Search Results for: Blood Pressure

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Homeopathic Treatment for Sprained Ankle

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

What is a Sprained Ankle?

A sprain refers to twisting, overstretching, wringing or tearing of ligaments. A ligament is a tough fibrous tissue band that connects two bones in a joint and stabilizes the joint. Of all the joints in the body, the ankle joint is the most prone to sprains. A sprained ankle is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. The ankle connects the foot to the lower end of the leg. Three bones (tibia, fibula and talus), many tendons, ligaments, and muscles collectively form the ankle joint.

Homeopathic Treatment For Sprained Ankle

Homeopathic treatment for sprained ankle involves internal healing. These medicines help to heal the torn ligaments and promote complete recovery. They are also administered to help reduce pain and swelling in the ankle. Homeopathy can also treat chronic cases of sprain. Homeopathic medicines are recommended for mild to moderate cases of ankle sprains. In severe cases involving complete tearing of ligaments, it is advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Sprained Ankle

The highly recommended homeopathic medicines for sprained ankle include Arnica Montana, Ruta Graveolens, Rhus Tox, Ledum Pal and Bellis Perennis.

1. Arnica Montana – First Line Of Treatment In Sprained Ankle

This natural remedy sourced from plant ‘leopard’s bane’ should be used as the first remedy to treat a sprained ankle. This medicine helps to relieve pain and soreness in ankle. Along with this it also works in reducing swelling and redness.  Lastly, it helps to heal bruised (blackish/bluish discoloration from damaged blood vessels under skin) ankle joint.

When and How to use Arnica Montana?

In case of sprained ankle, Arnica should be given in the first place to reduce pain and swelling. Arnica 30C can be used three to four times with a three-hour gap.

2. Ruta Graveolens – For Ligament Healing And Managing Pain & Swelling

Ruta prepared from plant ‘garden rue’ has a magnificent action on ligaments. This medicine helps in healing injured ligaments. It helps to bring pain relief and reduce swelling of ankle. In cases where ankle joint has become weak and lameness (unable to walk correctly due to injury) is experienced, this medicine can prove very effective.

When and How to use Ruta Graveolens?

This medicine should be given in every case of sprained ankle. This medicine works two ways – it helps to promote ligament healing and alleviate pain, and reduce swelling of ankles. After taking few doses of Arnica 30, one may start Ruta 30C. This medicine should be used about three to four times a day. When relief sets in,  one may reduce the dosage.

3. Rhus Tox – To Relieve Ankle Stiffness

It is another top-listed medicine having prominent action on ligaments. It is well indicated to manage stiffness of ankle joint. It also manages pain and lessens swelling of ankle. Rhus Tox can also be considered in cases of arthritis (joint inflammation) of ankle that may occur as a complication of sprained ankle.

When and How to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox should be used in cases having stiffness in ankle along with pain and swelling. Though it can be used in different potencies, for ankle sprains it is recommended to take it in 30C potency. Rhus Tox 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day as per intensity of symptoms.

4. Ledum Palustre – For Ankle Pain On Stepping

This natural medicine is sourced from plant ‘wild rosemary’. It offers the best help when there is intolerable pain in ankle on stepping (putting pressure on feet to walk). There is marked swelling on the ankle. Also recommended for persons who have a tendency of repeated spraining of ankles, this medicine strengthens ligaments to prevent frequent spraining .

When and How to use Ledum Palustre?

Those who feel ankle pain while stepping up or down due to a sprained ankle should go with this medicine. Ledum Palsutre 30 C can be taken two or three times a day for good results.

 5. Bellis Perennis – To Reduce Intense Soreness

Bellis Perennis is prepared from plant ‘english daisy’. It has remarkable action on ligaments. It is highly effective in cases having intense soreness (pain in the affected area on touching) in cases of sprains. In cases needing it, contracted sensation as from an elastic band around the sprained joint is felt as well.

When and How to use Bellis Perennis?

In cases of sprained ankle, this medicine should be considered to reduce intense soreness at the ankle joint. Bellis Perennis 30C can be used two to three times a day initially. When soreness decreases you may reduce its dosage.

Note  One may use the above homeopathic medicines for about one to two weeks in case of mild to moderate ankle sprain cases. If symptoms persist, consult homeopathic physician for further evaluation and prescription.

 What are the Reasons and Risk Factors that Lead to a Sprained Ankle?

Overstretching of the ankle ligaments far beyond their normal range of motion is the primary cause of a sprain. The ligament may be partially or entirely torn according to extent of injury. Walking on uneven ground, a mis-step; playing sports like football, soccer, and tennis; wearing high-heeled shoes, a fall or accidentally stepping on someone’s ankle while running or playing, are some risk factors.

Are there Different Types Of Ankle Sprains?

There are two different types of ankle sprains – ‘inversion ankle sprain’ and ‘eversion ankle sprain.’

1. In inversion type of ankle sprain, the foot gets twisted inwards while the outer ligaments are stretched too far, resulting in pain on outer side of ankle.

2. In eversion type of ankle sprain, the foot gets twisted outwards. This causes the inner ligament to stretch too far and causes pain on the inner side of the ankle.

What Are The Grades/Degrees Of Sprained Ankle?

There are three grades of sprained ankles depending on the amount of damage that the ligaments have suffered.

Grade 1: A mild ankle sprain where the ligament gets stretched but not torn, causing mild pain, swelling and stiffness around the ankle.

Grade 2: A moderate sprain where there is partial tearing of the ligament, causing moderate pain and swelling

Grade 3: A severe sprain wherein the ligament gets completely torn, resulting in intense pain and excessive swelling with loss of motion.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Sprained Ankle?

The main symptom of a sprained ankle is pain and tenderness of the ankle joint. There is pain in the ankle when weight is borne by the foot, besides swelling. Bruising (black or blue discoloration due to bleeding under skin from damaged blood vessels) on ankle joint may be seen. Walking becomes difficult as the range of movement at the ankle joint becomes restricted.

Complications Of Sprained Ankle

In some cases, complications may arise if ankle sprain is not treated adequately on time or if certain physical  activities (like excessive walking, jumping, and running) are started before complete healing of ligaments, or ankle is sprained more than once. These can lead to ankle joint instability, long-term ankle pain and arthritis (joint inflammation) of ankle joint.

How much time does it take for an ankle sprain to heal?

It depends on the grade of ankle sprain. Grade 1 sprain usually heals within three to five weeks’ time. Healing time of grade 2 sprain varies between four to six weeks. Grade 3 sprain may take several months (approximately three to six) to heal.

Management Tips For Ankle Sprain

1. Take rest to keep off stress and pressure on ankle

2. Ice application to reduce swelling, redness and warmth

3. Elevation of ankle above heart level to control swelling

4. Bandaging ankle to immobilize the ankle and reduce swelling

Tips to prevent ankle sprain

1. Wear properly fitted shoes and limit use of high-heel shoes

2. Be very careful while walking or running on uneven surfaces

3. Warm up and stretch before exercise or sports activities

4. Exercise regularly to maintain good muscle strength

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

10 Homeopathic Medicines for Fungal Infection

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 936 Comments

Homeopathic Medicine for Fungal Infection

Fungi are surprisingly diverse microorganisms. While we eat them in the form of mushrooms and bake our daily bread with them, certain strains of fungus can cause infections and disease in the human body. An infection caused by a fungus is known as a fungal infection. Fungi are present in soil, air, water and some of them are even found naturally in the human body. The introduction of an infectious type of fungus can cause infections like ringworm, athlete’s foot, or thrush infection. 

Homeopathic Treatment for Fungal Infection

Homeopathic medicines for fungal infection work by restoring the natural healing processes that help fight fungal infections. Homeopathy helps heal rashes and reduce symptoms like itching, burning, discharges, and pain.

Homeopathic Medicines For Fungal Infections

The top remedies to deal with fungal infection are  Sepia, Tellurium, Graphites, Sulphur, Silicea, Thuja, Antimonium Crudum, Bacillinum, Borax and Pulsatilla.

1. Sepia – Top Remedy For Fungal Infection Ringworm

Sepia tops the list of homeopathic medicine when it comes to treating fungal infections esepcially ringworm of skin (tinea corporis). Circular, ring-shaped lesions on the skin in isolated spots is the key feature to use it. This can be attended with itching and burning when scratched, and increased sweating. Ringworm, if appears in spring season specifically, then Sepia is the right choice of medicine.

When and How to use Sepia?

Use of Sepia is applicable in ringworm infection with isolated ring-shaped lesions. This medicine is available in different potencies from low to high which is chosen individually for every case as per case intensity. In the beginning, its 30C potency is safe to start with. Sepia 30C can be used once or twice a day as per severity of the complaint. For switching to high potencies like 200C or 1M, consider prior consultation with homeopathic expert.

2. Tellurium – For Ringworm With Multiple Rings Connected Together

Tellurium is also a major medicine for ringworm infection. It is prescribed for cases where multiple ring-shaped lesions are joined together forming intersecting rings crowded over each other. The lesions are elevated and spread across the whole body. Sometimes mild scaling covers these lesions. In few cases vesicles (tiny fluid- filled bumps) over the rings may appear, attended with a heated sensation on the skin.

When and How to use Tellurium?

