Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare brain disorder that causes problems with balance, walking, eye movements, speech, and swallowing. It is also called Steele-Richardson-Olszewski syndrome. Homeopathy for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy can help manage the symptoms, but is limited in its scope and should not be the only course of treatment for this disorder.

The exact cause of progressive supranuclear palsy isn’t known yet. The symptoms of PSP arise due to the deterioration of brain cells in the region of the brain stem. It has been found that destruction of brain cells is linked with an abnormal amount of protein (called tau that forms clumps in brain cells) hinder their functioning resulting in the death of brain cells. The condition affects people who are over the age of 60 years. 

Signs and Symptoms

The main signs and symptoms of progressive supranuclear palsy include unsteady gait, loss of balance while walking resulting in frequent falls (mostly backward) and an inability to control eye movement. There may be difficulty focussing the eye on objects or looking upward/downward. Blurred vision, double vision, sensitivity to light, involuntary closing of eyes (blepharospasm) may also be felt. Inability to maintain eye contact during conversation is other vision complaints. These signs and symptoms tend to worsen over time, the rate of its progression varies from person to person. Other symptoms include stiffness, difficulty swallowing, slow / slurred speech, sleep disturbances, change in behaviour (like irritability, mood swings, impulsive behaviour, laughing / weeping without reason, loss of interest in pleasurable activities), depression, anxiety, slowness of thought, memory problems, forgetfulness, difficult reasoning and decision making ability, monotone speech and a mask-like facial expression.

Homeopathy for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

Homeopathy plays a supportive role in managing the symptoms of progressive supranuclear palsy. These medicines can be taken along with conventional treatment to give symptomatic relief to the patient and improve the quality of life. Homeopathy medicines are indicative to manage gait issues, vision problems, speech / swallowing difficulties and attending memory issues, sleep problems, behavioral problems, depression, and anxiety. Homeopathy medicines are selected individually for every case of progressive supranuclear palsy as per the characteristic symptoms. The top homeopathic medicines for supportive help to manage progressive supranuclear palsy include Alumina, Agaricus, Causticum, Phosphorus and Baryta Carb.

1. Alumina – For Unsteady Gait/loss of Balance while Walking

Alumina is well indicated to manage unsteady gait/loss of balance while walking in progressive supranuclear palsy. Staggering and tottering while walking is present where Alumina is used. There is a need to sit frequently while walking. Thighs and legs feel tensed, stiff like a cramp with gait problems.

2. Agaricus – For Loss of Balance while Walking with Tendency to Fall Forward

Agaricus is a prominent medicine for managing the loss of balance while walking in cases of progressive supranuclear palsy. In such cases gait is unsteady. Person reels and totters while walking. There is a tendency to fall forward. Legs may feel heavy and weak while walking.

3. Causticum – For Loss of Balance while walking with Tendency to Fall Backward

Causticum next medicine to manage complaint of loss of balance while walking in persons having progressive supranuclear palsy. It is most indicated for cases where a person have unsteady gait with a tendency to fall backward. Legs may feel tensed and cramped with the above features.

4. Phosphorus – For Visual Complaints

Phosphorus is a significant medicine for supportive help to manage visual complaints in progressive supranuclear palsy. Blurred and double vision indicates its use. It is also useful when sensitivity to light (photophobia) is an attending complaint.

5. Baryta Carb – For Mental Dullness, Forgetfulness

Baryta Carb is prominent medicine for managing mental dullness and forgetfulness in progressive supranuclear palsy. Persons needing Baryta Carb forgets familiar words. They are also forgetful while conversing with others. They forget what they have said in a conversation. They have slowness of thought. Reasoning and understanding ability is also diminished in them.

6. Anacardium – For Memory Problems, Forgetfulness, Weak Memory

Anacardium is prepared from the layer of nut between shell and kernel of a plant Anacardium Orientale having common name marking nut. The natural order of this plant is Anacardiaceae. Anacardium offers help to manage memory problems and forgetfulness in cases of progressive supranuclear palsy. Persons needing Anacardium suffer from marked forgetfulness and they don’t remember anything. Their mind gets extremely weak and dull. They forget the names of close persons and unable to recognize familiar faces. Sadness and high irritability may appear in them.

7. Belladonna – For Difficult Swallowing

Belladonna is prepared from a plant named deadly nightshade. The natural order of this plant is Solanaceae. Belladonna helps to manage swallowing difficulties in cases of progressive supranuclear palsy. Persons needing Belladonna have difficulty to swallow food. They have to drink liquid frequently while eating solid food to move it down. Swallowing is also painful. There is a fear of choking with food while eating. Throat feels very dry.

8. Lachesis – For Slow, Difficult Speech

Lachesis is indicated to manage slow, difficult speech in cases of progressive supranuclear palsy. In such cases, it may be difficult to pronounce words. The tongue feels heavy and moves with difficulty. Stammering may also be present.

9. Coffea Cruda – For Sleep Disturbances

Coffea Cruda is very beneficial for managing sleep disturbances in progressive supranuclear palsy. There is difficulty falling asleep where Coffea Cruda is indicated. The person remains wide awake at night though feeling drowsy. Tossing and turning from side to side in bed is there. If sleep appears then there is difficulty maintaining sleep. Coffea Cruda is also indicated for restless sleep with frequent waking.

10. Ignatia – For Behaviour Changes (irritability, mood swings) and Depression

Ignatia is prepared from seeds of plant Ignatia Amara. This plant belongs to natural order Loganiaceae. Ignatia is very useful to manage behavior changes and depression in case of progressive supranuclear palsy. Persons needing Ignatia have marked irritability and mood swings. They become sad with weeping one moment suddenly followed by happiness and laughing. Fatigue both on the mental and physical plane is also marked. Ignatia is also indicated for managing depression in persons having progressive supranuclear palsy. They remain sad with frequent weeping spells. They are joyless. They prefer to be alone and isolated. An aversion to talking also prevails in them. They don’t want to do any work either mental or physical. They become absent-minded. Their memory becomes weak with difficult thinking and forgetfulness. They become mentally dull. They also start losing interest in pleasurable activities.

11. Aconite – For Anxiety Issues

Aconite is prepared from a plant Aconitum Napellus commonly known by the name of monkshood. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Aconite is highly suitable for treating anxiety issues in persons having progressive supranuclear palsy. Such persons have high anxiety attended with restlessness. They have intense palpitations, cold sweat with trembling during anxiety phase. They fear to go out where there is a crowd and have a fear of death.

Stomach ulcers are sores or ulcers arising in the lining of the stomach. They are also known as gastric ulcers. In a majority of the cases, stomach ulcers are caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori bacterium. Another frequent cause is long term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s). Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers help to heal the sores in the stomach and prevent the tendency towards stomach ulcers in the chronic phase.   

