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

5 Best Homeopathic Medicines for Uterine Prolapse

The slipping out of the uterus — the womb or child-bearing organ — into the vagina is referred to as a prolapsed uterus. The reason behind Uterine Prolapse is weakened muscles and ligaments that keep the uterus in place. The muscles get weakened because of various reasons. It could be after vaginal delivery, after menopause, because of heavy weightlifting, obesity, chronic cough, chronic constipation or pelvic tumors. All these factors result in the uterus getting displaced from the normal position, leading to prolapse. A prolapsed uterus results in symptoms like heaviness in the pelvic region, bearing down in the pelvis, urine retention or involuntary passage of urine and bowel symptoms like constipation, or the frequent urge to pass stool or poop. Homeopathic remedies for uterine prolapse can provide complete cure for the condition and the remedies, which are totally safe with zero side effects, can be really beneficial for the treatment of Uterine Prolapse.

Top Homeopathic Remedies for Uterine Prolapse

Uterine Prolapse can be completely treated with the help of Homeopathy medicines. The medicines, which are made from natural substances, help in providing strength to the loose and weak muscular and ligament structure of the pelvis. As the muscles and ligaments regain strength, they tighten, pull back and hold the uterus at its proper place. Homeopathy remedies for Uterine prolapse can cure the early stages of Uterine Prolapse but in the last degree cases of Uterine Prolapse when the whole uterus comes out of the vagina, surgical intervention is the only way out. Sepia, Lilium Tigrinum, Murex, Lappa Articuma, Fraxinus Americana, Podophyllum, Helonias and Rhus Tox are the top remedies.

1. Sepia: Top Remedy for a Prolapsed Uterus

Sepia is a natural medicine that is highly efficient in treating Uterine Prolapse. Sepia is considered the best medicine for the cure of a prolapsed uterus. Go for this medicine if you experience a constant bearing down sensation in the pelvic region — that is, feeling the sensation as if the uterus is dragging in the downward direction and is about to come out. Crossing the lower limbs may prove slightly helpful to decrease the bearing down sensation. A few women with a prolapsed uterus also suffer from vaginal discharge with itching and such patients can also recover with the use of Sepia. This medicine yields excellent results in women at a menopausal age where the womb is in a relaxed condition with weak muscle support. Uterine Prolapse at menopause may be accompanied by hot flushes with excessive sweating.

2. Lilium Tigrinum: For Uterine Prolapse with Constant Urge to Pass Urine or Stool

Lilium Tigrinum is the second best medicine after Sepia that proves effective in the treatment of a prolapsed uterus. This remedy is very beneficial in women suffering from Uterine Prolapse who have the constant urge to pass urine or stool. This is most of the times accompanied by a distended feeling in the pelvis. Women requiring Lilium Tigrinum also feel a dragging sensation in the pelvis. Supporting the vulva or taking rest brings about a slight relief in the dragging sensation. Lilium Tigrinum can also be used where the muscle supporting the uterus lacks the required tonicity, resulting in a displaced (retroverted or uterus tilted backward) or a prolapsed uterus.

3. Murex: For Bulky, Enlarged Uterus, or Uterus pushed out of Pelvis

Murex is of great help where the uterus is bulky, enlarged and is pushed out of the pelvis. Women experience a bearing down feeling in the pelvis and need to tightly cross legs to prevent the bearing down sensation. Murex also proves useful in decreasing the pain during periods due to a displaced uterus. In case of an inflammatory condition of the uterus due to a prolapsed uterus, Lilium Tigrinum can be helpful. If the patient has an enhanced sexual desire, then it confirms the use of this medicine.

4. Lappa Arcticuma: Excellent Remedy for Uterine Prolapse

Lappa Arcticum is a rare and lesser known medicine but its use can work wonders in treating Uterine Prolapse. Lappa Arcticum can be used in all those cases where the muscles, ligaments and the tissues in pelvis lack tonicity and are relaxed to a greater extent, resulting in a displaced or prolapsed womb. Here, Lappa Arcticum is of great help in providing the tonicity in pelvic tissue. The woman may also feel soreness in the uterine region. The woman feels worsening of symptoms on walking and standing.

5. Fraxinus Americana: For Uterine Prolapse with Tumor

Fraxinus Americana is a rare medicine that can be used when tumors like fibroid uterus are associated with uterine prolapse. The uterus is also enlarged. Bearing down pains in the pelvis are always present.

6. For Uterine Prolapse after delivery

After a vaginal delivery, the uterus can prolapse due to trauma and overstretching of muscle support in the pelvis, that holds the womb in an accurate position. Such cases of Uterine Prolapse following vaginal delivery can be treated with medicines Podophyllum, Sepia, Helonias and Rhus Tox. The choice of medicine out of these is made only after a complete case study of the patient.

7. For Prolapse Resulting from Lifting Heavy Weights

Rhus Tox and Calcarea Carb are equally good medicines for Uterine Prolapse after lifting heavy weights. Again, the selection of medicines is solely made as per the individual case.

8. For Bladder and Bowel Complaints with Uterine Prolapse

A prolapsed and displaced uterus can result in bladder and bowel symptoms. The bowel symptoms include a constant urge to pass stool or constipation. The bladder symptom is mainly the involuntary passage of urine. To cure the constant urge to go to the toilet and pass stool, Nux Vomica is of great help. For treating constipation due to a prolapsed uterus, Stannum is very beneficial. For treating the involuntary passage of urine due to Uterine Prolapse, Ferrum Lodatum is an ideal medicine.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Knee Pain

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 107 Comments

Knee pain can arise from a number of reasons including degeneration, inflammation or injury of the knee joint. The major medical conditions that cause knee pain are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, knee injury, gout and bursitis. Knee pain can arise in persons of any age. The symptoms that usually accompany knee pain are swelling, stiffness, tenderness and heat in the knee joint. Homeopathic medicines for knee pain are very effective in managing knee pain of degenerative, traumatic as well as inflammatory origin.

Homeopathic Medicines for Knee Pain

Knee pain can be treated wonderfully well with medicines, which are natural and therefore, safe for use. Natural medicines are helpful in both acute and chronic knee pain. They are safe for use among all age groups, without any risk of toxicity. They help in relieving the pain in the knee and the accompanying symptoms such as swelling, tenderness and stiffness.

The recommended medicines for knee pain are Calcarea Carb, Rhus Tox, Colchicum, Ruta and Symphytum. Among these medicines, Calcarea Carb is recommended for knee pain from osteoarthritis and Rhus Tox is indicated for knee pain from rheumatoid arthritis. Colchicum has shown remarkable results in knee pain resulting from gout while Ruta and Symphytum are excellent medicines for knee pain from ligament and bone injury, respectively.