This medicine can be given when a case presents with numerous ring-shaped lesions on skin joined together. Initially, it is advised to start with Tellurium 30C once or twice a day. In case no changes occur, Tellurium 200C can be taken once a day.

3. Graphites – For Fungal Infection With Rash Between Skin Folds

Graphites is highly effective for fungal infections that affect skin folds. It can be used when rash occurs in groins (crease formed at junction of abdomen and thigh), bends of limbs (like behind knees, elbow bend), neck fold, behind ears and between toes. The affected area is red, sore and painful. In some cases, a characteristic watery, sticky discharge may ooze out from the affected parts. It is also helpful when cracks develop in skin folds. There is intense itching in the affected area which gets aggravated at night. It is also very useful for cases of Tinea Cruris or Jock’s itch presenting with rash in groin area.

When and How to use Graphites?

Use of this medicine is highly recommended when there is fungal infection causing rash between folds. Additionally, it is the most effective if cracks appear in the folds and watery sticky fluid oozes from the affected skin area. Start with Graphites 3X one tablet once a day in mild cases and one tablet twice a day in case of moderate intensity. 3X is its lowest potency and higher potencies are also available like 30C, 200C, 1M, but avoid using higher potencies without physician’s guidance.

4. Sulphur – For Fungal Infection With Marked Itching, Burning

Sulphur is a highly effective medicine to manage itching and burning on a skin rash. In cases needing it, the affected portion is dry and scaly along with itching which gets worse at night. Washing also makes it worse. Burning sensation is felt on the skin after scratching. The affected portion is painful and sensitive to touch.

When and How to use Sulphur?

This medicine can be used in those cases in which there is marked itching and burning. Though it can be used in different potencies, 30C potency is most frequently recommended. For mild cases, Sulphur 30C should be used once or twice a week. If itching and burning are moderate to severe, one may use Sulphur 30C once a day. Avoid using it more than once a day. It is a strong medicine, so do not self – medicate with its high potencies in any case.

5. Silicea –  For Fungal Infection on Feet: Athlete’s Foot ( Tinea pedis)

Silicea is the best prescription for cases of fungal infection of feet. In cases needing it, there is rawness and soreness in the affected part, along with cracked skin in between toes. Peeling of skin also occurs. There is itching and pain in the affected area. Excessive sweating having fetid odour is felt on the feet, with blisters in severe cases.

When and How to use Silicea?

Anyone who has a fungal infection on feet can go ahead with this medicine. It will heal the skin lesions and provide relief in pain and control further progression of complaint. Silicea 6X – 4 tablets three to four times a day is the optimal dose to start with.

6. Bacillinum – For Ringworm And Tinea Versicolor

Bacillinum is another prominent medicine indicated for treating fungal infections. Firstly, it is very beneficial for cases of ringworm. Apart from treating acute ringworm cases, this medicine also helps to control the tendency for ringworm infection occurring time and time again. Secondly, this medicine is well indicated to treat cases of tinea versicolor in which skin pigmentation is affected resulting in discolored patches on the skin.

When and How to use Bacillinum?

This medicine can be given in cases of ringworm as well as tinea versicolor. Use of this medicine is usually recommended in 30C potency (should never be used below this power). This medicine is used in infrequent doses. Just one dose a week of Bacillinum 30C is suggested in any case. Wait to see the changes for about one week after taking its one dose. Do not rush into repeating the medicine before the recommended one-week time.

7. Thuja – For Fungal Infections in Beard and Moustache Area ( Tinea barbae)

Thuja is a natural medicine sourced from plant Arbor Vitae.  It is highly suitable for fungal infections that appear as ringworms in the beard, moustache and neck area. Persons needing it may have pimples (small red eruptions) or hard nodes in affected areas. Itching and burning may worsen upon cold washing.

When and How to Use Thuja?

This medicine is apt for cases of fungal infection in beard and moustache. Start with Thuja 30C once a day only. In case no changes are evident after 30C potency, then its higher potencies can be considered for which a homeopath’s advice is essential.

8. Antimonium Crudum – For Nail Fungus (Onychomycosis / Tinea Unguium)

Antimonium Crudum is a highly ranked medicine to treat nail fungus. It works well for discolored, brittle nails that break off easily. Nails are distorted and grow out of shape, sometimes there may be pain in nails.

When and How to use Antimonium Crudum?

Antimonium Crudum should be used as the first remedy when it comes to treat nail fungus. It will improve discoloration, help to strengthen the nail and gradually eliminates the infection. From its different potencies, 30C potency is the right choice to start with the treatment that can be taken twice a day.

9. Borax – For Fungal Infections In The Mouth (Oral Thrush)

Borax is a chief medicine to treat fungal / yeast infections that occur in the mouth. Signs and symptoms to look for to its use are whitish patchy growths in the mouth and tongue that are tender and sore, along with redness in the mouth. Besides, bitter taste and dry mouth attends to it.

When and How to use Borax?

Borax is an incomparable medicine when it comes to treat fungal infection in mouth. It can be used when white fungal patches appear in the mouth that are tender. It is used in different potencies varying from case to case. When using it in 30C potency, it can be taken twice a day. While in 200C potency, dose should be limited to just once a day.

10. Pulsatilla – For Vaginal Candidiasis

Pulsatilla is a natural medicine for treating fungal infections in vagina – vaginal candidiasis.  This medicine is used when there occurs thick white, milky or cream like vaginal discharge. The discharge cause burning and irritation in vagina. Itching is also felt in vagina. The discharge gets worse after menses.

When and How to use Pulsatilla? 

This medicine can be given in fungal infection of vagina with white coloured vaginal discharge. Pulsatilla 30C can be taken twice a day,  and when symptoms are intense even thrice a day.

Note  One may use these medicines only in the recommended doses for about 3 to 4 weeks. If in this time span no changes are seen in skin condition, then kindly consult a homeopathic doctor for further action.

Causes Behind Fungal Infections

A fungal infection is caused by microorganisms like Tinea, Dermatophytes, Candida albicans, yeast, etc.

Fungal infections can occur in two ways.

1. Harmful fungi enter the body through direct contact with an infected person or an infected animal or soil contaminated with fungi. It can also spread by using an object infected with fungi, like clothes, combs, towels and bed sheets.

2. It occurs when there is excessive multiplication of the fungi normally present in the body in a small amount. The growth of fungi present naturally in the body is kept under control by the immune system. When excessive multiplication of fungi occurs under certain circumstances due to a weak immune system, it results in an infection.

Signs And Symptoms Of Fungal Infections

The signs and symptoms depend on type of fungal infection but some frequently noted symptoms common in most fungal types are redness in affected area, irritation or itching, burning sensation, cracked or peeled skin. Scaling on skin and blisters (fluid- filled eruptions) may also be noted.

Word Of Caution On Antifungal Creams

Homeopathy creams for fungal infections are popular as topical ointments to ease symptoms like itching, but their effectiveness in treating the problem is not proven. Since homeopathy is the science of internal medicine that works holistically with the body, at DrHomeo we do not advocate the use of topical medicines for treatment. Ointments like natural anti-fungal cream for yeast infection or homeopathic cream for jock itch are widely available, but they do little in terms of treating the root cause of the problem internally.

Which skin areas can be affected by fungal rash?

Although fungal rash may arise anywhere on the skin, the most-affected areas are folds of skin, like behind knees, bend of elbows, groin, under-breast area, etc.

Risk Factors For Fungal Infection

Though anyone can contract a fungal infection but certain factors predispose a person.

1.Warm, damp, humid environment: Dampness, moisture and humidity – these three conditions are enough for fungi to flourish.

2. Weak immune system: A healthy immune system keeps a check on the excessive growth of fungi naturally present in the body. If immunity drops, fungi get an opportunity to overgrow resulting in an infection. Diseases that decrease immunity, medicines that suppress the immune system and stress that weakens immunity increase the risk of fungal infections. People with HIV deal with a weakened immunity that can give rise to opportunistic diseases.

3. Heavy sweating provides a favorable environment for fungal growth

4. Diabetes Mellitus: A hyperglycemic (high in glucose) environment favors immune dysfunction that gives fungi a chance to overgrow.

5. Sharing personal things like clothing, bed sheets, towels, combs, shaving razors, etc. with an infected person.

6. Obesity: In obese people, the skin folds tend to trap excessive moisture, which can promote fungal growth.

7. Use of certain medicines: Corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy drugs reduce the body’s immunity. Antibiotics prescribed to kill harmful bacteria affect the useful bacteria in the body. These good bacteria help keep fungal growth in check as a result of inter-related factors. When the concentration of good bacteria decreases, the fungi get an opportunity to grow in excess, leading to fungal infections.

Types of Fungal Infections

A. Ringworms (Tinea infection): It is not caused by a worm but is named so as it causes ring-shaped lesions on the skin.

Cause: Fungi of the genera Trichophyton, and epidermophyton.

Spread: Direct skin to skin contact with infected person.

Signs and symptoms: Red, circular ring-shaped patches on the skin along with itching.

Tinea infection can develop on different parts of the body and has different names as per the part affected. These are given below:

1. Tinea Cruris: Ringworm infection on skin in groin area.

Mode of spread: from direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or through use of fungus- infected objects like towels, clothes, etc.
Signs and symptoms: Red rash on the groin area, inner thighs, genitals, and buttocks. Small blisters may appear along the margins of the rash. Itching, pain and burning in the lesions along with flakiness and cracks may also be present.

