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Zincum Metallicum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 29 Comments

The remedy Zincum Metallicum is derived from metal zinc which undergoes potentization. With this process, zinc is converted into a very important homeopathic medicine Zincum Metallicum. Potentization is a process of preparing homeopathic medicines by arousing the medicinal properties of a crude substance.

This medicine is highly recommended to treat various complaints related to nerves mainly tremors, twitchings, nerve pain and nerve weakness.

The ‘Zincum Metallicum’ Constitution

This medicine is highly suitable for persons suffering from nerve-related complaints like tremors, twitching, numbness, etc

Drug Action

Zincum Metallicum has marked and widespread action on the brain, nervous system and nerves. Other areas of its action include mind, neck, back, spine, face, head, eyes, female genitals and skin. Zincum Metallicum manages mental issues arising from suppressed eruptions, suppressed discharges, and head injury.

Clinical Indications

Tremors, twitching, brain fag, chorea, convulsions, epilepsy, nerve weakness, neuralgias, Parkinson’s Disease, restless leg syndrome, meningitis, ataxia, formication, fatigue, back pain, neck pain, spinal irritation, spine disorders, trigeminal neuralgia, squinting, ptosis, pterygium, conjunctivitis, suppressed eruptions, varicose veins, somnambulism

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Complaints related to nerves and brain (tremors, twitching, brain fag, chorea, convulsions, neuralgias, Parkinson’s disease, restless leg syndrome, meningitis, ataxia)

Zincum Metallicum is a great nerve remedy. Among various areas of its action the most important action is on brain, nervous system and nerves. It proves highly effective in treating numerous nerve issues.

Firstly, it acts wonderfully to manage trembling of hands and feet. It works well when hand trembling occurs at rest or while writing. Trembling of feet may result in frequent stumbling, sometimes all the limbs may tremble. There may be trembling from the slightest emotional excitement. There may be worsening of symptoms of trembling of hands and feet during menses.

Zincum Met is one of the top grade medicines to manage Parkinson’s Disease. It is a nervous system disorder beginning with tremors in hands at rest which is followed by other issues like slow movements, impaired posture, balance issues, muscle stiffness and changes in speech.

This medicine is very beneficial for managing muscle twitchings (involuntary muscle contraction). It offers help in cases of twitching of facial muscles, eyelids and muscles of the upper lip, especially on left side.

Another main use of Zincum Met is to relieve nerve pain (neuralgia). It can be used for medical conditions like facial/trigeminal neuralgia, intercostal neuralgia and post-herpetic neuralgia.

Trigeminal neuralgia refers to intense excruciating pain in the face resulting from compression, damage or injury to trigeminal nerve. Persons needing it for this complaint have worsening facial pain from touch and in the evening time.

Intercostal neuralgia is nerve pain in the area just under the ribs, Zincum Met relieves pain mostly on the left side, especially when movement and tiredness make it worse.

Post herpetic neuralgia is a complication of shingles (viral infection causing painful skin rash caused by varicella zoster virus) in which burning pain persists for a long time after the rash has healed.

Its use is recommended for chorea cases also. Chorea refers to repetitive, rapid involuntary muscle movement, here the main symptom to use it is chorea caused by fright or suppressed eruptions. The jerking occurs in the whole body during sleep, at times accompanied by screaming.

Other than these, Zincum Met gives superb results in restless leg syndrome (RLS) which is a condition in which there is uncontrollable urge to move legs due to some uncomfortable sensation in legs.

People who experience formication (sensation of insects crawling under the skin) on feet and legs may also find this medicine helpful. It gets better by applying pressure and rubbing in cases needing this remedy.

It is a valuable medicine for managing locomotor ataxia cases. In ataxia, there is lack of muscle control and coordination of muscle movement. A person has stumbling gait, sometimes there may be lightening like pain in ataxia cases with sweaty feet.

Zincum Met is a leading medicine in homeopathy for managing brain and nerve fatigue (tiredness). Brain fatigue due to excessive and prolonged studying sessions can be managed with this medicine in a very effective manner. It also has great capability in helping cases of brain fag which is a set of symptoms including loss of concentration, memory problems, confusion of mind and sleep-related problems.

Its use is considered in meningitis (inflammation of meninges – membranes covering brain and spinal cord) attended with sharp pain in head.

Lastly, it can be used for managing convulsions (fits), mainly the ones that occur during dentition. There is twitching of shingle muscle, rolling of eyes, and gnashing of teeth. Another very prominent indication is convulsion after childbirth and from suppressed eruptions.

Key Indicating Features

Trembling of hands and feet

Parkinson’s disease

Twitching of facial muscles, eyelids and muscle of upper lip on left side

Neuralgia – trigeminal neuralgia, intercostal neuralgia and post herpetic neuralgia

Jerking in whole body during sleep, at times with screaming

Restless Leg syndrome (RLS)

Formication on feet which gets better from pressure and rubbing

2. Neck And Back (Pain, Stiffness, Burning In Spine)

It shows effective action on neck, back and spine. It is well indicated to manage pain and stiffness in neck. The pain can be cramping or tearing in nature. One feel tired feels tired as pressure is mostly felt on the neck after mental exertion and from writing. There is marked pain in the neck muscles at night. Pain from the side of the neck may extend to the shoulders. Zincum Met gives excellent results in cases of lower back pain which gets worse while sitting, stooping or turning in the bed. Lower back feels weak on standing for too long but gets better from continuous walking. A very important symptom is burning sensation along the spine which gets worse on sitting.

Key Indicating Features

Pain, stiffness, tiredness in neck

Lower back pain worse when sitting, from stooping, turning in bed and better from continuous walking

Burning sensation along the entire spine worse when sitting

Sensitive spine that cannot bear touch

3. Face (Twitching And Trigeminal Neuralgia)

Zincum Met can treat twitching in the face and trigeminal neuralgia. Twitching means involuntary jerking or contraction of muscle. Along with facial twitching, there may occur nausea and vomiting. In case of trigeminal neuralgia, it can be used when the complaint gets worse in the evening. The face is sensitive to touch and sometimes stitching pain is felt as from needles piercing the face.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of facial muscles

Trigeminal neuralgia worse in evening and from touch

4. Head And Scalp (Manage Headache, Head Injury, Hydrocephalus And Hair Fall)

This medicine successfully manages headache, head injury, hydrocephalus and hair fall. The foremost indication for its use is headache occurring from drinking wine even in very small quantity. Pain in the head is attended with low vision. There is aching in temples of head with pressive pain on top of head and root of nose. Violent throbbing and tearing pain is felt in the whole head. Zincum Met is also recommended in cases of head injury followed by constant pain in the head which gets worse on walking. Another complaint where it is useful for management is hydrocephalus (fluid build-up in the ventricles of brain). Here its use is suggested when the person shows symptoms like rolling his head from side to side in pain, presses head against the pillow to get relief, there is constant motion of his feet and keeps grinding his teeth. Lastly, it works well to reduce in hair fall cases particularly when hair fall occurs from top of the head. It is attended with soreness of the scalp.