1. For Knee Pain due to Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the joint. In osteoarthritis of the knee, cartilage of the knee joint undergoes degeneration as a result of which the joint space is reduced. The symptoms of knee osteoarthritis are pain, stiffness and cracking (sound) in knee joint. The main reasons behind osteoarthritis of the knee are advancing age, excess weight, injury and overuse of joint. Effective medicines for knee pain from osteoarthritis are Calcarea Carb, Ruta and Causticum. Calcarea Carb is best suited when the knee pain gets worse on rising from a seat and walking. Persons who need to be prescribed Calcarea Carb are usually overweight. Ruta is one of the most helpful medicines for knee pain when the pain worsens on climbing up and down the stairs. Pressure over the knee may provide momentary relief. Causticum is indicated when pain in the knee is accompanied by marked stiffness and cracking (sound) in knee joint.

2. For Knee Pain from Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the joints. It can affect any joint of the body. The main symptoms are stiffness, pain and swelling of joints. Useful medicines for knee pain from rheumatoid arthritis are Bryonia, Rhus Tox and Salicylic Acid. Bryonia is prescribed when the knee joint pain gets worse with the slightest movement. The knee will be swollen in most such cases. The pain and swelling get better with rest. Natural medicine Rhus Tox is one of the best medicines for knee pain with stiffness. The pain and stiffness of the knees get better with walking. Rest worsens the symptoms. Salicylic Acid, on the other hand, is considered for acute arthritic knee pain. Where the knee is highly inflamed, painful and may be accompanied by high fever, Salicylic Acid is the most reliable of medicines for knee pain to take. The slightest touch or movement of the knee will worsen the pain in such instances.

3. For Knee Pain due to Injury

Knee injury is most common among sportspersons. The injury mainly includes tendon, ligament and bone injury. Top grade medicines for knee pain due to injury are Rhus Tox, Ruta and Symphytum. Rhus Tox and Ruta are very useful medicines for knee pain from ligament or tendon injury. These medicines help decrease pain and promote natural healing of the injured ligaments and tendons. Symphytum is prominently used for knee pain from fractured knee joint. Symphytum, commonly known as Knit Bone, helps promote the union of fractured bones and decreases knee pain arising from the fracture, making it one of the most reliable medicines for knee pain. It helps by promoting callus formation required to re-unite the bone.

4. For Knee Pain from Gout

Gout is a painful disease of the joint caused by deposit of uric acid crystals in the joints. It can affect any joint of the body, including the knee joint, and mainly begins from the big toe. The main symptoms of gout are intense pain and swelling of affected joints. Colchicum and Benzoic Acid are the noted medicines for knee pain from gout. Colchicum is well indicated when acute gouty pain in the knees appears with marked swelling and heat. The knee is very sensitive to touch and the slightest touch causes unbearable pain. Movement of the knee worsens the pain in such cases. Benzoic acid is considered in knee pain from gout when gouty nodes are formed over the knee joint. The person experiences pain and cracking sound in knee joint on movement. Tearing and stitching pain is felt in the knees along with swelling. The pain gets worse at night. Benzoic acid has proved the most effective medicines for knee pain in such cases and resulted in complete healing and cure.

5. For Knee Pain from Bursitis

Bursitis of knee is the inflammation of the bag-like cavity (the bursa) surrounding the knee joint that contains the synovial fluid. Trauma is the main factor leading to knee bursitis with major symptoms being pain, swelling, heat and tenderness of knee joints. The prominently indicated medicines for knee pain from bursitis are Apis Mellifica and Bryonia. Apis Mellifica offers much help when the main complaint is knee pain with marked swelling. The slightest touch and pressure over the knee worsen the pain. The pain is mostly stinging, burning in nature. Warmth worsens the pain. Bryonia is another one of the most wonderful medicines for knee pain from bursitis. It has shown great results when knee pain, accompanied by swelling, worsens from the smallest movement. Absolute rest brings relief from pain.

Homeopathic Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 50 Comments

Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the myelin sheath of the nerve cells gets damaged resulting in disruption of communication between the brain and the rest of body parts. The exact cause of multiple sclerosis remains unknown. However, it is considered to be an autoimmune disease. In multiple sclerosis, our immune system, out of a misdirected response, starts to destroy the myelin sheath of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Homeopathic medicines for multiple sclerosis play a supportive role in the treatment and should be used along with conventional treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines for Multiple Sclerosis

Homeopathic medicines have only a supportive role to play in multiple sclerosis. Homeopathic medicines for multiple sclerosis basically help to provide symptomatic relief. However, there is no specific Homeopathic medicine for multiple sclerosis and the choice of medicine is determined only after taking note of the detailed symptoms in each case.

1. Physostigma & Gelsemium – For Multiple Sclerosis with Prominent Eye Symptoms

Physostigma and Gelsemium are the most reliable medicines for multiple sclerosis with eye complaints. Both the medicines are known for their comprehensive approach in dealing with most eye-related complaints in this disease all at once. The prominent symptoms that will have the practitioner select Physostigma are a dim vision, blurred vision, partial loss of vision and pain in the eyes. On the other hand, Gelsemium is the best Homeopathic medicine for multiple sclerosis cases with optic neuritis with blurred/foggy vision, double vision, pain in the eyes and varying degree of vision loss. These medicines help to treat these eye symptoms from multiple sclerosis even though the results may vary from person to person.

2. Oxalic Acid & Picric Acid – For Numbness, Tingling, Pin/Needle-like Sensations

Oxalic Acid is one of the most prescribed medicines for multiple sclerosis cases which show symptoms of numbness and tingling in the limbs. Weakness and coldness in the lower limbs may also be felt. Oxalic Acid is also a good choice of medicine for trembling hands and feet as a result of multiple sclerosis. Picric Acid is another of the most effective Homeopathic medicines for multiple sclerosis that has successfully treated several cases where patients feel pin and needle pricks in their limbs. The limbs often feel tired and heavy in such cases. Marked prostration, muscle weakness and spasms from multiple sclerosis can also be treated well with Picric Acid. The weakness may worsen with exertion. Patients also complain of a burning sensation along the spine.

3. Conium & Argentum Nitricum – For Weakness in Lower Limbs

Conium and Argentum Nitricum are the most useful medicines for weak lower limbs due to multiple sclerosis. The guiding symptoms for use of Conium are weak and weary legs, sudden loss of strength while walking, difficult gait and stiffness in legs. However, in case of weakness in calf muscles, rigidity in calves, unsteady walk, a heaviness of limbs where the limbs feel as if they were made of wood and trembling legs, Argentum Nitricum is the best Homeopathic medicines for multiple sclerosis.

4. Gelsemium and Alumina – Where there is Difficulty in Balance and Coordination (Ataxia)

The most effective medicines for multiple sclerosis with balance and coordination difficulties are Gelsemium and Alumina. Gelsemium is prescribed to treat a lack of muscle coordination in persons dealing with multiple sclerosis. The gait is slow and unsteady. Loss of balance while walking is also marked. Intense dizziness may be experienced along with these symptoms. The symptoms pointing towards prescription of Alumina as the most suitable medicines for multiple sclerosis are a sluggish and staggering gait, tottering and falling on closing the eyes, numbness and a bandaged feeling in the legs.

