Search Results for: Blood Pressure

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

Homeopathic Treatment for Hydrocephalus

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 75 Comments

Hydrocephalus, also known as water on the brain, refers to a condition in which there is too much build up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain.  Homeopathic medicines for hydrocephalus only play a supportive role in managing the symptoms and should be considered only with conventional treatment.Homeopathic medicines for hydrocephalus

These ventricles are the cavities within the brain where lies the choroid plexus that produces CSF. This fluid flow through ventricles and eventually flows in spaces that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It provides nutrients to brain and also act as shock absorber in case of any jolts and hit to the head. This fluid undergoes a cycle of constant production and reabsorption. When this fluid exceeds a normal amount then it increases the size of ventricles and puts pressure on the brain and can cause brain damage. Though it mostly occurs in infants, children and elderly people over 60 years of age, it can occur at any age including younger adults. 

Homeopathic Medicines for Hydrocephalus

They provide symptomatic management in such cases. There are numerous natural homeopathic medicines to manage this condition which are selected based on an individual’s symptoms. Some of these medicines are described below. None of these medicines should be used by self medication. One should opt for its use after consulting a homeopathic specialist who after taking case details doing its analysis can best judge the medicine required as per each individual case.

  1. Apis Mellifica – Top Grade Medicine 

It is a leading homeopathic medicine to manage acute cases of hydrocephalus. It is especially suited to manage hydrocephalus in children. It is prominently indicated for acute cases (of recent origin). The head appears large and the eyes are prominent in children who need it. Sometimes they have a squint in one or both the eyes. They appear very irritable and restless and may cry or scream suddenly. They are lethargic, have weakness and low energy levels. Their sleep is excessive and deep. They may have dullness in their heads and may bore their head in the pillow.  In few children, pain in the head especially the back part of the head is present. Heated sensation in the head is also noted. Nausea can attend above symptoms. They can scream sharply in sleep.  Another symptom that they may have is trembling and jerking of limbs. In some of them scanty urine or suppression of urine can accompany above symptoms. Seizures in hydrocephalus also indicate its use. It is also the best indicated medicine for hydrocephalus and meningitis.

  1. Calcarea Carb – When Head Appears to be Too Large 

Calcarea Carb is a well-indicated medicine for managing cases of hydrocephalus in which the head is too large. It mostly helps chronic cases (means present from long duration) of hydrocephalus. The children needing it may have delayed closing of fontanelles along with head enlargement. They usually have a tendency of excessive sweating over the head. They may have weight loss. They may also show delayed growth or delayed learning to talk and walk. 

  1. Cina – When Child is Very Irritable

Cina is prepared from plant Cina Maritima of family compositae. It is beneficial for children who are very irritable and cross. They may cry a lot and strike those around them. They are restless too. They also have a desire to be carried. With this they frequently turn their head from one side to another. They may cry in sleep. They may have an attending inflammation of the brain.

  1. Helleborous – When Child Rolls Head from Side to Side

This medicine is prepared from the root of plant Helleborus Niger commonly known as Black Hellebore, Christmas Rose or snow – rose. It belongs to family ranunculaceae. Its use is considered in cases where a child rolls head side to side frequently day and night. He also screams a lot. He may have trembling hands. His eyes have a vacant look and sometimes squinting eyes may be noted. Deep sleep is another symptom that is present. Next symptoms he has is impaired vision and speech difficulty. He may have inflamed meninges too with hydrocephalus.

  1. Ipecac – With Nausea and Vomiting

This medicine is prepared from the dried root of plant Cephaelis ipecacuanha that belongs to the family rubiaceae. It is a valuable medicine to manage cases in which a child has nausea and vomiting. The fontanelle may be open in them. Their faces look pale. The back of the head and neck may be  sore.

  1. Phosphorus – When Child is Dull and Sleepy

This medicine is well indicated for cases where a child is dull and very sleepy. He tends to sleep all the time, has marked weakness and low energy levels, and may also vomit a lot. 

  1. Digitalis – For Sudden, Sharp Cries 

Homeopathic medicine Digitalis is prepared from plant Digitalis purpurea which belongs to the family scrophulariaceae. It is indicated for children having sudden sharp cries. With this they have vomiting on eating anything. Their eyes are sunken, dim and pupils are dilated or have squint. Their head may fall backwards from weakness of neck muscles. Other symptoms that indicate its use are boring head into pillow, involuntary urination, scanty urination and loss of vision.

  1. Lycopodium – For Pain in Back of Head

Lycopodium is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum commonly known as club moss. This plant belongs to family lycopodiaceae. It works well in children having pain in the back of head especially in the upper part. It can be followed by unconsciousness. They also feel heaviness in the head. Other symptoms that they frequently have include sleepiness, speech problems and screaming out in sleep.

  1. Artemisia Vulgaris – With Presence of Seizures (fits)

It is prepared from the fresh root of the plant mugwort of family compositae. It is a helpful medicine when seizures are there in case of hydrocephalus. In cases requiring it the seizures occur frequently with bending of head backward or sideways. Unconsciousness can occur after seizure. Apart from this it is indicated when there is sharp, shooting pain or heaviness in head and confusion of mind. 

  1. Calcarea Phos – With Open Fontanelles

Calcarea  Phos is useful for both acute as well as chronic hydrocephalus cases where a child has open fontanelles. Along with hydrocephalus meningitis can be present. It is also indicated for cases of congenital hydrocephalus (present since birth).

  1. Kali Iodatum – With Squinting of Eyes

This medicine is beneficial when squinting of eyes is present along with other symptoms. These symptoms include crying, vomiting, trembling of limbs on the left side. Sometimes seizures are present. It is also indicated for blindness in these cases. 

  1. Merc Sol – For Decrease of Memory, Imagination, Reasoning Skills

This medicine is given when there is diminution of memory, imagination, reasoning skills. Along with this head is enlarged. Shrieking, heaviness of head, weakness, nausea and vomiting are present.  There may also be dullness and sleepiness with this. Seizures can also be there. Another symptom that can accompany is involuntary urination. Meninges can be inflamed too with fluid build up in the brain.

  1. Apocynum – With Loss of Eyesight

This medicine is indicated when there is loss of eyesight. With this forehead is projected and there is difficulty in thinking. Involuntary motion of one arm and leg often attends these symptoms.

Causes 

Hydrocephalus results when there is an imbalance between amount of CSF produced and amount of CSF absorbed into the bloodstream. Firstly, it can happen if there is an obstruction in the normal flow of CSF within the ventricles or from ventricles to space surrounding the brain (Non-communicating/obstructive hydrocephalus.)
Secondly, It can arise if there is improper absorption of this fluid (Communicating/non-obstructive hydrocephalus.)
Thirdly, in very rare cases it can happen if CSF is produced at a higher speed than it is being absorbed.

Hydrocephalus can occur before a baby is born (means congenital) or can develop shortly after birth. Associated reasons include a birth defect called neural tube defect in which the spinal column doesn’t close properly and an opening remain in  it, aqueductal stenosis (in which the passage between the third and fourth ventricles of  brain is narrow that hinder drainage of CSF), certain Infections (like rubella and syphilis) in the uterus during pregnancy, bleeding in the brain ventricles during delivery or soon after it. The reasons in infants (babies less than one year) and among all other age groups include central nervous infections like meningitis, trauma / injury to the brain, bleeding in the brain, tumours of the brain or spinal cord. In some cases no reason can be found behind hydrocephalus.

Symptoms 

The symptoms of hydrocephalus vary as per the age of the sufferer.

  1. Infants (child less than 1 year of age)

In infants the signs include a rapid increase in head size, bulging of fontanel (soft spot in the skull) on the top of head. The head may appear unusually large with this and the eyes are fixed downward (sometimes called sunsetting of eyes). With this the babies may be highly irritable, fussy, cranky and have poor appetite. Other symptoms that they may show are excessive sleepiness, vomiting, seizures / fits, decreased muscle tone and strength. Babies born with this condition (congenital hydrocephalus) can have permanent brain damage causing long-term complications like learning disabilities, vision problems, speech problems, memory problems, epilepsy and problems with physical coordination. 

  1. Toddlers and Older Children

The signs and symptoms that can appear in toddlers and older children are an unusually large head, eyes that are fixed  downward, changes in facial appearance, headache, blurred / double vision, squint of eyes. They may have high pitched cries, excessive sleepiness, low energy levels, irritability, seizures, lowered appetite, nausea or vomiting, muscle spasms. They may have poor coordination and have problems with walking, speech or other acquired skills till date, or may have loss of bladder control (urinary incontinence). A child may have delayed growth, have personality changes, difficulty concentrating, reduced performance in school.

  1. Young and Middle-aged Adults

The symptoms in these people are chronic headache, tiredness, loss of coordination, problem with walking, difficulty in concentration and  a drop in memory that affect performance at job, vision changes and bladder problems (including frequent urination or loss of bladder control.) 

  1. Older Adults (aged 60 years or above)

Symptoms in elderly include frequent urination or loss of bladder control, memory loss, problems with reasoning skills, poor coordination, balance issues, and problems with walking.

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

Homeopathic Remedies for Periodontitis 

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 15 Comments

Periodontitis refers to a serious infection of the gums in which the soft tissue surrounding the teeth is damaged. If not properly treated in time, it progresses further to a stage where destruction of bone supporting the teeth arises. This can cause loosening or falling out of teeth. Periodontitis is also called gum disease or periodontal disease. Homeopathic remedies for periodontitis helps treat symptoms like swelling, painful and tender gums, bleeding from gums, and bad breath.       Homeopathic Remedies for Periodontitis 

Homeopathic Remedies for Periodontitis 

Homeopathic medicines are very safe and effective to manage cases of periodontitis. These manage its symptoms in an excellent manner. These medicines are most helpful when taken in early stages and help in halting its further progression. In severe cases (where the gums have receded excessively with loosening of teeth), homeopathy plays a supportive role along with dental treatment. The most prominent homeopathic medicines along with its indicating symptoms for managing this condition are described below. One should opt using any of these medicines under supervision of a homeopathic specialist after proper case analysis. 

