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What causes Headache along with Nausea and Vomiting and its Top 8 Homeopathic remedies

Headaches are very common and in many cases are accompanied by nausea and vomiting. It can happen due to various causes and the most common among them is migraine. The severity of the complaint varies from mild to severe. Headache can be accompanied by various other symptoms depending on the cause behind it. Some symptoms are sensitivity to light or sound, dizziness, fatigue, red watery eyes, blocked nose and fever.

Homeopathy offers safe and natural treatment for cases of headache with nausea and vomiting. Homeopathic medicines are gentle yet powerful to treat such like complaints effectively. These medicines gradually help reduce intensity and frequency of this complaint. In acute cases, these help in reducing the pain first, and once they overcome the acute pain, these medicines help eradicate recurrence of this complaint by targeting the root cause behind it. It is advised to consult a physician to rule out the cause behind the headache and take proper treatment.

Homeopathy focuses on the root cause
Headache accompanied by nausea and vomiting can arise due to various reasons therefore to bring about lasting relief, homeopathic medicines target the core issue in such cases. It addresses the root cause by boosting body’s own healing mechanism. By treating the underlying cause it not only alleviates acute pain but also acts from within to offer long term recovery. Homeopathy is of great help in managing many of the causes like migraine, stomach infection, common cold/flu, premenstrual syndrome, food allergies. But some of the serious causes cannot be treated with homeopathic medicines like very high blood pressure, low blood sugar and meningitis. In such cases, it is advised to take urgent help through conventional mode of treatment. Homeopathic medicines should be taken under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor. There is no scope of self-medication.
Customised treatment
Homeopathic medicines for any type of headache with nausea and vomiting are administered as per the uniqueness of the symptoms and thus are customised according to specific needs of the case. Such medication works over all on each and every aspect of the case. This promises excellent results. To avail the best possible results it is recommended to complete the entire course by seeking guidance from a homeopathic physician.
Natural, Gentle medication
With the use of natural medicines, homeopathy offers magnificent results for cases of headache with nausea and vomiting. These medicines help the body to heal in a gentle way for long term results thus improving overall well-being rather than just suppressing the complaint for short-term relief. There are no side effects of these medicines.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For Relieving Headache Along With Nausea And Vomiting

The best homeopathic medicines for managing headache with nausea and vomiting are Ipecac, Iris Versicolor, Carbo Veg, Robinia, Pulsatilla, Cocculus, Bryonia and Sanguinaria Can.

1. Ipecac – Top Recommended Medicine

Ipecac is a leading medicine that helps relieve one from headache with nausea and vomiting. Throbbing pain is felt in the head. Pain can be one-sided. Heat is felt in the head. Redness of the cheeks may follow. Drowsiness can be an accompanying symptoms. Though pain may occur in any part of the head, in most cases it is felt on the back of the head and neck. Pain may extend to shoulders in some cases.

When to use Ipecac?

Ipecac is an excellent medicine to help cases of throbbing type of headache on one side accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

How to use Ipecac?

It is best to start it in 30C potency that can be taken once or twice a day as per the severity of the headache. It can also be taken in high (200C) potency but only after consulting a homeopathic physician.

2. Iris Versicolor – With Nausea And Vomiting Having Sour Taste

This medicine is highly effective for cases in which headache occurs along with nausea and sour vomiting. The pain is marked on the sides of the head, forehead and right above the eyes. There is a feeling of a band tied around the head. Sometimes it is a one-sided pain. In some cases, pain alternates between the right and left side of the head. Along with the above symptoms, heartburn, burning in the stomach, sour belching may be present. Vertigo can also occur. In some cases, blurring of vision may occur before the onset of headache. The headache may get worse with rest and better by movement. It is a top medicine for managing headache caused by acidity.

When to use Iris Versicolor?

Iris Versicolor is the best medicine for managing headache accompanied by nausea and sour vomiting. Blurring of vision may precede headache.

How to use Iris Versicolor?

Among its various available potencies, the most frequently used is 30C potency that can be taken one to two times a day as per severity of complaint.

3. Carbo Veg – With Nausea And Weakness

Carbo Veg is a suitable medicine when there is headache along with nausea and weakness. There is sensation of constriction around the head. In most cases, pain begins from the neck and goes up to the head. A pressure is felt on the sides of the head, on the top of the head and in forehead above the eyes. Head may also feel very heavy. The pain becomes worse after eating. There is excessive gas in abdomen along with distension. It is a medicine administered in case there is headache that occurs when the head gets overheated.

When to use Carbo Veg?

Carbo Veg is very useful to manage headache that is attended with nausea and marked weakness. There is also too much gas in abdomen alongside bloating.

How to use Carbo Veg?

It can be used in both low and high potencies among which the most preferred is 30C potency once to thrice a day, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

4. Robinia – For Headache With Burping And Intensely Sour Vomiting

It is a very beneficial medicine for headache with burping and vomiting of intensely sour fluid. There is dull headache along with heaviness in the head. The headache gets worse from movement. Robinia is the main medicine to manage headache that arises after eating certain food that causes gas accumulation in stomach. There is marked acidity in the stomach with heartburn that gets worse at night when one lies down.

When to use Robinia?

This medicine should be selected for relieving headache along with burping and very sour vomiting.

How to use Robinia?

It is advisable to take Robinia 30C one or two times a day.

5. Pulsatilla – With Nausea And Sour Bitter Vomiting

Pulsatilla works well in cases of headache with nausea and sour bitter vomiting. In such a scenario, first headache is followed by vomiting. Afterwards, pinching or gripping pain in abdomen is felt. Pain in the head gets worse on the sides of the head and in the eyes. One feels more pain when a person is confined to a room and it also gets worse from lying down. Pain gets better if a person is not restricted to a room or stays in the open. The pain may also be relieved by applying pressure over the head. Nausea and vertigo also accompany the headache. Pulsatilla is also the best choice of medicine for headache occurring few days before menses along with vomiting. Loose stool and chills may accompany along with scanty menstrual bleeding.

When to use Pulsatilla?

This medicine is helpful in cases of headache that occur due to nausea and vomiting of sour bitter matter.

How to use Pulsatilla?

This medicine is usually prescribed in 30C power once or twice a day.

6. Cocculus Indicus – With Intense Noise Sensitivity

This medicine suits people who are sensitive to noise. Noise is unbearable and even least noisy atmosphere can cause nausea and vomiting in such people. They also have sensitivity to light. Such patients also complain of the pain in the back of the head and neck. The pain worsens from lying on the back of head. This medicine is also administered if one has headache during periods.

When to use Cocculus Indicus?

Cocculus Indicus is of use when headache is accompanied with nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to noise and light.

How to use Cocculus Indicus?

One may use this medicine once a day in 30C potency.

7. Bryonia – When Constipation Attends

Bryonia can be administered when there is headache along with nausea, vomiting and constipation. Others who need it excrete dry and hard stool. The headache may begin in the morning at the time one wakes up and as the day progresses the headache gets severe. It may get worse from movement, even from the movement of eyeballs. There is relief in pain from tying a band around the head.

When to use Bryonia?

Bryonia is an ideal medicine to manage headache that is accompanied by nausea, vomiting and constipation.

How to use Bryonia?

Various potencies are available for this medicine among which 30 potency is highly effective that can be used once or twice a day.