Key Indicating Features

Headache occurring from drinking wine even in very small quantity

Head injury followed by constant pain in head worse from walking

Hydrocephalus with symptoms like rolling of head from side to side, boring head in pillow, constant motion of feet and teeth grinding

5. Eyes (Twitching, Squinting, Ptosis, Pterygium, Conjunctivitis)

The major indication for its use is twitching of eyelid specifically lower eyelid on left side. It is also recommended in cases of squinting and ptosis (drooping of upper eyelid). Further use is indicated to treat pterygium cases attended with itching, smarting and excessive eye watering (lachrymation). Pterygium refers to abnormal tissue growth on the conjunctiva. Lastly, it is helpful in treating conjunctivitis (inflammation of the membrane covering eyelid and eyeball) with redness and pain which worsens at night.

Key Indicating Features

Twitching of eyelid specifically lower eyelid on left side

Ptosis (drooping of upper eyelid)

6. Female Problems (Heavy Menses, Vaginal Discharge, Ovarian Pain, Nymphomania, Hair Fall)

Females may find this medicine quite useful for managing certain complaints. It is firstly indicated for early, and heavy menses with the flow increasing while walking. It is attended with pain and bloated abdomen. Secondly it is useful for vaginal discharge that is blood-stained after menses attended with burning and itching. It can help cases of ovarian pain, mainly in the left ovary. During ovarian pain, there occurs pain in the limbs with an urge to move them constantly. A very significant symptom is relief in ovarian pain from excessive menstrual flow. Zincum Met is well-indicated to control excessive sexual desire in women (nymphomania). It also helps to manage hair fall from genitals of females.

Key Indicating Features

Early, heavy menses with pain and bloated abdomen

Blood-stained vaginal discharge after menses attended with burning and itching

Ovarian pain which gets better from excessive menstrual bleeding

7. Sleep Issues (Jerking, Disturbed Sleep, Sleepwalking)

Certain sleep issues can be magnificently managed with this remedy. It is a well indicated medicine for jerking during sleep, cries out and wakes frightened and startled from sleep. Loud screaming occurs during sleep. It can be given for disturbed sleep from cramps in legs, and headache. Lastly, it is indicated for treating sleepwalking (somnambulism) following suppressed eruptions.

Key Indicating Features

Jerking and waking up frightened from sleep

Disturbed sleep from cramps in legs and headache

Sleepwalking following suppressed eruptions

8. Skin Complaints (Suppressed Eruptions, Itching, Varicose Veins)

Lastly it acts well on the skin. A very well-known action of this medicine is to help complaints caused from suppressed eruptions (e.g. nerve-related complaints like chorea, convulsions, etc). It helps treat varicose veins (enlarged, dilated, twisted veins) on legs and varicose veins of genital organs. It can be given in cases of eczema of hands. In cases of itching in the hollow of knees, this medicine tends to works wonderfully to relieve it.

Key Indicating Features

Complaints arising from suppressed eruptions

Large varicose veins on legs and varicose veins of genital organs

Itching in hollow of knees

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from exhaustion, suppressed discharges or eruptions, noise, taking wine, consuming milk, and after eating

Relieving factors: Complaints get better by discharge, movement, appearance of eruptions, rubbing, scratching and from hard pressure

Dosage

It can be used in both low and high potencies. It can be repeated frequently in low potency but taking high potencies frequently are inadvisable.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Hepar Sulph, Ignatia and Camphor

It antidotes: Baryta Carb

Followed well by: Sepia, Pulsatilla, Ignatia and Sulphur

It follows well: Apis Mellifica and Belladonna

 

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Top Homeopathic Medicines For Brachial Neuritis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

What Is Brachial Plexus And Brachial Neuritis?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that runs from the spinal cord in the neck to the armpit and supplies nerve fibers to the chest, shoulder, arm and hands. These nerves give sensation and movement signal to the arms, forearms, hands and fingers. Here, there are two exceptions – brachial plexus doesn’t provide nerve supply to trapezius muscle (on the back of the shoulder) and an area of the skin near the armpit.

Brachial neuritis is a condition that arises when nerves of the brachial plexus are inflamed or get damaged. It is also referred to as brachial neuropathy and brachial plexus injury. Other names for brachial neuritis are Brachial Plexitis, Parsonage-Turner Syndrome or Neuralgic Amyotrophy.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are highly reliable to manage symptoms of brachial neuritis. Homeopathic medicines stimulate the healing mechanism of the body to reduce the inflammation of nerves naturally and relieve the symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, weakness in shoulders and arms. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine under the supervision of a homeopathic physician who will prescribe the required medicine after complete case evaluation. Homeopathy is recommended when the problem is mild to moderate in intensity but in severe cases, and when there is paralysis of the arm or difficulty in breathing, then urgent help from conventional mode of treatment should be taken.

Homeopathic Medicines For Brachial Plexus

1. Rhus Tox – For Pain Management

It is a leading homeopathic medicine for managing pain. Persons needing it may have tearing, burning or stitching type of pain in the shoulder. They may feel pressure on the shoulders like one feels when carrying a heavy weight. There is worsening of the symptoms at rest, while movement often relieves the symptoms. They also complain of weakness in the shoulders. They have sensation of numbness around the hands. Sometimes, they have drawing or stitching pain in the shoulders that radiates down the arms. They can also have violent tearing or shooting pain in the arm.  There is a feeling of the arm hanging lifelessly.

2. Hypericum – For Neuritis Related To Injury

It is a general medicine in homeopathy which is highly recommended to manage nerve inflammation consequent to an injury. It is prepared from a plant Hypericum Perforatum, commonly called St John’s Wort. It belongs to family Hypericaceae. It is an effective medicine to manage symptoms of nerve inflammation including numbness, tingling sensation and burning type of pain.

3. Sanguinaria Can – To Manage Right-sided Shoulder Pain And Weakness

It is prepared from a plant Sanguinaria Canadensis commonly known as ‘blood root’. It belongs to family Papaveraceae. It is beneficial in managing right-sided shoulder pain. The pain is also felt in the upper part of the right arm. The pain gets worse at night. Another indication for using it is drawing pain in the shoulders and the arms during sleep. Lastly, it is also useful for cases having weakness in the shoulders.