 2. Tinea Pedis/Athlete’s Foot: It affects feet, especially the area between toes

Mode of Spread: Sharing of shoes/socks of an infected person or taking shower barefoot. Wearing tightly fitted shoes and excessive sweating on the feet increase the risk.

Signs and symptoms: Rawness, cracking, peeling of skin area on feet; blisters; burning, stinging, itching in the lesions can attend.

3. Tinea capitis: This ringworm infection affects the scalp.

Spread: Direct contact with an infected person or from using objects like caps, combs, hair brushes, pillows carrying ringworm infection.
Signs and Symptoms: Red, itchy patches on the scalp; pustules, crusty eruptions on the scalp along with discharge; heavily tangled hair. The scalp also feels painful, and brittle hair or bald patches on the scalp may also be present.

4. Tinea unguium (Onychomycosis): Nail Fungus commonly affecting toenails

Mode of Spread: Mostly contracted through use of communal showers (group of single showers in a sinlge room or common area) and swimming pools, foot tubs, filers and other tools contaminated by fungi.
Signs and symptoms: Thick nails, whitish/grayish, yellowish – brownish discoloration of nails, brittle/ crumbled/ distorted nails, breaking of the nails and pain that gets worse by pressure or wearing shoes.

 5. Tinea Barbae: Ringworm infection of the beard, mustache area of the face and the neck.

Mode of Spread: Sharing personal articles like shaving razors, towel of an infected person, etc.

Signs and Symptoms: Pimples, pustules, swelling, and redness of the infected area. Oozing of fluid, pus or blood, itching and pain in the lesions and crusting of the infected area may be present.

6. Tinea Corporis– Ringworm on the body

Spread: Direct contact with an infected person or pet animal; sharing objects like clothing or bed sheets can also spread the infection.

Signs and symptoms: Ring-shaped or circular shaped lesions on skin—skin in the middle of the rash is clear and healthy-looking. The rash is itchy, and blisters can appear at the edges of the lesion. In some cases, the ring-shaped lesions multiply and merge.

B. Tinea Versicolor also named Pityriasis Versicolor

This type of fungal infection occurs when fungus malassezia grows extensively on the skin. Discolored patches appear on skin that may be light or dark, as compared to the surrounding skin. Mild itching and scaling can occur too. The main affected areas are chest, back, shoulders, neck and upper arms.

 C. Candida Infection

Candida Albicans is a type of fungi present in the human body in a small amount. The fungus only causes a problem when it multiplies and increases in number. The infection caused by this fungi is known as candidiasis.

Some of the most common Candida fungi infections include:

 1. Oral Thrush: An oral thrush is an infection of Candida Albicans inside the mouth or on the tongue. Its commonly seen in infants, older adults and people with low immunity.

Signs and Symptoms: White, creamy or yellow patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, roof of the mouth, tonsils, and gums. There may be redness, burning, soreness, and pain in the mouth, cracks at the corners of the mouth and a bad taste in the mouth. Swallowing can become painful if infection spreads to the throat. Infants can become irritable and have difficulty in feeding, if infected.

2. Vaginal Candidiasis – Vaginal candidiasis is also more commonly known as a vaginal yeast infection. It is caused by the fungi candida, which is normally present in the vagina in a small amount. It causes vaginal candidiasis when it grows to an abnormal amount.
The infection tends to develop as a result of a weak immune system, intake of oral contraceptive pills, uncontrolled diabetes and use of extensive antibiotics.
Symptoms: Itching, burning, irritation, redness, and swelling in the vagina along with a thick white discharge (which looks like cottage cheese). A burning sensation in the vagina during intercourse and urination is also present.

 3. Diaper rash: A red rash that develops on the buttocks of a baby due to overuse of diapers is known as diaper rash. There are many reasons for a diaper rash, but a candida infection is one of the most common reasons. The warm and moist areas between a diaper and a baby’s skin serve as a favourable environment for the growth of fungi.
The symptoms of a diaper rash include a raised rash on the skin of the buttocks. It can also develop on the thighs and genital area. The rash is painful and tender to touch which makes the child irritable, and gets worse on washing. Other skin eruptions like pimples, blisters or pustules can also appear on the rash.

Tips To Manage Fungal Infections On Skin

Avoid sharing other person’s towels, objects like combs, brushes, blankets

Avoid walking barefoot in locker rooms or other public places

Avoid wearing tight and synthetic clothes

Keep the affected area dry and clean

Try losing weight, if overweight

Blood sugar levels should be checked and maintained regularly

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Berberis Vulgaris: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indication And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Berberis Vulgaris is derived from barberry plant which belongs to family berberidaceae. The bark of root of this plant undergoes potentization (process to prepare homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal powers of a crude substance) to prepare homeopathic medicine Berberis Vulgaris. It is a renowned medicine in homeopathy to treat kidney disorders, especially kidney stones.

The ‘Berberis Vulgaris’ Constitution

This medicine is highly suitable for persons who suffer from kidney or bladder issues. It also suits persons who feel tired all the time and become prematurely old. Lastly, persons having long-term joint inflammation due to high uric acid level find this medicine very useful.

Drug Action

This medicine has widespread action on urinary organs. Its action is well marked on joints, liver and skin. Lastly, it acts well on male and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Kidney stones, kidney pain, kidney disorders, bladder disorders, nephritis (kidney inflammation), cystitis (bladder inflammation), haematuria (blood in urine), arthritis (joint inflammation), eczema, gallstones, itching, liver disorders, back pain, painful menses, vaginismus, vaginal discharges

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Urinary Issues (Kidney Stones, Kidney Pain, Cystitis)

The foremost action of this medicine is seen on urinary organs. It is one of the best homeopathic medicines to treat numerous urinary issues among which kidney stones is the most prominent. It is highly recommended as the first line of treatment in kidney stone treatment. It helps dissolve kidney stones and relieves pain arising from kidney stones. Berberis Vulgaris is an important medicine for treating shooting pain in kidneys that reaches the bladder. Burning sensation, bubbling sensation or pressive pain is felt in area around kidneys which is sore and sensitive to touch. Any jarring motion or jumping worsens the pain. Other than kidney stones and pain, Berberis Vulgaris can be given in cases of cystitis (bladder inflammation). Urination is difficult and painful along with increase in frequency. During and after urination, cutting and burning pain is felt. There is constant urge to urinate, however urine output is scanty. A feeling of some quantity of urine remaining behind is experienced after urinating. Thick mucus may pass in the urine. Sandy or slimy sediments may pass in urine. Its role in managing cases of haematuria (blood in urine) is worth mentioning.

Key indicating features

To dissolve kidney stones

Shooting pain which spreads from kidney to the bladder

Cystitis with painful and frequent urination, with cutting and burning pains

2. Back (Backache)

This medicine works well for managing backache. In cases needing it, back pain becomes worse on sitting or lying down. There is bruised pain in the lower back with stiffness and difficulty in rising from the seat. A sensation of having been beaten in the lower back is felt. Tension in the lower back with numbness, warmth, stiffness and lameness (unable to walk correctly) are the other accompanying symptoms. It may extend down the lower limbs. Tearing, burning or pressing pain may occur too. Berberis Vulgaris is also beneficial for managing lower back pain during menses. Next indication to use it is sharp pulsating pain in sacrum (triangular bone in lower back). It is a well-indicated medicine for pain in the lower back after surgery.

Key indicating features

Back pain worse while sitting or lying down

Tension in lower back with numbness, warmth, stiffness and lameness

Sharp pulsating pain in sacrum

3. Limbs (Joint Pains)

With its action on limbs, Berberis Vulgaris mainly helps in relieving pain in the joints. Among joints, it offers help to relieve knee joint pain wonderfully. There is stinging type of pain in the knee joint mostly on inner side. It worsens from walking. Knee feels lame, tired and bruised. Knee is swollen, stiff and sore as well. There is tension in the bend of knee. Berberis is a prominent medicine for toe joint pain. It gives good results when there is stitching pain in the toes. Pain is most marked in the big toe. Burning and crawling feeling, pricking pain and soreness is felt in the toes. One may also find Berberis helpful in alleviating shoulder joint pain. A person recovers from tearing, stinging or throbbing pain in the shoulder which gets worse with movement and applying pressure with this medicine. This medicine is useful for elbow pain. It can be given for tearing, drawing or stinging pain in the elbow. The pain can extend to the hand from the elbow, along with heaviness. Another characteristic for its use is heel pain which is of tearing, stinging type and felt when stepping up or down, and walking. Ulcerated pain in the heel is felt while standing.

Key indicating features

Stinging pain in the knee joint on inner side, gets worse while walking

Stitching pain in the toes

Shoulder pain gets worse from movement and pressure

Heel pain of tearing, stinging type while stepping and walking

4. Male Problems (Pain In Testes, Genital Itching)

Action of Berberis Vulgaris is also noted on the male genitals. This medicine can help to relieve pain in the testes which may be  stitching/ constricting/ smarting/ cutting/  stinging/ pressing or burning type. This medicine also relieves pain in the spermatic cord which is smarting/burning/ piercing in nature. This medicine can help to manage itching on the scrotum as well. Another main indication for its use is suppressed sexual desire. Besides these, it works well in cases of premature ejaculation. Crawling, stinging, itching in the genitals can also be well managed with Berberis Vulgaris.