8. Sanguinaria Can – When It Is Better By Lying Quietly And From Sleep

This medicine is administered when there is relief in complaint from lying down quietly preferably in a dark room or from sleep. For those who need it, the pain starts in the morning and keeps getting severe by the day. There is a bursting of head kind of feeling. The pain especially occurs on the right side that begins from the back of the head and then radiates from there and then settles above the right eye. One may vomit mucus or food.

When to use Sanguinaria Can?

One may use this medicine for managing headache alongwith nausea and vomiting and when one gets relief from lying down quietly in a dark room or from sleep.

How to use Sanguinaria Can?

It is recommended to use this medicine once or twice a day in 30C power.

What Causes Headache Along With Nausea And Vomiting?

1. Migraine:It is a disorder in which pain occurs on one side of the head, mostly pulsating type. It is frequently accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to noise and light. Other accompanying symptoms include weakness, irritability, restlessness, and anxiety. An aura may be experienced by some people having migraine. Aura is a set of symptoms that occur before the onset of headache which include flashes of light or spots in front of the eyes, temporary loss of vision, tingling sensation in arms/legs/face or difficulty in speech.

2. Food poisoning or stomach infection:It happens from eating or drinking contaminated food. It leads to symptoms including loose stool, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fever and headache.

3. Common Cold/Flu:These are upper respiratory tract infections affecting nose, throat, larynx, trachea. Both are mostly caused by viruses and have quite similar symptoms but the symptoms are more severe in flu as compared to common cold. The symptoms include runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, cough, fever, headache, fatigue.

4. Stress, Anxiety, Depression:These can lead to headache accompanied by nausea.

5. Taking excessive alcohol or caffeine.

6. COVID -19:It is caused from infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus and causes symptoms of mild to severe intensity. It can cause headache, nausea and vomiting. The other main symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, weakness, loss of taste and smell and shortness of breath.

7. PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and Menstrual cycle:PMS refers to a group of symptoms that woman tend to experience few days before the onset of menses. Hormonal changes before and during menses can lead to headache, nausea, vomiting. In most cases, it may occur around two days before the periods or during the first three days of the periods.

8. Food allergies:Certain food allergies can lead to nausea and headache. In some cases, migraine attack is triggered from certain food allergies. Some of the food allergens include – dairy products, wheat, and citrus fruits. The allergy symptoms may include gas, bloating, loose stool, hives (itchy bumps on skin), headache, nausea, vomiting.

9. High Blood Pressure:A severe headache with nausea, vomiting can be indicative of very high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis).

10. Low blood sugar

11. Meningitis: (inflamed meninges which are the protective membranes covering brain and spinal cord), traumatic brain injury and kidney disease.

 

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Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a very common condition affecting the hands caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It is also known as median nerve compression or median nerve entrapment. It results in numbness, tingling, pain, weakness in the thumb, fingers including index finger, middle finger and half of the ring finger on the side close to the thumb and palms of hands. It is one of the commonest known entrapment neuropathies characterised by the compression of one of the peripheral nerves of the body.

Homeopathy carries a great scope in treating cases of CTS. Homeopathy is the best alternative for natural treatment options in cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Homeopathic medicines help in giving long-term relief in symptoms of CTS magnificently by targeting the root cause behind it. Symptoms including numbness, tingling, pain and weakness in the fingers and hands are relieved wonderfully with these medicines. Contrary to mainstream medicines like NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti – inflammatory drugs), corticosteroids for CTS treatment, homeopathy is free of any side effects, are non-habit forming and offer long-term relief.

An effective homeopathic treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can save a person from the surgeon’s knife. However, the results will depend on the severity and stage of CTS. In mild to moderate cases, where the wasting (thinning from severe and prolonged nerve compression)  of thenar muscles has not taken place, the chances of recovery are higher. Stage 1 and stage 2 CTS cases have the highest chances of recovery and cure while for stage 3 CTS, recovery rate varies depending on the amount of damage to the thenar muscle and symptom management is possible. In stage 3 cases, though homeopathic medicines cannot reverse the damage already done to the muscle, these can work to halt further progression of muscle damage and provide symptomatic relief. Only in the severest of cases that do not respond to conservative treatment, surgery can be opted.

Homeopathic medicines for CTS are prescribed individually in every case as per the symptom presentation. A detailed case history is required followed by an assessment of symptoms to provide the best suitable homeopathic medicine. Homeopathy works wonders when the medicine is prescribed following this individualized approach.

Homeopathic remedies for CTS are sourced from naturally occurring substances and hence are very safe to use. They treat CTS with zero side effects. These medicines boost the body’s self-healing mechanism to overcome CTS issue naturally.

Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The main medicines for treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are Causticum, Ruta, Hypericum, Arnica, Rhus Tox and Bellis Perennis.

1. Causticum – Top Medicine That Treats Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Causticum is ranked as the best medicine to treat cases of CTS. I have treated many cases (successfully) with Causticum. The main symptoms are weakness in hands, numbness, and pain in the fingers. It is recommended more when the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome has increased to a level where there is an excessive weakness in the hands and the muscles of the hand have atrophied (means thinning out). Causticum should be administered in case of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome if the palmar side of the hand has a flat appearance (reduction in the musculature of hand).

When to use Causticum?

Causticum is highly recommended to manage numbness, weakness and pain in fingers in cases of CTS. Its use is also suggested for cases where the muscles of the hand have started wasting out means thinning from severe and prolonged nerve compression.

How to use Causticum?

One may take Causticum 30C once or twice in a day at the beginning of treatment.

2. Ruta – For CTS From Overuse Of Wrist (Strains), Tendonitis Or Wrist Fracture

Ruta is one of the best medicines which helps treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. It is used when from the overuse of wrist, tendonitis or after a sudden strain or fracture of the wrist CTS symptoms appear. There is marked pain in the wrist in those who need Ruta.

When to use Ruta?

Ruta is the best choice of medicine to manage CTS arising from the overuse of the wrist and also from inflamed tendons or a sudden strain on the wrist.

How to use Ruta?

The use of this medicine is recommended in both low and high potencies. Initially one may use its 30C potency once or twice a day. For using high potencies, prior consultation with a homeopathic physician is a must.

3. Hypericum – When An Injury (Damaging Median Nerve) Triggers CTS

Hypericum comes in handy when there is a nerve injury related to the onset of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The injury damages the median nerve. This medicine manages numbness, tingling and burning pain in the fingers and hands.

When to use Hypericum?

This medicine should be highly preferred in CTS cases to manage numbness, tingling, burning in fingers post nerve injury.

How to use Hypericum?

Hypericum 30C can be used three to four times a day as per the severity of the symptoms.

4. Arnica – To Help CTS Cases From Injury Or Overuse Of Wrist

This medicine is very useful in managing cases of CTS from injury or the overuse of the wrist. It is suitable when there is pain in the hands. Besides, there is tingling in hands, and arms in some cases. This medicine helps in healing the injury and removes effects of the worst kind of overuse of wrist, with resultant symptom relief.

When to use Arnica?

This medicine should be used as the first line of treatment in cases of CTS arising from an injury or overuse of the wrist.

How to use Arnica?

It is safe to use it in 30 C potency in the beginning, once to thrice a day but for high potencies like 200 C or more, consultation with a homeopathic physician is strictly advised.

5. Rhus Tox – For Wrist Joint Inflammation Or Overuse Of Wrist Triggering CTS

Rhus Tox is very effective if one is suffering from CTS that follows the overuse of the wrist and hands causing strain or wrist joint inflammation (arthritis). The overuse of wrist or hands for example may occur from excessive typing work on computer, sewing, car driving, to name a few. Those who need Rhus Tox have pain and tenderness in the wrist. Any pressure exerted on the wrist is unbearable. There is numbness in the fingers, especially the index and middle finger in the morning.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox is well indicated to manage pain and tenderness in the wrist in CTS cases related to inflamed wrist joint or the overuse of wrist.