4. Pulsatilla – To Manage Numbness

It is prepared from the plant Pulsatilla Nigricans, commonly named as ‘wind flower’ and ‘pasque flower’. This plant belongs to family Ranunculaceae. It is useful for managing numbness in shoulders and arms. Heaviness is also felt from the shoulders down to fingers.  Raising the arms worsens the pain. Other than this, drawing, jerking and tearing pain can be felt in the shoulder. Drawing pain from the shoulder may extend down the hands in some cases.

5. Picric Acid – For Weakness In Shoulders

It offers help in cases having weakness in the shoulders. Persons needing it, feel lame in the shoulders, along with tiredness and soreness of the shoulders. There is heaviness in the arms which is felt mainly on exertion.

6. Chamomilla – For Left Shoulder Pain And Tingling In Shoulders

It is a natural medicine prepared from plant Matricaria chamomilla. It belongs to family Compositae. This medicine is considered when there is left-sided shoulder pain. The pain may be jerking, stitching type which sometimes feels like electric sparks. It may extend to the neck also. Tingling or pricking sensation may be felt in the shoulders. There may be pain in the arms that cannot bear the slightest movement. Other than the above, its use is also recommended for pricking numb sensation mainly in the right arm, felt mostly when one wakes up from sleep at night.

7. Phosphorus – For Managing Weakness In Upper Arm

This medicine works well in cases of weakness of upper arms. Along with this, drawing pain is felt in the shoulder and the upper arm.  Next there can be tearing in the left shoulder. It is felt mainly at night in bed.

8. Bryonia – For Pain In Right Shoulder

This medicine is prepared from root of the plant Bryonia Alba, commonly known as ‘white bryony’ and ‘wild hops’. This plant belongs to family Cucurbitaceae. It is effective for managing pain in the right shoulder. It gets worse on touching. A tension and pressure builds up on the shoulders. Other than this, pain is also felt on the upper arm which is drawing and tearing in nature.

9. Ledum Pal – For Severe Stitching Shoulder Pain

When there is pain in the shoulder on raising or moving the arm, this is the best medicine which can come to your rescue. It is prepared from plant Ledum Palustre, commonly called ‘wild rosemary’ and ‘marsh cistus’. This plant belongs to family Ericaceae. It is also indicated to manage throbbing type of pain in right shoulder.

10. Ferrum Met – For Shooting Type Of Shoulder Pain

It is a prominent medicine when there is shooting type of pain in shoulder. The pain travels down the arm where it is indicated. It also manages boring type of pain in the right shoulder which hurts more from movement. Heat application may relieve when the right shoulder is sore to touch.

11. Sulphur – For Shoulder Pain At Night

This medicine is beneficial for managing shoulder pain that occurs mostly at night. The pain is mainly lacerating type with a bruised pain in the left shoulder. Along with this, one feel pressure on the shoulders as if carrying a heavy weight.

What Is The Cause Behind It?

It arises from damage to the nerves of the brachial plexus (network of nerves in the neck and arms). When the nerves are damaged, they are unable to send and carry signals to the spinal cord resulting in pain and other symptoms like burning sensation, numbness, tingling and weakness in shoulders. The damage may be due to an injury or infection. Brachial neuritis may also be genetic or related to autoimmune diseases in which the immune system attacks and damages the healthy tissue of the body itself out of a misdirected response. The Parsonage-Turner Syndrome is a type of brachial neuritis that arise without any cause and is linked to autoimmune inflammation. According to a research, brachial neuritis may also arise from damage to the protective myelin sheath that covers the nerve.

Any recent infection of the upper respiratory tract, flu or typhoid can also cause brachial neuritis, or it may be idiopathic (without any cause).

Though it may affect people of any age group, it frequently affects people aged between 20-60 yrs of age. The chances of brachial neuritis are more in males as compared to females.

What Are Its Symptoms?

In this condition, the pain arises mostly in the shoulder or the upper arm, sometimes the neck too.  The pain may radiate from the shoulders to the arms and the hands. The pain occurs suddenly and increases on moving the shoulder and the arm. The pain varies in nature, can be sharp, intense, stabbing, burning or electric shock like that varies from case to case. The pain is generally felt on one side but sometimes may occur on both the sides. With time, the pain goes away, but numbness, weakness and the tingling sensation stays in the shoulders. These symptoms may also occur in the arm and the hands. Severe cases of brachial neuritis  may lead to paralysis, and decrease in the muscle mass in the shoulder or the arm. Lastly, if the nerve to diaphragm is affected then it may lead to shortness of breath.

 

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Iodum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 15 Comments

The remedy Iodum, called Iodum Purum, is derived from an element Iodine. Iodum is inert in its crude state. When it undergoes potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines which arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance), it gets converted into a highly valuable homeopathic medicine Iodum. This medicine is extensively used to manage complaints of thyroid gland that mainly include hyperthyroidism, goiter and Graves’ Disease.

The ‘Iodum’ Constitution

This medicine is most suitable to persons who are thin and suffer from weight loss. Their appetite is good but inspite of that they lose weight. They have excessive weakness and may have enlarged lymphatic glands.

Drug Action

This medicine has an action on different body parts and organs. Among these the foremost and most important action is noted on glands primarily the thyroid gland. Other glands including mammary glands, mesenteric glands (lymph glands in abdomen), salivary glands, pancreas and lymphatic glands are also the seat of action of this medicine. There may either be hardness, swelling and heaviness of glands or atrophy (decrease in size) of glands. This medicine also acts well on testicles, ovaries and uterus. Other body parts where this medicine shows remarkable action include mind, throat, joints, lungs, gastric system and heart.

Clinical Indications

Hyperthyroidism, goiter, weight loss, increased appetite, breast lumps, ovary inflammation and pain, vaginal discharge, hydrocele, enlarged prostate gland, diarrhea, anxiety, laryngitis, throat pain, throat ulcers, enlarged tonsils, inflamed joints, enlarged adenoids, gas, bloating, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, pancreatitis, weakness, atrophy of testicles/ovaries/ breast, palpitations, myocarditis, pericarditis.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Thyroid Gland (Hyperthyroidism, Goiter, Grave’s Disease)

Iodum is of great service in treating a number of disorders of the thyroid gland. Thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ that lies at the base in the front part of neck. It secretes thyroid hormones that regulate body metabolism and help in growth and development.