  1. Merc Sol – Top Grade Medicine 

Merc Sol is a top listed medicine for cases of gingivitis and periodontitis. The main indicating features for its use are very red, swollen, inflamed, soft, spongy gums that are very sensitive and painful to touch. This may be attended with burning sensation in gums. Along with this the gums also bleed easily even on slightly touching them. A very offensive odour from mouth appears with  above symptoms. Excessive salivation and metallic taste in the mouth are other attending symptoms. It is also indicated for cases where gums are destroyed and when gums recede from the teeth. Following this, the teeth feel long, get loose from the gums and tend to fall out. 

  1. Silicea – For Marked Swelling of Gums

This medicine is effective when there is intense swelling of gums. The gums are very sore, painful, sensitive and bleed easily, and are painful to little pressure. Pain in the teeth can also accompany this. Another symptom that appears is the feeling that the teeth are too long. Looseness of teeth can also arise.

  1. Natrum Mur – For Bluish, Red and Swollen Gums

Natrum Mur is a very beneficial medicine for cases where gums are bluish red and swollen. They are painful too and pain is mostly burning, smarting type. The pain is felt usually while eating. Sometimes there may also appear pain in teeth when chewing.

  4. Phosphorus – For Gums that Bleed Easily

This remedy is most helpful for cases that present with easy bleeding from gums. In such cases the bleeding arises especially from touching the gums. Pain in teeth, mainly throbbing type with sore, swollen gums may accompany this. Another prominent symptom along with above is loosening of teeth in gums. 

  1. Carbo veg – For Receding Gums

This medicine is well indicated when the gums recede from the teeth and as a result teeth become loose. The teeth also feel elongated. Persons needing it complain of soreness, pain and sensitivity in gums. They also have complaints of easy bleeding from gums especially when sucking or cleaning them. 

  1. Kreosote – For Offensive Smell from Mouth

This medicine works well for cases with very offensive putrid odour from the mouth. On examining, the gums appear bluish red, inflamed. They are soft, spongy and sometimes destroyed. Easy bleeding from gums may also be present in addition to above symptoms.

  1. Hepar Sulph – When Gums are Swollen and Tender 

Hepar Sulph is valuable medicine for people who have swollen, tender gums. Their gums are painful to touch. The gums may bleed in them. The teeth can become loose. Offensive breath is another symptom that they complain of.

  1. Lachesis – When Gums are Bluish and Swollen

This medicine is useful when gums are bluish and swollen. There may be pain in gums that worsen from taking warm drinks. The gums are spongy and bleed often. The teeth may feel long with above symptoms.

  1. Sepia – For Dark Red, Swollen Gums

For using this medicine the main feature is dark red and swollen gums. This is frequently accompanied with excessive pain in gums. Burning sensation can appear with this. The gums may bleed and get loose in many cases requiring this medicine.

  1. Staphisagria – When Gums Bleed on Cleaning Teeth

This medicine is prepared from seeds of the plant Delphinium staphisagria. commonly known as Stavesacre. This plant belongs to the family Ranunculaceae.  Persons needing it mainly complain of bleeding from gums on cleaning teeth. They also notice bleeding from gums on pressing them. Apart from this they experience pain in gums. Their gums are sore, sensitive and have pain on touching. Some of them have spongy, receding gums.

  1. Calcarea Carb – For Very Painful Gums 

Calcarea Carb is another prominent medicine for cases of periodontitis. It is indicated when the gums are very painful. For using it the pain can be pulsating, stitching, shooting or throbbing in nature. Gums are red, swollen, inflamed, sensitive and tender to touch. The gums may be destroyed. Foul odour from mouth is felt with these symptoms.

  1. Merc Cor – For Looseness of Teeth

Merc Cor is indicated for cases where looseness of teeth is present. They are painful and even fall out. The gums are purple, red, swollen, and spongy. They are also tender and may also bleed easily. 

Causes 

Poor dental hygiene is the most common cause behind periodontitis. Many types of bacteria are normally present in the mouth that are harmless. When a person doesn’t brush and clean the teeth in a proper manner, these bacteria multiply and overgrow and build up on teeth forming plaques (which refers to a sticky film formed of bacteria). This plaque can be removed by proper brushing and flossing teeth but it has a tendency to form again quickly. If the plaque remains on the teeth for a long time, minerals get deposited by the bacteria in these plaques. It further causes its hardening under the gum line which is called tartar. Brushing and flossing can’t remove this tartar and a dental treatment is required. 

If this tartar is not removed, it further favours growth of more bacteria. This in turn causes gum inflammation (gingivitis which is mild gum disease) from an immune response. If it is not treated here, then the condition progresses and pockets form between the gums and teeth that get filled with bacteria. With time these pockets become deeper. If still left untreated, then this infection causes damage to the gums. In this process destruction of bones that support the teeth also gets destroyed resulting in falling out of teeth.

Risk Factors 

The main factors that increase the risk of periodontitis are gingivitis, smoking (major risk factor), keeping poor oral hygiene and tobacco chewing. Other factors that enhance the risk include type-2 diabetes, hormonal changes in women (like occurring during menopause or pregnancy), obesity, improper nutrition like vitamin C deficiency, some medications that cause dryness in mouth, conditions that cause low immunity and genetics (means a person having a family history of periodontitis is at risk of developing the same).

 Stages of Periodontitis

 Stage I – Gum Inflammation or Gingivitis

In this bleeding while brushing teeth, dark red ,swollen gums, discolouration on teeth appears and plaque may form (it is a build up of bacteria and food debris on teeth). 

Stage II – Early Periodontal Disease

In this stage gums recede from teeth and small pockets form between gums and teeth. Bacteria tend to collect in the pockets formed. Bleeding during brushing is present in this stage and some bone loss may start.

Stage III – Moderate Periodontal Disease

In this stage the teeth begin to loosen because of the loss of supporting bone. Receding of gums, bleeding for gums and pain around the teeth is present here.

Stage IV – Advanced Periodontal Disease

In this stage destruction of the connective tissue which keeps teeth in place starts. Eventually the gums and attached bones get destroyed. Intense pain while chewing, bad breath and bad taste in mouth appear and teeth may fall out.

Signs and Symptoms 

In case of periodontitis, the gums are swollen, red / purplish that can be sensitive, tender to touch. Easy bleeding from gums like on brushing teeth appear with this. A person may also have bad breath (halitosis) and foul/metallic taste in the mouth. Plaque or tartar may build on the teeth. The gums tend to recede away from the teeth which can make teeth look more elongated than normal. Following this there may appear a gap between teeth or the teeth may get loose in gums. There may occur change in the way they fit in gums upon biting or they pain while chewing. The teeth may eventually fall out of the gums.

Complications

Its complications include tooth loss, painful gum abscess. If the bacteria enters the  bloodstream through gum tissue, it can cause diseases in other  body parts like respiratory or heart disease. 

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

Homeopathic Remedies for Cranio-Facial Dystonia

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 20 Comments

Dystonia is a movement disorder in which muscle contractions/spasm appear involuntarily leading to slow and repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It can affect any part of the body. Homeopathic remedies for Cranio-Facial dystonia work towards reducing the intensity as well as frequency of the signs and symptoms in such cases.

  Homeopathic remedies for crania-facial dystonia

Facial dystonia can affect just one muscle, a group of muscles or muscles of the whole body. Sometimes the movement may cause pain. In some cases tremors may accompany dystonia. In dystonia the brain’s way of processing movements is disturbed leading to extra movement or extra force (muscle contraction).
When dystonia affects the muscles of the head, face and neck areas then it is referred to as cranio – facial dystonia. The intensity to muscle contractions can vary from mild to severe in it.

Homeopathic Remedies for Cranio-Facial Dystonia

Homeopathy holds a great promise in managing cases of cranio – facial dystonia.  These medicines act as a muscle relaxant and hence reduce the muscle spasms / contractions and manage its signs and symptoms. Homeopathic medicines are selected based on the signs and symptoms presented in each individual case.

  1. Zincum Met – Top listed medicine

Zincum Met is a leading nervous-constitution medicine that is indicated to treat a number of dystonia including cranio-facial dystonia. It works magnificently to control muscle twitchings. Here it is well indicated for treating spasms and twitching in muscles of the face. The twitchings are quite strong and noticeable. Next it is suitable to treat twitching in the upper lip. It is also prominently indicated to treat twitching of eyelids. With eyelid twitching photophobia i.e. sensitivity to bright light may be present in cases needing it.

  1. Agaricus – Another Prominent Medicine

Agaricus is the next significant medicine for cranio – facial dystonia. Its use is considered for twitching in facial muscles located specifically in the right cheek. Its second indication is spasm in the mouth causing clenching of jaw. Other than it is an excellent medicine to treat twitching of eyelids and spasmodic closure of eyelids. Lastly twitching in lips and tongue can be treated wonderfully with it.

  1. Cicuta – For Severe Facial Twitches

This medicine is prepared from the fresh root of plant Cicuta Virosa commonly known as water Hemlock. It belongs to family Umbelliferae. 

It is very beneficial for treating twitching in facial muscles that are of severe intensity. The twitchings can be severe enough to make the face appear distorted. Another guiding feature to use it is difficulty in speaking from lack of control on muscles of mouth and tongue. It is also useful when there is tight pressing of jaws together from muscle spasm.

  1. Belladonna – For Twitches in Facial Muscle, Eyelids

Belladonna is a natural medicine prepared from a plant known as deadly nightshade that belongs to family Solanaceae. Belladonna is a wonderful medicine for twitches of muscles of face and eyelids. Persons needing it have continual eyelid twitching and trembling. They are also troubled by twitching in the muscles of the face and jaw. They may face difficulties in speech. They may have tight closing of jaw, clenching of teeth or have lower jaw drawn backward. In addition to this they may have facial spasms causing grinning (smiling broadly) movement of mouth. They may have red, hot flushed faces with these symptoms. Lastly they may suffer from twitching, trembling of tongue.   