How to use Rhus Tox?

From its various available potencies, it is advisable to begin with 30C potency twice or thrice a day.

6. Bellis Perennis – For CTS Related to Repetitive Strain Injury 

In addition to the above-mentioned medicines for CTS linked to repetitive strain injury, Bellis Perennis can be used as well. The characteristic symptom indicating its use is a contracted feeling in the wrist. It feels as if there is an elastic band around the wrist contracting it.

When to use Bellis Perennis?

This medicine can be prescribed in CTS cases when it arises from repetitive strain injury to the wrist along with prominent symptom of contracted sensation in the wrist.

How to use Bellis Perennis?

Bellis Perennis 30C can be taken two to three times a day for good results.

What are the Causes Of CTS?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve gets compressed or irritated in the wrist when it passes through the carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel is a narrow tunnel (passageway) in the palmar side of the wrist through which the median nerve and tendons (total nine in number) pass. Tendons are bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones.

Risk factors

A variety of factors are linked to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome development as follows:

1. Repeated trauma (overuse injury) to the tissues inside the carpal tunnel: It is quite common to find the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in people who perform repetitive movements of hands and of the wrist frequently. Carpal tunnel is the most common in people who use computers. Typing is one of the most common causes that leads to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Certain mechanical jobs that repeatedly strain the wrist may lead to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, for example driving vehicles, sewing, using hand tools (especially the ones that vibrate – carpenters are at high risk of developing CTS), writing, piano players, knitting and playing other musical instruments.

2. Arthritis (joint inflammation) in wrist joint: for example, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The swelling and inflammation related to these conditions can reduce the carpal tunnel space and compress median nerve.

3. Wrist injury/fracture/dislocation

4. Having a small carpal tunnel

5. Tendonitis: Inflammation of any among the nine tendons of carpal tunnel can occur and compress the median nerve

6. It is common in females as compared to males. Women are thrice more at risk of CTS as compared to men. The reason could be a smaller carpal tunnel in women as compared to men.

7. Certain medical conditions also predispose a person towards the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. These are diabetes (it increases chances of nerve damage), hypothyroidism and high blood pressure.

8. Obesity, alcoholism, smoking, excessive salt intake also increases risk of CTS

9. Having a family history of CTS

10. Pregnancy and menopause: Here retention of fluid contributes to CTS by raising pressure in the carpal tunnel and causing irritation in the median nerve.

11. Use of certain medicines, like anastrozole, which is used for treating breast cancer

12.  A tumour in carpal tunnel

 Investigations

1. Nerve conduction study test: It is the main test to diagnose CTS. In this test, electrodes are placed on the hands and the wrist and a little shock is passed through the median nerve that measures the conduction speed of nerve impulses. A slower than normal nerve impulse in carpal tunnel suggests presence of CTS.

2. Electromyography: In this test, a thin needle is inserted into the muscle to check the electrical activity of muscles. It helps reveal the damage of the muscles that are controlled by median nerve.

3. X-ray and ultrasound of wrist: X-ray will help to rule out related conditions like arthritis or fracture though it cannot diagnose CTS. An ultrasound will help to examine bones and nerves of the wrist and check for nerve compression.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I have numbness in fingers and hands, am I suffering from CTS?

No doubt CTS is one of the most common reasons behind numbness in fingers and hands. But it can arise from several other causes, for example,  cervical neuropathy, brachial plexus injury, Raynaud’s phenomenon. So I advise you to consult a doctor to find out the exact reason behind your complaint.

Thenar muscle

Thenar muscle

2. Does pain in fingers indicate CTS?

Pain in fingers is one of the symptom of CTS but merely pain does not confirm CTS. In cases of CTS, numbness, tingling in fingers is usually present along with pain. If there is only pain in fingers, it could be from other reasons as well, like arthritis, trigger finger, Dupuytren’s contracture, tendonitis, ganglion cyst. So finger pain without numbness or tingling in fingers is usually not CTS.

3. How to know difference between CTS and arthritis?

In case of CTS, numbness, tingling, pain and weakness in fingers and hands occurs while in case of arthritis pain, stiffness and swelling in joints occurs.

4. I am suffering from CTS, will use of wrist splint treat it?

Wrist splint

Wrist splint

Though wrist splint cannot treat or cure CTS as it requires proper treatment, but a wrist splint can definitely help to relieve night-time symptoms of numbness and tingling in fingers and hands. Use of wrist splint is recommended at night while a person is sleeping as he/she can unconsciously bend the wrist during sleep. Here wrist splint will hold the wrist still and straight and relieve disturbing night-time symptoms.

5. I have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, can I do typing?

Typing involves the constant use of wrist and hands and it can worsen CTS. If possible, avoid typing. But if your office work requires a lot of typing, make sure to press computer keys softly, use comfortable computer mouse, place keyboard at elbow height, take proper breaks at regular intervals in between typing to reduce strain on the wrist.

6. Will heat application on the wrist help CTS pain?

Yes, heat application can help in managing CTS pain. Heat enhances blood flow and relaxes the tense muscles and relieves wrist pain. Avoid it if wrist is swollen or red.

7. What if CTS is left untreated?

CTS needs to be treated timely because if not treated it can lead to permanent nerve damage and also muscle damage. This leads to loss of sensation in fingers and also weakness.

 

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Top 10 Homeopathic Remedies For Cough Along With Vomiting

Cough is the body’s protective mechanism to clear the airway of any dust, smoke, mucus and any microbes (like virus, bacteria). In some cases, coughing is so marked in intensity that it results in vomiting. A continuous high intensity cough which results in vomiting is termed as spasmodic cough. The muscles that are involved in coughing also work while vomiting which is one of the reasons why cough can lead to vomiting in some cases. Vomiting with cough may happen frequently in younger kids. Older kids and adults know how to spit out mucus but younger kids don’t. So vomiting is a way the body is trying to get rid of the mucus that has been coughed up. In case excessive mucus gets into the stomach and causes nausea, even then vomiting may occur. Homeopathic medicines prove very useful in cases of cough with vomiting. These medicines bring natural recovery by treating the root cause behind it.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Cough Along With vomiting

1. Ipecac – Top grade medicine

Ipecac is a leading medicine when a fit of coughing is followed by vomiting of whitish mucus or of food. In cases needing it, cough is loose, rattling type. The chest feels full of mucus. Vomiting seems to relieve cough. There occur frequent attacks of cough that shake the entire body. Cough is attended with difficult breathing and suffocation. It is a very exhausting cough and is mostly triggered after a meal. Cool air also worsens cough. This medicine is helpful when cough occurs at night along with vomiting.

2. Cina – For Cough In Children

This medicine is well indicated to manage cough that ends in vomiting in children. In children requiring it, there occur fits of constant cough especially at night. Sleeplessness may also occur from coughing episodes. Cough is very violent that brings tears in eyes and at the end vomiting. Any kind of movement as well as talking, tend to trigger an episode of cough where this medicine is required, so the child needing it fears to speak or move. Some of the attending symptoms are sneezing, loss of appetite and throat pain.