This medicine is highly recommended to manage thyroid complaints especially hyperthyroidism, goiter, exophthalmic goiter. Hyperthyroidism refers to an overactive thyroid gland, while goiter is the swelling in the front of neck due to an enlarged thyroid gland. In exophthalmic goiter, also known as Grave’s Disease, the eyes bulge out, while the rest of the symptoms are the same as that in hyperthyroidism.

In exophthalmic goiter, the eyes bulge out, while the rest of the symptoms are the same as that in hyperthyroidism.  

In exophthalmic goiter, the eyes bulge out, while the rest of the symptoms are the same as that in hyperthyroidism.

Persons who need it have increased metabolic rate. They are thin and loses weight. A characteristic feature to note here is the person loses weight despite a good appetite and eating well. He/she feels hungry frequently and must have something to eat every hour. Excessive weakness is marked. The person feels excessive heat in the body and desires cold air. They also suffer from anxiety and restlessness. Sometimes they can have long term diarrhoea also. In goiter cases, the thyroid is hard and enlarged especially on the right side. Throat feels constricted, attended with rough voice. Difficulty in breathing occurs especially when lying on the back. Bulging out of eyes may be present like in exophthalmic goiter. Besides, it is an important medicine for helping cases of swollen thyroid and thyroid cysts. Swelling and pain in thyroid during menses is a peculiar symptom of this medicine.

Key Indicating Features

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Weight loss even after good appetite

Excessive weakness, excessive heat in body, anxiety, restlessness

Goiter with enlargement on right side, thyroid swelling, thyroid cysts

2. Mind (Anxiety, Restlessness, Impulsiveness)

Iodum has a marked action on mind where it addresses many complaints. Here, the  foremost indication is anxiety. Persons who need it mainly have anxiety about the present. Anxiety which gets better by eating is a salient feature to use this remedy. It may also be relieved by walking in open air. Along with this, there is restlessness which increases in a warm room. They are disposed to keep moving about but it leads to weakness. Being busy offers some relief to them. They may also show an impulsive behaviour with a sudden urge to harm someone or themselves or an impulse to run away. Next it is beneficial to manage complaint of forgetfulness. Sadness, depression, fear and irritability are its other indications.

Key Indicating Features

Anxiety about present and restlessness

Anxiety better from eating and walking in open air

Impulsive behaviour with desire to run away, harm himself or others

3. Male Problems (Hydrocele, Orchitis, Prostate Issues, Testicle Hardness Or Atrophy Means Shrinkage)

This medicine also settles many male problems effectively. It is one of the best remedies for hydrocele  in which there is swelling of scrotum resulting from fluid collection around the testicle. There is swelling in the scrotum without any pain, along with excessive offensive sweat on genitals. The testicles may be hard, a pressure is felt on the testicles which may extend to the abdomen. There may occur aching, twisting, pressing pain in spermatic cord after sexual activity. Inflammation of testicles (orchitis) also indicates the use of Iodum. This medicine can also be given in cases of prostate issues. The prostate is swollen, hard, urine may pass involuntarily in elderly from an enlarged prostate. Last noteworthy feature to use it is atrophy (decrease size) of testes with loss of sexual power.

Key Indicating Features

Hydrocele with painless swelling of scrotum and Orchitis

Prostate issues – swollen, enlarged, hard prostate gland

Atrophy of testes with loss of sexual power

4. Female Problems (Ovary Complaints, Vaginal Discharge, Irregular Menses, Breast Complaints)

This medicine is It is beneficial for ovary inflammation, swelling and pain in ovaries, ovarian cyst, vaginal discharge, irregular menses, suppressed menses (amenorrhea), breast lumps, galactorrhea (nipple discharge not related to milk production during breastfeeding), atrophy of breast and ovaries. There is inflammation in the ovary along with vaginal discharge. Ovary pain and sensitivity occur during menses. Pain is of pressing type mostly in the right ovary and may extend to the uterus. The vaginal discharge is thin, yellow, with burning in vagina which get worse during periods. The discharge causes soreness of thighs.  There may be atrophy (decreased size) of ovaries with sterility. Ovaries may become hard in some cases. Irregular menses are there which is painful with scanty flow. During menses, there is pain in the back and ovaries. There may be suppressed periods from long time. Iodum can be given for bluish red lumps in breast. For galactorrhea, it is given when there is thin watery milky nipple discharge along with weakness. Its use is also recommended for relaxed atrophied breasts. This medicine can also be considered in managing cases of cancer of uterus, cervix and ovaries as per symptoms.

Key Indicating Features

Ovary inflammation, cyst, pain

Vaginal discharge which is thin, yellow with vaginal burning

Bluish red breast lumps

Ggalactorrhea with thin watery milky discharge from nipples

Atrophy (shrinkage) of breast or ovaries

5. Gastric system (Gas, Bloating, Diarrhoea, Splenomegaly, Hepatomegaly, Pancreatitis)

With its action on gastric system, it helps relieve gas trapped in stomach and bloating. There can be burping that can be sour or empty. It seems as if each food particle is converted into gas. After eating, bitter taste is felt in the mouth. Vomiting may consist of oily substance, water, tastes like salt and is attended with stomach pain. Another complaint where it is very useful is chronic diarrhea which occurs in morning. The stool is watery, whitish or brownish, frothy, fetid, accompanied with pinching pain around navel. There is increased appetite with desire to eat every hour. Its use is also preferred in cases of enlarged spleen (splenomegaly), enlarged liver (hepatomegaly). Lastly, its use is recommended for chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of pancreas).

Key Indicating Features

Abdominal gas, bloating with sour or empty burping

Increased appetite, must eat every hour

Diarrhea, watery, whitish/ brownish, frothy, fetid stool with pinching pain around navel and weakness

Splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, pancreatitis

6. Throat (Throat Pain, Ulcers, Laryngitis, Goiter)

Use of Iodum is highly recommended for throat pain and throat ulcers. Burning type of pain is felt in throat. Tonsils are enlarged and hard. Rawness and tickling occurs in the throat that causes dry cough. Other than this, it can be given for enlargement of glands of neck, thyroid gland enlargement (goiter) and swelling of submaxillary glands. Cases of inflamed larynx can be well managed with it. Such cases have rough, hoarse or deep voice. Lastly, it is an important medicine for ulcers of food pipe (esophagus) when the person has difficulty in swallowing.