Tobacco smoking, drinking alcohol and stress are the risk factors that predispose a person to stomach ulcers. The protective mucus lining of the stomach is reduced due to the above causes. This allows the acid content of the stomach to eat away the inner tissue lining, resulting in ulcer formation.

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

The major symptom of stomach ulcers is pain/burning in the epigastric region. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, bloating, loss of appetite, weight loss and hematemesis (vomiting of blood).

Homeopathic Medicines for Stomach Ulcers

Homeopathy offers a very safe and effective treatment for stomach ulcers. Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers primarily help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of stomach ulcers in the acute phase. Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers are selected as per individual symptoms that vary from person to person. Argentum Nitricum,  Nux Vomica, Kali Bichromicum, Lycopodium, Carbo Veg, Hydrastis, Phosphorous, and Graphites are the top remedies for stomach ulcers.

1. Argentum Nitricum – For Stomach Ulcers with Radiating Pains

In my experience, Argentum Nitricum rates among the best medicines for stomach ulcers. This medicine is well indicated when sharp ulcerative or burning pain is felt in the stomach and radiates to other regions of the abdomen. The pain is sometimes gnawing in nature. Symptoms such as belching, nausea, vomiting may also appear along with these radiating pains. Abdominal distension may also be present in such cases where Argentum Nitricum will prove one of the most effective medicines for stomach ulcers.

2. Nux Vomica – For Stomach Ulcers where Eating Worsens Pain

Nux Vomica has shown the most satisfactory results in stomach ulcer cases where pain in the stomach is felt from eating even the smallest amount of food. The stomach region is also sensitive to touch in such cases. Nux Vomica is also one of the best-suited medicines for stomach ulcers where spicy food, coffee, tobacco, and alcoholic drinks worsen the symptoms. Tightness and pressure may be felt in the stomach after eating. Nausea, vomiting, eructations, flatulence, and heartburn may accompany the above symptoms.

3. Kali Bichromicum – For Ulcers in Stomach

Kali Bichromicum is another of the top grade medicines for stomach ulcers. I have seen amazing recoveries in gastriculcer cases with Kali Bichromicum. It is indicated in round ulcers with a feeling of heaviness in the stomach soon after eating. The food seems to sit in the stomach like a load. Appetite is low in cases where Kali Bichromicum will work as one of the most effective Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers.

4. Lycopodium Clavatum – For Boated Abdomen

Lycopodium has proved itself as the most useful among medicines for stomach ulcers where the main symptoms are burning, constrictive pains attended with marked flatulence and fullness/bloating of the abdomen. Bloating starts soon after eating. A person in need of Lycopodium may get relief in pain from taking warm water. Farinaceous food like cabbage and beans worsen the symptoms. Lycopodium Clavatum is known among the best medicines for stomach ulcers with any of the above-mentioned symptoms.

5. Carbo Veg – For Stomach Ulcers

Carbo Veg is another of the prominently indicated medicines for stomach ulcers. It is most helpful when burning pain in the stomach is accompanied by sour belching or heartburn. The pain may extend from the stomach to the back. The epigastric area may also be sensitive and tender to touch. Eating the smallest amount of food, even light food, worsens the symptoms in such cases where Carbo Veg will prove the most effective among Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers to heal the condition.

6. Hydrastis Canadensis – For Stomach Ulcers with Weight Loss

In my clinical practice, Hydrastis has proved extremely effective in treating stomach ulcers where they are accompanied by weight loss and emaciation. A key symptom is a constant sore feeling in the stomach. Cutting and sharp pain in the stomach may also be present in cases where Hydrastis works as one of the most effective medicines for stomach ulcers. Weakness and a loathing of food in epigastrium are other symptoms to look out for. Hydrastis is also one of the major medicines for chronic gastritis.

7. Graphites – For Stomach Ulcers with Vomiting after Eating

In case of ulcers with vomiting immediately after eating food, Graphites has shown the most promising results among medicines for stomach ulcers. Constrictive and burning pain in the stomach is experienced after eating. Excessive belching, the taste of ingesta is also an attending symptom in such cases where Graphites is prescribed as one of the most reliable medicines for stomach ulcers.

8. Phosphorus – For Stomach Ulcers where Cold Drinks bring Relief

Phosphorus is rated among the most reliable medicines for stomach ulcers where having a cold drink relieves pain. Burning in the stomach after eating is complained of. Along with this, sour, bitter belching may also be experienced in such cases. Phosphorus is made its place among the top rated Homeopathic medicines for stomach ulcers with the above symptoms.

A swollen knee is the result of the accumulation of fluid in or around the knee joint. It is commonly referred to as a ‘knee joint effusion’ or ‘water on the knee.’ Knee swelling can come on suddenly or gradually, can be mild or severe and can limit the movement of the leg. It often causes pain and can make walking very uncomfortable. The swelling can be both unilateral (affecting one knee) and bilateral (affecting both knees). Homeopathic medicines for swollen knee treat the condition in a gradual, safe and natural way.     

The most common cause of a swollen knee is an injury, but in some cases, it may develop due to an underlying problem in the knee joint. The structure of the knee joint is as follows: The knee joint has a capsule, which is like a sac surrounding the whole joint. This capsule contains the synovial fluid which nourishes and lubricates the joint, enabling it to smoothly carry out movements of the body. The joint capsule acts as a container, keeping the fluid within the knee joint. Sometimes it may happen that the joint becomes overworked, or twisted. In case the joint gets irritated, it responds by producing more fluid in order to protect and heal itself. This is how the term ‘water on the knee’ has come about.

Homeopathic Medicines for Swollen Knee

There are various forms of conventional treatment for a swollen knee depending upon the cause for it. For a swollen knee caused by an infection, antibiotics are given to treat the underlying infection. In inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are usually prescribed. The above mentioned conventional treatment can, however, have adverse side effects on the body, the scope of which is totally emitted in Homeopathy. Both acute and chronic conditions respond well to Homeopathy. Apis Mellifica, Arnica Montana, Bryonia Alba, Benzoic Acid, Rhus Tox, Sticta Pulmonaria, Benzoicum Acidum, Silicea, and Kali Iodatum are the top remedies for a swollen knee.

1. Apis Mellifica – Where Pain Worsens Under Pressure

Apis Mellifica, also known as the Poison of the Honey Bee, is a medicine derived from dried honeybees commonly found in the Western region and Europe. Apis Mellifica is an effective remedy with a sphere of action revolving around the urinary system, gastrointestinal system and the skin with characteristic burning stinging pains as that from the bite of a bee.
It is used to treat a swollen knee that is accompanied by intense, stinging, and shooting pain in the knees. The pain worsens under pressure. The knee may appear shiny, sore, and sensitive to the touch. In the case of housemaid’s knee, it is indicated when the knee is highly swollen, sore and sensitive to touch. In some cases, the knee pain is of burning, stinging nature. Slight touch and pressure can worsen the pain.