3. Coccus Cacti – When Complaint Gets Worse In Morning

Coccus Cacti is the most important medicine when cough gets worse in the morning. It is worst when the person walks for the first time in the morning. An attack of cough is followed by vomiting of thick and sticky mucus. Sometimes violent cough is followed by vomiting of ropy mucus. If cough occurs at six or seven specifically, then Coccus Cacti is the best indicated medicine. Another very characteristic feature to use this medicine is cough arising from brushing teeth. Besides these, an indicating feature is cough getting better by consuming cold drinks or inhaling cold air.

4. Drosera – When Complaint Gets Worse Lying Down At Night

When cough increases while lying down at night, Drosera is the best medicine. The cough is dry, irritative type that occurs in fits at very short intervals. It forces the sufferer to sit up. Vomiting follows coughing. The vomiting may be of mucus, water or food varying from case to case. Vomiting finishes the coughing fit after which excessive weakness is felt. Stitching pain in chest may occur along with cough. This medicine is very suitable for children who have night cough as soon as they hit the bed.

5. Bryonia – For Dry Cough

Bryonia is a wonderful medicine to deal with cases of dry cough along with vomiting of food. Cough gets worse after eating or drinking and also on taking deep breath. After coughing, the vomit consists of food that had just been eaten. During coughing, pain in the head and chest may occur. In cases requiring Bryonia, cough may also increase from movement and talking.

6. Antimonium Tart – For Loose Rattling Cough

Antimonium Tart is a leading medicine when it comes to manage loose rattling cough. It feels as if the lungs are full of mucus. Vomiting sets in after coughing. In cases needing it, cough gets worse by eating. Chest pain may attend it. Thera may be difficulty in breathing. A characteristic feature is relief in cough from lying on the right side.

7. Pertussin – For Repeated Fits Of Coughing

This medicine is well indicated when there are repeated fits of coughing. Each fit of cough is followed by vomiting. Mostly cough is dry. Due to persistent cough, the face appears flushed (red). Cough is excited by a tickling sensation in throat and fauces. Difficulty in breathing may attend coughing.

8. Ferrum Met – When Cough Worsens After Eating Food

Ferrum Met is a useful medicine when cough worsens after eating food. Vomiting occurs after eating and all the food eaten is thrown up. Cough can be attended with soreness and stitching pain in chest. Vomiting eases the cough. Besides, this medicine is also indicated for cough with blood stained sputum.

9. Conium – For Cough At Night

This medicine is helpful when cough along with vomiting occurs frequently at night. Coughing occurs continuously until vomiting arises. Vomiting is of frothy mucus with yellow center. Mostly cough begins with a tickling sensation in the throat and triggered when talking or lying down. Cough leads to exhaustion. In children needing it, pain in abdomen also occurs while coughing.

10. Nux Vomica – For Cough With Headache, Abdomen Pain And Vomiting

This medicine is of great value in managing cases in which a person complains of cough with headache, abdomen pain and vomiting. Cough is violent with vomiting and exhaustion. Cough gets worse at night, especially when lying on the back and disappears when lying on the side. It leads to sleeplessness. Yellow or grey mucus may be expectorated along with cough. The mucus may be sour or sweet to taste. Nux Vomica is well indicated for cough occurring from exertion and from tobacco use. Warm drinks may relieve the cough.

11. Mephitis – For Cough Episodes Every Few Minutes At Night

Mephitis is prominently indicated when cough episodes happen every few minutes (about 10 minutes) at night. There is rattling of mucus along with cough.  Vomiting occurs after cough. It is also indicated for cough with runny nose and suffocative feeling.

What Are The Causes Of Cough that Can Result in Vomiting?

1. Post nasal drip – Dripping of nasal secretions from the back of nose into the throat. It may happen from various reasons like allergies, sinusitis, common cold etc.

2. Cigarette smoking – Cigarette smoking can cause cough. In this condition, cough arises as a part of the defence mechanism of the body to clear out the chemicals of cigarette that have entered airways and lungs.

3. GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) – GERD refers to back flow of stomach acid into the food pipe. The acid may reach the throat as well giving rise to cough. Cough related to GERD mostly occurs at night or after a meal and worsens on lying down.

3. Asthma (a respiratory condition arising when airways get narrow, swell and produce excessive mucus giving rise to breathing difficulty, cough and wheezing from chest) and cough variant asthma (a type of asthma presenting only with symptom of cough which is dry, non – productive type)

4. Bronchitis (inflammation of bronchial tubes that carry air to and from lungs) and pneumonia (infection that causes inflammation of air sacs of lungs)

5. Certain medicines like ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) used to treat high blood pressure

6. In children, some other causes include Pertussis (whooping cough – a contagious respiratory tract infection characterized by fits of severe hacking cough followed by high-pitched whoop sound as the person breathes in) and RSV infection (Respiratory Syncytial Virus causes a viral infection of lungs with symptoms like cough, sneezing, runny nose, wheezing and fever) that frequently causes bronchitis and pneumonia in babies.

Note: Vomiting that accompanies cough is not something of major concern and is not a medical emergency. But in case bloody expectoration, difficulty breathing, blue coloration of face/lips/tongue, fever with chills, dehydration or loss of consciousness occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

 

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7 Homeopathic Remedies For Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN or TGN), also known as tic douloureux/ Fothergill disease/ Prosopalgia refers to a severe electric shock like facial pain on one side along the course of the trigeminal nerve (usually due to compression, irritation or damage to the nerve). The trigeminal nerve is the fifth cranial nerve (out of 12 pair of cranial nerves) and is the largest of all the cranial nerves. There is one trigeminal nerve on either side of the face. The pain of trigeminal neuralgia is typically abrupt and intense. Even a little stimulation of the face like washing the face, brushing teeth can excite a sharp pain on the face in these cases. The severity of the pain may cause a person to contort his/her face in a twisted expression. It is considered one of the most severely painful disorders known to medical science.

For nerve disorders including trigeminal neuralgia, homeopathy offers marvellous treatment. Homeopathic medications can give long-term relief in cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia and can enable an individual to lead a good quality of life. It makes use of natural medicines for treating it, ensuring its safety. Homeopathic treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia works by acting internally at the root of the problem to give excellent results in Trigeminal Neuralgia.

Homeopathic medicines work by managing the acute symptoms first that are most troublesome and difficult to bear. It helps to minimize the intensity and the duration of pain. Further it works to minimize the recurrence of pain episodes. Caught in the early stages (with the initial symptoms), homeopathic medicines can help cure the condition with minimal chances of recurrence.

Homeopathy treats every case of Trigeminal Neuralgia individually. In the homeopathic mode of treatment, the treatment begins once the complete case history is understood from the patient. In Trigeminal Neuralgia, signs and symptoms, the location of pain, type of pain, time when pain is worse, trigger factors and modalities of the pain, means the worsening and relieving factors are all considered to finalize the right prescription.

With regular homeopathic treatment the dependency on conventional treatment, that mainly uses antiseizure medicine, muscle relaxants, botox injections with its own side effects, can be reduced to a great extent. In many cases, surgery is recommended in mainstream medicine. But homeopathic treatment, if followed as per the homeopathic doctor;s advice for the prescribed duration,  can help one get away with surgical intervention in many cases with mild to moderate intensity.  

homeopathic remedies for trigeminal neuralgia

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines For Trigeminal Neuralgia

The top homeopathic remedies for trigeminal neuralgia iclude Spigelia, Magnesia Phosphorica, Verbascum, Colocynth, Hecla Lava, Plantago and Hypericum.