5. Lathyrus Sativus – For Spasticity in Multiple Sclerosis

Lathyrus Sativus is one of the majorly indicated medicines for spasticity in multiple sclerosis cases. Lathyrus Sativus is noted among the best medicines for multiple sclerosis cases where spasticity is most marked in the legs. The legs feel extremely rigid, with a spastic gait. This is accompanied by trembling or tottering while walking. Cramps in the legs may also be felt along with these symptoms. Lower limbs may show emaciation in some cases.

Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

The symptoms of multiple sclerosis vary depending largely upon the part of the nervous system affected. However, the major symptoms of multiple sclerosis include double vision, blurred vision, loss of vision, tingling, optic neuritis, pin/needle-like prickling sensations, numbness, weakness in limbs, marked muscle spasms in legs, coordination and balance difficulties, tremors, difficulty in walking from muscle spasms and weakness, unsteady gait, difficulty with speech and swallowing, difficult bladder/bowel movements, electrical sensations running down the back on bending the neck, fatigue and associated depression.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Fibroadenoma and Tumours of Breast

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 216 Comments

Homeopathy for Fibroadenoma of breast

There was a time when a lump or node in the breast was overlooked and ignored by most women. Thankfully, that sort of negligence is a thing of the past and women are more aware of pressing the alert button when they feel a lump or node in the breast. That lump or node could actually be Fibroadenoma, which is a very common tumor of the female breast. It is benign in nature and presents itself as a lump or node in the breast that is painless and mobile — which means it is freely movable on examination. Occasionally, pain can also be felt. In most cases, it is a single tumor but multiple tumors are also noticed in a few women. Homeopathic remedies can be of great help in curing Fibroadenoma of the breast and in many cases fibroadenoma surgery can also be avoided.

Homeopathic Treatment for Fibroadenoma of breast

Fibroadenoma is a curable condition with the use of natural Homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic treatment can prevent women from the surgical excision of the tumour from the breast. Surgery can remove the tumors in breast present at a particular time but the tendency to form tumours that are hidden in the body remains as such. Homeopathic treatment for Fibroadenoma of breast comes with a double benefit. The first is that Homeopathic medicines dissolve the tumours in the breast and the second is they help to reduce the body’s tendency to form such abnormal tumour growths by raising immunity. The entire dissipation of Fibroadenoma of breast takes a few months with the use of Homeopathic medicines. The selection of Homeopathic medicines varies for every individual.

Top Homeopathic Remedies for Fibroadenoma of Breast

Calcarea Fluor: Homeopathic medicine for treating stony hard Fibroadenoma’s of breast

Calcarea Fluor is the best Homeopathic medicine for treating Fibroadenoma of the breast where the nodes are as hard as a stone. Calcarea Fluor has a strong tendency to dissolve these hard knots in the breast. Wonderful results follow the use of Calcarea Fluor in women with stony hard nodes in the breast. These Breast Fibroadenomas get smaller and the hard lumps get softened, followed by complete disappearance with the use of Homeopathic Medicine Calcarea Fluor.

Conium: Homeopathic remedy for treating painful tumors in mammary glands

Conium is of great help in treating glandular affections. Conium can be used with excellent results to treat tumors in mammary glands. Conium is preferred in cases where nodes in the breast are present with pain in the breast before and during menstruation or periods. The pain usually gets worse upon touching. Homeopathic medicine Conium helps in treating both the cyclical appearance of breast pain around the menstrual nisus and also the diminution of breast nodes.

Phytolacca: Homeopathic treatment for Sensitive and painful Fibroadenoma of breast

Phytolacca is a natural Homeopathic medicine which can be very beneficial for the treatment of Fibroadenoma of the breast when inflammation of breast is associated with it. The breast is extremely sensitive, hard and painful. The glands in armpits may also get enlarged. In such cases, Homeopathic medicine Phytolacca provides a great helping hand in reducing the inflammation and pain in breast initially, followed by the complete disappearance of hardness.

Graphites: Homeopathic treatment for Fibroadenoma of breast caused by scars and Abscess

Graphites is a Homeopathic medicine which is of great help in treating Fibroadenoma in the breast. Homeopathic medicine Graphites is the best pick for treating tumors in the breast that arise from some old scars in the breast. Old scars may have remained after healing of abscess in the breast. Graphites work very efficiently in the dissipation of these tumors. The tumors, as well as the scars, disappear with this Homeopathy remedy.

Scrophularia Nodosa: Powerful Homeopathic medicine for tumor in breast

Scrophularia Nodosa is a rare but very significant Homeopathic medicine that can be used for dissolving the tumors, lumps, nodes or indurations in breasts. This medicine is mainly used in tincture form. Scrophularia Nodosa is an extremely powerful Homeopathic medicine to dissolve and get rid of breast tumors. This Homeopathic medicine is absolutely safe with no side effects.

Pulsatilla: Homeopathic medicine for nodes in breast plus menstrual irregularities

Pulsatilla is a natural Homeopathic medicine that can be taken when nodes in breast are accompanied by menstrual irregularities. The main menstrual irregularity noticed is suppressed menses for a long duration or scanty menses. Pulsatilla is of much help for girls at puberty suffering from lumps or nodes in breast.

Homeopathic Medicines for Scars Caused by acne

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 75 Comments

Getting pimples or Acne is irritating and embarrasing enough for young people, but the thought of scars being left behind by Acne can lead to sleepless nights. Acne is one of the most common skin diseases affecting young people of 12 to 18 years in the puberty and adolescent age. Acne is a result of inflammation of sebaceous glands present in the skin. It can appear in various forms on the skin like small red-coloured elevations (papules), eruptions containing pus (pustules), fluid containing deep sac like eruptions (cysts), or thick, hard eruptions (nodules). The most common sites of appearance of Acne are face, shoulders, chest and back. Acne mostly disappears on its own without leaving any mark behind. Small Acne or pimples do not lead to any scar formation. But the large-sized deep Acne like Cystic Acne and Nodular Acne leave rigid scar marks on the skin after their disappearance. Excessive pricking and scratching of Acne worsens the condition. The more the pricking of Acne, the higher are the chances of inflammation and infection and thus scar formation. In the beginning, scars appear to be red or pink in colour. Later on, the scar colour becomes purplish or deeply pigmented. The scar can present itself in various forms like small, deep holes in skin as if the skin is pierced by some sharp-pointed object(ice pick scars); or round, oval depressions in the skin(boxcar scars); or unevenly pitted scars giving the skin a wave-like appearance (rolling scars); or only as pigmented skin. Although not a serious health condition, Acne scars can be a cause of continuous feeling of low self-esteem and confidence levels and even embarrassment. Here’s where natural Homeopathic remedies for acne scars can be of great help. With no side effects, the natural Homeopathic treatment for acne scars can effectively and gently cure these scars.

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT FOR ACNE SCARS

Homeopathy has a wide range of natural medicines to deal with the problem of Acne scars. The natural Homeopathic remedies, which are completely safe, are prescribed taking into view the mental and physical makeup or constitution of the patient along with the skin symptoms. Acne scars can be treated in the most gentle and mild manner with the help of natural Homeopathic remedies.