  1. Stramonium – When Mouth is Drawn to One Side

It is another medicine of plant origin prepared from thorn – apple. It also belongs to family solanaceae. Stramonium is mainly used when the mouth is drawn to one side from muscle spasm. It is also used when the mouth is closed from muscle spasm. Apart from this it is helpful when there is chewing motion of mouth from twitches. Hanging down of lower jaw from spasms is another indication to use it. Lastly a characteristic feature to use is distortion of the left side of face from contractions of facial muscle that causes cheeks and mouth to be drawn upward.

  1. Mygale – For Constant Twitching of Facial Muscle

Mygale is an important medicine to manage cases where the twitching of facial muscles is almost constant. Facial twitches cause opening of the mouth and eyes in quick succession. There also appears difficulty in putting out tongue from mouth from facial twitches.

  1. Opium – For Twitches Around the Mouth

Opium is significant medicine to treat twitches appearing around the mouth. The twitches are mostly located at the corners of the mouth and may cause distortions of mouth. Trembling / shaking of tongue may also appear. It also covers trembling, twitching and spasms of muscles of face. 

  1. Gelsemium- For Contracted Muscles Causing Difficulty in Speaking

Gelsemium is prepared from bark of the root of plant Gelsemium Sempervirens commonly known as yellow jasmine. This  plant belongs to the family Loganiaceae. Gelsemium is a wonderful medicine when a person faces difficulty in speaking from contraction of facial muscles especially around the mouth. Jaw pain may also be felt. Sideways movement of the lower jaw from lack of control over it is another feature suggestive of its use.

  1. Hyoscyamus – For Facial Twitches with Grimaces (ugly or contorted expressions)

Hyoscyamus is prepared from plant Hyoscyamus Niger commonly known as Henbane. The natural order of this plant is Solanaceae. It seems to help cases of facial twitches with grimaces (ugly or contorted expressions). with this there may be shaking of tongue in a to and fro movement. There is also a tendency to bite tongue when talking.

  1. Tellurium – For Facial Twitches on Left Side

Tellurium mostly helps with twitchings on the left side of the face. Persons needing it mostly have drawing upwards of the left sided corner of mouth. This is noted mainly when talking.

  1. Mezereum – For Twitchings on Right Side of Face

Mezereum is prepared from fresh bark of plant Daphne Mezereum having the common name spurge olive. This plant has natural order Thymelaeaceae. It works well in cases of twitchings on the right side of face. The twitchings are frequent and very troublesome. They are most marked in the cheek muscles on the right side. It is also helpful when there are continuous painful twitching in cheeks and eyelids.

  1. Cubeba – When Mouth Twitches while Speaking or Smiling

Cubeba is indicated when there is one sided twitching of the mouth. The mouth twitches appear while speaking or smiling. At that time the mouth gets twisted to one side.

  1. Kali Mur – For Facial Twitchings while Eating

Kali Mur is useful for cases in which facial twitchings appear while eating. The twitchings are located in the muscles of the lower jaw. An increased sensitivity of the whole face may attend the above features. Apart from above another feature indicating its use is twitchings in the corners of eyes.

  1. Moschus – When Twitching Causes Chewing Motion of Lower Jaw

The key feature to use Moschus is facial twitchings causing chewing motion of lower jaw. With this a person feels tension in muscles of face with sensation as if they are too short.

  1. Secale Cor – For Spasms and Twitching of Tongue

Secale Cor is beneficial for spasms and twitching of tongue. The person who requires it has movements of projecting of the tongue from mouth. It causes difficulty with speech. It can also lead sometimes to biting of the tongue.

More On Cranio-Facial Dystonia 

Cranio-facial dystonia can be further classified into –

1.Blepharospasm 

2.Hemifacial spasm

3.Oromandibular dystonia 

4.Meige syndrome

1. Blepharospasm – In this there appears abnormal involuntary blinking, twitching or tight closure of eyelids.

Reason

What exactly is not known yet. However genetics and heredity are also thought to play a role in causing it. Certain factors like bright light, alcohol intake, excessive caffeine , stress, fatigue can trigger eyelid twitching. It can be a sign included in certain eye conditions like uveitis, blepharitis, conjunctivitis, dry eyes, photophobia . Sometimes brain disorders can cause eye twitching, these disorders include parkinson’s disease, bell’s palsy, multiple sclerosis and tourette syndrome.

Symptoms

Its main symptoms are uncontrollable blinking, twitching of eyelids that may progress to eyelids being tightly shut. Dryness in the eyes, sensitivity to bright light, blurring of vision may appear with these symptoms. Sometimes the twitches may radiate to the nose, face and occasionally to the neck. 

2. Hemifacial spasm – It is characterised by involuntary twitching of muscles on one side of the face.

Reason

The facial muscles are controlled by a seventh cranial nerve called facial nerve. Hemifacial spasms mostly appear from irritation. compression, injury or damage to this facial nerve. Pressure on the facial nerve (at the point where it leaves the brain stem) by a blood vessel is the most important cause behind it. Rarely tumours putting pressure on the facial nerve can cause it. Bell’s palsy (facial paralysis that affects one side of the face) can also contribute to it. But in many cases no cause is identified behind it, this is referred to as idiopathic spasm. They are common in women as compared to men. Left side of the face is more commonly involved in it.

Symptoms

In this in the beginning there appear slight involuntary twitches in the eyelid on one side. As the time progresses, the twitches extend to other parts of the face including cheek, mouth, lips, chin, jaw and neck on the same side. Eventually it can spread to all the muscles on one side of the face. The muscles in the forehead and neck are most affected in the last. When muscles of the mouth area are affected then it can sometimes pull the mouth to one side. Sometimes the entire face can be pulled to one side when all the muscles of the face are involved. Initially the twitches are mild that even go unnoticed. With time the twitches become more pronounced and noticeable. The twitches can even continue in sleep.

As the condition intensifies, other symptoms like difficulty in hearing, noises in ear (tinnitus), pain in ear may appear with above. 

3. Oromandibular dystonia – In this there appear forceful muscle contractions in the face, mouth, jaw or tongue.

It may lead to difficulties with opening and closing the mouth. It also affects speech and chewing often. Sometimes it is also referred to as cranial dystonia. The dystonia affecting facial muscles and lips in musicians who play wind instruments is called embouchure dystonia. Dystonia affecting the tongue is called lingual dystonia. 

Reasons

Oromandibular dystonia can arise from some disorders like wilson disease (a genetic disorder causing excessive copper to build up in the body) and certain drug exposure. it can also be inherited usually with generalized dystonia. This dystonia is also more common in women as compared to men.  It mostly affects people of age group between 40 and 70 years of age.

Symptoms

The symptoms include involuntary opening and closing of mouth, clenching / tight pressing (shutting) of jaw, deviation of lower jaw toward one side or to the back, involuntary movements in the face, lips or tongue, uncontrollable pulling of tongue or mouth in different positions . This mostly arises when people are using their mouths like while talking or eating, making speech and swallowing difficult respectively but it can appear even at rest sometimes. Few other symptoms are facial grimacing, lip pursing or sucking and teeth grinding. Trauma to the lips and tongue may appear from uncontrollable, involuntary mouth closing and opening. Anxiety and tiredness tend to worsen the symptoms.

4. Meige syndrome – In this oromandibular dystonia appears in combination with blepharospasm.

It is also known as Brueghel Syndrome. In this the symptoms of both oromandibular dystonia as well as  blepharospasm occur together. The reason behind Meige syndrome is unknown. However it is thought to be caused by the interaction of certain genetic and environmental factors.

Pathophysiology behind dystonia

How dystonia exactly arises is not clearly understood till date. However it is believed that dystonia arises due to damage or improper functioning of the basal ganglia. It is the area of the brain responsible for beginning muscle contractions. Additionally there may be abnormalities in the brain’s way of processing information and generating commands to cause body movement.

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

Epstein-Barr Virus – Homeopathic Medicines for EBV

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 14 Comments

Epstein – Barr virus (EBV) is counted among the members of the herpes virus family that are known to cause infections in human beings. It is one of the common human viruses in the world. It is mostly well known to cause infectious mononucleosis (also known as mono), though it can cause many other illnesses. Homeopathic medicines for EBV can effectively help in symptomatic management of the infection. Research to find the connection between EBV and other health conditions like autoimmune diseases (eg lupus, multiple sclerosis) and certain cancers (eg. Burkitt’s lymphoma, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, gastric cancer and nasopharyngeal cancer).

Homeopathic medicines for EBV

Homeopathic Medicines for EBV

Homeopathic medicines boost the immunity of body to fight with the infection and manage symptoms naturally. The symptoms of EBV infection that can be managed well with homeopathic medicines are feeling tired, sore throat, swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes in neck or armpit, headache, skin rash, muscle pain /soreness. 

1. Arsenic Album – To Manage Tiredness 

Arsenic Album is a leading medicine to manage complaint of tiredness in these cases. It is helpful where person feels tired even from slightest exertion. Tiredness is most felt by them when moving around. The tired feeling compels a person to lie down. The complaint is worse mostly at the night time. Restlessness attends to it in most of the cases.

2. Kali Phos – For Weak, Tired Feeling

Kali Phos is next medicine for managing weakness and tiredness. Persons needing it have weakness on both mental and physical spheres. They are extremely exhausted and lack strength to do any thing. In all such persons it proves highly effective to boost body energy levels and regain strength.

3. Gelsemium – For Weakness, Dullness, Drowsiness

Gelsemium can be highly beneficial for people who feel weak, dull and drowsy all the time. Along with this they also feel pain and soreness in the muscles. Sometimes they experience dull headache. The pain is mostly felt in back of the head. A sensation of band around the head is also felt. With this heaviness of eyelids is also present.