2. Arnica Montana – For Swelling Due to Injury

Arnica Montana is used to treat a swollen knee that develops as a result of an injury or trauma. Arnica is also known as Leopard’s Bane, which is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe. It belongs to the family Compositae. Its main sphere of action is around the muscles and the cellular tissues of the body by acting through the cerebrospinal system. Other symptoms include soreness, bruising and pain. A sensation of dislocation with a tenderness of the knee joint may also be present.

3. Bryonia Alba – For Swelling Due to Rheumatic Joint

Bryonia Alba is a medicine used to treat swelling in the knees due to a rheumatic joint complaint. It is also known as White Bryony and belongs to the family Cucurbitaceae. This is a perennial climbing herb found in Europe and Northern Iran. The knee joint is red, hot and swollen. Along with swelling, a sharp, tearing, stitching pain may also be present. The slightest movement of the knee can worsen the pain. Through the cerebrospinal nervous system, no other remedy affects the mucous membranes as Bryonia does.

Other Significant Remedies

4. Benzoic Acid – For Swollen Knee due to Gout

Benzoic Acid is a medicine used to treat a swollen knee due to gout. Along with swelling, painful nodes on the knee joint may be present. Drawing pain in the knees, a cracking sound upon movement and aggravation of the symptoms might indicate the need for this medicine.

5. Rhus Tox – For Swelling with Stiffness

Rhus Tox is used to treat a swollen knee with stiffness. The knee feels hot, painful, heavy and tense. Massage and movement help ease the pain.

6. Sticta Pulmonaria – Swelling due to Bursitis

Sticta Pulmonaria is one of the best medicines for a swollen knee that occurs due to bursitis. The main symptom that indicates the need for this medicine is a red, hot, intensely swollen knee. This is due to the collection of a significant amount of fluid in the patellar bursa. Stretching the leg or moving about often brings relief. For housemaid’s knee, the primary guiding symptom for using this medicine is severe shooting pain in the affected knee. The knee is also highly inflammed with marked redness and heat.

7. Benzoicum Acidum – For Gout affecting Knee Joint

Benzoicum Acidum is a remedy for gout that affects the knee joint. The joint is swollen and painful with a cracking sound on movement. In some cases, nodes from the deposits of urate crystals may be present on the knees.

4. Silicea – For Tearing Knee Pain

Silicea is a natural medicine for housemaid’s knee and swelling when knee pains are tearing in nature. Pressure and exercise worsen the pain over the knee. The knee is also highly swollen and shining.

5. Kali Iodatum – Swelling Aggravated at Night

The main feature to use Kali Iodatum is the pain over knee worse from lying on the affected side. Other symptoms indicating Kali Iodatum use are swelling over knee aggravated at night time.

Risk Factors that lead to a Swollen Knee

Following are some risk factors that can predispose a person to a condition like swollen knee:

1. Age: The risk of developing diseases which lead to knee effusion, like arthritis, increases with age. This makes older adults more vulnerable to develop a condition like a swollen knee.

2. Sports: People who are actively involved in sports that involve twisting the knee, such as basketball, are more likely to experience knee injuries that cause swelling.

3. Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress on the knee joint, thus contributing to the tissue and joint overload and knee degeneration that can lead to a swollen knee. Obesity increases the risk of osteoarthritis, one of the more frequent causes of knee swelling.

4. Occupation: Occupations that including sitting on the knees for hours together or hobbies like gardening, increase the pressure on the knees thus causing a knee effusion presenting itself as a swelling.

Symptoms of Swollen Knee

The symptoms corresponding to the condition are swelling and redness of the affected area along with tenderness and a warm feeling on the joint.

Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations

‘We are what we eat’ and hence diet plays an important role in every disease condition. While some foods can make things worse, there are plenty of anti-inflammatory foods that can ease the swollen knee joints.

1. Choose fish over red meat as red meat is rich in cholesterol and salt, thereby contributing to inflammation. Cooking in olive oil (rich in omega-9 fatty acid) can help reduce inflammation. Other useful food items are nuts like walnuts, almond, and hazelnuts along with garlic, onion, beans and lots of high fiber rich food and fruits.

2. To reduce inflammation, avoid processed foods such as packaged meats, cookies, chips, and other snacks. These are often high in unhealthy fats, salts, and sugars, which are linked to inflammation. Limiting your alcohol intake is also important, especially when taking certain medications.

Some lifestyle changes that can help prevent and manage a swollen knee include wearing proper shoes while walking, avoiding high heels for extended periods of time, warming up before an intense physical activity, performing light exercise to avoid a sedentary lifestyle, keeping a check on the weight since being overweight can put extra stress on the bones and joints, always maintaining the correct posture (especially while while at work, sitting or driving), lifting weight with care and consuming appropriate quantities of calcium and Vitamin D.

Gonorrhea is an STD – sexually transmitted disease caused by bacteria named Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It mostly affects urethra; vagina and cervix in females; throat; rectum; eyes. The gonorrhea infection passes from one person to another through sexual contact (oral, anal or vaginal). Unprotected sex with a person who might be having the infection, having multiple sex partners, or having another STI (sexually transmitted infection) increases the risk of gonorrhea. Homeopathic treatment of gonorrhea helps fight the bacterial infection by boosting the natural healing mechanism of the body and helps in managing the symptoms effectively.

Gonorrhea can also be passed from an infected mother to baby during vaginal delivery ( babies can develop sores on the scalp or show symptoms in their eyes including red and swollen eyes attended with a thick, pus-like discharge. Without treatment, gonorrhea can cause permanent blindness in a newborn baby).

Homeopathic Treatment of Gonorrhea

Homeopathic medicines are highly beneficial to treat gonorrhea. Acute as well as chronic cases of gonorrhea respond well to natural medicines. Medorrhinum tops the list of medicines to treat gonorrhea in both males and females. Other top medicines for treating gonorrhea in males are Cannabis Sativa, Nitric Acid and in females are Sepia and Pulsatilla.

1.Medorrhinum – Top Grade Medicine for Treating Gonorrhea

Medorrhinum tops the list of medicines to treat gonorrhea. In cases needing Medorrhinum, urethral inflammation is marked with burning pain in urethra while urinating. Urine also has an offensive smell. In males, thin fluid mixed whitish mucus or yellow purulent discharge appears from the urethra. There is soreness in urethra along with this. In females, thick, acrid vaginal discharge with fishy odor is prominent.