Key indicating features

Stitching, constricting, smarting, cutting, stinging, pressing or burning pain in the testes

Crawling sensation, stinging pain, itching in the genitals

5. Female Problems (Painful Menses, Leucorrhoea, Vaginismus)

There are some female problems that this medicine can treat wonderfully. First among these is painful menses (dysmenorrhoea). There is marked pain in the genitals. There is greyish blood discharge during periods. Berberis Vulgaris can be used for painful menses with pain in the kidneys radiating down the thighs. The periods are scanty and black in colour. Next it helps cases of vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea) when there is discharge of greyish mucus accompanied with painful urination. Vaginismus (involuntary contraction of vaginal muscles when something tries to enter it) cases can also be treated well with it. Lastly it is indicated for cases of suppressed sexual desire or low sexual desire.

Key indicating features

Pain in kidney down the thighs during menses

Vaginal discharge of greyish mucus

6. Liver Complaints (Liver Pain)

With its action on liver, Berberis is useful in managing liver pain. This can successfully handle cases of aching, stabbing, sticking, pressive or shooting pain in the liver. The pain gets worse if affected area is pressed. It is also well indicated for gallstones treatment. It can relieve pain in case of gall stones.

Key indicating features

Aching, stabbing, sticking, pressive or shooting pain in the liver

Gallstones with marked pain

7. Skin Issues (Itching, Eczema, Pigmentation, Warts)

Berberis Vulgaris acts wonderfully on skin. Here it gives good result in cases of skin itching. Along with this, burning and pricking sensation is felt on skin. Scratching worsens these complaints, while cold application offers relief. This medicine can be given for treating skin pigmentation that occurs in circumscribed spots (patches). Its use is also considered in eczema of anus and hands particularly. Lastly, it can treat flat warts.

Key indicating features

Skin itching and burning worse from scratching

Skin pigmentation in circumscribed spots

Eczema particularly of anus and hands

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from movement, rising up from seat, during urination, from jarring, standing and deep pressure

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in open air and after urinating

Dosage

This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. But the most preferred is mother tincture (Q) form. In Q potency, 5 to 7 drops of this medicine dissolved in half a cup of water can be taken two to three times a day. Caution is required to use it in high potency frequently which is generally not recommended.

Relationship With Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor and Belladonna

It antidotes: Aconite

It can be compared with other remedies including Lycopodium, Sarsaparilla, Nux Vomica and Oxalic Acid.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Are your ears itchy? 10 Best Homeopathic Medicines To Solve Your Problem

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

Itchy ears trouble a lot of people with one or the other finger always at the ear.  It is an irritating sensation in the ears accompanied by a desire to scratch frequently. Though not dangerous, it can be quite uncomfortable and annoying with the intensity of the problem varying from person to person. It can simply arise from dry skin of the ears or a medical condition like ear infection, eczema, etc. Itching in the ears can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms (like pain, discharge from ears, dryness, redness, swelling, flaking in or around ears) depending on the cause behind it.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy gives remarkable results in cases of itchy ears. Homeopathic medicines are very safe and natural. They also manage any of the attending signs and symptoms accompanying itchy ears. These include pain in the ear, ear dryness and drainage from the ear, redness, swelling and flaking of skin in and around the the ears.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Itchy Ears

1. Silicea – Top-Grade Medicine

It is one of the best medicines in homeopathy for managing itching in one ear or both. Along with itching, sometimes pricking and aching may be felt in the ears. In some cases, dryness in the ears may be there. Sometimes a blockage is felt in the ears. Stitching type of pain in ears can attend. If there is discharge from ears,  it can be thin, watery or of purulent (pus) nature. It can have an offensive smell too. There may be swelling in the external ear.

2. Petroleum – For Ear Itching And Dryness

This medicine is very beneficial when there is itching in the ears along with dryness. Itching is deep in the ears. The meatus may be swollen, inflamed and painful. Ears may be sore to touch in some cases. It is a well-indicated medicine for eczema of the ears attended with intense itching.

3. Hepar Sulph – For Itchy Ears And Excess Ear Wax

Hepar Sulph is a prominent medicine for cases in which there is itching in the ears and excess ear wax. Darting type of pain in the ears can be felt. In some cases, ear canal is filled with white, cheesy and blood-stained pus. There can be little pustular (pus-filled) eruptions in the meatus. Lastly, green coloured ear discharge is sometimes present in addition to above symptoms.

4. Pulsatilla – For Ear Itching And Pain

It is prepared from a plant Pulsatilla Nigricans commonly known as ‘wind flower’. It works very well in cases of itching and pain in the ear. The pain can be tearing or shooting type. Sometimes it is pulsating in nature especially at night. Along with it, there is a feeling of the ear being blocked. There may be redness and swelling in the external meatus. Profuse ear discharge may attend. The discharge may be thick, yellow or yellowish-green in colour.

5. Tellurium – For Itching And Swelling Of Ear

Use of this medicine is considered when there is itching and swelling in the ear. Transparent yellow-colored, watery discharge may flow. It can have a specific fish brine-like smell. There is throbbing type of pain in the ear. In some cases needing it, ulceration in external auditory meatus is present.

6. Merc Sol –  For Itching In Ears With Offensive Ear Discharge

This medicine is valuable to treat cases in which a person has itching in the ears along with an offensive ear discharge. The discharge consists of greenish pus. It gets worse at night. Along with it, pain is experienced in the ears. The pain can be tearing, pressing, stitching, shooting or burning in nature that varies from case to case. The pain from the ears may extend  to cheeks in some cases. There is also inflammation in the ears which gives a feeling of the ear being blocked.

7. Psorinum – For Intolerable Itching

Psorinum is well indicated for cases in which there is intolerable itching in the ears. The ear is swollen along with pain. Fetid pus may get discharged from the ear which is usually brownish. In some cases, reddish ear wax emanates. Other than this, there is a feeling of the ears being stuffed with cotton.

8. Calcarea Carb – For Itching And Heat In Ears

This medicine is helpful when there is itching and heat in the ears. Stitching pain or pulsation in ear may be felt. In the external meatus, there may be sticky discharge of white fetid pus. The ear is swollen and inflamed. Small ulcers may be present in outer meatus.

9. Causticum – For Ear Itching With Thick Gluey Discharge

This medicine is beneficial when there is itching and thick gluey discharge from ears. It is purulent (pus-like) and offensive. Burning sensation in ears and redness attends it. The ear feels obstructed and there may be pinching pain in the ears. Lastly, there may be accumulation of ear wax that sometimes has an offensive smell.

 10. Nux Vomica – For Ear Itching And Dry Ear Canal

This medicine is recommended when the ears are itchy accompanied by dryness in ear canal. It is also sensitive to touch, with tearing or stitching pain. The pain may extend to forehead or sides of head. Sometimes there is sharp ear pain that gets worse while swallowing. Pressure is also felt in the ears.

11. Aurum Met – For Itching, Prickling sensation In Ears

This medicine is used when there is itching in the ears, along with pricking and burning sensation. Pain and fetid pus from ears attends it. Blockage in the ear is also felt.

12. Fluoric Acid – For Intolerable Itching In Ear

It is an important medicine for persons who have intolerable itching in the ears. They feel momentary relief by scratching. It is followed by burning sensation in the ears. Copious ear discharge occurs along with these symptoms.  Lastly, there can be great sensitivity to even little noises in the morning.

 13. Kali Phos – For Deep Seated Pain

This medicine is indicated when there is itching and deep-seated pain in ears. Itching worsens while lying down. Stinging sensation in ears can also be there. In some cases, eruptions in ear canal are present. Other than this, blockage is felt in the ears. Lastly, a person becomes sensitive to sounds, and noise becomes unbearable.

What Are Causes Behind Itchy Ears?

Itchy ears can arise from various reasons.

Firstly, the problem can arise from dry skin in the ears. Lubricating ear wax is not produced in the right amount which results in dry and itchy ears. On the other hand, a build-up of ear wax can also result in itchy ears. Ear wax helps to clear the dead skin cells and dirt from the ears. In case it is in excess and accumulates in ears, then itching can arise.

Next, it can arise in case of ear infection (caused by bacteria or viruses during cold or flu). Swimmers mostly face this problem due to infection in the outer ear canal which is caused when water stays behind in the ears after swimming.

Another reason is eczema or dermatitis of the ear canal (it happens from inflammation of the skin in and around the ear canal). It can occur from allergic reaction to some  products used in or around the ear, or sometimes the cause is unknown.

It may arise in case of psoriasis –an autoimmune skin condition characterized by red and inflamed patches on the skin covered with silvery shiny scales.

Use of hearing aids can be another reason for itchy ears. It can be a result of ill-fitting hearing aids, trapping of water in the ears or in some cases, an allergic reaction to the hearing aid.

Lastly, it can be due to a food allergy (common food items that can cause food allergies are nuts, fish, wheat, milk and soy).