1. Spigelia – For Neuralgia On The Left Side

Spigelia is an excellent natural medicine for left-sided Trigeminal Neuralgia. Facial pain located on the left side of the face that comes and goes suddenly are the primary features that indicate the need for this medicine. The area around the eye, forehead, cheek, teeth, and temple on the left side of the face are particularly painful. The nature of pain varies from stabbing, violent, burning like hot needles or wires, jerking, tearing, to stitching type. The affected area is highly sensitive to touch. In a few cases, pains worsen from morning to sunset. The attack of Trigeminal Neuralgia arising in cold, rainy weather are strong indicators to use Spigelia.

When to use Spigelia?

This medicine can be prescribed for managing cases of trigeminal neuralgia on the left side of face with pain around the eye, forehead, cheek, teeth, and temple (side of head) on the left side when pain goes suddenly.

How to use Spigelia?

Though it can be used in both low and high potencies, it is safe to take this medicine in 30C power initially. Spigelia 30 C can be taken twice or thrice a day. 

2. Magnesia Phosphorica – For Neuralgia On The Right Side

Magnesia Phosphorica is a medicine for cases of right-sided trigeminal neuralgia. Pain usually starts near the right eye and extends to the entire right side of the face. The pain felt is of stabbing, stitching, shooting or cutting type. Pain may return every two to three hours. Pain on the right side of the face may alternate with a toothache or frequently change location, rushing about like a bolt of lightning. The pain may get worse from the slightest touch, cold application, motion, a draft of air, cold washing, or eating. The patient may get relief by warm application and pressure. Facial neuralgia which is felt while opening the mouth to eat or drink is also indicative of using this medicine.

When to use Magnesia Phosphorica?

This medicine can be considered for Trigeminal Neuralgia affecting the right side of the face when pain gets worse from touch, cold washing, eating, movement, cold application and draft of air.

How to use Magnesia Phosphorica?

It is advised to use this medicine in 6X potency three to four times a day as per the severity of the symptom.

3. Verbascum— For Neuralgia With Marked Periodicity

Verbascum (also known as Mullein Oil) is a medicine for Trigeminal Neuralgia that has a pronounced action on the maxillary branch of the trigeminal nerve. There is periodic facial pain of tearing, stitching, cramping, crushing type. Pain seems to occur in flashes, happening at the same hour in the morning and afternoon every day. The smallest movement triggers facial pain. Neuralgia of the left side of face occurs more commonly in cheeks and temporo-maxillary joint. A pressure is felt in the entire left side of the head and face. Pains get triggered by sneezing, talking and change of weather. Another indication is a benumbing, sticking and piercing type of pain deep in the right temple while eating, which extends to upper teeth of the same side after a few hours. Severe pressing, pinching pain on the side of the lower jaw also indicates the need for this medicine.

When to use Verbascum?

It is the best choice of medicine for managing Trigeminal Neuralgia when the periodicity of pain is well marked, means pains occurs at the same hour of the day every time.

How to use Verbascum?

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

4. Colocynth – For Neuralgia With Shooting, Stitching Pains

Colocynth works efficiently in cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia where facial pains are violent, shooting, and stitching in character. Numbness may follow neuralgic pains and get better by pressure. There are tearing pains in the cheeks, stitches in the upper jaw which reoccur frequently. The left side of the face, temple, ear and sometimes the side of the neck may get affected. Facial neuralgia and toothache remain confined to one side.

When to use Colocynth?

Colocynth should be used to manage shooting stitching pains on the face, especially on the left side of the face which gets relieved by applying pressure on the face.

How to use Colocynth?

It is recommended to take Colocynth 30C twice or thrice a day based on symptom intensity.

 5. Hecla Lava – For Neuralgia From Dental Complaints

Hecla lava is an important remedy in cases of facial neuralgia when dental problems like tooth decay causes pain. Neuralgic pains in the face after extraction of the tooth or decayed tooth are the characteristic features. There is swelling and violent pain in the jaw, which is highly painful to touch.

When to use Hecla Lava?

It is a leading medicine to treat Trigeminal Neuralgia when dental problems like tooth decay or tooth extraction trigger pain.

How to use Hecla Lava?

This medicine can be taken one or two times daily in 30C power.

 6. Plantago – For Neuralgia With Pains In Lower Jaws

Plantago has a marked action on the trigeminal nerve. It is an excellent remedy where neuralgia is located around the lower jaw. The pain is shooting, tearing in nature. Pain starting from the lower jaw may extend to the ears. Sometimes there is drawing pain in the cheeks. It can be given when the mandibular (V3) branch is involved with pain in the lower jaw and ear.

When to use Plantago?

The key indicating feature to use this medicine in trigeminal neuralgia is pain around the lower jaw especially shooting, tearing type that extends to the ears.

How to use Plantago?

Its use is suggested in 30 C potency two to three times a day.

7. Hypericum – For Neuralgia After Nerve Injury

Hypericum is a highly beneficial medicine in cases where Trigeminal Neuralgia starts after a nerve injury. Pains in the face are sharp, shooting, tearing or violent. There is marked tingling, burning, numbness in the affected area of the face. Facial neuralgia and toothache are present. Tension and tearing in the cheek may also be present.

When to use Hypericum?

Its use is highly advised for cases of Trigeminal Neuralgia resulting after a nerve injury. with sharp, shooting, tearing pain in the face along with tingling, burning, numbness.

How to use Hypericum?

Among the various available potencies, it works most wonderfully in 30C potency that can be taken twice or thrice daily as per the severity of symptoms.

Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

The most commonly affected areas of the face in Trigeminal Neuralgia include the jaw and lower face.

1. Area of pain: The pain can be focused on one spot (depending upon the branch that is affected) or can advance to a widespread area. The areas that can be affected include jaws, eyes, cheeks, lips, and teeth, area around the nose, ears, gums, forehead.

2. Type of pain: Pains can be excruciating, tearing, shooting, jabbing, or feel like electric shocks. Trigeminal neuropathic pains that produce tingling and numbness (usually due to oral surgery or dentistry) may also occur. There may be a tingling, pin needle sensation or numbness in the face before the development of pain. Burning sensation in the face may also be felt after pain has subsided. Twitching (involuntary muscle contraction causing jerking in the affected part) in the face may also occur after an attack of pain.

3. The side of the face affected:Usually, the pain is unilateral (one-sided). Mostly, it involves the right side of the face. But in some cases, it can be bilateral (affecting both sides of the face) for example in case of multiple sclerosis. In case of bilateral TN though both sides are affected but at a given time only one side has symptoms. Very rarely, both sides show symptoms at the same time.

4. The intensity of pain:In most cases, episodes of pain are usually intense in nature (some sufferers have reported the pain being more intense than the pain of a heart attack). However, in some cases, pain can range from mild to moderate. With progression of the condition, pain becomes more intense with time.

5. Duration of pain:The pain attack lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes initially. As the condition progresses, the pain attacks can become longer.

6. The frequency of attacks:Intermittent isolated episodes of sudden pain tend to occur. Some may experience it only once a day and others may have it every few minutes or hours. It may happen every day for several days, weeks, months or even more than that. Sometimes, even months or years may pass after one attack (called remission period). If not treated, the attacks can become frequent and intense over time. Mild attacks may be experienced initially, but if progression takes place, long and frequent bouts of pain can occur.

7. Time of occurrence: It can occur once the patient is exposed to any triggering factors (and sometimes even without them). It never happens while a person is asleep.

What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia (TGN or TN)?