Key Indicating Features

Goiter, hard with throat constriction

Ulcers in throat and food pipe

Enlarged, hard tonsils

Laryngitis with rough, deep, hoarse voice

Enlarged neck glands

7. Lungs (Cough, Difficulty In Breathing, Asthma, Pneumonia)

It has shown great clinical improvement in many complaints related to lungs including cough, asthma and pneumonia (inflammation and infection of air sacs). Iodum may administered for cough that is dry, short, and irritating which gets worse at night. Cough arises from tickling in the larynx. Sometimes yellow, tough mucus is expectorated. It can be blood streaked too. Cough can be attended with wheezing and difficulty in breathing from talking and slightest exertion. It is indicated for right sided pneumonia.

Key Indicating Features

Dry, short, irritating cough worsening at night

Asthma with shortness of breath that worsen from slightest exertion and talking

Right sided pneumonia

8. Limbs (Joint Pains, Trembling Of Limbs)

This medicine is mainly indicated for inflamed joints. There is stiffness in joints and pain which increases at night. There is pain in knee joint, and the slightest movement and pressure worsen the pain. Knee is also swollen with pricking and burning sensation. There is pain in hip joint which aggravates from movement. It can also be given for trembling of limbs attended with weakness. Hands and feet are cold. Palms of hands are sweaty. Feet can be swollen. Iodum can also be used for painful corns.

Key Indicating Features

Joint pain at night

Trembling of limbs with weakness

9. Heart Complaints (Palpitations, Myocarditis, Pericarditis, Anxiety)

This medicine is also prominent for managing many heart issues. Firstly, it is effective in managing palpitations. They get worse from the slightest exertion, bathing with warm water, etc. Cold bathing offers relief. The pulse can be small, weak, irregular or hard and rapid. Iodum is indicated for cases of myocarditis (inflammation of heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of thin sac-like tissues that surround the heart). There is anxiety with desire to change position constantly and sensation as if heart is being squeezed by an iron hand.

Key Indicating Features

Palpitations from bathing with warm water and exertion

Myocarditis and Pericarditis

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints worsen from warmth, fasting, talking and wrapping up

Relieving factors: Complaints get better in cold air, eating, walking in open air

Dosage

Iodum can be used in both low and high potencies. It can be repeated frequently in low potency, but high potencies should not be taken frequently. The potency varies as per the nature of complaint and duration of the complaint. For using high potency, one must take physician’s advice regarding the duration and repetition of this medicine.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Apis Mellifica, Camphor, Coffea Cruda, Graphites, Opium, Spongia, Thuja and Sulphur

It antidotes: Merc Sol

Follows well: Arsenic Album, Hepar Sulph and Merc Sol

Followed well by Argentum Nitricum, Calcarea Carb, Kali Bichrome, Lycopodium, Merc Sol, Phosphorus, Pulsatilla

 

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6 Natural Homeopathic Remedies For Muscle Pain And Aches

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 446 Comments

Homeopathic Remedies for muscle pain and aches

Muscle pain is medically known as myalgia. Muscle pain can be localised in one muscle or a few muscles or generalized, involving muscles all over the body. The pain can involve any muscle of the body but the main muscles that ache are deltoid muscle (muscle covering shoulder and upper part of outer side of the upper arm), muscles of the neck, muscles of the lower back, calf muscles (muscles of the back of the leg) and thigh muscles. Muscle pain can be attended with stiffness and weakness of the muscle area involved, and sometimes can be attended with fever. In some cases, rashes can appear on the skin. At times, redness and swelling at the affected area can also be seen.

Homeopathic medicines prove very beneficial in cases of muscle pain. The natural homeopathic remedies for muscle pain not only provide relief, but also strike at the root of the problem and cure muscle pain effectively. These are also completely safe with no side effects. In modern system of medicine, generally pain killers, pain relieving ointments / gels, or spraying of pain reliever is advised in cases of muscle pain. However, it only provides temporary relief and the real cause of muscle pain is not addressed. Here’s where homeopathy can be of real help that provides long-term relief and cure by targeting the underlying cause of pain.

Homeopathic medicines for muscle pain are decided for each case individually. The muscle involved, the type of pain, the cause of pain and the worsening / relieving factors are all noted down followed by its assessment to provide the best homeopathic medicine. Homeopathy gives magnificent results when the medicine is prescribed following this individualized approach. This way it aims to cure the muscle pain rather than simply providing temporary relief. For achieving remarkable results guidance from an expert homeopath is required and self-medication should be avoided.

Homeopathic treatment focuses on treating the root cause of muscle pain like overstraining, injury, inflammation, autoimmune process, etc. By treating the cause, there occurs gradual relief in pain and at one time the pain resolves completely. Both acute as well as chronic cases of muscle pain respond well to homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathic medicines for muscle pain suit persons of all age groups and are entirely safe to use. The best part of using homeopathic medicines is that these are of natural origin hence are free from any sort of toxic side effects.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Muscle Pain

The leading homeopathic medicines for managing muscle pain includes Rhus Tox, Bryonia, Arnica, Ruta, Magnesium Phos and Gelsemium.

1. Rhus Tox – Top-Grade Medicine

Rhus Tox occupies the top position when it comes to treating muscle pain. This medicine can be used to relieve muscle pain anywhere in the body. The key indication to use it is muscle pain getting worse at rest and better with movement. It is the best medicine to help cases of muscle pain arising from overuse of a muscle; over-straining or over-stretching of muscle — like muscle pain from doing excessive exercise;  pain in leg muscles from excessive running; pain in the muscles of the arm from carrying heavy weights; neck pain from prolonged working on computers; back pain from heavy weight lifting or a sudden jerky movement and so on. Rhus Tox can be used for pain in any muscle of the body. It is a wonderful medicine for muscular pain, along with stiffness, particularly in the neck which aggravates towards the evening. Secondly, Rhus Tox is very beneficial for muscle pain and stiffness in the lower back which gets worse on sitting and lying down, but moving about relieves it. It is a leading medicine to help cases of lower back pain due to straining of muscles from heavy weight lifting. This medicine also relieves pain in deltoid muscle (muscle covering shoulder and upper part of the outer side of the upper arm) where stitching pain is felt in the shoulders while lying down which gets better from movement.

When to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine can be used as the first line of treatment in case of muscle pain in any body part especially when arising from overuse, overstraining of muscles. The characteristic to use this medicine is muscle pain, along with stiffness, that gets worse at rest and better from movement.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox is most frequently used in 30C potency; initially, it can be taken three to four times a day. Once relief sets in, the dose should be reduced. If using in 200C potency, do not take it more than once a day.

2. Bryonia – For Muscle Pain On Movement

Bryonia is a brilliant medicine for muscle pain treatment. The key symptom to use this medicine is muscle pain which gets worse on movement and better by lying still. It is effective for neck muscle pain and pain in muscles of the lower back. Movement and stooping are not possible. Next Bryonia, is prominently indicated for pain and soreness of abdominal muscles from coughing.