2. Cannabis Sativa – For Watery Mucus/Purulent Discharge from Urethra in Males

Cannabis Sativa is useful for gonorrhea with both watery mucus or purulent discharge from the urethra in males. Burning, smarting pain in urethra are marked on urinating. A desire to urinate is almost constant. The glans is red, swollen, inflamed along with the above symptoms.

3. Nitric Acid – For Yellow Green Discharge from Urethra in Males

Nitric Acid is helpful for gonorrhea with yellow-green discharge from the urethra in males. Sometimes the discharge may be blood stained. Intense pain may be felt while urination. Itching in the urethra is also marked. Prepuce may be swollen, red with burning pain. The testicles may also be painful, swollen and tender.

4. Rhododendron – For Swollen, Painful Testicles in Males

Rhododendron is prepared from fresh leaves of plant Rhododendron chrysanthum commonly known by the name of Yellow Snow-Rose of the natural order Ericaceae. Rhododendron is wonderful medicine for gonorrhea in males with swollen, painful testicles. Tearing, pressing, sticking pain is there in the testicle. Pain is worse on sitting and better by motion. The testicle may also feel hard. It is painful to touch. Thin discharge from urethra may be present. Rhododendron is also high-grade homeopathic medicine to treat epididymitis.

5. Cantharis – For Painful/burning Urination

Cantharis is an excellent medicine for managing painful/burning urination in gonorrhea. The burning and pain in the urethra is worse while urinating. It may also be present before urination and continue after urination. Pain in the urethra is very severe, cutting and sharp in nature. The desire to pass urine is also frequent. Urging to urinate is most marked while standing or while walking. Urine may also be scanty or sometimes passes in drops. The pain during urination and its frequency are most worse at night time.

6. Merc Sol – For Increased Frequency and Urgency to Urinate

Merc Sol is beneficial to treat increased frequency and urgency to urinate in gonorrhea. The person needing Merc Sol has to hurry to pass urine. The frequency to urinate is very high and the person has to go to urinate almost every hour. While urinating burning and biting pains are felt. In males thick, green or yellow discharge from the urethra, may be present along with above symptoms. In females requiring Merc Sol, greenish vaginal discharges with burning and itching may be there with high frequency and urgency of urination.

7. Pulsatilla – For Gonorrhea in Females with white, milk-like Vaginal Discharge

Pulsatilla is prepared from plant Pulsatilla Nigricans commonly known by the name of Wind Flower of the natural order Ranunculaceae. Pulsatilla is prominent to treat gonorrhea in females with white colored vaginal discharge like milk. The discharge is acrid, thin with marked burning in the vagina. The discharge may also cause biting, stinging pains. The discharge is most worse on lying down where Pulsatilla is indicated.

8. Sepia – For Greenish Vaginal Discharges

Sepia is a very effective medicine for gonorrhea in females with greenish vaginal discharges. The discharge is profuse mainly after urinating. The discharges cause itching of vulva and vagina along with burning pain. Pain and bearing down sensation in the pelvic region is marked. Sepia is also indicated to treat a complaint of painful coition in females. Bleeding from the vagina after coition is also treated well with Sepia.

9. Kreosote – For Yellow Vaginal Discharges

Kreosote is indicated for gonorrhea in females with yellow vaginal discharges. The discharges are acrid and corrosive in nature causing much itching. The odour is also offensive. The vaginal discharge is attended with fatigue and weakness especially in the legs. Frequent desire to urinate is also present.

10. Natrum Mur – For Painful Coition in Women

Natrum Mur is indicated for gonorrhea in females to manage complaint of painful coition. Along with pain, burning and smarting are also felt in the vagina during intercourse. Profuse vaginal discharge along with weakness may be present. The discharges are acrid and may be greenish or transparent, watery. They cause itching especially at night time

11. Sabina – For treating Gonorrhea with Heavy Periods

Sabina is prepared from a plant named as Sabina Officinalis or Juniperus sabina of the natural order Coniferae. Sabina is very suitable to treat gonorrhea in females with heavy periods. The bleeding is profuse, bright red colored and is mixed with dark clots. Least motion increases the flow of blood. Pain from sacrum to pubes is a characteristic attending feature.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Men

The symptoms of gonorrhea in men include painful/burning urination, increased frequency/urgency to urinate, pus-like discharge (yellow, white, green) from the penis, redness/swelling of the foreskin, and pain/swelling in the testicle.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women

The symptoms of gonorrhea in women include painful / burning urination, frequent urination, vaginal discharge (thin, green or yellow), painful intercourse, lower abdominal or pelvic pain, heavy periods, bleeding between periods and bleeding after intercourse.

Other Symptoms

Symptoms that arise from infection in the rectum, eyes, throat, and joints in gonorrhea can develop in both men and women. In case of involvement of rectum anal itching, pain/discomfort in the rectum, pus-like discharge or bright red blood from the rectum may arise. If eyes are infected irritation/ pain in eyes, swelling, discharge from eyes tends to arise. In case of throat infection, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes in the neck arise. If joints get infected then pain, swelling, redness of joints appear.

Complications of Gonorrhea

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a complication in women if gonorrhea infection spread to the uterus or fallopian tubes. It can lead to infertility in females. In men complications of gonorrhea include epididymitis and infertility. Gonorrhea infection can also spread to joints, heart valves, brain, and spinal cord. A person having gonorrhea is more susceptible to infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that leads to AIDS.

At certain times bleeding from gums can arise from brushing the teeth in a harsh and rough manner. Wearing ill-fitting dentures and improper flossing can also lead to bleeding from gums. But bleeding from gums that appears frequently can be a sign of gum disease or something more serious. It is therefore important to identify the reason behind frequent bleeding from gums. Homeopathic medicines for bleeding gums help manage the swelling, pain, sensitivity, tenderness and pus discharge from the gums wherever present.    

The common gum diseases where bleeding from the gums can arise include gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (serious gum infection). Leukemia (blood cancer), thrombocytopenia (deficiency of cells that aid the clotting of blood) and hemophilia (a disorder in which blood doesn’t clot normally due to lack of blood-clotting proteins) are some of the serious causes of bleeding from the gums. Deficiency of vitamins including vitamin C or vitamin K may also lead to bleeding from gums. Bleeding from gums can also appear during pregnancy due to the sensitivity of the gums that arise from changes of hormones. Taking medicines that thin the blood may also lead to bleeding from the gums.

Homeopathic Medicines for Bleeding Gums

Homeopathy is very effective to manage cases of bleeding gums. Natural medicines for treating bleeding gums are of natural origin and are very safe to use. They aim to treat the root cause behind bleeding gums to ensure a good recovery. The top grade medicines that are highly beneficial to treat bleeding gums are Merc Sol, Kreosote, Hamamelis, Phosphorus, and Bovista.