4. Carcinosin – For Chronic Fatigue in Mononucleosis

Carcinosin is also indicated for managing chronic fatigue in mononucleosis. Persons requiring it feel weary and fatigued always. This may be attended with trembling especially in the morning time. It works both in recent and long standing cases of mononucleosis.

5. Belladonna – For Sore Throat and Tonsillitis

Belladonna is highly recommended to manage sore throat and tonsillitis. The throat is red, the tonsils are swollen, red, enlarged, inflamed and painful where it is needed. Along with this the swallowing is difficult even for liquids. Throat feels dry and can be attended with a sensation of lump in it. Fever may also be present. 

6. Hepar Sulph – For Tonsillitis with Pus Points

Hepar Sulph is well indicated to manage tonsillitis with pus points on it. With this there is intense pain in the tonsils. Pain is mainly stitching type in most of the cases. The pain gets worse while eating food. The pain tend to radiate to ears from the throat. A feeling of a plug of mucus in throat is frequently felt. There may be hawking of thick, yellow mucus from the throat. 

7. Merc Sol – For White Patches of Pus on Tonsils

Merc Sol is another significant medicine for cases of inflamed tonsils covered with white pus patches. Persons needing it feel soreness, pain, burning and smarting sensation in the throat. The swallowing is also difficult in them. The pharynx is also bluish red usually with presence of ulcers. Along with this saliva is increased and offensive odour from mouth is usually present.

8. Phytolacca – For Sore Throat and Tonsillitis with Marked Burning Pains

Use of Phytolacca is mainly considered for sore throat and tonsillitis with marked burning pains. In cases needing it the throat is inflamed and appears dark red or bluish red.  The tonsils are also swollen with dark – red appearance. With this intense burning pain as from hot coals is experienced in throat and tonsils. The pain from throat may shoot to ears while swallowing.

9. For Reducing Lymph Node Swelling

Many homeopathic medicines can be helpful alleviating lymph node swelling in EBV. The most prominently indicated ones  include Calcarea Carb, Conium, Merc Sol and Phytolacca. These medicines helps to reduce swelling of lymph nodes.

10. Belladonna – To Relieve Headache

Belladonna is a wonderful medicine to relieve headache. The headache is mainly throbbing type for using it. It is most worse in the sides of head ie. The temporal region. Head feels congested along with heated sensation. In many cases pain may get worse from slightest light and noise. Pressure can give relief in the headache. 

11. Glonoine – For Marked Congestive Headache

Glonoine is beneficial to manage marked congestive headache. Persons needing it have throbbing, pulsating pain in head with a sensation as if it would burst. The pain may be felt in the forehead, sides of head or top of the head. Head also feels heavy especially in the forehead region. The pain may worsen from movement. Sleep may relieve the headache for a while.  

12. Rhus Tox – For Managing Muscle pains / Soreness

Rhus Tox is top listed medicine for managing muscle pains / soreness. For using it the pain and soreness may be present in any of the body muscle. Persons who require it mostly feels worsening of pain from rest. They get better by motion and exercise. Along with pain they may also feel stiffness in the body. 

13. Sulphur – To Manage Skin Rash

Sulphur can be given to manage skin rash. The rash is most times itchy where it is needed. The itching tends to get worse at night time. The skin is usually dry with rash in cases needing it. Along with this there may be heat / burning sensation on the skin.  

14. Ailanthus – For Skin Rash in Patches

Ailanthus is considered when the skin rash appear in patches. There may be purplish spots on the skin, blisters on skin or sometimes small bumps on skin. With this low fever may be present. Excessive weakness also appears with this. The tonsils are inflamed with above symptoms. Sometimes the tonsils are studded with multiple ulcers. The throat is also dark, red and swollen.

Transmission of EBV

EBV is contagious and spreads from person to person through bodily fluids 

(mainly saliva.) So one can get the virus by kissing someone who’s infected with EBV. It can also be transmitted through sharing toothbrushes, utensils or any other item contaminated with the virus from recent use by someone having active EBV infection. Apart from saliva, it can also spread through blood carrying this virus, like during blood transfusion. It can also be transmitted through organ transplant from someone having EBV infection. Lastly it can spread via infected semen during sexual contact. An infected person can pass the virus to others soon after contracting it even before experiencing any of its symptoms. As long as the virus remain in active phase (for weeks or months) in someone’s body he / she can spread it to others. But when the virus gets inactive (goes in dormant/ latent state) it can’t be passed to others. If it re – activates again even then it can again be spread to others. 

Pathophysiology

On exposure to the EBV the virus multiplies in the epithelial cells of pharynx.  After that it multiplies in the B lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell).  Following this abnormal, enlarged (atypical) lymphocytes develop when CD8 postive T cells respond to the infection. After primary infection, EBV remains in B lymphocytes for lifetime.

Symptoms of EBV 

EBV infection is mostly asymptomatic. In children, usually there are little to no symptoms present. The symptoms mainly appears in teens and adults. After contracting the virus, it can take around 4 – 7 weeks for the symptoms to appear. The symptoms includes feeling tired, fever, sore throat, swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes in neck or armpit, headache, skin rash, loss of appetite, muscle pain /soreness, enlarged spleen and liver swelling. These symptoms usually remain for around 2 – 4 weeks except for tired feeling which can continue for longer for few more weeks or months. After active phase of infection the virus goes in an inactive phase (latency) in body and remain in body throughout life. Sometimes it can reactivate but most times don’t lead to symptoms. But in some cases upon reactivation initial symptoms of EBV appears again usually in people having a weak immune system.

Most common disease that EBV can cause is mononucleosis but not everyone having EBV develops it. Its not a serious disease but symptoms of it can be intense to prevent a person from doing normal activities for several weeks and months. Mononucleosis is also known as the kissing disease because it can spread by kissing someone having EBV in the saliva. Another name for it is  infectious mononucleosis and glandular fever. The most common symptoms of mononucleosis are fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in neck or armpits and feeling tired.

Complications

The complications include extremely swollen tonsils that can block breathing, rupture of spleen, myocarditis (inflammation of heart muscle), anaemia, decrease in platelet count, liver inflammation (hepatitis), meningitis (inflammation of meninges – the protective membranes that cover brain and spinal cord), Guillain-Barre syndrome (an autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system).

Investigations 

Most of the EBV infections can be diagnosed just by the presenting symptoms. But sometimes tests are recommended where symptom picture is not clear. First test done where it is suspected is monospot test. But the Center for Disease Control doesn’t recommend the Monospot test for general use because of false-positive and false-negative results and it is not specific for EBV infection. Some other blood tests that are more specific to detect antibodies to EBV are done. These include Viral capsid antigen , Early antigen and EBV nuclear antigen tests. People who do not have antibodies to viral capsid antigen are susceptible to infection. Presence of antibodies anti -VCA  IgM to  Viral capsid antigen  and no antibody to EBV nuclear antigen points to a new or recent infection. Detection of antibodies to both VCA and EBV nuclear antigen represents past infection 

Apart from this white blood cell count to check for increased number of white blood cells (lymphocytes) or abnormal – looking lymphocytes  may be checked. Lastly  platelets count may be checked  (that can be decreased) and liver function tests may be done to check any abnormality. Homeopathic Medicines for EBV help treat the condition in a safe, natural manner.

 

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

Causticum – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 68 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Causticum is prepared from Potassium Hydrate by the potentization process, by which homeopathic medicines are prepared. By potentization the medicinal properties of potassium Hydrate are extracted. Causticum is widely used to treat urinary complaints, muscle weakness, skin warts, joint pains and paralysis.   Causticum - Homeopathic Medicine

The ‘Causticum’ Constitution

It is mainly suited to dark-haired people with sensitive skin. Next it is suitable to people suffering from joint pains, weak muscles, and urinary complaints.

Drug Action

This medicine has a marked action on the urinary system. In cases of urinary complaints, it helps to strengthen the bladder muscle and the urethral sphincter to treat involuntary urination and also retention of urine. Next, it acts on joints to reduce its inflammation and pain. Thirdly, it acts on muscles and manages complaint of muscle weakness and even loss of muscle function. Lastly its action on skin is wonderful where it is very beneficial to treat skin warts.

Role as a Homeopathic Medicine

1. Eye Complaints

It is a very helpful medicine to treat eye complaints. Here, Firstly, it is indicated to treat ptosis, which is the drooping of upper eyelid over the eye. It strengthens the eyelid muscle to improve ptosis.

Other indication to use it is eye floaters ( spots that move or float before eyes). In such cases it helps when a person sees black points, sparks or flickering before eyes. The spots may be small or large. Sometimes they are round and other times they have uneven shape.

Lastly, in eye complaints, it is beneficial to treat twitching of eyelids.

2. Facial Paralysis, Bell’s Palsy

This is a top listed medicine to treat cases of Bell’s palsy. It is a condition in which facial muscles get weak or paralysed (loss of muscle function).  The mouth is drawn to one side along with drooling of saliva, and muscle twitches in the face may also be present. It works well especially in right sided facial paralysis cases. Here, whole side of right sided face from forehead to chin is affected.

3. Urinary Problems

This is a very beneficial medicine when it comes to treat urinary problems.

Here, it’s use is considered in cases of urinary incontinence (involuntary passage of urine). It offers relief in such cases by improving the weakness of bladder muscle and strengthening the urethral sphincter. It is known to give major help in cases of stress incontinence i.e. leaking of urine when pressure is exerted on the urinary bladder as while coughing, sneezing, laughing.

Secondly, it is valuable medicine to manage cases of retention of urine. It is primarily useful for treating this complaint  in elderly people and in females after childbirth.  Urinary retention from constriction of bladder neck and from bladder paralysis is manageable with this medicine.