It arises from the abnormal functioning of the trigeminal nerve. The main cause behind TGN is compression of the trigeminal nerve by a blood vessel. It damages the myelin sheath (protective covering of nerve fibers) of this nerve and results in the hyperfunctioning of the nerve. As a result of the damage, even a little stimulation on the portion of the face supplied by this nerve excites pain. In addition, the nerve is unable to close pain signals once nerve stimulation stops. The compression of nerve for a short period does not cause pain but long-term constant compression causes demyelination of nerve initially, followed by degeneration of axons (thin fibers extending from nerve cell that function to transmit electrical signals to nerve cells, muscles, glands).

Various causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia include:

1. Pressure:Approximately 95% of TN cases arise from pressure on this nerve. Pressure on the trigeminal nerve from the surrounding blood vessel (an artery – anterior inferior cerebellar artery, etatic basilar artery or a vein) at the base of the brain is the most common cause.

Pressure on the trigeminal nerve from a tumour may also lead to TN but that is rare. TN may also occur from pressure on the trigeminal nerve by an aneurysm (bulge in the wall of the blood vessel)

2. Trauma / Injury to nerve: Damage to the nerve can occur as a result of facial injury, dental injury or a surgical procedure (eg sinus surgery, oral surgery), stroke (brain damage arising from interrupted blood supply to the brain) can lead to TN.

3. Loss of Myelin Sheath:Myelin sheath protects the nerves. Loss of myelin sheath (which can occur as a result of aging or a condition like multiple sclerosis) can lead to Trigeminal Neuralgia. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder in which immune cells damage the protective covering of nerves disrupting communication between brain and body.

4. Inflammation:Inflammatory disorders like Lyme disease (a tick-borne disease caused by bacteria, of the Type Borrelia, known as Borrelia Burgdoferi) and Sarcoidosis (autoimmune disorder causing collection of inflammatory cells in a body part) can also lead to the development of Trigeminal Neuralgia.

5. Collagen Vascular Diseases: Diseases like scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus can trigger Trigeminal Neuralgia. In such diseases, the immune system causes inflammation in the collagen and surrounding joints.

However, it should be noted that in many cases, there is no specific cause for Trigeminal Neuralgia called as idiopathic TN.

What Are The Factors That Contribute to the Development of Trigeminal Neuralgia?

1. Family History:Trigeminal Neuralgia may run in families as it is related to malformation of blood vessels in the brain due to inheritance.

2. Age:Though any age group can be affected but it is common in people who are 50 years of age or above. The reason is that blood vessels get hard and elongated with age and there is sagging of brain that can make new contacts between nerves and blood vessels.

3. Womenare more affected with TGN as compared to men.

4. High Blood Pressure:People with high blood pressure issues are more likely to suffer from trigeminal neuralgia than those with normal blood pressure.

What Triggers Nerve Pain in TGN?

A person who has Trigeminal Neuralgia usually has a triggering factor that can result in the onset of an episode of TGN. Some of the most common triggering factors include washing the face, brushing teeth, talking, touching the face, chewing, smiling, shaving, putting on makeup, exposure to drafts of air, blowing the nose, etc.

Are any investigations required to diagnose Trigeminal Neuralgia?

A clinical diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia can be made after evaluating the description of type, location, frequency and triggering factors of pain. A physical or neurological examination can be performed to determine the exact location of pain. These symptoms are enough for clinical diagnosis; sometimes, no tests are required. To rule out the possible causes of Trigeminal Neuralgia, an MRI of the brain may be advised to rule out any inflammation, brain tumor, or a blood vessel compressing the nerve.

 

 

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Cough at night? Top 9 Homeopathic medicines for relief

Cough is the body’s protective mechanism to clear the airway of any dust, smoke, mucus and any microbes (like virus, bacteria). Though cough can trouble a person regardless of time, certain kinds of cough get worse at night. Cough at night (also called nocturnal cough) is distressing that keeps a person awake and restless that can be very exhausting and it impacts the day’s activities. At night, while lying down flat, the mucus, acid and other irritants find it easier to rise to the throat which is one of the factors that can make cough worse. Besides, the quality of air in the bedroom at night also affects cough; basically dry indoor air can irritate nose and throat and worsen it. Depending on the cause, cough may be accompanied by sputum, expectoration (clear, yellow, green, brown or blood stained), wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, heartburn, burping, night sweat, fever. PND (post nasal drip), GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), asthma, allergies, cough from cold or flu are some of the main reasons for its worsening symptoms at night.

Homeopathy offers excellent results in cases of incessant coughing at night. The homeopathic medicines target the root cause of the problem to bring about long-term improvement. These medicines boost the body’s own healing mechanism to fight back the disease and helps in self-recovery in the natural way. Along with cough these medicine also help in managing its accompanying symptoms. Homeopathic medicines are of natural origin with zero side-effects and thus are safe for use among people of all age groups.

Personalised medication

In homeopathy, there are numerous medicines that help manage cases of cough at night. In each separate case, the best suited medicines are selected depending upon the presenting symptoms. A detailed case is taken followed by its analysis by a homeopathic expert. This helps in the choice of the medicine which is followed by the decision about its potency and dosage in each case separately. Such medicines chosen on a case to case basis offer relief from cough during the night. For best results, it is advised to take a complete course after consulting a homeopath.

Homeopathy fixes the root cause

Homeopathy aims to treat cases of cough at night by targeting its underlying cause. This helps achieve wonderful long-term results rather than temporary relief. Homeopathy strengthens the self-healing mechanism of the body to overcome this problem naturally. Homeopathy can help cases of cough at night occurring from mild to moderate causes. But in serious causes like lung infection and lung cancer, homeopathic medicines have their own limitations. It is advised to take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment in such cases.

Safe natural medicines

There are several advantages of using homeopathic medicines for cases of cough at night. First among these is homeopathic medicines are very safe to use as these are prepared from naturally occurring substances. They have zero side effects. The next advantage is they never suppress cough, rather they treat it by addressing the problem at the roots to provide long-term benefits. Another plus point is these medicines are non-habit forming, thus they can be easily stopped once substantial relief is noted in cases of cough at night.

Top 9 Homeopathic Medicines For Cough At Night

The top grade homeopathic medicines for managing cases of cough at night are Drosera, Arsenic Album, Cina, Belladonna, Rumex, Conium, Antimonium Tart, Corallium Rubrum and Carbo Veg.

1. Drosera –Top Grade Medicine

Drosera is a top-listed medicine to manage cases of cough at night. Its use is highly recommended for persons having cough that starts immediately after lying down at night. Cough forces them to sit up in bed. There is no cough during daytime. In cases requiring it, the cough is usually dry irritative type. There are fits of coughing. One attack of cough is immediately followed by another. At the end of the cough, vomiting may occur. This medicine is of great help to manage night time cough in children who start coughing as soon as they lie down in the bed.

When to use Drosera?

This medicine offers best help to manage dry cough at night that begins soon after lying down on bed.

How to use Drosera?

This medicine gives excellent results in 30C potency that can be taken two to three times a day.

2. Arsenic Album – For Cough After Midnight

For cough that troubles a person after midnight (after 12 in the night), Arsenic Album is the top-grade homeopathic medicine. Though this medicine can be given for any sort of cough, it is especially helpful in cases of asthmatic cough. Those needing it have to sit up as soon as cough begins at night. Cough is mainly dry in nature.  It is accompanied by shortness of breath, oppression of chest and whistling/wheezing sound from the chest. Inclining the chest forward brings relief. Before coughing, anxiety and restlessness may occur. Cough is followed by excessive sweating and marked weakness.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album is a very effective medicine to manage cough mainly asthmatic cough that is most troublesome after midnight.