 

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

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

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

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

 Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are very effective in managing complaints of jaw pain. These medicines help in reducing the intensity and frequency of the pain gradually. They also help to relieve its attending symptoms like stiffness in the jaw, swelling or tenderness around jaw, pain in face, headache, pain in ear. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine for jaw pain only after evaluating the reason behind it after consulting a doctor. These medicines can be taken only when the cause is mild to moderate, but in case of jaw pain from a serious cause like heart attack, it is advised to take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.  Some of the symptoms like chest discomfort, difficult breathing, nausea, sweating or fainting along with jaw pain signal urgent help from allopathic doctor.

Homeopathic Medicines For Jaw Pain

1. Rhus Tox – Top-grade Medicine

Rhus Tox is a leading medicine for managing jaw pain. In cases needing it, there may be stiffness of the jaw along with pain. There is a feeling as if the jaw would break. Cracking sound in jaw joint with its movement is heard. There can be cramping pain in the lower jaw near the ear. It may get better by applying something warm and also by pressing it. Lastly, it is indicated for pain in the teeth that extends to the jaw and side of the head.

2. Causticum – For Jaw Pain With Difficulty In Opening Mouth

Causticum is a well-indicated medicine for cases having jaw pain along with difficulty in opening mouth. For using it, the pain can be tensive or dragging type. It is also indicated for arthritic and rheumatic pain in the lower jaw. A sensation of tension and swelling under the jaw is also indicative for using it.

3. Hecla Lava – For Upper Jaw Pain After Tooth Extraction

This medicine is beneficial for cases in which upper jaw pain follows tooth extraction. With this, the upper jaw is sore and swollen. Other than this, it is useful for managing toothache with sensitivity to pressure and swelling about the jaws.

4. Spigelia – For Lower Jaw Pain Radiating To Ears

It is prepared from a plant Spigelia anthelmia, commonly known as ‘pink root’. It belongs to family loganiaceae. Use of this medicine is recommended when there is pain in the lower jaw that extends to the ears. It may also extend to temporal (sides) region of the head. For using it, the pain is mostly present on the right side.  In some cases needing it, the pain may extend from the jaw to the neck. It is one of the best medicine for cases of facial neuralgia with above symptoms. Another indication for using it is pain in the right side of the lower jaw while chewing, with a feeling that the lower jaw has split from the joint.

5. Calcarea Carb – For Drawing Pain In Jaw

It is a helpful medicine for managing drawing type of pain in the jaw. It is effective to manage pain in the upper jaw felt while chewing. In some cases needing it, there is swelling of the lower jaw bone on the right side. Apart from these, it works well in cases of toothache with red, inflamed gums which is followed by pain in the jaw. There may also occur swelling in the jaw. Lastly, it is used there is digging, stitching pain in left side of the head during movement of lower jaw.

6. Carbo Veg – For Drawing Pain In Jaw

It is an important medicine for cases having drawing pain in jaw. For using it, the pain can be present either in the upper or the lower jaw.  The drawing pain can be felt in the head too. Soreness (pain on touching) is felt on facial bones of upper and lower jaw where this medicine is required. Sometimes rustling noises in the ears may occur from movement of the jaw.

7. Agaricus – For Tearing Pain In Face And Jaw Bones

This medicine offers help to those who complain of tearing pain in the face and jaw bones. Mostly the pain is felt on right side of lower jaw. Along with this, there may occur a sensation of splinters being run into the right lower jaw. Sometimes trembling is felt in the muscles of lower jaw.

8. Alumina – For Jaw Pain While Chewing Or Opening Mouth

It is a prominent medicine to help cases in which jaw pain occurs while chewing or opening the mouth. Pain is tensive type (stressful). Swelling of the jaw may accompany it. Along with this, there may be a sensation as if the lower jaw has shortened. Another indication for using it is intense pain in the jaw and the cheeks.

9. Carbo Animalis – For Pain In Cheek Bones, In Teeth And Lower Jaw

This medicine is indicated for managing cases presenting with pain in the cheek bones, in teeth and the lower jaw. In cases needing it, pain can be stitching type or shooting type.

10. Phosphorus – For Tearing Pain In Jaw Bones

Its put into use when there is tearing type of pain in the jaw bones. The pain occurs mainly in the evening time. Persons who need it feel increase in the pain when lying down. Jaw movement may offer relief in the pain.

11. Silicea – For Throbbing Toothache With Pain In Jaw

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

What Are The Causes Behind It?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

What Is Rectal Tenesmus? Signs, Symptoms And Homeopathic Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

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

Homeopathic Management

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

Homeopathic Medicines For Rectal Tenesmus

1. Nux Vomica – Top-grade Medicine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Arsenic Album – For Tenesmus With Diarrhea

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

6. Nitric Acid – For Tenesmus With Rectal Pain

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

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

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

8. Colchicum – For Scanty Stool With Tenesmus

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

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

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

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

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

What Are The Causes Behind It?

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

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

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

What Are The Other Signs And Symptoms?

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

 

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

How To Get Rid of Sinus Infection with Homeopathic Medicines

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 629 Comments

homeopathic remedies for sinus

Waking up with a headache, that too with a blocked nose, is a rough start to the day. If this becomes a routine where the face hurts with heaviness in the head, it could be arising from medical condition sinusitis. The inflammation of the paranasal sinuses (air-filled cavities within the skull bone) is referred to as sinusitis. Homeopathy can be of great help in treating sinusitis. The natural mode of treatment aims at treating the root cause (like chronic cold, nasal allergies) behind sinusitis to give long-term relief. Along with treating the root cause, these medicines offer relief in the immediate symptoms of sinusitis as well. The homeopathic mode of treatment can completely cure chronic and recurrent sinusitis, though it may take some time. The homeopathic remedies for sinus infections, are made of natural substances and have zero side effects.

Homeopathic Remedies For Sinus Infection

Some of the leading remedies to treat sinusitis are Belladonna, Kali Bichrome, Silicea, Hydrastis, Pulsatilla and Natrum Mur. Lemna Minor is the top-most medicine to treat nasal polyps.

1. Belladonna – Top-Grade Medicine For Sinus Headache

Belladonna is a natural medicine sourced from the plant ‘deadly nightshade’. It is the most frequently used medicine for cases of sinusitis when headache is most marked. In cases needing it, pain and heaviness is marked in the forehead (frontal headache) due to sinus congestion. There is relief by binding the head tightly with cloth or applying pressure. This medicine is most prominently indicated for frontal sinusitis. It is also indicated for maxillary sinusitis as well. Belladonna is also suitable to manage sore throat and cough in cases of sinusitis. The cough is short and dry which gets worse at night. It is the best remedy for acute sinusitis.

When and How to use Belladonna?

It is a leading medicine for sinusitis recommended mainly when frontal headache is causing trouble. This medicine can be used in both low and high potencies. In low potency like 30C, it can be taken three to four times a day. Once the severity of the headache reduces, the dose should be decreased. When using high potency like 200C, its use is usually limited to once a day. 1M potency is also required in some cases, but to use it, consult a homeopathic physician.

2. Kali Bichrome – For Sinusitis With Post Nasal Discharge

Kali Bichrome is the best medicine for sinusitis where the most prominent complaint is post nasal discharge – PND (dripping of mucus from back of nose into the throat). The discharge is very thick, sticky, ropy mostly yellowish or greenish. Along with PND, there is headache in frontal region (forehead). Pain at the root of the nose is also present. Nose feels stuffed along with these symptoms. The bad smell from nose occurs due to accumulation of nasal discharge. In cases needing it, a history of recurrent cold may be found.

When and How to Kali Bichrome?

A person having post nasal dripping from sinusitis can find this medicine highly effective. Pain in the forehead and the root of the nose are also indicative to use it. The most commonly used potency of this medicine is 30C that can be taken twice a day. It will reduce sinus inflammation and reduce associated symptoms including PND, frontal headache and pain at the root of the nose.

3. Silicea – For Sinus Infections And Chronic Colds

Silicea is a highly recommended medicine for cases of sinus infections and chronic cold. The main symptom guiding its use is throbbing pain in forehead especially over the right eye. There is relief in headache by pressing the head firmly or wrapping up warmly. Other symptoms along with this include nasal blockage and thick pus-like discharge. The nasal discharge forms hard crusts; any attempt to loosen these crusts results in bleeding. There is loss of smell and taste as well.

When and How to use Silicea?

Use of silicea should be considered for those who suffer from chronic cold and sinus infection. The symptoms to prescribe it are pain in forehead, nasal blockage and thick pus-like nasal discharge. Among various available potencies, Silicea works most wonderfully in 6X potency. Silicea 6X can be taken any time twice a day to four times a day as per the severity of symptoms.

4. Hydrastis – For Sinusitis With PND

This medicine is prepared from fresh root of plant ‘golden seal’. Like medicine Kali Bichrome, this medicine is also very beneficial for treating sinusitis with prominent PND (post nasal discharge). The discharge is thick, mostly yellow. Besides, sinus headache is present. Burning pain in the nose, sore throat, burning sensation in throat may attend above indications.

When and How to use Hydrastis?

This medicine can be used in sinusitis cases when main complaint is post-nasal thick yellow discharge. It can be taken in 30C potency two to three times a day for good results.