Lastly, it is given in cases of bed wetting ( involuntary passage of urine during sleep)

4. Laryngitis, Hoarseness of Voice

This is a leading homeopathic medicine to treat cases of laryngitis (inflammation of larynx-the voice box). Persons who need it complain of hoarseness of voice. It is most worse in the morning and evening time. They also are unable to speak loud words. Along with this  dry, tickling cough may be present in them. They feel dryness and pain in the larynx. Apart from the above, it is well-indicated to treat hoarseness of voice in public speakers from over straining of voice.

5. Cough

It is of great help in cases of cough. Cough from tickling in the throat pit is mainly indicative to use it. Persons requiring have difficulty in expectorating phlegm. They may find relief in cough from drinking cold water. Along with cough, they may  also complain involuntary urine leakage upon coughing.

6. Rectal Complaints

When it comes to rectal complaints, it is indicated to treat piles,  (swollen veins in the anus or lower part of rectum), constipation and anal fistula.

In case of piles it works well to manage stitching, stinging, burning pain in the anus. Persons who need it mainly complain of pain on touching the anus or while walking, sitting. It also helps to ease itching felt at the anus from piles.

In constipation, it is used when the first part  of stool is hard followed by soft. Few times the stool is covered with mucus. There is frequent urge to pass stool and stool is passed with great difficulty. Sometimes it is followed by  pain and burning in rectum.

Lastly, it is used in anal fistula cases when there is pain and pulsations in the perineum

7. Skin Issues

This is a renowned homeopathic medicine to treat a number of skin complaints.

Here, it is a highly effective medicine to treat skin warts (hard, rough, thick growths on skin arising from infection by human papilloma virus.) It is considered in cases of warts which are large, jagged and have peduncles. They may also bleed easily. For using it the warts are mostly present on face, eyelids, fingertips.

Next, it is  of great service to treat cases of old burns. In such cases, it aids healing of old burns that are slow to heal. It also is indicated to treat cases where  already healed burns on skin reopen and become sore again.

Other than this, it is also a significant remedy to treat skin ulcers that are very sensitive with burning sensation. They also ooze pus that may be blood stained sometimes.

Apart from above indications, it is used to treat skin rash that arises between the skin folds (intertrigo). The skin folds include those behind ears, between thighs, under breast, between buttocks.

8. Upper Limb Complaints

In case of upper limb complaints, it works wonderfully to treat writer’s cramp. It refers to cramps in the muscles of the hand while writing or playing an instrument.

Next, it is a top listed medicine to treat cases of carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that arise from  pinched or compressed median nerve in the carpal tunnel passage located in the wrist. In such cases, it helps to relieve symptoms of tingling sensation or numbness in the fingers of the hand. It also helps in cases where sometimes weakness in the hand and atrophy of muscles of thumb are present.

9. Lower Limb Complaints

If we talk about complaints of lower limbs, then it is recommended for treating sciatica of left side attended with numbness. Sciatica is referred to as pain that radiates from lower back through the hips  down the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve.

It is also used in cased of cramps in the feet, toes and calf muscles of leg.

Next, one can also benefit from this medicine in cases of restless leg syndrome at night. Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition in which a person has an uncontrollable urge to move the legs to relieve discomforting sensations in the lower limbs.

10. Joint Pains

This is a wonderful medicine to treat joint pains and arthritis (joint inflammation.) It can be taken to relieve joint pain including those of shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and ankles. It also helps to manage joint stiffness. Additionally, it also offers excellent management of pain and stiffness in extreme cases of joint inflammation where deformity of joint has set in.

11. Muscle weakness and Paralysis

It is one of the most effective medicines to treat muscle weakness and even loss of muscle weakness (paralysis). It is well-indicated to treat weakness or loss of muscle function of face, urinary vocal cords, eyelids, tongue and limbs.

12. Ataxia

This is an excellent medicine to manage complaint of ataxia. Ataxia is a condition characterised by lack of muscle coordination that helps in voluntary movements. It results in problems with gait (manner of walking) like inability to maintain balance while walking, tendency to fall while walking. Additionally, there may be difficulty with speech (like slow speech, tremor while speaking), involuntary eye movement (nystagmus) and problem with swallowing. Here, this medicine can take care of gait  problems. It helps in treating complaint of unsteady walking and easy falling in persons with ataxia. Apart from it, this medicine helps manage speech and swallowing difficulties in ataxia.

Dosage

It can be used from 30 C potency to 1 M potency. In acute complaints it can be taken once or twice a day in 30 C potency. In case of chronic complaints high potencies are recommended once or twice a week.

Relationship to Other Remedies

Complementary medicines are Petroselinum, Colocynth and Carbo Veg. These medicines can be used after Causticum to complete its action when it is no longer acting.

Inimical medicine is Phosphorus, and should not be used with Causticum.

Antidotes are Asafoetida, Dulcamara and Nux Vomica. These antidote medicines can be used to neutralize its action.

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

Carbo Veg – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 78 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Carbo Veg is prepared from vegetable charcoal. Charcoal is a form of carbon and it is known for its medicinal properties since ages. Its use to treat digestive problems mainly gas and acidity, and skin ulcers is considered since ancient times. Its also known for its antiseptic effect. To prepare homeopathic medicine Carbo Veg, trituration of vegetable charcoal is done. Trituration is a process by which homeopathic medicines are prepared.  Carbo Veg is very helpful to treat gastric complaints, asthma, varicose veins, and weakness. Carbo Veg

The ‘Carbo Veg’ Constitution

It is especially suited to people having weak gastric system hence suffers easily from many gastric issues such as gas, acidity, heartburn, loose stool etc. Next it is suitable to thin people who suffer from weakness and lack of strength.

Drug Action

Carbo Veg acts on the gastro-intestinal system and helps to manage complaints including excessive gas, burping, loose stool, bloating in abdomen and colic. Next, it has great power to treat condition arising from poor venous circulation like haemorrhoids and varicose veins. Its action is also marked on blood vessels where it helps to control bleeding.

Role as a Homeopathic Medicine

1. Nose Complaints

This medicine is very beneficial to treat nasal complaints including cold and nasal bleeding. In cases of cold it is used when there is watery discharge from nose with much sneezing. Along with this irritation, crawling sensation and tingling in the nose is felt. Sometimes nose also feels stopped up.

In cases of nose bleeding it is given when a person gets frequent episodes of copious bleeding from nose. They get bleeding almost everyday. Mostly they have nasal bleeding at night. The blood here is thin and blackish. Their face turns pale after the bleeding from blood loss.

2. Mouth (Oral Cavity) Complaints

One can also consider use of this medicine in complaints of the mouth. Among them it is first indicated to treat bleeding from gums. Person needing it suffers from gums infection along with bleeding. They mainly have bleeding form gums on cleaning teeth. Gums may also be painful in them. Apart from above one can use this medicine to treat bad breath from mouth (halitosis)

3. Hair fall

It is an excellent medicine to check complaint of hair fall. It is mainly given in persons who gets hair fall after some severe illness. They have intense hair fall with hair falling out in handfuls. Its use is also recommended to treat hair loss in females after childbirth. Persons needing it may have itchy scalp along with hair fall. They may also have sensitivity of scalp to pressure.

4. Laryngitis (Inflammation of Larynx)

It is a well-indicated medicine to treat laryngitis. Persons who need it mainly complain of hoarseness of voice. This is most felt in early morning or evening time. They also are unable to speak a loud word. Additionally they feel pain, tickling roughness and irritation in the larynx.

5. Gastrointestinal (GIT) Complaints

When it comes to gastrointestinal tract, this remedy remains one of the most effective remedies to treat many of the gastric issues. Firstly it is very beneficial for people who complain of excessive gas (flatulence) in stomach. They usually complain that even eating simplest kind of food causes gastric trouble in them. Along with gas the abdomen feels tense and bloated with sensation as if it would burst. They mostly find relief by burping. Some needing it may also suffer from burning in the stomach. It also helps to ease pain in stomach due to obstruction of gas.

Secondly, it effectively manages complaint of heartburn, Heartburn refers to the burning sensation in chest behind the sternum (i.e. breast bone) due to the back flow of stomach acid into the food pipe. The back flow of stomach acid in the food pipe is known as acid reflux or GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease), where Carbo Veg shows remarkable results.

Next comes the complaint of belchings (burping) where Carbo Veg offers great help. Here it is suited when the belchings are almost constant. They may be bitter or sour sometimes have offensive smell. Sometimes nausea and vomiting attends to it.

Apart from above mentioned problems it can also help treat diarrhoea (loose motion). 

Persons who need it in diarrhoea complain of watery stool sometimes with yellow mucus or blood. It also has highly offensive smell, and excessive flatus also passes with the stool. They also complain of burning in rectum after stool. Additionally they feel weak from loose stool. It is also recommended to treat cholera (an illness caused by a bacteria, Vibrio cholerae causing diarrhea, vomiting and leg cramps). It is indicated in cholera when the person having cholera is having excessive loose stool with dehydration and almost a stage of collapse. In such conditions it is a renowned medicine to bring recovery.

Other than this it is a valuable medicine to treat piles (swollen and inflamed veins around the anus or lower rectum). Here it is considered for treating protruding bluish piles. In such cases it also aids relief in burning, itching and stitching pain at anus.

6. Respiratory complaints

It is beneficial to treat respiratory complaints including cough, asthma and bronchitis.

If we talk about cough then it is used when cough is spasmodic i.e. which ends in vomiting. The person who require this usually have worsening of cough from eating or from talking. They may also feel increase in cough in open air. Along with cough rattling of mucus and burning in the chest is felt by them.  Apart from above one may also benefit from this medicine in case of cough that arise from reflux of stomach acid.

Next, its use is also considered in treatment of bronchitis and asthma in elderly people. Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes (the passage through which the air is carried to the lungs from trachea). Cough with thick, yellow, sticky phlegm are the symptoms indicating it use in bronchitis cases. Asthma is a condition in which the airways become narrow with swelling and extra production of mucus. It leads to cough, wheezing and difficulty in breathing. Carbo Veg works well to manage all these asthma symptoms in elderly people. It also take care of the asthma attacks that occurs during sleep.