How to use Arsenic Album?

One may take this medicine in 30C potency once or twice daily.

3Cina – For Cough At Night Ending In Vomiting In Children

Cina is an excellent medicine for managing violent cough occurring in children at night when cough ends in vomiting (means spasmodic cough). The children needing this medicine cough incessantly which ultimately leads to vomiting. Tears appear in eyes along with difficult breathing. The cough is dry and occurs in fits in between intervals.

When to use Cina?

This medicine is of great help for managing cough in children at night when cough ends in vomiting i.e. spasmodic cough.

How to use Cina?

This medicine can be used once daily in 30C power.

4. Belladonna – When Cough Is Short, Dry, Tickling

Belladonna is a very effective medicine for managing short, dry, tickling cough that occurs at night. The cough wakes the sufferer from sleep. A very characteristic feature is renewal of cough even from the slightest movement in bed. Cough is attended with pain in head, along with tearing pain in chest. A feeling of inhalation of dust prevails in most cases. This medicine is of great use in case of cough related to sore throat and enlarged tonsils. Belladonna proves highly beneficial for managing cough in children. In children needing it, dry cough tends to wake up the child and child tends to cry before coughing. Cough may be attended by grinding of teeth.

When to use Belladonna?

Belladonna is highly useful for cases of short, dry, tickling cough at night waking the sufferer from sleep.

How to use Belladonna?

Belladonna can be used in different potencies from low to high, but initially it is advised to use it in 30C potency once in the evening and once at night.

5. Rumex – For Dry, Tickling Cough Preventing Sleep

Rumex is an important medicine to manage dry, tickling cough that seems to trigger from irritation in the throat. Cough gets worse while lying on the left side. Cough prevents a sound sleep at night. For cough occurring around 11 pm, Rumex is a specific remedy. Cough also worsens from inhaling cold air and talking.

When to use Rumex?

Rumex is helpful to treat cough which is dry, tickling type triggered by irritation in the throat.

How to use Rumex?

Rumex can be taken in 30C power one to two times a day.

6. Conium – For Continuous Dry Cough At Night

Conium is very suitable for cases of dry cough occurring almost continuously during night. It wakes up the sufferer frequently disturbing sleep. The sufferer gets exhausted. Cough occurs from a dry spot in the larynx or from irritation in the throat pit/chest. It is accompanied with intense headache in most cases. Watery nasal discharge is also commonly present. Stitching type of pain is also felt in the sides of the chest. Conium is a prominent medicine for cough, following influenza. In such cases, the cough may occur continuously until vomiting occurs.

When to use Conium?

Conium is a beneficial medicine to manage constant dry cough at night with exhaustion.

How to use Conium?

In the beginning, it is advised to start with 30C power once daily in the evening.

7. Antimonium Tart – When Cough Is Loose Rattling Type At Night

Antimonium Tart works wonderfully in cases of loose rattling cough at night. It seems as if the chest is full of mucus but relatively less is expectorated. It is accompanied with suffocation. Persons who require this medicine have to sit up to cough or breathe. At times, vomiting occurs along with cough. A very unique feature is relief in cough by lying on the right side. The cough is violent that shakes the entire chest. Headache and marked exhaustion occurs. This medicine is very helpful in bronchitis cases. There is thick, white expectoration in cases needing it.

When to use Antimonium Tart?

Antimonium Tart is an excellent medicine to manage loose rattling cough occurring at night.

How to use Antimonium Tart?

It is recommended to take this medicine twice a day in 30C power.

8. Corallium Rubrum – For Nocturnal Cough With Marked Post Nasal Drip (PND)

PND is one of the main causes of night time coughing. To deal with it, Corallium Rubrum is a prime medicine for fits of dry, short, rapid, suffocative cough with Post Nasal Drip. There occur almost continuous fits of coughing. One coughing fit is soon followed by another quite rapidly. There is profuse dripping of mucus from posterior nares into the throat.

When to use Corallium Rubrum?

This medicine works well for cough at night due to PND i.e. post nasal drip.

How to use Corallium Rubrum?

It gives wonderful results in 30C power that can be taken one to two times daily.

9. Carbo Veg – To Manage Cough At Night With Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is another important cause behind coughing at night. For managing this issue, Carbo Veg is the leading medicine. It basically helps to treat the root cause i.e, acid reflux to relieve cough.  In cases needing Carbo Veg, there occurs short, dry, hard cough especially before midnight. Mucus is felt in the throat at night that cause a choked feeling while coughing. It gets better by moving or sitting up. In addition, acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, sour burps are present.

When to use Carbo Veg?

This medicine should be considered for managing cough at night with complaint of acid reflux with heartburn and sour burps.

How to use Carbo Veg?

It is suggested to take Carbo Veg once or twice a day in 30C power.

Conditions that cause worsening of cough at night or when lying down are:

It can occur from disease of airway (upper or lower), GIT or cardiovascular system. Various causes are enumerated below:

1. Post nasal drip (PND) – It refers to dripping of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat. This mucus irritates nerve endings in the throat, exciting cough. PND can be an attending symptom in cases of cold, nasal allergy, sinusitis.

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

It refers to the back flow of stomach acid into food pipe. The stomach acid can rise up on lying down at night causing cough as soon as one lies down in bed.

3. Cough related to Cold and Flu (viral infection of upper respiratory tract – URTI) and allergies

4. Bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes that carry air to and from lungs), asthma (respiratory disease characterized by difficult breathing, wheezing  and coughing), cough variant asthma (asthma presenting with only cough usually a dry, non-productive and constant cough), bronchiectasis (permanent enlargement of parts of airway of lungs leading to mucus build up), tuberculosis of lung (infection caused by bacteria mycobacterium tuberculosis)

5. Chronic tonsil enlargement

6. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID -19)

7. Nerve problem – neurogenic cough arising by irritation of nerves supplying larynx

8. ACE inhibitors (medicine to treat high blood pressure)

9. In some cases, the reason could be more serious needing urgent medical help such as:

a). Heart failure

b). Lung cancer

c). Severe lung infection (Pneumonia)

 

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Top 8 Homeopathic Remedies for Depression

It is a mood disorder in which a person feels persistently sad and has a loss of interest in everyday activities. Many people feel low, upset, and sad from time to time. It happens to everyone at different times of their lives but being sad is not the same as being depressed. In depression, there is constant sadness accompanied by feelings of hopelessness continuing for weeks together which interfere with everyday activities and affect one’s personal and professional life. This is indicative of clinical/ major depression that requires treatment.

Homeopathy offers a very safe and gentle treatment for cases of depression. Homeopathic medicines are natural remedies that work at a very deep level of the mind to help overcome this condition. The main objective of homeopathy in depression cases is not merely giving symptomatic relief but to effect a cure. With its use, initially the severity of the complaint reduces gradually. Afterwards, a state of well-being is regained. Suppressing a complaint is also not the nature of homeopathic remedies in any form. Homeopathy is helpful both for acute as well as chronic cases of depression. In mild to moderate forms of depression, there are high chances of recovery with homeopathic medicines. But it has limitation in helping very severe forms of depression, especially with suicidal tendencies where other treatment options need to be looked out for.