TOP NATURAL HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES FOR ACNE SCARS

Berberis Aquifolium: Best natural Homeopathic remedy for pigmented Acne scars

Homeopathic medicine Berberis Aquifolium is a wonderful natural remedy for acne scars and is of great help in treating them completly. This natural Homeopathic remedy is mainly recommended for the treatment of pigmented Acne scars. Berberis Aquifolium acts by clearing the skin pores and toning up the skin. It decreases the pigmentation of scars and efficiently cleanses the complexion of the face. It can be used in 30 potency internally and as a tincture externally for best results.

Psorinum: Natural Homeopathic Medicine for Acne scars on dirty face

Natural Homeopathic remedy Psorinum is of great help for treatment of Acne scars of face where the face looks very dirty as if it has never been washed. The patients requiring this natural Homeopathic medicine have a very oily skin due to highly active sebaceous glands. The Acne scars that have been worsened by external application of skin ointments can also be cured by Psorinum. Another marked symptom along with the scars that guides towards this natural Homeopathic treatment is that the patient feels extremely chilly even in summers and wants to be totally covered up. In patients who experience worsening of Acne by taking excessive coffee, fats and sugar,natural Homeopathic medicine Psorinum can be very beneficial.

Kali Bromatum: Natural Homeopathic remedy for Pustular Acne scars

Kali Bromatum is a natural Homeopathic medicine of great help for the treatment of Acne scars and is mainly prescribed where indurated or Pustular Acne has left the scars. Pustules are inflammatory lesions and become nodules when left untreated. The Acne scars on the face, chest and shoulders can be wonderfully treated with this natural Homeopathic remedy.

Mercurius Solubilis: Top Homeopathic remedy for Acne scars accompanied by profuse perspiration

Mercurius Solubilis is among the best natural Homeopathic medicines for reatment of Acne scars and is mainly given to patients who perspireprofusely and the perspiration is very offensive. The patients requiring this natural Homeopathic remedy have an unusually excessive thirst with moist mouth and a lot of salivation from mouth. If the face of the patient ofAcne scars appears pale and unhealthy or dirty, Mercurius Solubilis is the ideal natural Homeopathic remedy.

Silicea: Natural Homeopathic treatment for Acne scars with pits of varying sizes

Silicea is the natural Homeopathic cure forAcne scars which are a result of deep-rooted Pustular Acne and where the skin of the face shows pits of varying sizes and the scars give a sensation of pain. The patients for whom Silicea can be of great help usually feel very cold and also have an offensive foot sweat. This natural Homeopathic medicine is beneficial for patients of Acne scars who are very obstinate and headstrong mentally.

Belladona: Natural Homeopathic medicine for red-coloured Acne scars

Belladona offers the natural Homeopathic treatment for patients with red-coloured scars due to Acne. This natural Homeopathic medicine is beneficial for patients whose face is dry, hot and gives a shining and flushed appearance.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Developmental Delay

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 92 Comments

Developmental delay refers to the delay in the development of a child as normally expected at his/her age. This delay in development may be seen in one or more areas. The areas where a child may show developmental delay include speech & language, gross/fine motor activities, thinking & understanding skills, social & emotional development. When a child shows delayed development in a majority of or in all of the areas mentioned above, it is referred to as global developmental delay. The first three years of a child’s life are crucial to development. Every child develops at his/her own pace. However, there are average time periods when a child is expected to achieve certain milestones. When a child is not able to achieve these developmental milestones within the time period expected at his/her age, he is said to show developmental delay.

When a child is not able to do the following activities within the given timeframe, there is a developmental delay and medical help is needed:
At 6 months: Child does not roll over – both in the front and back, achieve head control, sit up with support and start to babble
At 9 months: Child does not crawl, sit without support, respond to familiar names
At 12-15 months: Child does not say 1-2 words, stand without support or start to walk
At 2 years: Child does not speak at least 10-15 words or can’t walk.

What Causes Developmental Delay?

The exact cause of developmental delay in a child may be hard to pinpoint, but among the many reasons for a developmental delay, the major ones are premature birth, complications during pregnancy, genetic disorders like Down’s syndrome or loss of hearing. Developmental delay can also be a symptom of autism spectrum disorders.

Homeopathic Medicines for Developmental Delay

This system of medicine is highly safe and effective in treating diseases affecting children, including developmental delay. The medicines for developmental delay are natural and therefore, free from side effects. They are selected as per constitutional symptoms help overcome developmental delay to a large extent to aid normal development of the child. Delayed development, both at the mental and physical level, can be treated wonderfully well with Homeopathy. These are selected after taking into account the smallest detail of the case. Medicines for developmental delay that I have found most effective in children are Calcarea Carb, Calcarea Phos, Baryta Carb, Tuberculinum, Carcinosin, Aethusa and Silicea.

1. Calcarea Carb – One of the Top Medicines for Developmental Delay

Calcarea Carb is one of the top grade medicines for developmental delay. I have seen excellent results in children with delayed development after they were given Calcarea Carb. This medicine is most suited for children having a fatty, fair and flabby constitution. Children who need Calcarea Carb are slow in learning to walk and have slow dentition. They tend to be obese, with a big head and large belly. The skin often looks pale and chalky in children prescribed Calcarea Carb, one of the popular medicines for developmental delay. There are other symptoms as well: the children are sluggish, dull and lethargic. Fontanelles, especially the anterior one, may also show delayed closure in children who will respond well to this remedy. Another peculiar symptom is the tendency to perspire excessively, mainly on the scalp, neck, and chest.

2. Calcarea Phos – Top Rated Medicine for Developmental Delay

Natural medicine Calcarea Phos is among the best medicines for developmental and extremely useful in treating children with slow mental and physical growth. I have seen children make up for the delay in reaching their developmental milestones amazingly fast with the help of this medicine. Calcarea Phos is majorly effective in delicate, thin, emaciated children with noticeably slow progress. These children are late in learning to walk and talk, the teeth develop slowly and the posterior fontanelle may be slow to close. The skull is soft, thin and brittle in such instances, another key symptom to look out for before deciding on this medicine. The digestive system is also weak in such cases where Calcarea Phos works as the most suitable among medicines for developmental delay. The child that needs Calcarea Phos wants to be nursed all the time. Colic and vomiting post feeding are also observed. The child may suffer chronic diarrhea with watery, offensive and greenish stool.

3. Baryta Carb – For Developmental Delay due to Trauma or Vaccination

Baryta Carb is also one of the known medicines for developmental delay that has made a mark. In my clinical practice, I have seen children respond exceedingly well to it. The medicine shows excellent results in children who are dwarfish, both mentally and physically. These children often appear dull minded and are slow learners where speech and walking are concerned. Baryta Carb is one of the most effective medicines for development delay to use in such cases and has shown remarkable results where children show a marked fear of strangers as well. Baryta Carb is also majorly useful when the child shows retarded development after trauma or vaccination. Profuse sweat with offensive odor, mainly on the feet, may be present along with the above-mentioned symptoms in such instances of developmental delay. Baryta Carb is also one of the most preferred medicines for developmental delay in children who suffer from chronic tonsillitis attacks.