7. Skin

If we talk about skin complaints, it is a very good medicine to treat chilblains ( painful, itchy skin condition mainly on toes and fingers, arising as a reaction to cold temperature).

Next, it can be given for ulcers on skin. Here offensive discharge and frequent bleeding from ulcers along with burning pains is characteristic to use it.

One can also find this medicine useful in purpura (purple-colored spots on the skin that arise from bursting of small blood vessels under skin)

Lastly, bedsores and gangrene of toes (death of body tissue from lack of blood supply and infection) are treated well with this medicine

8. Varicose Veins and Ulcers

It is a well-known medicine to improve the venous blood circulation and help treating varicose veins and varicose ulcers. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted or engorged veins that arise from improper functioning of valves in the veins of the legs. While  varicose ulcers are the sores that develop on the leg most times on the inner side of leg just above the ankle from poor blood circulation. In varicose ulcers it is indicated when there is offensive pus discharge with bleeding from it.

9. To Control Bleeding

It is a very helpful anti-hemorrhagic medicine, i.e, that helps to control bleeding. The use of Carbo veg is recommended by the practitioner to control excessive bleeding from nose, from gums, from skin ulcers, during menstrual cycle in women and following surgical operations. Blood is usually dark where it is indicated. Along with helping with blood control, it also aids in recovering from weakness that appears from blood loss.

10. For Weakness

It is a top listed medicine to treat cases of weakness and lack of strength. Weakness from blood loss is also treated well with this medicine. Its use is also recommended for fainting spells and in case of collapse with cold body, cold breath and quickened respiration.

Dosage

Carbo Veg can be used from potency 30 C to higher potencies including 200 C, 1M and 10 M. It can be taken two to three times a day in 30 potency. Use of high potencies should only be done under a physician’s advice.

Relationship to Other Remedies

Complementary medicines are kali Carb and Phosphorus. These medicines can be used to complete its action when it is no longer acting.

Inimical medicines are Carbo Animalis and Kreosote, and should not be used after Carbo Veg. 

Antidotes are Camphor, Coffea and Arsenic Album. These antidotes medicine can be used to neutralise the action of Carbo Veg.

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

Homeopathic Treatment for Ozaena

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

What is Ozaena, and the reasons behind it?

Ozaena, also known as atrophic rhinitis, refers to the chronic inflammatory disease of the nasal cavity in which the nasal mucosa and the underlying bone gets atrophied i.e., waste away and shrinks. The exact reason behind ozaena is not apparent yet. But few risk factors predispose a person to develop ozaena. These risk factors include a family history of ozaena indicating a genetic basis, infections (mainly Klebsiella ozaena, proteus, and E.coli), nutritional deficiencies, endocrine conditions, and autoimmune conditions. In many cases, it can also occur after sinus surgery, nasal trauma, deviated nasal septum, and diseases, including T.B. (tuberculosis) and syphilis.

What are the Symptoms?

The main symptoms include nasal blockage, crusts inside the nose that are mostly green in color, bleeding on detaching these crusts, foul smell from these crusts, and also foul smell from the mouth. Apart from these, other symptoms are nasal discharge, loss of smell, or decrease of smell, headache, and sore throat.

Homeopathic Treatment for Ozaena

Homeopathic medicines offer great help to manage the symptoms of ozaena. Although the destruction that has already taken place in the nasal mucosa and underlying bone in these cases can’t be reversed with homeopathic medicines. But they definitely are very useful in managing the symptoms. The symptoms of this condition that are effectively managed with homeopathic medicines are nasal blockage, crusts inside the nose, bleeding from coats, foul smell from nose and mouth loss/decrease of smell, or decreased smell, headache, and sore throat. The top-grade homeopathic medicines for symptomatic treatment of ozaena are Kali Bichrome, Merc Sol, Pulsatilla, Lemna Minor, and Calcarea Carb.

Homeopathic Medicines for Ozaena

1. Kali Bichrome – Top grade medicine

Kali Bichrome is an effective medicine when there is chronic inflammation of nasal mucosa along with its destruction. Persons needing it have dry, hard crusts in the nostrils. These crusts are often green in color. They discharge blood when detached. The coatings have an offensive smell. A person also feels the stoppage of the nose from the crusts. Itching in nostrils is also contacted by them. Another attending complaint is swelling and burning sensation in the nostrils. Pain at the root of the nose, loss of smell, and headache are other symptoms that are often complained by the person with the above indications.

2. Merc Sol – To manage to bleed from nasal crusts

Merc Sol is a very beneficial medicine to control bleeding from nasal crusts. A person who requires it has coated in the nose. When these crusts are detached, there appears bleeding. Their nostrils are red, raw, and they feel pain in the nose on touching it. Itching in the nostrils is also felt by them. They also have a complaint of fetid smell in the nose. Offensive odor from the mouth and sore throat are also frequently present among them.

3. Pulsatilla – To manage the loss of smell

Homeopathic medicine Pulsatilla is prepared from a plant named Pulsatilla Nigricans, which is commonly known as windflower. This plant belongs to family Ranunculaceae. It is very helpful for cases where the loss of smell is a prominent symptom. People needed it present with a history of long-standing chronic nasal infections with thick, lumpy yellowish or greenish discharges. Presently they have a loss of smell. Another complaint they have is impressive pain at the root of the nose. They also feel swelling and soreness in the nostrils. Sometimes they have itching in the nose.

4. Lemna Minor – For extremely offensive discharge

Lemna Minor is prepared from a plant named as duckweed. This plant belongs to family Lemnaceae. It is given in cases where crusts and pus-like discharge from the nose with intensely offensive odor is present. Along with this is nose is blocked. Pain is also felt in the nose. Other than this, the nose feels dry, and in many cases, loss of smell is noted.

5. Calcarea Carb – To relieve stoppage of nostrils

Calcarea Carb is the next very useful medicine for cases with intense stoppage of the nose is present. Due to this, there appears difficulty in breathing. Along with this, there is thick yellow crusts in the nostrils. An offensive smell in the nose is also there. The nose is very sensitive to touch. Along with this, dryness is felt in the nose mostly at night time. In some cases, a headache is present. Swelling, prickling sensation and itching in the nose are other accompanying symptoms.

6. Hepar Sulph – For relieving pain in the nose on touching

Hepar Sulph is an excellent medicine relieve pain in the nose that appears on touching it. The nostrils are inflamed, swollen along with offensive scabs in the nose in such cases. Thick pus-like discharge from the nose, which is blood-tinged, appears in few cases. Another attending symptom is heat and burning sensation in the nostrils. Loss of smell is also present.

7. Silicea – For offensive nasal discharge

Silicea is also indicated for managing offensive nasal discharge. The discharge is like thick, tough mucus, or like pus. Persons who need it have also stoppage in nose and decrease of smell. Pain in nose most times extending to head is also prominent among them.

8. Aurum Met – For managing pain in nostrils

Aurum Met is yet another medicine to manage pain in nostrils. Fetid discharge from the nose, bleeding from the nose, and putrid smell in the nose are also there in cases needing it. Obstruction of the nose is also present. In addition to this, there is burning, smarting, and intense soreness in the nostrils.

9. Asafoetida – For halt further destruction of nasal bones

Asafoetida is well indicated for preventing further destruction of nasal bones. In cases needing it, there is offensive discharge from the nose. Pressure sensation in the nose is also there. Lastly, fullness in the head is felt with the above features.

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

Lachesis – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 67 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Lachesis was introduced in homeopathy by Dr. Hering. It is a leading medicine to treat schizophrenia, depression, sore throat, menopausal complaints, ovarian pain and haemorrhages (i.e bleeding).   Lachesis Homeopathic Medicine

The ‘Lachesis’ Constitution

It is suited to weak, thin people who have a melancholic (sadness) disposition. It is suitable for women during the menopause period. Other than this, it is suited to alcoholics.

Drug Action

This remedy has a prominent action on the mind where it acts oat a deep psychological level to manage the complaint of depression and schizophrenia. It also works on blood vessels where it helps control bleeding. Next, it helps to improve blood circulation and offers help in treating varicose veins and varicose ulcers.

Role as a Homeopathic Medicine

1. Mental Complaints 

Among the various issues of the mind, this is a top listed medicine to treat schizophrenia (mental health illness that affects how a person thinks, feels and interpret reality). It mainly result in hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that don’t exist), delusions (false beliefs that are not based in reality), and disordered thinking. It is mainly indicated for persons having delusions of being poisoned or being followed by enemies who are trying to harm him. Another delusion they may have is being under the control of superhuman power. Along with delusions they may be excessively talkative, constantly jumping from one subject to another.

Next, it is a beneficial medicine to treat cases of depression. Persons who need it remain sad, unhappy, anxious. They feel forsaken. They become weary of life and doesn’t wish to do any work. They doesn’t wish to talk and want to remain alone. They loathe life and long for death.

2. Left-sided Headaches

This is a prominently indicated medicine for treating left sided headache. Persons who need it mainly have throbbing, tearing or drawing pain in left side of the head. They feel congestion and heat in head along with pain. Sometimes they also get nausea and vomiting during headache. Other people needing it may have dimness of vision or flickering before the eyes. People requiring it experience worsening of pain at night. They may also get headache from heat of sun. Apart from above its use is highly recommended in females who suffer from headache at or after menopause.

3. Inflamed throat and Tonsillitis

This medicine works effectively to reduce inflammation of the throat and tonsils. People needing it have pain in throat and tonsils. Most times the pain from throat extends to ears in them. They feel increase in pain from swallowing liquids. Pressure and touch on throat also worsens the pain. Other symptoms include dryness, constriction and a burning sensation in the throat. Sometimes a lump in throat is also experienced. In some cases stinging sensation is felt in the throat. If we look at the throat it is red, swollen with dark red/purplish colour of tonsils. In many cases ulcers may be seen on throat. Apart from the above, Lachesis is also indicated to treat quinsy (pus collection behind the tonsils).

