. Picric Acid – For Pin Needle Sensation In Limbs

It is an important medicine for managing pin needle sensation in the limbs. Persons who require it may also have numbness in limbs. Limbs may feel weak and the feet become cold.

9. Paris Quadrifolia – To Manage Numbness In Fingers And Neck Pain

This medicine is prepared from the plant Paris Quadrifolia having common name ‘One berry’ and ‘Herb Paris’. This medicine suits cases in which there is numbness (asleep sensation) in fingers and neck pain. In cases requiring it, pain in the neck may extend down till the fingers. Heaviness in nape of neck can attend it. The pain gets better by taking rest.

10. Kalmia – For Numbness, Prickling In Limbs

It is another medicine in homeopathy which helps cases having numbness and prickling in limbs. It is prepared from fresh leaves of plant Kalmia Latifolia, commonly known as ‘mountain laurel’. Sometimes weakness in limbs may be a common complaint where this medicine is required. Additionally, coldness in limbs may be there. In some cases, there is pain in the neck that radiates down the arms.

11. Carboneum Sulph – For Tingling Sensation As From Electric Current

This medicine is effective for cases of tingling sensation in the limbs as from an electric current. Other than this, it also offers help to manage numbness of the fingers with inability to hold small objects.

12. Phosphorus – For Numbness In Hands And Feet

Use of this medicine can be done in case of numbness in hands and feet. The numbness can also be present in fingers and toes. Lastly, it is indicated to manage weakness in arms.

13. Oxalic Acid – For Numbness And Tingling

This medicine is also indicated to manage numbness and tingling in limbs. It is very useful when there is numbness starting from shoulders and ending in fingertips. Sharp pain in limbs may attend sometimes.

Causes Behind Paresthesia

First cause behind it is compression, irritation or inflammation of the nerve roots (this is referred as radiculopathy). This can happen from herniated spinal disc (a condition in which the soft jelly like center of inter-vertebral disc pushes out through a tear in its tough exterior). Next, this can result if the spinal canal gets narrow also called spinal stenosis (it refers to narrowing of the spinal canal that results in pressure on spinal cord and nerve roots). It can also arise if there is some mass that causes compression of the nerve. When radiculopathy happens in cervical spine, means the portion of spine in neck, then it is known as cervical radiculopathy (its symptoms includes paresthesia of the upper limbs, neck pain and weakness in arms and hands). When it occurs in lumbar region, means portion of spine in lower back, then it is known as lumbar radiculopathy (its symptoms includes sciatica that occur from pressure over the sciatic nerve that causes pain in the lower back radiating down the hip, back of thigh, legs, feet and paresthesia in leg or foot). Carpal tunnel syndrome is also one of the causes behind paresthesia in hands and fingers that arises from pinched medial nerve in the wrist.

Second major cause for paresthesia is nerve damage. The main cause for nerve damage is diabetes. Next reason is injury/trauma to nerve. It may also occur due to deficiency of Vitamin B12, B1 and B6. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is yet another reason for paresthesia. Injury from repetitive movement putting stress on nerves may also lead to it. It may also occur if a person is suffering from a kidney or liver disease.

Other than these, it may occur in case of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes joint inflammation resulting in pain, swelling and stiffness in joints. It mostly starts from small joints and involves larger joints afterward. Multiple sclerosis is an an autoimmune disorder in which there occurs damage to the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Brain tumour or tumour that develop near a nerve can be another cause for paresthesia. Certain infections like shingles ( a viral infection caused by varicella – zoster virus), Lyme disease (a tick-borne, infectious disease which is caused by a bacteria of the type borrelia known as Borrelia burgdoferi) may also cause it. Paresthesia can be caused by exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, use of some medications like chemotherapy drugs, some antibiotics, high blood pressure, high levels of vitamin D, and alcoholism. Lastly, paresthesia can occur in case of a stroke which means an interruption in blood supply to part of the brain resulting in deprivation of oxygen and nutrients to brain tissue and causing death of brain cells. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical help.

What Are Its Symptoms?

It mostly affects hands, feet, arms and legs though any body part can be affected. Its symptoms are numbness, tingling, prickling, pin needle sensation, burning, sensation of affected part falling numb temporarily, weakness, and coldness. These symptoms may be attended with pain. It may result in disruption in daily activities. The complications that can arise include disability, permanent loss of sensation and paralysis.