5. Pulsatilla – For Thick Yellow Or Green Nasal Discharge

Pulsatilla is a natural medicine for sinusitis prepared from ‘windflower’. The foremost indication to use it in sinusitis is thick yellow or green nasal discharge.  A characteristic feature is the discharge gets worse in a closed room and gets better in open air. The discharge may be very foul-smelling. Nostrils may be blocked as well, along with loss of smell and taste. This medicine is recommended for frontal sinusitis and maxillary sinusitis. Pain and heaviness is felt over the forehead when frontal sinus is involved. In case of maxillary sinus involvement, tearing type of pain is felt in maxillary sinus (in cheeks) that may extend to ears.

When and How to use Pulsatilla?

For sinusitis, the key indication based on which it is prescribed is ‘thick yellow or green nasal discharge’. Though may be used in different potencies, it is best to begin with  30C potency. Pulsatilla 30C can be taken once or twice a day. Higher potencies like 200C and 1M can also be considered afterward but only under the supervision of homeopathic expert.

6. Natrum Mur – For Sinus Infections And Nasal Allergy

Natrum Mur is good choice of remedy in cases of sinusitis where nasal allergy is associated. This medicine aims at treating nasal allergy when it is the root cause leading to sinus Infections. The symptoms to use this medicine are , a watery discharge from nose , sneezing, pain in head.

When and How to use Natrum Mur?

Persons who suffer sinusitis as a result of nasal allergies are ideal subjects to use this medicine. This medicine works in treating nasal allergies to prevent recurrent sinus infections. Natrum Mur is very effective in 6X potency that can be repeated three to four times a day.

7. Lemna Minor – For Sinus Infections Complicated With Nasal Polyp

In some cases, nasal polyps are a contributing factor for sinus infection. A nasal polyp  in a nasal cavity blocks the normal drainage of discharge. The collected discharge thus acts as a pool for infection-causing agents, leading to inflammation of sinuses. Here, medicine Lemna Minor is the best medicine to help shrink nasal polyps to prevent sinus infections. It may take some time to shrink the polyps, but once done recurrent sinus infections are prevented.

When and How to take Lemna Minor?

If nasal polyps are obstructing mucus drainage and causing recurrent sinus infections, this medicine can work wonders. It will help in shrinking nasal polyps which are a contributing factor for sinus infections. Lemna Minor acts best when taken in mother tincture (Q) form. 5-7 drops of Lemna Minor Q can be taken twice a day by dissolving in half a cup of water.

Cause And Risk Factors Behind Sinusitis

Sinusitis results when there is blockage of sinus openings by mucus. There are certain factors and health problems that increase the risk of sinusitis.

1. Common cold (that can be caused by virus or bacteria) can cause inflammation of sinus and obstruct the drainage of mucus

2. Nasal allergies and upper respiratory tract infections

3. Nasal polyps are the non-cancerous growths in nose or paranasal sinuses which are blocking nose or sinus

4. Deviated nasal septum means cartilage that divides the nose is not straight that is causing nasal blockage

5. Weak immune system

6. A dental infection, cystic fibrosis (a genetic disease that causes build-up of the mucus which is thick, sticky mainly in lungs and pancreas), and smoking are some other contributory factors.

Pathophysiology Of Sinusitis

Paranasal sinuses are four pairs of hollow spaces in the skull. These are situated in cheekbones (maxillary sinus), forehead (frontal sinus), behind the bridge of the nose and between the eyes (ethmoidal sinuses). Another set is situated in the upper region of the nose and behind the eyes (sphenoidal sinuses). All the sinuses have the same lining that is present in the nose. This lining produces mucus, which is drained out of the sinuses, through an opening in the nose. When a person has a cold or nasal allergy, there is increased mucus production and swelling of sinuses that can cause the drainage to get blocked. This results in the mucus being trapped in the sinuses, leading to the growth of bacteria and viruses.

Types Of sinusitis

There are four types of sinusitis depending on how long the symptoms last.

Acute sinusitis:  This type of sinusitis lasts till about 2- 4 weeks’ time.

Subacute sinusitis: It lasts between one to three months.

Chronic sinusitis: Its symptoms last for three months or longer.

Recurrent sinusitis: Acute sinusitis happens four or more times in one year and each episode remains for one to two weeks’ time.

Symptoms Of Sinusitis

The signs and symptoms of sinusitis include

1. Nasal discharge: Thick discharge that can be yellow, green, pus-like or blood-stained

2.  Post-nasal dripping

3. Headache especially in the morning

4. Pain/pressure on head or face, swelling or tenderness on the face according to the sinus involved as given below:

In frontal sinusitis: It is felt on forehead and above the eyes

In maxillary sinusitis: It is felt on cheeks, or upper jaw, teeth

In ethmoidal sinusitis: Pain or pressure is observed  behind eyes and in medial canthi (corner of eye where upper eyelid and lower eyelid meet towards nose side)

In sphenoidal sinusitis: Pain/pressure occurs behind eyes and felt in the top/ back of the head

5. Stuffy nose, making breathing through nose difficult

6. Ear fullness/pain, decreased sense of smell and taste, cough, throat clearing, tiredness, bad breath are some other signs and symptoms

7. Fever (it may occur in acute sinusitis and is uncommon in chronic sinusitis)

The signs and symptoms are similar for acute and chronic sinusitis. However, the duration varies with chronic sinusitis lasting for three or more months.

Complications

Complications are rare in sinusitis cases. however, if not treated, some complications that might occur include meningitis (inflammation of membranes that cover brain and spinal cord), infection of eyes, and infection of skull bones.

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

What is Nocturia? Top Homeopathic Medicines For Treatment

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 7 Comments

Nocturia refers to an increased frequency of urination at night. A person suffers from it if he/she wakes up two or more times at night to void urine. If not treated, it can result in sleep deprivation, weakness, drowsiness, lack of concentration and mood changes during the daytime.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines are very effective to treat cases of nocturia. These medicines are very natural, gentle and safe that bring improvement by working on the root cause behind it. With these medicines, there occurs gradual decrease in the frequency of urine at night. Along with this, there also appears relief in its attending symptoms like burning sensation while urination, painful urination, and urgency to urinate. The prescription of homeopathic medicine for nocturia varies from case to case as per the symptoms of an individual. So it is advised to take medicine for treating nocturia under the supervision of a homeopathic physician. These medicines are recommended for mild to moderate cases but in severe cases and in case of some underlying serious disorders (compression of spinal cord, for example) it is advised to take help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Nocturia

1. Lycopodium – Top Grade Medicine

It is one of the best medicine in homeopathy for managing nocturia.  It is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum commonly known as ‘club moss’. Persons needing it have frequent urination at night. The urine flow is also profuse at night, while during the day, they have less frequency and scanty urine. At night, the urine can be pale. The symptoms that can attend include heaviness over bladder, dull pressing or stitching pain in bladder. Burning sensation in the bladder during urination may be present.

2. Phosphoric Acid – For Frequent And Excessive Urine At Night

This medicine is well indicated when a person has to rise often at night to pass urine. The urine is passed in large quantities. During urination burning in urethra can be felt. Other than this, it is also indicated for cases in which there is constant desire to urinate and there is sudden irresistible urge to urinate.

3. Merc Sol – For Frequent Urine At Night And Urgent Urge For Urination

Merc Sol is a beneficial medicine when there is frequent urination at night and an urgent desire to urinate. In cases needing it, there is sudden urge to urinate and the person has to hurry to pass urine. The urine can be copious or scanty. Cutting, burning pain while passing urine can be felt. In some cases, there occurs involuntary urination at night.

4. Baryta Carb – For Irritation Of Bladder At Night

This medicine works well in cases of excessive irritation of bladder at night. Persons requiring it passes much urine at night. They have an urgent desire to urinate and are unable to retain it, if the bladder is not emptied immediately. It is one of the most suitable medicines for frequent urination in old age.  It is a very beneficial medicine for prostate issues.

5. Cantharis – For Frequent Urine At Night And Painful Urination

This medicine is helpful in treating cases in which there is frequent urination at night along with pain. The pain can be burning or cutting in nature. This may be felt before, during or after urination. There is also urgency to pass urine. The urge for urination occurs even when there is little urine in the bladder. Heaviness and soreness in the bladder may also be present. Sometimes the urine passed at night is cloudy with white sediment. It is a very effective medicine for treatment of urinary tract infection.  

6. Causticum – For Frequent Urination Day And Night

This medicine is beneficial in treating cases in which there is frequent urination day and night. Along with this, there is burning sensation in urethra while urinating. In some cases, itching of urethral orifice is felt. Sometimes there is involuntary dribbling of urine also. The urine may be thick white or dark brown.

7. Sarsaparilla – For Frequent And Profuse Pale Urine

It is prepared from dried rhizome of plant Sarsaparilla Officinalis, commonly known as ‘wild liquorice’.  This medicine is very useful to manage frequent and profuse pale urination at night.  Person needing it passes too much urine. Burning while urination may be there. Excessive pain at the conclusion of urination is another characteristic symptom that can be present.

8. Equisetum – For Frequent Urination And Bladder Pain

This natural medicine is sourced from the plant Equisetum Hyemale, also known as ‘scouring rush’. This medicine is helpful when there is frequent urine at night and bladder pain. The pain is dull in nature. The bladder may be painful if pressure is applied during urination. The urge to pass urine is sudden. Along with these symptoms, there can be a feeling of fullness in the bladder that doesn’t get better even after urinating.