1. Merc Sol – For Bleeding Gums in cases of Gum Infection/Inflammation (Gingivitis)

Merc Sol is a top grade medicine to treat bleeding from gums in cases of gum infection/inflammation (gingivitis). The gums are red, are swollen and very painful to touch in cases where Merc Sol is required. Swelling of the gums is most marked at night. A burning sensation is also felt in the gums with swelling and pain. The gums are spongy, receding and may be partly destroyed with the loosening of the teeth. A fetid, putrid odor from the mouth is prominent. Copious saliva is present in the mouth. Characteristic metallic taste in the mouth is also felt along with the above symptoms.

2. Kreosote – For Bleeding Gums from Inflammation

Kreosote is another well-indicated medicine for bleeding gums from gum inflammation (gingivitis). The gums are bluish red, soft, puffy, inflamed and may be ulcerated. Bleeding from gums is dark red and slightly coagulated. Toothache and decaying of the tooth may also be marked.

3. Hamamelis – To treat bleeding gums when blood is dark fluid

Hamamelis is prepared from fresh bark of twigs and root of a plant named Hamamelis Virginica or Hamamelis Dioica of the natural order Hamamelidaceae. Hamamelis is beneficial for bleeding from the gums when blood is dark fluid in nature. The gums are sore, swollen and spongy. They are also painful. Weakness and exhaustion might attend bleeding from gums in many cases needing Hamamelis.

4. Phosphorus – For Gums that Bleed upon Touch

Phosphorus offers help for bleeding from gums that appears from touching the gums even slightly. The bleeding from gums is profuse in nature. The teeth may get loose from the gums. Gums may be inflamed and ulcerated too. Phosphorus is also indicated for persistent bleeding that follows tooth extraction.

5. Bovista – For Cases of Easily Bleeding Gums

Bovista is a well-indicated medicine to manage the complaint of easily bleeding gums. A person needing Bovista tends to have frequent episodes of bleeding from the gums. Bleeding from gums occur often in them from sucking. The bleeding from gums may be marked at the night time in cases where Bovista is indicated. Bovista is also helpful for controlling bleeding that follows tooth extraction.

6. Silicea – For Gums that Ooze Blood and Pus due to Gum Infection

Silicea is a significant medicine for gums that ooze blood and pus due to gum infection. The gums are sore, inflamed and very sensitive in nature. Gums are painful to the slightest pressure. The looseness of the teeth may be present with the above symptoms. The tooth may be decayed with pain especially at the night time. Pain may be throbbing or tearing in nature.

7. Hepar Sulph – For Bleeding and Tender Gums

Hepar Sulph is helpful to treat cases of bleeding and tender gums. The pain and bleeding from the gums appear from slight touch. Throbbing type of pain is prominent in the gums. Ulcers also appear on the gums. Bitter taste in the mouth may be present.

8. Carbo Veg – For Bleeding Gums upon Cleaning Teeth

Carbo Veg is useful for cases of bleeding of gums arising on cleaning teeth. The gums are sensitive and painful. The pain in the gums is most felt while chewing. Gums may also be ulcerated. There may be an attending complaint of receding of gums and looseness of teeth in most cases needing Carbo Veg.

9. Natrum Mur – For Swollen Gums with Bleeding

Natrum Mur offers help for swollen gums with bleeding. Swelling of cheeks is also present. The gums are sensitive to both cold and warm things. Burning and smarting sensation in the gums especially while eating is felt. Painful ulcer on the gums may also be present that hurts day and night.

10. Calcarea Carb – For Bleeding Gums with Pulsating/Stitching Pain

Calcarea Carb is prominently indicated medicine for bleeding gums attended with pulsating / stitching pain in gums. The gums are swollen along with swelling of the cheeks. Foul odor from the mouth appears along with the above symptoms.

Fever blisters also known as cold sores are small blisters that appear on the lips or around the mouth from a viral infection. They are highly contagious in nature and are majorly by the herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1). Homeopathic medicines for fever blisters help in healing the eruptions and managing the attending symptoms of burning, itching, and pain. Homeopathic medicines for fever blisters help aid natural recovery.

The blisters spread by close direct contact with infected skin through kissing, or by sharing eating utensils, razors, lip balm, toothbrushes and towels of an infected person. After entering the body, this virus remains dormant and does not cause any symptoms immediately. But if a trigger activates the virus, like a low immune system, then fever blisters tend to develop. The number of outbreaks of fever blister may be just one without any recurrence or it may appear two to three times a year varying from person to person. The triggers that can reactivate the virus and cause blisters include stress, fatigue, depression, hormonal changes, prolonged sun exposure, and pregnancy.

Homeopathic Medicines for Fever Blisters

Homeopathy offers excellent treatment for fever blisters. It boosts the self-healing mechanism of the body to fight with the viral infection and ensure natural recovery in cases of fever blisters. The top grade medicines used to treat fever blisters include Natrum Mur, Rhus Tox, Apis Mellifica, Hepar Sulph and Nitric Acid. The medicine suitable to treat a given case of fever blisters is selected individually based upon the characteristic prominent symptom of the person.

1. Natrum Mur – Top Grade Medicine to treat Fever Blisters

Natrum Mur is a top grade medicine for treating fever blisters. In cases needing Natrum Mur small vesicles appear around the mouth. The blisters contain watery content and appear as pearls around the mouth. Tiny vesicles also appear on the upper lip. Smarting pain and burning may be there in the blisters. These vesicles rupture and get covered with a scab that leaves a red spot after falling off. Lips may be dry, sore and cracked. Swelling of upper lip may be present along with the above features.

2. Rhus Tox – For Blisters around the Mouth and on Chin

Rhus Tox is well indicated for fever blisters that appear around the mouth and on the chin. The blisters are present in clusters or group. They are filled with a watery substance. Sometimes yellow colored fluid is present in the vesicles. The margin of the vesicle is red. Vesicles are sore to touch. A biting sensation is present in the vesicles. Itching may be present in the vesicles with a desire to rub them with something rough.

3. Apis Mellifica – For Blisters with Stinging, Burning Pains

Apis Mellifica is wonderful medicine for fever blisters attended with stinging and burning pains. Vesicles are small and numerous where Apis Mellifica is needed. The vesicles may be covered with yellow crusts. Intense itching may also be felt in the vesicles.

4. Hepar Sulph – For Painful and Sensitive Fever Blisters

Hepar Sulph is next beneficial medicine for fever blisters. It is well indicated to treat fever blisters that are highly painful and sensitive to touch. A heated sensation is also felt in the corners of the mouth. In cases requiring Hepar Sulph, initially, a red spot with itching appears under the lower lip where blisters form afterward. Blisters are most times yellowish. Blisters may also form on chin where Hepar Sulph is indicated.