4. Tuberculinum and Carcinosin – For low immunity & Autism

Natural medicines Tuberculinum and Carcinosin are also popular medicines for developmental delay that have shown satisfactory results. Tuberculinum works well in children who are weak, emaciated and mentally deficient due to retarded development. Like in all developmental delay cases, they learn to speak late. However, they have a tendency to catch a cold and suffer from recurrent upper respiratory tract infections. Excessive sweating, especially at night, may be noticed in children where Tuberculinum will be the ideal option.

Carcinosin is equally effective in children with arrested growth. A child who needs Carcinosin would have very low immunity and thus, suffer from recurrent severe infections. Children in such cases of developmental delay have difficulty in falling asleep. Therefore, where the child needs to be carried around or rocked to sleep or where he specifically sleeps on the abdomen, Carcinosin is the most effective medicine to give. Carcinosin is also the medicine for autistic disease in children with development delay. Such cases show marked hyperactivity and restless behavior.

5. Silicea and Aethusa – For Developmental Delay in Children

Silicea and Aethusa are two top rated medicines that have shown marked improvement in children with developmental delay. Among them, Silicea is one of the most effective medicines for developmental delay that works best in children with a large head and thin legs. The sutures and fontanelles are slow to close in these children. Other key constitutional features that prompt use of Silicea are – emaciation, defective assimilation, distended abdomen, delay in learning to talk and walk. In addition to this, worm infestation may also be present in children who are prescribed Silicea.

Aethusa is medicine for developmental delay majorly recommended in infants who are unable to hold their head. These children are highly restless and cry too much. Another guiding symptom for use of Aethusa as the best among medicines for developmental delay is the child’s inability to digest milk. The child is intolerant to milk and may vomit curdled milk if fed. Weakness, exhaustion and sleepiness may result. These children may also get diarrhea after taking milk.

Effective Homeopathic Medicines for Bacterial Infections

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 105 Comments

Bacterial infections can occur anywhere in the body and make you ill. Bacteria are living things with only one cell and most are helpful, except the infectious bacteria. They reproduce quickly in the body. Homeopathic medicines are of great help in dealing with bacterial infections. Made of natural substances and completely safe with no side effects at all.

Homeopathic Medicines for Bacterial Infections affecting Gastro-intestinal Tract

The various diseases that may arise in the gastrointestinal tract because of bacterial infections are cholera, dysentery, food poisoning, and peptic ulcer.

1. For Cholera Infection

The bacteria that leads to cholera infection is Vibrio Cholerae. The symptoms include diarrhea (rice watery stool), vomiting and rapid dehydration. The natural medicines that are very beneficial in treating cholera are Camphor, Veratrum Album, and Cuprum Metallicum.
Camphor is the top natural remedy when extreme coldness accompanies diarrhea and vomiting. The whole body feels cold to touch. The stool is not so copious but exhaustion and coldness manifest themselves to the utmost degree. Veratrum Album is the ideal medicine when the diarrhea is very copious with excessive vomiting. Along with profuse diarrhea, the patient faces a collapsed condition. The face is blue or pale with sunken eyes and icy coldness. So, while scanty stool with exhaustion and coldness points towards the use of Camphor, copious stool with coldness and exhaustion give an indication for selecting Veratrum Album. Cuprum Metallicum is the best remedy when a patient has cramps in abdomen and legs along with diarrhea and vomiting. Extreme nausea is also experienced.

2. For Treatment of Dysentery

Dysentery is a condition where a person passes loose stool or poop containing blood and mucus. Abdominal pain and fever are also present. Tenesmus is a condition where a person does not get satisfaction from passing stool and feels a constant urge to pass stool. The bacterial agent behind dysentery is Shigella. The best natural medicines for dysentery are Merc Sol, Aloes and Nux Vomica.
Merc Sol is the top remedy for treating dysentery with blood in stool in excess. Bleeding is accompanied by colic and tenesmus. Aloes is the ideal remedy when mucus in excess is present in the stool. The stool is watery and is accompanied by colicky pain in the lower abdomen. Nux Vomica is the best remedy when the person has abdomen pain that is slightly relieved after stool. The desire to pass stool is almost constant. The stool remains unsatisfactory.

3. Arsenic Album: For Food Poisoning

The bacteria that lead to food poisoning are Campylobacter, Clostridium, E.Coli, and Salmonella. Food poisoning leads to gastroenteritis. The symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting. Pain in the abdomen, fever, and nausea are the other symptoms. The best natural medicines for the treatment of food poisoning are selected after taking note of the particular symptoms in each individual.
Arsenic Album is the best remedy for food poisoning cases with loose stool and vomiting. The vomiting and stool occur soon after eating or drinking anything. Fever with a thirst for water are the usual accompaniments. Marked prostration due to loose stool is also covered under Arsenic Album. Arsenic Album should be considered as the first line of treatment in every case of food poisoning.

4. Treatment of Peptic (Gastric and Duodenal Ulcer)

The bacteria behind peptic ulcer is Helicobacter Pylori. The main complaint is a pain in the abdomen that is mainly burning in nature and which gets worse on eating in case of gastric ulcer and is relieved by eating in duodenal ulcer cases. Vomiting, blood in stool or vomitus, bloated feeling, belching, weight loss, appetite loss are other common symptoms of peptic ulcer disease. The natural medicines that are of great help for treating peptic ulcer disease are Nux Vomica, Kali Bichromicum, Lycopodium and Phosphorus. Nux Vomica is the best remedy for pain in the abdomen with pressure in the stomach that worsens a few hours after eating. Intake of coffee, spices, and alcoholic drinks may worsen the pain in persons needing Nux Vomica. Vomiting usually brings relief to the patient. Kali Bichromicum is the ideal remedy when pain and heaviness in the stomach are felt soon after eating. Nausea and vomiting also occur. Lycopodium is the top medicine for a bloated abdomen with belching. Loss of appetite may also be felt for using Lycopodium. Phosphorus, meanwhile, is the most suitable remedy for bleeding in stool or vomitus in peptic ulcer cases. The stomach pain is also present and gets better by taking cold drinks.

Homeopathic Remedies For Bacterial infections affecting Throat

The main offending bacterial agent behind the throat infection is Streptococcus bacteria. It leads to a condition known as strep throat. Mainly the throat, including tonsils and uvula, get inflamed with pain in the throat. The pain gets worse on swallowing anything. The fever is always present. Pus may also get formed in tonsils represented by the presence of white or yellow spots on tonsils. The natural medicines of great help for dealing with bacterial throat infections are Belladonna, Hepar Sulph, Merc Iod Flavus, and Merc Iod Ruber. Belladonna is the most frequently used medicine for throat infections. Belladonna can be used in all those cases where the throat is markedly inflammed like in tonsils. The patient feels a severe pain in throat along with high fever. The pain gets worse by swallowing anything. Hepar Sulph is the ideal medicine for pus formation in tonsils. The pain in throat may extend to ears. Chill with fever may also be complained of by the person needing Hepar Sulph. Homeopathic medicines Merc Iod Flavus and Merc Iod Ruber are very beneficial when the right and left side of throat are affected, respectively. The patient feels a lump sensation in the throat with redness and pain on the affected side.