9. Thuja – For Nocturia And Sudden Urgent Urge To Urinate

It is prepared from fresh green twigs of plant Thuja Occidentalis, commonly known by the name of ‘Arbor Vitae’. This medicine is significant for cases having frequent urine at night and urgent desire to urinate that cannot be controlled. Cutting pangs of pain are felt after urinating. A sensation of a drop running down the urethra is felt after urination.

10. Borax – When Urine Has A Pungent (Strong) Smell

This medicine is indicated for persons who pass urine several times at night which has a very strong smell. With this, there is urgent desire to urinate. The urine is hot. After urination, soreness and smarting in urethra is felt.

11. Calcarea Carb – For Nocturia And Foul Smelling Urine

It is an important medicine when there is nocturia and foul smelling urine. The urine smells sour where this medicine is required. Other than this, there is ineffectual desire to urinate. With this, there is cutting or stitching pain in the urethra. Before urination, burning sensation can be felt. The urine may be dark brown or milk-white. There may be whitish sediment in urine in some cases.

What Are Its Causes?

The causes behind nocturia are variable. It can simply arise from intake of excessive fluid or taking fluids close to bedtime, or taking alcohol and caffeinated drinks. In some people, it may be just a habit to wake up at night to pass urine. However, it can also arise from some medical conditions as follows:

1. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary tract — kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra, but mostly it occurs in urinary bladder and urethra. The symptoms include painful or burning urination, frequent urination or constant urge to urinate and urgency to pass urine.

2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is an enlarged prostate gland which is a common condition in elderly men. Its common symptoms are frequent urination, nocturia, urgency to urinate, difficulty in initiating urination, weak urine stream and dribbling at the end of urination.

3. Inflamed prostate gland (prostatitis) causes pain or burning sensation during urination, nocturia, urgency to urinate, difficulty in initiating urine, dribbling urine, pain in groin, abdomen, blood in urine, pain in penis or testes.

4. Fourth is diabetes.

5. It can arise from an overactive bladder. In this condition, the bladder muscles start to contract involuntarily even with a small amount of urine in the bladder. It mainly causes symptoms like sudden urge to urinate, frequent urine, nocturia and involuntary urine passage immediately after an urge for urination is felt.

6. Tumours in the bladder or pelvic area and bladder prolapse can also lead to nocturia.

7. Other than this, it can happen in case of anxiety, obstructive sleep apnea (a serious sleep disorder in which breathing stops momentarily and then starts occuring several times during sleep), during pregnancy and  from use of certain medicines (eg, diuretics which are the drugs that increases urine flow). It can also be a symptom in case of heart or liver failure and some neurological disorders. These neurological disorders include Parkinson’s disease which is a nervous system disorder that affects part of the brain that controls body movements. It begins with tremor in one hand and causes stiffness, slow movement, impaired posture and balance. It can lead to several complications one of which is bladder problems. Second such disorder is multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease in which there is damage to the myelin sheath of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Next neurological disorder is Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder in which the brain cells gradually die that leads to memory loss, difficulty in thinking, reasoning and social skills. Last is compression of the spinal cord.

8. Elderly persons are more at risk. Though nocturia can affect persons of any age group, it is common in elderly people. As a person ages, production of hormone that concentrates urine is reduced, so he/ she is unable to hold urine until the morning.

9. In some cases, the urge to urinate at night does not wake a person, if a person wakes there is need to pass urine. This can arise in case a person has restless leg syndrome, depression, chronic pain that disturbs sleep.

 

 

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Sabadilla Officinalis – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1 Comment

Sabadilla Officinalis is sourced from plant Cebadilla. It belongs to the family melanthaceae (of the liliaceae). The seeds of the plant Cebadilla are subjected to potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that extracts and intensifies its medicinal properties). Following this process, homeopathic remedy Sabadilla Officinalis is obtained which is of great service to treat nasal allergies, colds and recurrent sneezing.

Drug Action

This medicine principally acts on the mucus membrane of nose. Its action is also felt on lachrymal glands, throat, gastric tract, anus, head, eyes, skin and nerves.

Clinical Indications

Nasal allergy, sneezing, cold, runny nose, sore throat, lachrymation, blue rings around eyes, headache, itchy scalp, worm infestation, stomach pain, cough, earache, noises in ear, dry skin.

 Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Nose (Nasal Allergy, Sneezing, Runny Nose, Cold)

This medicine has an extensive action on the mucus membrane of nose. It treats complaints of nasal allergies, cold, influenza, runny nose, sneezing and nasal itching. It is one of the best homeopathic medicine for cases of nasal allergy also known as hay fever. It is a nasal condition in which cold-like symptoms occur, like runny nose, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes that happen from an over-reaction of immune cells to harmless substances like pollen, dust etc in a person having allergic tendency. Sabadilla is well indicated when there is runny nose, profuse watery nasal discharge along with sneezing. Tickling, tingling or itching in nose may be felt. Additionally, redness of eyes and watering from eyes may be there. At a given time, either of the two nostrils is blocked which causes difficulty in breathing. Snoring is experienced by the person. Next, frontal pain in head attends. Another peculiar indication for using this remedy is cold with runny nose/sneezing which get worse from strong odour like perfumes.

Key indicating features

Nasal allergy with runny nose, sneezing and nasal itching

Cold with frontal headache

Cold with runny nose/sneezing from strong odours

2. Throat (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

With its action on throat, it offers great help in managing cases of chronic sore throat. In most cases needing it, sore throat begins in the left side and then goes to the right side. The tonsils are swollen and inflamed. Pain in the throat is felt from empty swallowing. Cold air makes the complaint worse. Relief is noted by taking warm food or warm drinks. Stitching pain in throat is experienced while swallowing. There is feeling of a lump in the throat and person has constant desire to swallow it. Sometimes, a sensation of skin hanging loosely in throat is felt. Occasionally, it feels as if a morsel of food has got stuck in the throat leading to cough. The throat may feel dry or there can be tough phlegm in throat with need to hawk.

Key indicating features

Sore throat beginning on left side then going to the right side

Sore throat worse from cold air and better from warm drinks/food

3. Gastric Ailments (Worms, Stomach Pain)

Sabadilla is effective in dealing with gastric ailments. Firstly, it is used to treat worms, mostly tapeworms, pin worms and ascarides worms. It gives substantial relief in itching and crawling sensation felt in the anus due to worms.  It also helps in easing the burning sensation or pain felt in navel region. There may be changes in the bowel movement. The stool can be hard and scanty or there may occur diarrhea with loose, brown and frothy stool. Pinching pain around navel and loud rumbling can be felt before passing stool. There may be burning sensation in abdomen and rectum after passing stool.  Sometimes, blood passes with stool. There is excessive passage of gas. Other than these, Sabadilla is indicated to manage twisting/ turning type of pain in abdomen. Rest of the symptoms include bloating, cutting type of pain in the intestine, abdomen pain with a characteristic sensation of a ball moving in the abdomen, burning sensation in stomach and food pipe, and loss of appetite.

Key indicating features

Worm infestations include tapeworm, pin worms, ascarides worms

Itching, crawling sensation in the anus

Pain in navel region in cases of worms

4. Cough

This medicine has also shown clinical improvement in cases of cough. Sabadilla mostly helps in cases of dry cough that arises from roughness or scratchiness or scraping in throat. Coughing mostly worsens at night, as soon as a person lies down. In some cases, pain at the top of head (vertex) is felt along with cough. Sweating, vomiting and watering from eyes are other accompanying symptoms. Difficulty in breathing, burning sensation in chest and wheezing may also happen.  Sabadilla can also be given for cough that worsens from cold.

Key indicating features

Cough arising from roughness or scratchiness in throat

Cough worsening at night, as soon as one lies down and from cold

5. Ears (Earache, Noises In Ears)

This medicine also acts on ears where it is beneficial to manage cases of ear pain, noises in ears (tinnitus), itching in ears. Along with pain in the ear, there is pressure on the ear. Mostly stitching pain especially in left ear is felt. In case of tinnitus, a person hears humming or gurgling noises in ear. There can be difficulty in hearing too.

Key indicating features

Pain in ear with pressure sensation

Humming, gurgling noises in ears

6. Eyes (Redness Of Eyelids, Lachrymation, Blue Rings)

In case of eyes, Sabadilla can be given to manage redness of eyelids attended with burning sensation. Next, it can be used for excessive watering from eyes (lachrymation) while coughing, sneezing or walking in open air. It is also beneficial for cases of blue rings around the eyes.

Key indicating features

Redness and burning of eyelids

Lachrymation during sneezing, coughing and walking in open air

7. Head (Headache, Itchy Scalp)

Sabadilla is a useful medicine to manage headache. It is mainly preferred to manage headache that occurs with cold. The pain, in this case, is frequently experienced in frontal part of head.  There may be heaviness in the head usually in forehead and sides of head (temporal region) in case of nasal allergy. Next peculiar indication to use it is headache that follows excessive thinking or some intellectual thinking. The pain occurs on one side of the head or on alternating sides. It gets better by eating. Sabadilla can be given in cases of itching and burning on the scalp, crawling sensation can also be felt.