4. Rectal Complaints

This is a prominent remedy to treat constipation and piles.

It helps to improve the sluggish bowel movements and gives relief in constipation. It is helpful when the stool is hard and passed with difficulty. The stool is scanty and insufficient. It also has an offensive odour. The persons needing it have ineffectual urge to evacuate stool. Along with it they feel pressure in bowels with gas. They also feels as if the anus is constricted.

Next, it is a very useful medicine to treat the complaint of piles. Protruding piles with stitching pain is a key feature to use it. Here piles protrude after each stool. After passing stool soreness and burning is felt at the anus. In addition to above throbbing, shooting pain and itching at the anus are also experienced by the person. It is also very beneficial for women having piles during their menopausal period.

5. Female Complaints

This is a highly suitable medicine to treat many female complaints.

First, its use is highly suggested to relieve troubles during menopause. Here the complaints like hot flashes, palpitations, headaches, heat in the head, inter menstrual bleeding (metrorrhagia) and fainting spells during menopause period are well managed with this medicine. Apart from this females suffering from depression during menopause are also benefited with this medicine.

Second, it is indicated in females having pain in the ovaries. Mostly they complain of pain in left side of the ovary. Nature of pain as narrated by them may be sharp, shooting, stitching, drawing or burning type. Pressure tend to worsen this pain. They also feel that the pain increase from exertion and walking. Menses may also be profuse and prolonged in them. It works good in ovarian pain from various reasons like ovarian cyst (fluid filled sac forming within the ovaries), ovarian tumour, ovarian inflammation (ovaritis).

Next, it is given to females to manage painful periods. Females requiring it have pain during periods especially during first day. They have labour like pains in pelvis. Ovarian pain on left side is also experienced.

Other than this, it is given for improving menstrual flow. Females who have scanty periods of short duration are greatly helped by this medicine. The menstrual flow is dark in colour and may have offensive odour.

6. Complaints of the Lower Limbs

If we talk about lower limbs, then firstly it is well-indicated to treat sciatica (pain that radiates from lower back through the hips down the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve). It is considered when the pain is violent, intolerable and shooting type. Person feels the pain worsen after sleeping. The pains come suddenly and disappear gradually.
Secondly, it is helpful to treat varicose veins on legs  (enlarged, twisted or engorged veins due to improper functioning of valves in the veins of the legs)

Lastly, it is recommended to manage cases of varicose ulcers (sore developing on the leg mostly on the inner side of leg just above the ankle due to poor blood circulation).

 7. To Control Bleeding

This is a great anti-hemorrhagic (that helps to stop bleeding) medicine. It is indicated to control bleeding from nose, blood in urine, blood in stool, blood in vomiting. Here dark, blackish bleeding is the characteristic feature to use Lachesis.

8. Skin Complaints

For matters of the skin, this medicine gives excellent results in case of carbuncles and boils (skin infections with pus filled lumps on skin). In these conditions bluish purple surroundings to the lumps is key feature to use it.

Next, it is useful to treat purpura that refers to purple coloured blood spots under skin that arise from bursting of small blood vessels.

Apart from the above, it is recommended in case of bed sores when they have black edges. 

Dosage

Lachesis is recommended from 30 to 200 potency. It is a strong medicine so its frequent repetition should be avoided. 

Always use this medicine under a physicians recommendation.

Relationship to Other Remedies

Complementary medicines are Lycopodium and Hepar Sulph. These medicines can be used after Lachesis to complete its action when it is no longer acting.

Inimical medicines are Acetic Acid, Nitric Acid and Carbolic Acid. 

Antidote medicines are Arseniuc Album, Nux Vomica and Opium, which neutralise the effect of Lachesis.

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

Phosphorus – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 74 Comments

Phosphorus was discovered by an alchemist Brandt in 1673 and soon after by Kunkel. Kramer claimed to treat epilepsy and diarrhoea with it. Other cures that were listed with it at that time includes intermittent fevers, pneumonia of left lung and periodic headaches. Afterwards it was introduced in homeopathy by Dr. Hahnemann. This homeopathic medicine is prepared by trituration of red amorphous phosphorus. The process of trituration helps to extract the medicinal properties of red amorphous phosphorus. It is used for treating a large variety of disease conditions without any side effects like anxiety, fears, hair fall, dandruff, cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, nose bleeding, gastritis, glaucoma, hoarse voice and excessive menstrual bleeding. Phosphorus - Homeopathic Medicine

The ‘Phosphorus’ Constitution

Phosphorus is especially suited to tall, slender, narrow – chested persons They have mostly fair skin, blonde or red hair, and delicate eyelashes. Nervousness and sensitiveness in nature is marked among them. It is also adapted to young people, who grow too rapidly and tend to stoop. Apart from above it also suits persons who have a tendency to bleed.

Drug Action

It has a marked action on mind, spinal cord and nerves.  Its second action is on mucous membranes where it helps to manage irritation, inflammation and degeneration. It also acts upon bones and aids slowing down of bone destruction, especially the lower jaw and tibia. Apart from above it has significant action on the blood and blood vessels and acts as a great anti-haemorrhagic medicine that helps stop bleeding. It helps to manage cases of bleeding from nose, gums. It is also useful to manage blood in urine, stool, vomiting, bloody sputa, blood spots on skin, and excessive menstrual bleeding in females.

Role as a Homeopathic Medicine

1. Anxiety and Fear

It is a prime constituent of nervous matter thus has a deep action on mind and sensation. It helps treat issues of anxiety and fears quite effectively. It mainly helps persons having anxiety about future, anxiety about others and anxiety as if they are about to die. Anxiety appears mainly when they are alone. It is attended with restlessness, palpitation with much sweat on the  forehead. Along with above, the person may feel sad and fears that are mainly presented are fear of death especially in evening time, fear of being alone, fear of thunderstorms, fear of dark, of ghosts, fear as if something bad is about to happen.

2. Hair fall and Dandruff

It is known to be highly effective to treat cases of hair fall. People needing it have excessive hair fall in large bunches. Most times the hair fall is present on fore part of head, and above ears. It also works wonders to regrow hair in cases of hair loss that occurs in spots (alopecia areata). Apart from hair fall it is well indicated for treating premature greying of hair when roots of hair turns grey.

Next, it is very beneficial to treat dandruff. It is mainly used where dandruff is copious and white in colour. It is attended with much itching over the scalp.

3. Nasal problems

When it comes to nasal complaints, it helps treat cases of chronic cold, nasal bleeding (epistaxis) and bleeding polyps. In cases of cold it is used when there is alternations between fluent coryza and stopped nose. Along with this soreness of throat may attend. Loss of smell and taste may also be complained of. In case of nose bleeding it is indicated when episodes occur several times a day and are often quite profuse. Nasal polyps that bleed easily are also suggestive of its use.

4. Eye Complaints

It is a leading homeopathic medicine to treat many eye complaints.

First, it is useful in improving vision in glaucoma cases. Glaucoma is an eye disorder characterised by raised intraocular pressure and optic nerve damage. In this condition blurred vision, eye pain, severe headache, eye pain are experienced. If not treated in time it can eventually cause vision loss and blindness. In such cases, apart from improving vision it is also helpful to manage shooting, burning pain in eyes and sensitivity to light. Glaucoma after iridectomy (surgical removal of part of the iris) is also indicative of its use. Secondly Phosphorus is indicated for cataract cases. It is known to prevent further progression of cataract. In cases needing it there is presence of hard, white, convergent striae in lens with diffuse haziness. Apart from above, it is beneficial to treat floating spots before eyes (muscae volitantes). These spots mainly includes flashes of light, black points or sparks before eyes.

5. Gum Inflammation and Bleeding Gums

It is a very valuable medicine for treating oral (mouth) complaints. Mainly it is used when gums are inflamed (gingivitis) or  bleeding appears from gums. Along with inflammation, ulcers may be present on the gums. In many cases gums may be weak along with looseness of teeth. It is also recommended for gums bleeding that appears after tooth extraction.

6. Gastro intestinal (GIT) Troubles

When it comes to treat GIT complaints, this remedy mainly helps cases of gastritis and stomach ulcers. It works effectively to reduce the inflammation of the stomach and heal the ulcers. The symptoms that guides its use in such cases include burning in the stomach that worsens after eating. In some cases gnawing pain is felt in the stomach. Relief in burning may be obtained by taking cold drinks. Stomach appear greatly distended and may be painful to least pressure with above symptoms. In many cases heartburn attends the pain. Nausea and vomiting also appear with the pain.

Next, it is an excellent medicine to treat diarrhoea (loose stool). The stool is watery and profuse and passes like a gush of water. It may be yellowish, greenish, greyish or blackish coloured. Sometimes lumps of white mucus and blood passes in the stool. Undigested food also passes with stool on few occasions. Urgency to pass stool is marked with above and it may pass involuntarily also. In some cases, burning in anus and rectum may follow passage of stool. Person feels intense weakness with above symptoms.

Lastly, it is considered highly useful for protrusion of piles even on passing flatus and for bleeding from piles. It also helps to relieve pain in piles and burning, itching in the anus.

7. Respiratory Complaints

It is a leading homeopathic remedy to treat a number of respiratory complaints mainly including cough, bronchitis, pneumonia.

Dry cough arising from tickling in throat and from laughing, talking is indicative to use this remedy. Cough appearing from strong odours also points towards its use. Person needing it also complains of pain in head and chest while coughing. They sometimes expectorate reddish – brown phlegm. Few persons needing it also expectorate bright red bloody sputum.

Other than this cases of bronchitis are very well manageable with this medicine. In such cases it is used when there is cough with tearing pain under the sternum (breastbone). Cough is severe, hard and very exhausting (causing weakness). Along with this burning pain in the chest is felt. Sputum of yellowish mucus sometimes streaked with blood also arises. Breathing is quickened and oppressed along with above symptoms.