Homeopathic Treatment of Bacterial infections affecting Skin

The main offending bacterial agent behind skin infection is Staphylococcus. It can cause a variety of skin conditions like boils, carbuncles, and abscess. All these skin problems are marked by eruptions of varying sizes with a collection of pus. Cellulitis is another common skin infection caused by bacteria marked by inflammation of the skin and connective tissue.

Cellulitis

The best natural Homeopathic medicines to treat Cellulitis are Belladonna, Silicea, and Calendula. Belladonna is used in the very first stage of Cellulitis when the skin is inflamed with much heat and redness. The accompanying symptoms are fever and pain. In the advanced case of eruptions with pus formation on skin, Homeopathic medicine Silicea is a very beneficial remedy. Silicea works well for treatment of pus containing eruptions with fever and chills. Calendula, on the other hand, is the best remedy for post-surgical cases of Cellulitis. In Cellulitis occurring subsequent to use of a surgeon’s knife, Calendula never fails to help a patient recover and it always shows its excellence.

2. Eruptions on skin with pus formation due to bacterial infection

The top natural medicines for skin infections with pus formation are Myristica, Hepar Sulph and Anthracinum. Myristica is a medicine that is referred to as the best internal safe surgical instrument in the hands of a Homeopath to deal with pus-containing skin eruptions. Myristica can be used for complete recovery in all cases of carbuncles, abscess or boils. It’s a medicine that affects the most speedy recovery. Hepar Sulph, on the other hand, is of great help when chilliness with fever, extreme sensitiveness to touch the affected part and excessive offensive perspiration accompanies pus formation due to bacterial infections. Anthracinum is very beneficial in highly advanced cases where extreme burning pains are predominant in boils or carbuncles. The pus discharge is also highly offensive.

Homeopathy Remedies for Bacterial Infections of Respiratory System

The main bacterial infection affecting the lungs is pneumonia. The symptoms of pneumonia include cough with mucus formation, and the mucus may be blood-stained. Chest pain and fever also mark an appearance along with cough. The best natural medicines for treating pneumonia are Bryonia, Antimonium Tart, and Phosphorus. Bryonia can be used in all those cases of pneumonia where dry cough is present. The sputum if spat out is rust colored. The patient also feels pain in chest on coughing. Antimonium Tart is the ideal remedy for cough with rattling of mucus in chest. The person coughs a lot but spitting out is very difficult. The other symptoms include chest pain and difficulty in breathing. Phosphorus is the top remedy for sharp stitching chest pains along with cough. The spit discharge can be purulent or bloody. There may be a desire for cold things like juices, ice creams, and cold drinks.

Bacterial Infections Resulting in Fevers

1. Top Remedies for Typhoid Fever

The natural medicines that are very beneficial for treating typhoid fever are Baptisia, Arnica and Muriatic Acid. Baptisia can be used with good results for fever with highly offensive discharges, including urine, stool, and perspiration. Baptisia is also of great help in the delirious stage of typhoid fever when sleep overpowers the person even when talking. Arnica is the top remedy for typhoid cases with sore bruised pains all over the body. Muriatic Acid is the best remedy for involuntary stool along with fever. The patient may also complain of extreme sleepiness.

2. Pyrogenium: For Septic Fever

Although septic fever cases can be treated with a variety of natural medicines, Pyrogenium tops the list. Pyrogenium can be used in all cases of septic fever with extreme chilliness and rapid pulse rate. The fever usually runs very high. Severe body pains and offensive discharges are also felt.

Homeopathic Medicines for Bacterial Infections affecting Brain

The main bacterial infection affecting the brain is meningitis. The main symptoms are fever, pain in head and stiffness of the neck. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and convulsions. The natural medicines that can help in meningitis are Helleborus, Belladonna, and Stramonium. Meningitis can be treated with Homeopathy medicines but since the condition is very serious and a critical one, a complete case history of the patient is taken before prescribing the best remedy.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Back Pain

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 827 Comments

Homeopathy is known to effect magical recovery in back pain cases whether resulting from disc complaint, arthritis, injuries or muscle strain. It offers a wide range of highly effective remedies prescribed after detailed analysis and evaluation of symptoms. They are natural and therefore, safe for consumption by all age groups.

Homeopathic Medicines for Back Pain

Some medicines that are effective in back pain treatment are Rhus Tox, Bryonia Alba, Aesculus Hippocastanum, Kali Carb, Arnica Montana, and Hypericum Perforatum.

1. Rhus Tox – Best Remedy for Back Pain

Rhus Tox is a top grade medicine for treating back pain. Some characteristic symptoms indicating its use are – the back pain arises from muscle strain due to overstraining or overstretching or from lifting heavy weight, it worsens with rest while the person feels relief from walking or motion. Also, in cases where the back pain gets better with hard pressure, Rhus Tox is the appropriate choice of medicine.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Pain that Worsens with Motion

Bryonia Alba is another majorly indicated medicine for treating back pain. A prominent symptom that decides in favour of Bryonia Alba as the best medicine is that the back pain gets worse with motion. Walking also worsens back pain. Rest brings relief. Bryonia Alba is also the most suitable medicine for treating back pain that becomes more severe with stooping and standing.

3. Aesculus Hippocastanum – For Back Pain in Sacrum Region

Aesculus Hippocastanum is a major medicine for back pain affecting the sacrum region. The pain may extend to the hip along with sacrum back. Walking and stooping increase the pain. For some persons needing Aesculus Hippocastanum, rising from a sitting position is a challenge. Intense stiffness is observed in the sacrum and hip region along with the pain.

4. Kali Carb – For Back Pain in Women Post Childbirth

For back pain in women after childbirth, Kali Carb is considered to be very effective. The pain may get worse on walking and there is a need to stop and take rest before starting to walk again. There is a desire to lie down for relief from back pain. Stiffness or excessive weakness in the back may also attend the pain. Kali Carb is also useful for back pain in women during menses or after a miscarriage.

5. Cimicifuga Racemosa and Guaiacum Officinale – For Back Pain in Cervical (neck) Region

The most effective medicines for treating cervical back pain are Cimicifuga Racemosa and Guaiacum Officinale. The symptoms to look out for while prescribing Cimicifuga Racemosa are – pain, sensitivity in the neck, worsening of pain from pressure. The symptoms for use of Guaiacum Officinale are – stiffness in the cervical back and shoulders, aching pain in the neck.