When to use Bryonia?

Bryonia can be given in case of muscle pain which gets worse during movement, while relief sets in from lying down.

How to use Bryonia?

It gives excellent results in 30C potency. It can be taken two to three times a day as per the severity of the pain.

3. Arnica – For Sore Painful Muscles From An Injury Or Overexertion

Arnica is the most useful medicine when it comes to treat sore, painful muscles from an injury or overexertion. Muscle injury may occur from a traumatic fall or a blow against something hard. The affected muscle is very tender to touch along with pain. Besides, Arnica is also indicated for muscle pain in case of influenza (a viral infection affecting nose, throat and sometimes lungs).

When to use Arnica?

If you have suffered muscle pain from overexertion or an injury, Arnica is the best prescription for you. It is an infallible medicine in such cases bringing relief in pain, soreness along with aiding healing of injured muscle.

How to use Arnica?

Take it in 30C potency three to four times a day at a three-hour gap. When pain starts receding, reduce the dose to two times followed by once a day.

4. Ruta – For Muscle Pain Due To Strain (Pulled Muscle)

Ruta is a magnificent medicine to deal with cases of muscle pain from strain, which is overstretching or tearing of the muscle. Muscle pull can occur from using muscle the wrong way, overuse of muscle, or an accident. Persons needing it feel sore with aching bruised pain in the affected muscle area. This medicine helps in pain relief along with relaxation and healing of the over-stretched muscle.

When to use Ruta?

Ruta is most prominently indicated to manage muscle pain arising from overstretching or tearing of muscle.

How to use Ruta?

30 C potency of Ruta is the right choice to start with that can be used three to four times a day.

 5. Magnesium Phos – For Muscle Pain From Cramps

Magnesium Phos is the top-listed medicine to relieve muscle cramps – sudden involuntary muscle contraction (tightness). It works well for pain occurring from cramps in any body muscle, especially calves (muscle in the back of lower leg) and feet. In cases needing it, a person complains of cramps from prolonged exertion and also at night.

When to use Magnesium Phos?

This medicine is the perfect prescription for muscle pain due to cramps because of excessive exertion.

How to use Magnesium Phos?

The most frequently recommended potency of this medicine is 6X which comes in tablet form. Magnesium Phos 6X can be used three to four times a day as per intensity of the pain.

 6. Gelsemium – For Muscle Pain Along With Weakness And Heaviness

It is a natural medicine to manage muscle pain attended with heaviness and weakness in the affected part. Mostly, it helps with muscle pain in the limbs (arms and legs). The affected muscle area is sore to touch apart from being weak and heavy. It is a highly valuable medicine to manage muscle pain that occurs in influenza cases along with fatigue.

When to use Gelsemium?

Use of Gelsemium is suggested when heaviness and weakness in the affected area is marked along with muscle pain.

How to use Gelsemium?

Though it works well in both low and high potencies, it is better to begin with low potencies. Gelsemium 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day.

What Are The Causes Behind Muscle Pain?

Muscle pain can arise from any of the following reasons:

1. Overstretching, overuse / overstraining musclesfrom excessive physical activity, muscle tension; muscle cramp is the main reason behind muscle pain.

2. Injury or trauma to muscle including strains

3. Certain medical conditions:

a). Fibromyalgia: It is a chronic long-term condition in which there is widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness along with other symptoms including fatigue, irregular sleep patterns, loss of concentration and mood swings.

b). Chronic fatigue Syndrome: In this syndrome, a person suffers from extreme fatigue/exhaustion along with unexplained muscle pain, memory issues, loss of concentration and improper sleep.

c). Thyroid issues: Muscle pain can occur in both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

d). Certain Infections:  like flu (influenza), COVID – 19, Lyme disease

Flu: it is a contagious viral infection affecting nose, throat and lungs.

COVID – 19: It is a highly contagious viral infection caused by SARS – CoV -2 virus

Lyme disease: It is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia which is spread by ticks.

e). Autoimmune diseases (the diseases in which the body’s defence/immune cells start destroying the body’s healthy tissues out of a mistake). These include dermatomyositis and polymyositis.

Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory disease causing a skin rash and muscle inflammation.

Polymyositis is a muscle disease causing muscle inflammation leading to muscle weakness and pain.

f). Polymyalgia rheumatica: It is a chronic inflammatory condition leading to pain and stiffness in muscles, mainly hips and shoulders.

g). Compartment Syndrome: It arises from pressure build-up in a muscle compartment. It results in obstructed flow of oxygen, blood and nutrients to the muscles, nerves and blood vessels resulting in its damage.

4. Electrolyte imbalance: Low potassium or calcium

5. Certain medicineslike statins, bisphosphonates, ACE inhibitors

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Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Joint Pains

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 1,475 Comments

homeopathic remedies for joint pains

Pain in the joints is a very common complaint, ranging from mild to severe intensity, which can incapacitate a person from doing daily chores. The joint pain can be attended with other signs and symptoms such as stiffness, swelling, redness, heat, and decreased movement of the joints.

Homeopathy offers a highly commendable and side-effect-free treatment for cases of joint pains. As joint pains can arise from different causes like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, etc, homeopathy gives excellent relief by treating the root cause. Homeopathic medicines help to relieve joint pain along with managing other associated signs and symptoms like stiffness, swelling, redness, and heat in joints. These medicines aim to halt further inflammation of joints as well as prevent further joint damage. Homeopathic medicines not only work to provide relief in joint pains but also aim to cure the condition in the long run. In conventional treatment painkillers, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs), and steroids are used as per the case demands. These medicines may have side effects from long-term use and may create dependency.

Homeopathy is effective for acute/chronic joint pain

Be it acute or chronic joint pain, homeopathy gives equally good results in both. It provides prompt relief in joint pains and its attending symptoms. In chronic cases, it reduces the frequency and the intensity of joint pain. With timely use of these medicines, the deformities and other complications related to joint pain and inflammation can also be prevented in most cases.

Symptomatic homeopathic medicine prescription

Homeopathic remedies for joint pains are selected on a symptomatic basis in every individual case. A thorough case-taking with in-depth symptom collection followed by proper evaluation is done to decide a homeopathic prescription for any case of joint pain. This individualized medication carries great scope to treat joint pains. In mild to moderate cases of joint pains, there are high chances of bringing a cure. However, in severe cases with deformities and other complications, relief of joint pain can be brought about but the damage already done to the joint cannot be reversed.