In addition to above, it is a significant medicine for pneumonia cases. It is specifically indicated for pneumonia of left lower lung. Here it is given when person has frequent cough, with frothy, brown, rust coloured or purulent (pus like) expectoration. With this, breathing difficulty is present. Sharp stitches in the lungs also accompany.  Weight and tightness along with heat in chest are rest of the attending symptoms.

8. Laryngitis and Hoarseness of Voice

It is a top grade medicine to reduce inflammation of larynx (voice box) and improve hoarseness of voice. Persons needing it mainly present with hoarseness of voice in morning hours. They have rough, husky voice with pain and rawness in larynx. They are also unable to speak a loud word. Hoarseness of voice arising in public speakers from prolonged speaking is also well managed by this remedy.

9. Females Troubles

It is a very important medicine to treat complaint of excessive menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) and inter menstrual bleeding (metrorrhagia) in females.

This medicine effectively manages the complaint of early and very profuse periods. The periods also last for a long time in females requiring it. The menstrual bleeding is bright red and there may be a shooting headache, pain in back, nausea, cold feet, hands and shivering during menses. There may be excessive weakness, blue circles around eyes, and anxiety after menses. Apart from above it is very beneficial medicine to treat metrorrhagia when bleeding appear very frequently in between periods and flow is very copious.

10. Liver Disorders

This is a well-indicated homeopathic remedy for managing liver disorders including hepatitis (inflammation of liver), enlargement of liver, fatty liver and cirrhosis (irreversible damage to the liver with death of liver cells). The symptoms to look for to use it here are aching or stitching pain in liver region, marked soreness and hardness over liver region.

11. Backache

It is useful to treat lower back pain when attended with intense heat in the back. Most cases needing it have worsening of pain when rising from stooping. There is also prominent dragging sensation and weakness in back with above features.

Dosage

Use of Phosphorus is recommended in both low and high potency. Dose and repetition varies as per the disease condition, so should be taken as per physician’s recommendation.

Relationship To Other Remedies

Complementary medicines are Arsenic Album, Allium Cepa and Carbo Veg. These medicines can be used to complete its action when it is no longer acting.

Inimical medicine is Causticum and should not be used before or after it.

Antidotes are Coffea Cruda, Mezereum, Nux Vomica and Terebinthina and can be used to neutralize the action of Phosphorus.

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

Bryonia Alba – Homeopathic Medicine: Its Uses, Indications and Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 21 Comments

Bryonia alba is prepared from a plant White Bryony also known as Wild Hops, of the family cucurbitaceae, a herbaceous tendril-bearing vines. The part used to prepare homeopathic medicine is root of this plant procured before flowering. The fresh root of this plant is chopped and then potentized (a process by which homeopathic remedies are prepared). By potentization process the medicinal properties of this plant are extracted leaving behind any of its poisonous effects. Use of Bryonia is been used as medicine since ancient times for treating vertigo, gout, epilepsy and cough. In homeopathy it is used extensively to treat a large number of diseases. Some of the major complaints treated by it are constipation stomach pain, headache, dry mouth, joint pain, back pain and cough.     Homeopathic medicine Bryonia Alba

The ‘Bryonia’ Constitution

Bryonia is mainly suited to tall, thin people having gouty or rheumatic diathesis i.e. tendency to suffer from joint pains. Next it suits people who are prone to respiratory problems and gastric troubles including constipation and stomach pain.

Drug Action

It has marked action on the lining of joints, respiratory system, and the gastro intestinal tract. On all these parts it helps to reduce the inflammation. It also has a significant action on the mucous membranes and helps to improve its normal secretions, thereby making it valuable to treat dryness of mouth, dry lips, dry stool and dry cough.

Scope as a Homeopathic Medicine

1. Headache and Migraine

It is a one of the most effective medicines to treat headache and migraine. People needing it mostly have a pain in the forehead and back of head (occiput). They feel a heaviness in the head and heat along with pain. Worsening of pain from motion, eye movement and stooping is usually noted. Relief is obtained from pressure. One can also use it for headache with constipation and vomiting.

2. Vertigo

This remedy offers great help in cases of vertigo. It is mainly used when vertigo appears on slightest motion, on rising and stooping. Here, the person feels as though all objects are revolving during vertigo. In few cases it feels as if the head is turning in a circle. Heaviness and pain in back of head attends vertigo in many cases.

3. Rheumatic Iritis

This is a significant medicine to manage cases of rheumatic iritis (inflammation of iris i.e. the coloured ring around the eye’s pupil that follows joint inflammation). In such cases the indicating feature to use this medicine is pain in back part of eye. The pain from eye extend to the back of head. The complaint tend to worsen at night and on motion.

4. Dry Mouth and Lips

This is a top-listed medicine to treat cases of dry mouth and dry lips. Here it is used when a person has marked dryness of mouth that gets momentarily better by drinking. They also complain of tongue sticking to roof of mouth (palate) from dryness. Along with mouth, the lips and tongue are also very dry, rough and cracked. There is bad odour from mouth with above symptoms.

5. Gastrointestinal (GIT) Complaints

When it comes to GIT troubles, Bryonia is well-indicated to treat constipation, stomach pain and nausea, vomiting

It gives remarkable results in cases of constipation. People needing this homeopathic medicine have obstinate constipation. They have dry, hard, large stool. It is dark dry as if burnt. They have to excessively strain to pass stool. Due to excessive straining sometimes rectum protrude with stool. They have unsatisfactory stool with sense of weight in the rectum. Along with above they also suffer from offensive flatus. Sometimes they get headache due to constipation.

Next, it is very beneficial to relieve stomach pains. Persons needing it have cutting, griping, shooting pain in stomach. Pain is most felt around the navel region and compels the person to bend double. They may have worsening of pain from motion. They also complain that colic is worse before passing stool. Other symptoms that they may experience are distension of abdomen and rumbling and gurgling in abdomen.

Apart from above, this remedy also helps cases of nausea and vomiting. Vomiting mainly appears soon after eating and is bitter or sour to taste. Hiccough and belching attend vomiting. Belching is bitter, sour or of food that has been eaten.

6. Liver Disorders

It is an important medicine to manage liver complaints including enlargement of liver and inflammation of liver. The symptoms include pain that is shooting, stinging, tensive or burning in nature. The pains tends to get worse from touch, on breathing and coughing. The liver region is also sensitive to pressure.

7. Neck Pain, Backache, Sciatica

This remedy is known to be a very effective medicine to treat neck pain. In such cases, stiffness is marked with pain. The pain increases from motion and from touch.

Apart from above, one can also take it for relieving pain in the lower back. It also help to ease stiffness in the lower back. It can also be taken when the back pain worsens from motion, turning in bed, stooping and standing. Persons needing it get relief in pain from lying down. Back pain arising from injuries are also well managed with this medicine.
Other than this, it is given for sciatica that refers to a pain that radiates from lower back through the hips down the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve. It is used in sciatica cases when pains from lower back extend down to thigh. It worsens by movement and relieved by lying on painful side.

8. Joint and Muscle Pain

This medicine leads the chart of homeopathic medicines to treat joint pains. Cases of joint pain from gout (high uric acid), arthritis (inflamed joints), injured joints and sprains are helped well with this remedy. To use this medicine, the symptoms to consider are sharp, stitching or tearing type pain in joint along with swelling, redness and heat. The joints are tender to touch too. They are also stiff.

In addition to above, it is also a top grade medicine to treat muscle pains and general body aches. Persons needing it have increase in pain  from slightest motion. Absolute rest or lying down helps them get relief.

9. Respiratory Troubles

If we talk about respiratory complaints, then this medicine is helpful for treatment of cough, pneumonia and pleurisy

In case of cough, it is highly recommended in persons having a dry, spasmodic cough (spasmodic means cough ending in vomiting). The cough seems to start from a particular spot in trachea and in some cases by tickling in throat. They frequently mention that their cough worsens after eating, drinking, from talking and at night. Some of them also have complaint of pain in head and chest with sensation as if they would burst during coughing. Sometimes they expectorate tough, hard, scanty sputa with difficulty. The sputa may yellow or brick – dust coloured. It is well-indicated to treat cases of bronchitis and asthmatic cough.

Secondly, it is an excellent medicine for treating pneumonia (infection that cause inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs). It is used in pneumonia with cough and difficult breathing. Along with it, the affected person has a tough, hard, yellow or brick dust coloured expectoration. Sputa may be bloody also. Constriction, oppression of chest and heat in chest are also experienced. Stitching and stabbing pains in chest are felt. Most times the pain worsens during motion, coughing and from deep breathing. High fever may attend above features.
Lastly it is given for pleurisy (a condition in which lining around the chest cavity and the lungs becomes inflamed). The key symptom to use this remedy here is a stitching pain in chest. The pain is worse during cough and breathing. Along with this frequent respiration and dry cough is present.

10. Mastitis (Inflammation of Breast)

It is a very suitable medicine to reduce inflammation of breast. Females needing this medicine have inflamed, painful breast. The pain is tensive, burning and tearing type. The breast feels stony hard and heavy. The breast may also be indurated with lumps in it.

11.  Fever

It is indicated for cases of fever with dry, burning heat and body aches. It is attended with desire to uncover. Along with this taste of mouth is bitter and there is increased thirst for water. It also works well in cases of fever with chill and cough. Next its use is also recommended for typhoid fevers with diarrhoea, dry lips and accumulation of frothy, soap-like saliva in mouth.

Dosage

Bryonia can be used in from 30 to 1M potency. It can be repeated frequently two to three times a day in 30 potency while high potencies should not be taken frequently.

Relationship To Other Remedies

Complementary medicineS are Alumina and Rhus Tox. These medicines help to complete the effects of Bryonia when it has stopped acting further.

Antidotes are Aconite, Chamomilla and Nux Vomica. 

Pin It on Pinterest