5. Nitric Acid – For Blisters on Lips with Stitching Pain

Nitric Acid is useful for fever blisters on lips with stitching pain. Stitching pain is like as from splinters. It is most felt when touching the lips. Lips may be swollen. The lip may be cracked and sore also.

6. Arsenic Album – For Blisters with Burning Sensation

Arsenic Album is useful for fever blisters with a prominent burning sensation. The blisters appear on the lips and around the mouth. The burning sensation is most worse at night time. Cold air exposure also worsens the burning.

7. Graphites – For Blisters Discharging Sticky Fluid

Graphites is indicated for fever blisters discharging sticky fluid. The fluid is transparent, watery in addition to being sticky and glutinous. The affected skin is also inflamed and swollen. The blisters can have violent itching and burning sometimes. Graphites is also indicated for fever blisters that are covered with scabs.

8. Merc Sol – For Blisters on Lips and Tongue/Gums

Merc Sol offers help in cases of fever blisters when vesicles form on lips and also on the tongue/gums. On the lips, the blisters may be covered with yellow crusts. The blisters on tongue and gums are attended with burning pain. In addition to above few symptoms that may be present for using Merc Sol includes painful gums, sore throat, and fever.

Signs and Symptoms of Fever Blisters

The main feature of the fever blisters is the appearance of tiny fluid-filled blisters on the lips or around the mouth. However, they may also develop on the nose, chin, cheeks and also on the tongue or gums in some cases. The blisters tend to appear in group or clusters. Before the formation of blisters itching, burning or tingling around the lips may be felt. The blisters lately tend to burst, ooze fluid and get covered with a crust. It usually takes around 2 to 4 weeks for the blisters to heal completely. In the case of outbreaks for first-time fever, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, and painful gums also tend to appear sometimes. Serious complications can arise from in cases of fever blisters. It can lead to meningitis/encephalitis if the infection spread to the brain and can cause visual problems if the infection spreads to the eyes.

A retinal migraine is a rare form of migraine in which a person experiences repeated attacks of short-lived visual disturbances like diminished vision/blindness or flashing lights in one eye. The visual disturbances are attended with a headache or are followed by a headache. Homeopathic medicines for retinal migraine are made of natural origin and aid in natural recovery without any side effects.                            

Homeopathic Medicines for Retinal Migraine

There is an excellent treatment for retinal migraine in homeopathy. With the use of homeopathy, the intensity and the frequency of episodes of retinal migraine attacks gradually starts to decrease. Medicines for retinal migraine are selected individually for every case based upon the prominent symptoms. The top remedies for retinal migraine are Natrum Mur, Gelsemium, Iris Versicolor, Kali Bichrome, Belladonna, Phosphorous, Cyclamen and Lac Defloratum.

1. Natrum Mur – Top Homeopathic Medicine for Retinal Migraine

Natrum Mur is a top listed medicine for treating retinal migraine. The person needing Natrum Mur suffer from episodes of blindness followed by a headache. They may also experience zig-zag dazzling, like lightning in eyes before the headache. Headache may be throbbing or hammering type and is marked in the forehead and top of the head. A burning sensation on the top of the head may be felt. Nausea and vomiting may also be present.

2. Gelsemium – When Blindness precedes a Headache

Gelsemium is prepared from the bark of the root of plant Gelsemium Sempervirens commonly known as Yellow Jasmine of the natural order Loganiaceae. Gelsemium is a well-indicated medicine for treating a retinal migraine when episodes of blindness precede the headache. Pain is most felt in the forehead and temples. Fullness in head appears and head feels as if enlarged in size. Heaviness in the head is also felt. Slight nausea, giddiness, and drowsiness appear with the headache. The pain tends to get better by shaking the head. Gelsemium is also indicated when dimness of vision comes with a headache. Worsening of headache from tobacco smoking may be present in cases requiring Gelsemium.

3. Iris Versicolor – For Blurring of Vision before a Headache

Iris Versicolor is prepared from the fresh root of a plant commonly known by the name of Blue Flag of the natural order Iridaceae. Iris Versicolor is beneficial for a blurring of vision prior to headache in cases of retinal migraine. Headache is throbbing or shooting in nature and mostly on the right side. Intense and constant nausea is a characteristic attending symptom to the headache. Sleeplessness from headache may also be present and exertion tends to aggravate the headache.

4. Kali bichrome – When Blurred Vision/blindness Appears before Headache

Kali bichrome is a prominently indicated medicine for retinal migraine when blurred vision or blindness appears before a headache. As the headache intensifies the vision becomes normal. During the headache, there is an aversion to light and noise along with a desire to lie down.

5. Belladonna – When Dimness of Vision Appears with Headache

Belladonna is prepared from a plant called Deadly Nightshade of the natural order Solanaceae. Belladonna is highly useful for retinal migraine when dimness of vision appear with a headache. Headache is majorly throbbing in nature and is marked in the temporal region. The face is red, flushed, congested during headache. Nausea and vomiting may accompany a headache. Light and noise make the headache worse. Pressure offers relief in headache.

6. Phosphorus – When Dimness of Vision Precedes Headache

Phosphorus is helpful for retinal migraine when dimness of vision precedes a headache. The pain in the head is mostly in the temple region and may be pulsating, shooting or boring type. Head and face feel congested and flashes of light before the eyes may also be noted in cases where Phosphorus is indicated.

7. Cyclamen – Where Flickering/flashes of Light before eyes Accompany Headache

Cyclamen is prepared from the root of a plant named Cyclamen Europaeum commonly known as Sow-bread of the natural order Primulaceae. Cyclamen works well in cases of retinal migraine where flickering/flashes of light before eyes arises with a headache. This is mostly experienced in the morning upon rising. Darting or boring pains in temples is felt. Headache with obscuration of vision is also indicative to use Cyclamen.

8. Lac Defloratum – When Blindness before/during Headache is relieved with a Tight Bandage

Lac Defloratum is helpful for retinal migraine with blindness before or attending a headache. The headache usually begins in the forehead and extends to the back of the head (occiput). It is mainly throbbing in nature. Nausea and vomiting may appear with a headache. The headache gets better by tying a tight bandage around the head.

Triggers for Retinal Migraines

Retinal migraines tend to appear from the constriction of blood vessels of eyes that reduces blood flow to eyes. When the blood vessel relax and blood flow resumes to normal then the visual symptoms disappear. Retinal migraines usually are not indicative of any serious problems within the eye and the chance of damage the retina from reduced blood flow is very rare. There are certain factors that tend to trigger retinal migraines. These include – smoking, tobacco use, stress, high blood pressure, use of birth control pills, exercise, dehydration, low sugar levels, too much caffeine, certain foods that contain nitrates and monosodium glutamate. Females are at more risk of retinal migraines as compared to males. People with a family history of retinal migraine and those having sickle cell disease, giant arteritis, lupus are also at risk to suffer from retinal migraines.