Homeopathic remedies are safe and natural

Homeopathy uses natural medicines mostly obtained from plants to treat joint pains, hence are very safe to use. These do not cause any adverse effects as they lack any type of chemicals or toxins in it. One can use these without any fear of side effects.

Homeopathy is suitable for persons of all age groups

Homeopathy suits persons of all age groups like children, adults, and the elderly. The set of homeopathic medicines for joint pain is similar for all age groups. But only the potency and the dose differ from person to person.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Joint Pains

The top six medicines for treating joint pains are Rhus Tox, Bryonia Alba, Arnica Montana, Actaea Spicata, Colchicum Autumnale and Pulsatilla.

1. Rhus Tox –  For Joint Pain Worse At Rest and Better On Movement

Rhus Tox is a physician’s first choice of prescription in cases of joint pain. It is prescribed when the joint pains are the most severe during rest and also on initial movement. However, it gets better after continuous movement. Although there are a number of other medicines that treat this symptom, no other medicine does it better than this medicine.

In patients who are in need of Rhus Tox, they complain of heat, swelling and stiffness in joints along with pain. Rhus Tox is also highly suitable to treat joint pains which are a result of overstraining, sprain and injuries.

When to use Rhus Tox?

This medicine is the best choice when joint pains are worse from rest and better from movement.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, initially 30C potency is good to go. Rhus Tox 30C can be taken three to four times a day as per the intensity of the symptom. Keep away from using its high potencies without consulting a homeopathic physician.

2. Bryonia Alba – For Joint Pain Worse By Movement and Better At Rest

Bryonia Alba, though placed in the second position, is just as effective as Rhus Tox, but the symptoms a person shows are different. Bryonia Alba is chiefly recommended when the pain increases by even the slightest movement and is relieved by complete rest. The joint pain may be stitching (local, sharp, sudden pain) or tearing (intense) type. Along with pain, joints can be red, hot, and swollen.

When to use Bryonia Alba?

It is indicated for cases of painful, red, swollen joints with worsening of joint pain by movement and relief by rest.

How to use Bryonia Alba?

Though it can be used in low or high power, it is mostly used in 30 C power. Bryonia 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day.

3. Arnica Montana – For Joint Pain After Injury; Overstrained Joints

Sourced from the plant ‘leopard’s bane’, it is the most prescribed medicine to manage joint pain from injury or overstrained joints. Persons needing it usually complain of sore bruised pain in joints as if beaten. They fear touching the affected joints because of intense soreness.

When to use Arnica Montana?

This medicine is apt for cases of joint pain with sore bruised pains following an injury.

How to use Arnica Montana?

It can be used in 30C potency three or four times a day initially, gradually decreasing the dose once relief sets in.

4. Actaea Spicata – For Pain In Small Joints, Especially Wrist

This natural remedy sourced from the root of the plant ‘baneberry’ is highly effective for pain in small joints, especially the wrist. The wrist becomes swollen and red with pain. It is also beneficial for relieving pain in other small joints as well, including ankles, fingers, and toes.

When to use Actaea Spicata?

It is best-indicated medicine for pain in small joints including the wrist, fingers, toes, and ankles. Pains are worse from touch and motion.

How to use Actaea Spicata?

One may use this medicine in 30C potency, once or twice a day for good results.

5. Colchicum Autumnale – For Joint Pain Caused By Gout

It is one of the best remedies for treating joint pain due to gout (joint Inflammation from high uric acid levels). It can be given to treat pain in any joint, but mostly helps if there is pain in the big toe due to high uric acid. There is unbearable pain if touched and the pain aggravates in the evening.

When to use Colchicum Autumnale?

Use of this medicine may be considered in cases of joint pains occurring from increased uric acid levels (gout).

How to use Colchicum Autumnale?

It may be used in 30 C potency once or twice a day.

6. Pulsatilla – For Shifting Type Of Joint Pains

Pulsatilla is a highly suitable medicine for managing shifting types of joint pains. In cases needing this medicine, the pain keeps moving from one joint to another quite rapidly. The joints feel beaten and are red and swollen too. There is worsening of pain from movement and also at night time.

When to use Pulsatilla?

Its use is highly suggested to manage shifting type of joint pains when pain keeps shifting from one joint to another quickly.

How to use Pulsatilla?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency once a day. Avoid using its high potencies without the doctor’s recommendation.

Note: You may take any of these medicines for 3 to 4 weeks’ time. To use it beyond that or to use it in potencies higher than above-recommended potencies, consult a homeopath.

What Causes Joint Pains?

Joint pains can occur due to various reasons as summed below:

1. Rheumatoid arthritis

It is an auto-immune disorder that causes pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased movement of the joint. An auto-immune disorder means damage to the body’s own healthy tissues by the immune cells out of a misdirected response. In rheumatoid arthritis, the lining of the joints is affected which can slowly lead to bone erosion and deformity. This disease tends to involve small joints (fingers in the majority of the cases) on both sides initially, and large joints may get affected with time. Joint deformity can appear in later stages. Primarily, it affects joints but later on can also affect other organs like eyes, lungs, heart, and skin as well. The most important symptom is stiffness in the joints on waking up in the morning lasting for an hour after which it gradually eases. Other symptoms are pain, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in joints.

2. Osteoarthritis

It causes degeneration of the joints that occurs from wear and tear of the protective cartilage present at the end of the bones. Cartilage covers the surface of bones where they meet to form a joint. The cartilage in joints functions to allow smooth gliding movement of bones as the joint straightens or bends. Osteoarthritis mainly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine. The symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain in joints, stiffness, swelling and tenderness at the joint, grating sensation when the affected joint moves, and decreased movement of the joint. Bone spurs (extra tiny outgrowth of bones over the end of bones) may form around affected joints.

3. Gout

It refers to the inflammation of joints that arises due to the accumulation of urate crystals in joints when uric acid levels increase in blood. It results in swelling, pain, redness and tenderness of joints, especially the big toe.

4. Injuryis also a common cause of joint pain. It can result from overuse of the affected joint, overstrained joint, sprains (caused by overstretching or tearing of ligaments that connect two bones in a joint), or fracture.

5. Ankylosing spondylitis

It is a type of arthritis (joint inflammation) affecting the joints of the spine. The most common joint involved in it is the sacroiliac joint (joint between the base of spine and pelvis). The main symptoms are pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips. The pain is worse in the early morning and after periods of inactivity.

6. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

It is a type of arthritis that affects children under the age of 16 years. It causes joint pain, stiffness and swelling, and in some cases fever and rash on the trunk (any part of the body excluding limbs, neck, face, and head)

7. Bursitis

It refers to inflammation of the bursa (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, muscles, and tendons near joints). It mostly affects the shoulders, hips, elbows and knees. It causes pain in the joint (pain worsens from pressure or movement), stiffness of joint and swelling, and redness over the joint.