6. Arnica Montana and Hypericum Perforatum – For Back Pain from Injury

For treating back pain arising from injury, Arnica Montana and Hypericum Perforatum are rated among the best treatment option. Back pain arising from falls blows – of both recent and remote origin – responds wonderfully well to these medicines. Persons needing Arnica Montana have sore, bruised pain in the back as after being beaten. This may be attended with lameness in the back. The symptoms for use of Hypericum Perforatum are – pain in the back with extreme sensitivity which makes it impossible to walk or stoop. Hypericum Perforatum is most significant medicine for coccyx pain (coccydynia) arising from a fall over the coccyx.

7. Cobaltum and Phosphorus – For Back Pain from Sitting

Cobaltum is used where pain in the back is worse in the sitting position. The pain usually radiates from the lower back down the legs and feet. Weakness in the legs may be felt. Walking may relive the back pain. Phosphorus is indicated where prolonged sitting leads to back pain. Weakness in the back may also be felt. Burning sensation in the spine is another feature that may attend.

8. Colocynthis and Magnesium Phosphorica – For Lower Back Pain Radiating Down Lower Limbs

Colocynthis and Magnesium Phosphorica are very effective medicines for back pain radiating down the legs. Among them, Colocynthis is helpful for back pain radiating down the limbs on the left side. The person needing Colocynthis may get relief from pressure. The pain can be tearing or drawing in nature. Magnesium Phosphorica is indicated for lower back pain that radiates down the right lower limb. The pain can vary from sharp, shooting, lightning-like or cramping in nature. Warm applications may offer some relief from pain.

9. Kalmia Latifolia and Paris Quadrifolia – For Cervical Back Pain Radiating Down the Arm/Hands

Kalmia Latifolia and Paris Quadrifolia are top grade medicines for cervical back pain radiating down the arms or hands. The radiating pain is accompanied by weakness, tingling, numbness in the arm or hands where Kalmia Latifolia will work best. Symptoms guiding the use of Paris Quadrifolia are a sensation of weight in the neck, worsening of symptoms from exertion (either mental/physical) and numbness in fingers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is back pain?

Pain felt anywhere between the cervical to coccyx region along the back is referred to as back pain. The back comprises the vertebrae, intervertebral disc, spinal cord, muscles, ligaments and tendons. The vertebrae are bony structures d include 7 cervical, 12 dorsal, 5 thoracic, 5 sacral and 4 coccygeal vertebrae. The intervertebral discs are flexible, cartilage structures. One intervertebral disc lies between two vertebrae. These intervertebral discs act as cushions to absorb shock and maintain flexibility of the spine. The vertebrae collectively make the vertebral column with the vertebral canal running through its length in the centre. The spinal cord is enclosed between the vertebral canal. The cause of back pain can lie in any of these structures that form the back. The lower back, however, is most vulnerable.

2. What other symptoms may show up with back pain?

The upper, middle or lower back may be affected. The upper back includes the cervical (neck) region; mid-back includes the dorsal region; and the lower back includes the lumbar, sacral and coccyx region. A major symptom that may accompany the pain is stiffness of the back. In case of pain in the cervical back, pain from neck may radiate down the arms. This may be attended with numbness, tingling in hands. Pain from the lower back may radiate down the lower limbs. This may also be attended with numbness, tingling and increased sensitivity in lower limbs. Other symptoms may include weakness in the back, lower limbs or upper limbs.

3. What could have caused my back pain?

Among the various causes behind back pain, the major ones include disc bulge, osteoarthritis, muscle strain, trauma and degenerative disc disease. Disc bulge refers to slipping of the intervertebral disc from its place. Osteoarthritis of the back refers to degenerative changes in the bones, disc, cartilage or joint of back. Muscle strain refers to overstretching of muscle arising from overuse, fatigue or lifting heavy weights. Degenerative disc disease refers to damage, dryness or breakage of the intervertebral disc mainly because of age-related wear and tear or from injury.

4. I have chronic back pain, which tests must I undergo for complete diagnosis?

Back pain investigation includes X-ray, MRI and CT scan. X-ray reveals any changes in the backbone. MRI and CT scan diagnose changes in the disc, muscles, ligaments, tendons of the back.

5. Are elders more prone to back pain?

Back pain can affect a person of any age group. However, back pain from degenerative disc disease and osteoarthritis is most common in elderly people as these arise from age-related degenerative changes.

6. I have lower back pain that radiates down my legs, what could be the cause?

Lower back pain radiating down the lower limbs basically indicates sciatica which may arise from compression, pinching or irritation of the sciatic nerve in the back. The various causes of sciatica include spinal stenosis, disc bulge, disc degeneration, bone spurs, and spondylolisthesis.

7. What could be the reason for my cervical back pain radiating down the arms?

Pain in the cervical back that radiates down to the arms could be caused by pinching of nerves in the cervical region. Nerves in the cervical region could get pinched due to a disc bulge, herniated disc, cervical spondylosis, bone spurs, and spinal stenosis.

8. I have been advised surgery for lower back pain from disc bulge. Will these medicines help at this stage?

Homeopathy works wonders in lower back pain arising from disc bulge and helps avoid surgery is many such cases. However, the help offered by medicines in such cases and the extent of recovery depends on the severity of the case (mild/moderate/severe disc bulge).

9. Can’t exercise/physiotherapy cure back pain?

Physiotherapy does play an important role in managing back pain, but to completely cure back pain. But to get it cured a proper evaluation and treatment are needed. Both physiotherapy and medicines must go hand in hand for effective results.

10. Does back pain indicate a serious condition?

In most cases, back pain does not indicate a serious condition and does not require urgent medical aid. However, bowel/bladder incontinence or progressive weakness in legs together with back pain needs urgent attention as it may be an indication of the cauda equina syndrome, which is an emergency condition.

11. What lifestyle changes will help manage back pain?

Adopting some basic lifestyle measures can go a long way in managing back pain. Some of these are:

Maintain proper posture while sitting
Lose weight
Avoid lifting heavy weights
Avoid bending and twisting the back
Avoid prolonged, constant sitting and standing
Exercise and physiotherapy will help relax muscles and eventually, pain

Autism and Homeopathy

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 14 Comments

If your child is between the ages of two and three years and his development is keeping you worried please check with these following signs and symptoms. The child is withdrawn, avoids social contact even with kids and avoids playing with them; has no language or is losing language which he had already acquired; Fails to respond to his name; has poor eye contact; moves Constantly; shows patterns of repetitive behavior like rocking, spinning and hand flapping. If some or all of these signs are present in your child please make sure that you consul t a developmental specialist and have him evaluated for Autism.

Autism or Autism spectrum disorder also called as pervasive development disorder (PDD) is catching our world by surprise. The Incidence of autism is on rise. This rise is very fast. The Centre for disease Control in United States also known as CDC has recently come up with their changed statistics and are showing that 1 in every 110 children In United states have Autism. This is very alarming and what is even more alarming and disturbing is the fact that this trend is on the increase. Although , we don’t have any clear data on the incidence of autism in India, but we know that Autism is on rise in India too. And what is more Troublesome is that, till date, no cause has been identified for Autism.