Symptoms of Retinal Migraines

The main symptom of a retinal migraine is a temporary change in the vision of one eye. This includes temporary loss of vision (blindness) in one eye, blurred vision, dim vision or twinkling/sparkling/flashes of lights. The visual symptoms tend to last from 10 minutes to 60 minutes. Next symptom is a headache that occurs during the phase of visual symptoms or after that. The headache typically affects one side of the head. Nausea often accompanies the headache. Headache may last from few hours to few days varying from case to case.

Blepharospasm is a type of focal dystonia characterized by twitching/spasm/ involuntary contraction of the eyelid muscles causing closure of the lids. Blepharospasm begins as increased blinking of eyes, or mild twitches or just as eye irritation. In some cases, fatigue, sensitivity to bright light, dry eyes, blurred vision may also be present. Homeopathic remedies for Blepharospasm help relax the muscles of eyelids and gradually reduce the frequency and intensity of eyelid twitching and spasms.    

With the progression of the condition, the eyelid muscles may spasm and make it difficult to open the eyes. The spasms are present when awake and disappear while sleeping. They may be reduced when concentrating on a specific task. In severe cases, the spasms can become so intense that it leads to closure/shutting of eyelids for long periods of time. Visual disturbance/periods of inability to see may arise due to an inability to open their eyelids.

Homeopathic Remedies for Blepharospasm

Homeopathy carries an excellent scope to treat twitching and spasms of eyelids. The top medicines to treat twitching, spasm of eyelids are Agaricus, Zincum Met, Physostigma, Euphrasia and Magnesia Phos.

1. Agaricus – Top Grade Medicine to Treat Blepharospasm

Agaricus tops the list of medicines for treating blepharospasm. Agaricus is indicated for twitching, jerking, quivering and spasms of the eyelids. The spasms are frequent where eyelids open and close numerous times a day. The twitching may be most worse while reading. Sensitivity to light may also be noted with above. Sometimes watering from eyes appears with spasms and twitching of eyelids.

2. Zincum Met – For Twitching of Eyelids

Zincum Met is a beneficial medicine for treating twitching of eyelids. Upper eyelids tend to feel heavy. Intense fatigue and weakness is a prominent attending feature. Zincum Met is a great nervous remedy and is also indicated for the treatment of facial twitches and tics in addition to twitching of eyelids.

3. Physostigma – For Twitching of Eyelids with Blurred Vision

Physostigma is prepared from the bean of a plant Physostigma venenosum commonly known as calabar bean of the natural order Leguminosae. Physostigma is helpful for cases of blepharospasm, twitching of eyelids attended with blurred vision. The contraction in lids makes it difficult to open the eyes. Pain in eyes from moving them may also appear in a few cases.

4. Euphrasia – For Photophobia attends Spasm of Lids

Euphrasia is prepared from a plant Euphrasia Officinalis commonly known by the name of eye-bright of the natural order Scrophulariaceae. Euphrasia is helpful for cases of blepharospasm when photophobia (sensitivity to light) attends spasm of lids. Euphrasia is also useful for twitching eyelids cases linked with pink eye/conjunctivitis. In such cases, redness, discharge, itching, grittiness in eyes is also prominent.

5. Magnesia Phos – Significant Medicine for Eyelid Spasm and Twitches

Magnesia Phos is another excellent medicine for treating eyelid spasm and twitches. Squinting may be present with this. Sensitivity to light, photophobia may also be present. Increased lachrymation, tired eyes and blurred vision are some other symptoms that may be present.

6. Codeinum – For Twitching Eyelids while Reading and Writing

Codeinum is a well-indicated medicine for eyelid twitching that appears while reading and writing. The twitching appears in both the eyelids in cases needing Codeinum. Rubbing eyelids may help to relieve the eye twitching.

7. Sulphur – For Blepharospasm Worse in Morning

Sulphur is a prominently indicated medicine for blepharospasm when it is worse in the morning time. The eyelids are drawn together from a spasm in morning hours. Attending blepharitis of chronic nature may be present where Sulphur is needed. In such cases itching, burning and a smarting in the eyelid margin with an inclination to rub it is marked.

8. Hepar Sulph – For Blepharospasm Worse in Evening and Night

Hepar Sulph is indicated for blepharospasm when it is worse in the evening and night. Eyelids are spasmodically closed. Eyelids may also be swollen and sensitive to touch. In day photophobia may be present.

9. Calcarea Carb – For Quivering, Twitching, Spasm of Eyelids

Calcarea Carb is a useful medicine for quivering, twitching, spasm of eyelids. The quivering and twitching is marked in the upper eyelid where Calcarea Carb is indicated. Heat or burning sensation in the eyelids may attend. Spasm of eyelid arises that may be attended with light sensitivity.

10. Merc Sol – For Severe Cases of Blepharospasm

Merc Sol is indicated for severe cases of blepharospasm. In cases requiring Merc Sol, the eyelids get into spasm and contracts intensely. The eyelids close and open with great difficulty. The eyelids may be sensitive to touch.

11. Belladonna – For Twitching Eyelids with Dry Eyes

Belladonna is prepared from the plant Deadly Nightshade of the natural order Solanaceae. Belladonna offers help for twitching eyelids attended with dry eyes. Heat in the eyes is also felt. Irritation and a gritty sensation in the eyes also appear.

Cause of Blepharospasm

The cause behind blepharospasm is still not clear. However, it is thought to arise due to the abnormal functioning of the basal ganglia. Genetics and heredity are also thought to play a role in the development of blepharospasm. Some of the risk factors for blepharospasm are head or facial trauma, family history of dystonia and medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Women are more likely to get blepharospasm as compared to men. Fatigue, bright light, stress, anxiety, wind, and air pollution tend to worsen the blepharospasm. Minor twitching of eyelids is frequently related to stress, fatigue, use of caffeine/tobacco and lack of sleep. But in certain cases, it can be related to blepharitis, dry eyes and conjunctivitis also. It can also be related to certain conditions that include Tourette’s syndrome, Bell’s palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and cervical dystonia.

Ingrown toenails (also known as onychocryptosis) refers to a condition where the side of a toenail grows into the surrounding soft skin around the nail fold. This growth causes pain, swelling, and tenderness in the corner of the nail. The most commonly affected part is the big toe, but ingrown toenails can develop on any foot. An ingrown toenail can reoccur if not treated properly. Homeopathic treatment of ingrown toenail involves stimulating the body’s natural restorative process to help ease the pain and symptoms associated with the condition. Unless treated adequately, the condition can become a recurring problem.   

Homeopathic Treatment of Ingrown Toenail

Homeopathic medicines for the treatment of ingrown toenails include Magnetis Polus Australis, Graphites Naturalis, Nitric Acid, Silicea and Myristica Sebifera.