8. Tendinitis

It means inflammation of tendons (bands that connect bones and muscles). It mainly happens from overuse and mostly affects heels, elbows and shoulders.

9. Avascular necrosis (AVN)

It refers to dead bone tissue resulting from a lack of blood supply. Though anyone can be affected by it, excessive use of steroids in high doses over a long time and excessive alcohol intake puts a person at risk. Though it can affect any bone, the head of the femur (a bone in the thigh) is the most commonly involved bone. In the early stage of AVN (Avascular necrosis), no symptoms may appear. As AVN progresses to further stages, pain in the affected joint begins usually on putting weight on it, later the pain may be even felt on lying down.

What Are The Symptoms?

Along with pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joint. A grating sensation (harsh sound) on the movement of the joint may be felt at times. The affected joint may be sore from the inside and tender to touch from the outside which restricts the movement of the joint. This can lead to chronic joint deformities. If any kind of joint pain becomes severe, day-to-day activities get hindered. Due to joint pains, like rheumatoid arthritis, other organs like eyes, kidneys, and heart can also get affected and lead to complications.

Who is at risk?

Though joint pains can affect anyone, some factors increase the risk:

A person with a family history of joint pains is at high risk

Injury to any joint

Overuse of joints

Obesity

How to diagnose the cause of joint pains?

To diagnose the cause behind joint pains a detailed medical history, and physical examination followed by investigations are required. The investigations suggested include blood tests and imaging techniques varying from case to case as per the suspected cause. Among these initially, some blood tests are recommended. These include ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) both of which check for the intensity of inflammation, some tests to rule autoimmune disorders that might cause joint pain like rheumatoid factor, Anti CCp (anti-citrullinated protein antibody), ANA (antinuclear antibodies) test and also uric acid test (to check for gout).  Imaging techniques like X-ray of joint, MRI, and CT scan might be recommended afterward as per the case needs.

 

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Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines For Sprained Ankle

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

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

Homeopathic treatment for sprained ankle involves internal healing. These medicines works to heal the injured ligaments and promote excellent recovery along with helping to reduce pain and swelling in the ankle. It also manages soreness, tenderness and bruising of the ankle. 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 as homeopathy has its limitation in treating such cases.

Homeopathic medicines act on ligaments and promote healing

Homeopathy has numerous medicines that show magnificent action on the ligaments and assist in its healing. These medicines focus to enhance the body’s self-healing forces to naturally stimulate the healing of ligaments in addition to symptom management. For this homeopathy uses well-selected medicines prescribed in highly diluted form that work on a deep level to ensure great recoveries in mild to moderate cases. Homeopathic medicines also offer help to treat arthritis of the ankle that may occur as a complication in some of the cases of sprained ankle.

Effective for both acute and chronic sprains

Homeopathy can treat both acute as well as chronic cases of sprain superbly. It aims to provide symptomatic relief as well as healing of the ligaments. The healing time depends on the grade of ankle sprain that may range from few weeks to few months. Homeopathy also play a marvellous role in treating the tendency of recurrent sprains by strengthening the ligaments in the long run.

Homeopathy is totally safe

Homeopathy is a great mode of alternative treatment that has been in use since ages with the advantage of being safe and totally side effect free due to use of natural remedies. Homeopathic medicines used for treating sprains are natural and no harmful effects have ever been noticed with their  use. These medicines can be safely used among persons of all age groups to promote safe, natural, gentle healing in the most harmless way.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines For Sprained Ankle

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

1. Arnica – For Managing Pain, Soreness, Swelling In Sprained Ankle

Arnica is a natural remedy to be used as the first line of treatment for cases of a sprained ankle. This medicine helps to relieve pain and soreness in the 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 to use Arnica?

In case of sprained ankle, Arnica should be given in the first place to reduce pain, soreness and swelling of ankle and promote healing.

How to use Arnica?

Arnica 30C can be used three to four times a day with a three-hour gap.

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

Ruta has a magnificent action on ligaments. This medicine helps in healing injured ligaments. It helps to bring pain relief and reduce swelling of the ankle. In cases where ankle joint has become weak and lame (unable to walk correctly due to injury), this medicine can prove very effective.

When to use Ruta?

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. How to use Ruta?

After taking few doses of Arnica 30C, 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 the ankle joint. It also manages pain and lessens swelling of the ankle. Rhus Tox can also be considered in cases of arthritis (joint inflammation) of the ankle that may occur as a complication of a sprained ankle.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox should be used in cases having stiffness in ankle along with pain and swelling.

How to use Rhus Tox?

Though it can be used in different potencies for ankle sprains, however, initially it is recommended to take it in 30C potency. Rhus Tox 30C can be taken twice or thrice a day as per the intensity of the symptoms.

4. Ledum Palustre – For Ankle Pain On Stepping

This medicine is very effective to offer help when there is intolerable pain in the 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 to use Ledum Pal?

Those who feel pain in the ankle while stepping due to a sprained ankle should go with this medicine.

How to use Ledum Pal?

Ledum Pal 30 C can be taken two or three times a day for good results.

 5. Bellis Perennis – To Reduce Intense Soreness

Bellis Perennis is a wonderful medicine showing remarkable action on ligaments. It is highly beneficial 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 to use Bellis Perennis?

In cases of sprained ankle, this medicine should be considered to reduce intense soreness at the ankle joint.

How to use Bellis Perennis?

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. If symptoms persist, consult a homeopathic doctor 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 the extent of the 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.

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.

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.

 

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

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 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.

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

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Jaw Pain

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

1. Rhus Tox – Top-grade Medicine

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

When to use Rhus Tox?

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

How to use Rhus Tox?

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

2. Silicea – For Throbbing Toothache With Pain In Jaw

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

When to use Silicea?

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

How to use Silicea?

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

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

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

When to use Causticum?

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

How to use Causticum?

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

4. Hecla Lava – For Jaw Pain After Tooth Extraction

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

When to use Hecla Lava?

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

How to use Hecla Lava?

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

5. Spigelia – For Lower Jaw Pain Radiating To Ears

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

When to use Spigelia?

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

How to use Spigelia?

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

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

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

When to use Alumina?

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

How to use Alumina?

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

7. Phosphorus – For Tearing Pain In Jaw Bones

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

When to use Phosphorus?

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

How to use Phosphorus?

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

What Are The Causes Behind It?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

 

 

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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.

 

 

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