Key indicating symptoms

Headache in frontal part of head with cold

Headache from overthinking and intellectual work

8. Skin Complaints (Dry Skin, Crawling Sensation)

Last sphere of action of Sabadilla is skin where it is useful for dry skin. Burning sensation on skin can be present. It is also effective in managing crawling sensation like that of ants. Lastly, it works well in cases of thick, horny, deformed nails.

Key indicating features

Creeping, crawling sensation on skin

Thick, horny, deformed nails

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints are worse from cold air, cold drinks, strong odors, and mental exertion

Relieving factors: Complaints are better from warm food and drinks, heat, being wrapped up

Dosage

This medicine works well in both low and high potencies. In low potency like 30C, one may take it frequently around two to three times a day. But in high potency like 200C, 1M frequent repetition should be avoided.

Relationship With Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor, Conium, Lachesis, Lycopodium and Pulsatilla

Followed well by Arsenic Album, Belladonna, Merc Sol, Nux Vomica, Pulsatilla

Call Dr. Sharma's Clinic - From United States and Canada call 703-659-0873. Patients From rest of the world and India call +91-6283487321

Best Homeopathic Medicines for Sciatica

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 136 Comments

Sciatica is the term referred to the pain caused by irritation and compression of sciatic nerve. The pain that begins in the lower back and travels down the lower limbs traversing the root of sciatic nerve is called Sciatica. The largest nerve in the human body is the sciatic nerve. It originates in the lower back and runs down the hips, back of legs and down to the feet. There is one sciatic nerve on either side of the body and any one of them may be affected when pain is experienced.

homeopathic medicines for sciatica

Homeopathic Treatment For Sciatica

Homeopathy is a very advanced science fully equipped to treat neuralgic (nerve) pains, including sciatica. Homeopathic medicines can treat acute as well as chronic sciatica.  Homeopathic medicines, which are natural and safe, work on the root cause of sciatica for complete, effective healing and cure. In fact, a homeopathic consultation, if taken on time, could prevent surgical intervention in cases of sciatica.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Sciatica

Some well recognized homeopathic medicines for sciatica are Colocynthis, Magnesium Phosphorica, Gnaphalium, Rhus Tox and Bryonia Alba

1. Colocynthis – For Sciatica Of Left Side

Colocynthis is known to greatly benefit left-sided sciatica. It is indicated where a person complains of pain along the course of the left sciatic nerve. The pain starts in the lower back and radiates down the leg to toes. In some cases, the pain is located in the left hip or pain in the hip radiates to the knee. The pain may be drawing/tearing/ shooting in nature. In some cases, it may be lightening, shock- like or cramping. Pressure application may provide relief. Lying on the left side also offers relief in some cases. Some persons requiring Colocynthis may also get relief from warm applications.

When and How to take Colocynthis?

It is best suited to patient with left-sided sciatica pain. The pain is reduced by pressing the affected area and applying warmth. Colocynthis works wonders in 30C potency. This potency requires frequent repetition, 2-3 times in a day. In fact, it also works well in higher potency like 200C and 1M but it is advisable to consult your homeopathic physician before using higher potencies.

2. Magnesia Phosphorica – For Sciatica Of Right Side

Magnesia Phosphorica is a reliable prescription for right-sided sciatica. The sciatica pain is cutting/ shooting/ stabbing or stitching in nature. Pain starts in the lower back and extends down the right hip, thigh, the hollow of knee and leg. Pressure or warm applications may offer relief. In some cases, uncovering the lower limb worsen the pain.

When and How to take Magnesia Phosphorica?

Mag Phos is a useful remedy which helps in sciatica pain with symptoms mainly occur on the right side. Identical to Colocynthis, this remedy is needed for a person who gets better by applying pressure and warmth.

It can be referred as homeopathic pain reliever. It is commonly used in biochemic form in ‘6X potency’, and is taken in tablets. The frequency and number of tablets depends on the severity of symptoms. Unless recommended otherwise, it can be taken 3-4 times in a day. It is advisable to contact your homeopathic doctor, if there is no noticeable improvement after taking medicine.

3. Gnaphalium Polycephalum – For Sciatica With Pain And Numbness

Gnaphalium Polycephalum is the most useful medicine for sciatica pain  attended with numbness. It is also indicated where sciatica pain alternates with numbness. Folding thighs towards the abdomen provides some relief. Gnaphalium Polycephalum is also prescribed in sciatica cases where pain is confined to the calves and feet.

When and How to use Gnaphalium Polycephalum? 

This medicine is an undoubted effective treatment for sciatica when pain is accompanied with numbness. Normally, higher potencies are not advisable and are not to be repeated very often. So, it is suggested to use in 30C potency and can be repeated twice in a day.

If there is still no improvement after repetition of doses, seek professional guidance from a homeopathic physician.

4. Bryonia Alba – For Sciatica That Worsens While Walking

Bryonia Alba is the most effective homeopathic medicine for sciatica that gets worse while walking. The slightest motion may worsen sciatica in such cases. Lying down absolutely still provides some relief. Bryonia Alba is also prescribed when the person feels relief by lying down on the affected side. The hip and leg of the affected side may feel heavy. The pain is tearing in nature from the hip through the back of the thigh and into the calf.

When and How to use Bryonia alba?

The main feature to use this medicine is when sciatica pain gets worse by the slightest movement but gets better by rest. Lower potency 30C can be used and repeated up to 3-4 times in a day. Higher potencies like 200C and 1M potency are not repeated frequently and should be used cautiously.

 5. Rhus Tox – For Sciatica That Becomes Painful With Rest

For sciatica pain that gets bad at rest or while sitting, Rhus Tox is the ideal prescription. Lying on the painful side could worsen the pain in such cases. Walking or movement of the affected limb offers relief. Along with severe pain, a burning sensation may be felt in the lower limbs. Rhus Tox also works wonderfully well in treating sciatica that arises from lifting any heavy weight. There is a cramp like pain in the leg. The patient has an inability to sit in one position for a long time.

When and How to use Rhus Tox?

The hallmark feature of this medicine is sciatica pain which becomes worse at rest and gets better by movement. Rhus Tox can be used in 30C to 1M potency. The dosage and potency depends on the severity and intensity of the symptoms. It is equally effective in 200C potency but symptoms should be monitored before its repetition.

Note You may use the above-mentioned 30C potency after closely monitoring the symptoms but do not self-medicate with higher potencies i.e. 200C and 1M. If no improvement is observed, it is best to consult a homeopath to decide whether change of potency is required or not.

Causes Of Sciatica

The causes of sciatica could be many, the main among these are as follows:

A disc bulge or a herniated disc: Disc bulge of lower spine can cause pinching, compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. This is the most common cause of sciatica.

Degeneration of the spinal disc: It is the natural wearing down of disc between the vertebrae of spine. This results in shortening the height of vertebrae and resulting in narrowing of nerve passageways (spinal stenosis).

Stenosis (narrowing) of the spinal canal: This can lead to reduction in the space available for the spinal cord and nerves.

Osteoarthritis: Bone spurs (pointed edges of bone) can form in spines in old age and can compress nerves of lower back. 

Spondylolisthesis: It is the slipping of a vertebra which makes it is out of sync with the one above it, as a result there is narrowing of the opening through which the nerve exits. The extended spinal bone can pinch the sciatic nerve.

Piriformis syndrome: Piriformis muscle is a small muscle that lies deep in the buttocks. Tightening or spasm of this muscle is called Piriformis syndrome that can put pressure and can irritate sciatic nerve.

Tumor in the spine: It causes the compression of sciatic nerve.

Symptoms Of Sciatica

Pain: Sciatica is characterized by pain that travels from the lower (lumbar) spine to the buttock and down the back of your leg. The lower back, buttock, and the back of your thigh and calf are likely to experience pain.

Numbness: There is numbness in legs, feet, buttocks, or lower back may feel numb or weak.

Loss Of Movement: There is less movement and pain that gets worse if the person makes an effort to move.

Pin Needle Sensation: One can experience a feeling of pricking by pins and needles in feet, toes, or legs.

Burning Sensation: Constant or episodic burning sensation down the leg.

Risk Factors For Sciatica

Injury: The chance of developing sciatica increases if you suffer a lower back or spine injury.

Age: The bone tissue and discs in the spine naturally deteriorate as you age. With normal ageing, changes and shifts in bone, discs, and ligaments can put the spinal nerves at risk of being hurt or pinched.

Obesity: Excess body weight can increase stress on the spine. This results in changes in the spine that trigger sciatica.

Prolonged Sitting: The chances of developing sciatica is more common in people who sit for long hours or have sedentary lifestyle than active people.

Diabetes: Your chance of developing nerve damage is increased by this disorder, which alters how your body uses blood sugar.

Smoking: The nicotine in tobacco can weaken bones, cause injury to the spine, and hasten the degeneration of vertebral discs.

Lack Of Proper Posture: Even if you are physically healthy and active, sciatica can still occur if you lift weights improperly or perform other vigorous strength training exercises.

Pathophysiology Of Sciatica

The most common cause of sciatica is herniated disc. Disc (intervertebral disc) is the cushioning pad between each vertebrae of the spine that absorbs shock. Pressure from vertebra due to some reason can cause the gel-like centre of a disc to move from its normal position. This results in compression or puts pressure on sciatic nerve which leads to sciatica.

 

Pin It on Pinterest