Autism is Usually diagnosed between the ages of 18 months to 3 yrs. Although signs and symptoms of autism may be present earlier but are very difficult to identify. The Symptoms can range from very mild to very severe, hence autism is better known as autism Spectrum Disorder. This means that not every kid will develop the same amount of autism. Broadly speaking, Autism mainly affects the Verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction and the behavior of the child. Communication is affected by delayed speech development, less speech, difficulty in using speech, repetitive speech and to a level where there is no speech. Nearly 40 percent of kids with Autism never develop speech. Social Interactions are affected by failure to establish friendships with children of same age, showing withdrawn behavior, lack of interest in sharing enjoyment, activities and achievements with others. They can also lack emotional understanding and reciprocity; this means that it is difficult for kids with autism to understand feelings of pain, sorrow and emotions of others. Autistic kids can have marked disability in expressing their own emotions whether verbally or non verbally. Behavior is usually affected signs of repetitive behavior or stereotyped behavior like hand flapping, spinning and can also signs of hyperactivity. Kids with autism show addictive tendency towards certain topics or objects like looking rotating objects, television advertisements, sticks , soaps or a particular toy.

Homeopathy has help for kids with autism. Although not all kids with autism respond to homeopathy but a certain segment of kids with mild to moderate level of autism at times show great signs of Improvement and recovery. Autistic kids with speech (however little) and less hyperactivity show very favorable improvements with certain homeopathic medicines. Age of the child also has major affect on the homeopathic treatment outcome – younger the child better are the chances of improvement with homeopathic medicine.
Dr. Vikas Sharma MD

How to help your Autistic Child Develop Good Eye Contact

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 13 Comments

Eye Contact Is Stressful For Autistic Kids

In social interactions, eye contact drives all non-verbal exchange. It is a measure of the other person’s interest in us and reaction to what we have to say. In fact, it helps us pick up several social cues during a conversation. For children with autism, this simple communication tool can be a formidable challenge. Making eye contact, for them, is often a most daunting, stressful task which if forced, could set off anxiety, inattention, confusion even. Adults with autism describe the feeling of helplessness, and complete and utter confusion resulting from the attempts by their well-meaning parents and teachers to get them to look people in the eye. Some of them say the stress left them further distracted and unable to focus on the conversation so that they just wanted to escape and would leave the scene.
So, should we or should we not insist on eye contact in children with autism? “It depends”. Research says the best way out is to gauge what does or does not work for your child; look for the signs and see whether encouraging eye contact helps your child focus his attention better or makes him nervous and therefore, distracted.

Explanations for reduced eye contact in autistic children

Two explanations for reduced eye contact in autistic children have been proposed. One says that children with autism avoid eye contact because they find it stressful and negative. The other says that autistic children do not see the social cues from eyes as particularly meaningful or of great use. A new research, conducted on the day the children were first diagnosed with autism, backs this view. It shows that young children with autism do not actively avoid eye contact and that they do not find other people’s eyes aversive. Children with autism look less in the eyes because they appear to miss the social significance of eye contact, the researchers said. Another plausible explanation could be that the poor motor skills in children with autism extend, during infancy, to a reduced ability to control eye movement.
For the autistic person, all this adds up to a sort of sensory overload, more information and data to process for their already burdened mind. People with autism describe the feeling as “unnatural”. They do not know how long they should continue to look into the other person’s eyes, they say, which makes it difficult for them to focus on the actual content of the conversation.
Avoiding eye contact does not show a lack of interest in the autistic person. Rather, it is an attempt to focus on the task at hand; a Dutch autistic girl was quoted as saying.
“When I’m holding a conversation with someone, if I make eye contact, I would miss everything that the person is saying,” she said.
“It’s a steady stream of extra-sensory or processing information in addition to what I’m already trying to sort in my brain.
To me, eye contact seems like I’m being observed at, like I’m being examined and assessed. It makes me uneasy because I feel like I’m under enormous pressure, and the stress builds up, until finally, I have to look away.”
Many autistic children fear that by making eye contact, they are revealing that they are socially awkward and odd. It makes their eyes burn and water, they complain.
The entire experience is one of immense pain and discomfort. Looking away makes this pain go away.

Interventions For Improving Eye contact In Autistic Kids

Eye contact is a treatable, reversible symptom of autism spectrum disorder. This is how it works: autism may be linked to the disruption of G proteins that control cellular signalling, as per research findings. Cellular signalling refers to the ability of cells to perceive and correctly respond – in short, communicate – in their micro environment. This defect, combined with a vitamin A deficiency, can result in immune dysregulation – an inappropriately robust of weak immune response – and metabolism of fats needed for brain development. G proteins are also important for normal retinoid receptor function, which is the basis for healthy visual processing. Vitamin A doses may help reconnect the retinoid receptors critical for vision, sensory perception, language processing and attention. Therefore, the first step in treating lack of eye contact in children with autism is to use a specific form of vitamin A to repair the G proteins to re-establish good visual processing.
The eyes are the best of the fine motor skills. Visual motor planning relies on processing data. If a child wants to look at you, they need the visual processing centres in the brain working so they can integrate the information and then act on it. Depleted or defective vitamin A stores crash these visual processing centres, making it virtually impossible for the child to use this motor skill.

Homeopathic Medicines For Improving Eye contact In Autistic Children

Homeopathic medicine can helpful in overall improving the condition of autistic children thereby delivering significant improving the eye contact in autistic children. Homeopathic medicines are prescribed on the overall assesment of the case.

Other measures to encourage eye contact in children with autism are as follows:

Eliciting a glance
As a first step toward getting your child to look at you, pause before responding. So if your child asks a question or asks for something, pause before offering it to him. The pause may make him glance in your direction to see whether you heard him. When he does, respond immediately and praise him for making eye contact. This could be as simple as saying, “I like how you’re looking at me” or simply “nice looking.”
The next step is to build the length of this eye contact. Each time, lengthen the pause by a few seconds before you respond to him. During this break, you can tell him how his making eye contact encourages you to respond to his requests.
Building on interests
Does your child loves to speak about a particular show or a unique set he has? Is he more disposed to look up at you when you engage him on these subjects? This is a an excellent way to encourage him.
Visual supports
It could be that your child does not even make enough eye contact for you to be able to encourage or reinforce it on a regular basis. In that case, you will have to start by trying to first “catch his eye.” You could use a visual support or a simpler strategy like touching the corner of your eye with a motion that falls within his range of vision and repeat it till it catches his attention.
Behavioral therapy and social-skills groups
A behavioural therapist engaged with an autistic child has a wonderful opportunity to build on the eye contact and attentiveness skills by working with him as a team. In fact, the therapist could educate the parents on a series of behavioural strategies that will help to gradually increase the child’s eye contact within his or her natural environment at home, school and at play.

Three quick and simple techniques for getting eye contact:

• Place yourself at or under his eye level consistently. It’s less eye stress and easier to look at you this way.
• When you give your child an object, hold it to your eyes, so that he must reach out and grab it. You are right there, behind the object!
• Positive reinforcement.