1. Magnetis Polus Australis – For Ingrown Toenail with Pulsating Pain

Magnetis Polus Australis is the medicine indicated when there is an extreme pain in the ingrown toenail coupled with sharp, pulsating pain and intense soreness around the affected part.

2. Graphites Naturalis – For Ingrown Toenail in case of Thick Nails

Graphites commonly known as Black Lead Plumbago is derived from the crushed grain of purest black lead. This remedy was proved by the founder of homeopathy Dr. Samuel Hahnemann as a very effective remedy for skin complaints and ingrown toenails. Graphites Naturalis is a medicine that is used to treat ingrown toenails in cases where the nails are thick and rough.

3. Nitric Acid – For Ingrown Toenail with Splinter-like Sensation

Nitric acid is one of the popular remedy belonging to the mineral kingdom. This remedy is prepared by blending sodium nitrate and sulphuric acid. The use of Nitric Acid is indicated when the ingrown toenails cause a splinter-like sensation in the nail. The nails in such cases are curved, yellow or distorted.

4. Silicea and Myristica Sebifera – For Ingrown Toenail with Pus Discharge

Silicea commonly known as Pure flint is a leading homeopathic remedy of mineral kingdom and is derived from chemical compound silicon dioxide. The word Silica is originated from the Latin word Silex denoting Silicon Oxide. This remedy is well indicated for the ailments attended with pus formation. Myristica Sebifera is derived from Brazilian plant Ucuba belonging to the family Myristicaceae. This remedy is a great antiseptic and has great efficacy in treating ulcerative and suppurative conditions of cellular tissue and periosteum. Myristica Sebifera quickens the process of suppuration and shortens the period. This remedy is great in healing inflammatory and suppurative stages.
Silicea and Myristica Sebifera are the medicines indicated in cases of ingrown toenails when there is an infection with pus discharge in the affected nails. These medicines help relieve pain and clear up the discharge and are used widely for homeopathic treatment of ingrown toenail.

5. Teucrium Marum Verum – For Suppuration of Nail Groove

Teucrium Marum Verum is commonly known as Cat Thyme. Cat thyme plant belonging to the genus of the mint family is a very fragrant plant which is native of Spain and Western Mediterranean. This homeopathic remedy is prepared from freshly harvested part of the plant which is chopped gently and crushed. The final product is then macerated in alcohol. This homeopathic medicine helps in treating ingrown toenail successfully when accompanied by a suppurated toenail.

6. Hepar Sulphuris Calcareum – For Ingrown Toenail with Nail Infection

Hepar sulphuris calcareum commonly known as calcium Sulphide is a remedy prepared from oyster shells.
This remedy is usually indicated when ingrown toenail is followed by toenail infection. There is severe splinter-like pain in the affected area. It also helps to hasten the suppuration and shorten the period. When pus discharged is thick, yellow and offensive this remedy is best indicated.

Side Effects of Conventional Treatment

The conventional treatment for an ingrown toenail employs the use of oral antibiotics like erythromycin, cephalexin in the treatment of ingrown nail caused due to cellulitis or nail infections. The most common listed side effect of these antibiotics are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, vaginal itching, headache, rash.

Surgical options include wedge resection, matrixectomy, and Vandenbos procedure. These surgical interventions can definitely help you to get rid of ingrown nail immediately but there are chances for it to reoccur as well. During these surgeries usually, a tourniquet is used on the toe and a deep incision is made which often requires stitching and scar formation. Hence these procedures are quite invasive and painful. Treatment of ingrown toenail in homeopathy involves the use of certain homeopathic medicines that help reduce the pain, swelling, and tenderness around the skin surrounding the toenail. These medicines also help clear off pus discharges in case of Ingrown nails. As they are developed from natural substances, they are safe and show no side effects.

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Factors predisposing a person towards developing ingrown toenails include wearing tight or ill-fitted footwear, trimming of the toenails either by cutting the nails too short or leaving the edges sharp, injury to the toenail, naturally curved toenails, genetic susceptibility, nail plate trauma which usually occur by dropping objects on the toenail or stubbing the toenail. Other causes can include using feet extensively during athletic activities (ballet, football, kickboxing ) in which repeatedly kicking of object or pressure on feet for long periods is involved can cause protrusion of the toenail which can lead to the injury of surrounding flesh resulting in an ingrown nail. Abnormally shaped nail bed, nail deformities caused by diseases or genetic susceptibility and improper foot hygiene such as not keeping feet clean or dry are other factors.

Risk Factors

Risk factors that may predispose the person to develop an ingrown nail are obesity, diabetes, kidney, thyroid and heart problems (which may cause foot and leg swelling), onychomycosis i.e fungal infection of nails, bony or soft tissue tumors of toes, hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating of feet), too small or too large shoe gear, abnormal gait and poor foot mechanics such as pronation, toe or foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes and flat foot, congenital toenail deformity abnormally long toes.

Signs and Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Surrounding skin of the affected nail is painful, swollen and red and the affected part is usually tender. An infection may develop in the tissue surrounding the nail, leading to yellow or white pus discharge. The big toe gets affected in a majority of cases, either on one or both the feet.
Overgrowth of skin around the toe is common.

Complications

An untreated ingrown nail can cause a nail infection which can further progress to a foot ulcer, open sores, loss of blood flow to the infected area, scarring of surrounding skin and nail borders.
An ingrown nail can also progress to tissue decay and tissue death at the site of infection (cellulitis).
Diabetes can complicate ingrown nail as even small cut, scrape may quickly become infected due to lack of blood flow and nerve sensitivity.
Toenail infection due to the ingrown nail can progress to the bone causing infection (osteomyelitis).
Lichen planus can also be one of the complications for ingrown nail as in about 10 percent of cases it causes ridging, grooving, splitting and thinning of nails.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ingrown nail requires taking into account all possible causative factors and medical history.
An ingrown toenail can also be diagnosed with X-ray to show how deep the nail has grown into the skin.
X-Ray can also identify ingrown nail which was caused by injury.

Management of Ingrown Toenail

Some natural ways to treat ingrown nails may include:

1. Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water 2-3 times a day helps in keeping the area clean and free of bacteria. This can be very beneficial in softening the skin of the affected area, which can make it easier to draw out the toenail from the skin.
2. Direct application of apple cider vinegar diluted with purified water or foot soak in warm water with a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar can help in conditioning ingrown nails to fight bacteria.
3. Avoiding heels, tight shoes and wearing comfortable footwear can reduce down the pressure on the affected area. This can promote fast healing of the affected area.
4. Use of Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil can provide natural pain relief from an ingrown nail by ultimately giving affected area a healthy environment to heal.This may also help in remarkable reduction of inflammation.