Constitutional remedies

Homeopathy deals with treating depression with well-selected constitutional remedies which refers to medicines selected based on a person’s emotional, mental and physical state that brings forth his/her personality.  These medicines do not act just superficially, rather work on a deep psychological level and treat the person holistically rather than just the symptoms. With proper constitution treatment in homeopathy, this derangement in the mental health of a person is corrected to offer a feeling of comfort and well-being and restoration of mental health. It leads to effective cure in depression cases.

Highly reliable, alternative treatment choice

Homeopathy is a 200-year-old healing science founded on the basis of fixed principles. So the hit and trial method of treating is not followed here. Right from the case taking, its evaluation, the medicine selection, potency choice, dosage and repetition all are done as per the specified laws of homeopathy. This is what makes it a very reliable treatment option for depression cases. With a complete course of homeopathic treatment as guided by a homeopathic physician in most of the cases of mild to moderate depression, a successful cure follows.

Natural medicines with no side effects

The greatest advantage of using homeopathic medicines for depression is that they are free of any side effects. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances. These lack any harmful chemicals or toxins. So, no adverse effects follow the use of homeopathic medicines. On the other hand, the medicines used in conventional mode like antidepressants, sleeping pills, and mood stabilizers are known to cause many side effects. Here, opting homeopathy can help prevent facing such side effects.

Non habit-forming medicines

Homeopathic medicines for depression are non-habit forming means it does not create any dependency thus one doesn’t have to take it for whole life. Its dose is gradually reduced when recovery begins and completely stopped when the patient gets better. But in conventional mode, the medicines are habit-forming and one may become dependent on those medicines. So here too preferring homeopathic treatment is advantageous to save oneself from lifelong dependency on conventional medicines.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For Depression

The top 8 homeopathic medicines for depression are Ignatia, Natrum Mur, Aurum Met, Kali Phos, Sepia, Cimicifuga Racemosa, Lachesis and Coffea Cruda.

1. Ignatia Amara – For Acute Cases That Follows Some Grief

Ignatia Amara is a leading medicine to treat cases of depression. It works wonders in case of acute depression that has just taken off from some sort of grief. For example, depression triggered by acute grief like the death of a loved one, broken relationships and disappointments in life can be treated wonderfully with it. Those who need it remain sad all the time. With this, they have weeping spells. They also isolate themselves and avoid social engagements. They brood all the time ie; lost in deep thought which makes them sad and worried. Along with the above-mentioned symptoms, they may be very irritable. Their mind gets dull with weak memory. Excessive weakness also appears among them. It is also an excellent medicine to treat bipolar disorder.

When to use Ignatia Amara?

It should be the first choice of medicine to deal with cases of depression of recent origin triggered by acute grief like the death of a loved one, broken relationships with marked sadness, and weeping spells.

How to use Ignatia Amara?

Both low and high potencies of this medicine work well, however, it is advised to begin with low potency. So, initially, it can be taken in 30C potency two to three times a day.

2. Natrum Mur – For Chronic Cases

Natrum Mur is preferred to treat cases of chronic depression. It suits those who are very sensitive and sad, accompanied by sporadic episodes of weeping. They remain absorbed in grief all the time and dwell on the unpleasant memories of the past. They don’t like consolation, and it worsens the complaints. They tend to get offended easily.  Along with it, they don’t have an interest in doing any sort of work. It is also beneficial to manage depression in women before their periods.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Natrum Mur is the best choice of medicine to manage cases of chronic (i.e. long term) depression with sadness, weeping, and aversion to being consoled.

How to use Natrum Mur?

Use of this medicine is advised in 30 C potency that can be taken one to two times a day.

3. Aurum Met – For Suicidal Thoughts, Hopelessness, Worthlessness

Aurum Met is useful to those who have constant suicidal thoughts with extreme sadness accompanied by hopelessness. Along with this, they feel that they are worthless and of no value. They assume negative thoughts and the future seems dark to them. They feel that life is a burden, it’s useless to live, and they long for death.

When to use Aurum Met?

This medicine can be selected for managing depression when suicidal thoughts, hopelessness are prominent with sadness.

How to use Aurum Met?

It is best suited in 30C potency that can be taken up to 2 times in a day.

 4. Kali Phos – For Depression With Intense Stress and Worries

Kali Phos is the next top-listed medicine for depression. It mostly helps people who are over-stressed and have much to worry about. They remain constantly sad, and gloomy. With this, they have negative thoughts in their minds. Those who need it feel mentally and physically exhausted. Other symptoms that they may present include anxiety attacks and spells of weeping. Apart from the above-mentioned symptoms, complaint of sleeplessness is another major concern among them.

When to use Kali Phos?

It is suitable for managing depression attended with extreme stress and worries with marked exhaustion.

How to use Kali Phos?

This medicine is usually recommended in 6X potency. Kali phos 6X can be taken three to four times a day depending on the intensity of the problem.

5. Sepia – For Depression During Menopause

Sepia is an excellent medicine to deal with cases of depression in women during menopause. The most important symptoms present in them are sadness, aversion to seeing family members, and loss of interest in doing any work either mental or physical, even missing out on daily routine activities. There is also indifferent behaviour towards life and family. Such people are constantly lost in worries and are stressed with self-pity. They are very irritable and get offended easily. Sporadic weeping spells seeking consolation, and sympathy. Loss of sexual desire is another major complaint in them with the above symptoms. Apart from depression, during menopause, it is also helpful to treat such cases triggered after childbirth.

When to use Sepia?

It is a highly preferred medicine in women who suffer depression around menopause time with sadness, indifferent behavior, lack of interest in any work, and aversion to family members.

How to use Sepia?

Sepia can be taken in 30 C potency once a day. To use its high potencies like 200C one needs to consult a homeopathic physician.

6. Cimicifuga Racemosa – When It Begins After Childbirth (Post-Partum Depression)

The use of Cimicifuga is highly considered in cases of depression among women that begin after childbirth. Women who need this medicine suffer extreme sadness. They feel that they are enveloped in darkness from which it is difficult to come out. They also feel exhausted by these symptoms. Other symptoms that accompany the above-mentioned symptoms are excessive talking, indifferent behavior, fear of death, and fear of going mentally insane.

When to use Cimicifuga Racemosa?

The use of Cimicifuga Racemosa is especially suggested for managing depression in women triggered after childbirth with extreme sadness and the sensation of darkness all around her.

How to use Cimicifuga Racemosa?

It works most wonderfully in 30C potency and can be taken once or twice a day.

 7. Lachesis – When Delusions Attend Depression (Psychotic Depression)

Lachesis is well-indicated among cases where delusion is present along with depression, such as in cases of psychotic depression. Delusions are false, fixed beliefs that cannot be shaken off even when evidence is provided against that belief. Lachesis is administered when people have sadness, feelings of being abandoned, excessive talkativeness, and delusions. Such persons indulge in excessive talking and frequently jump from one subject to another. A lot of ideas crowd their mind at a given time. Sometimes violent anger and a state of madness are witnessed. When it comes to delusions, a person may get suspicious and he or she may feel as if someone may poison or harm him or her. Other symptoms that appear in them are restlessness, aversion to work, and running away from the world.

When to use Lachesis?

The use of Lachesis is highly recommended for cases of depression with marked delusions, sadness, excessive talkativeness, and suspiciousness.

How to use Lachesis?

This medicine can be used in 30C potency just once a day.

8. Coffea Cruda – For Managing Sleeplessness

Coffea Cruda is very effective for managing sleeplessness in these cases. It is indicated when there are constant chains of thoughts in the mind that lead to sleeplessness. There is marked restlessness at night with tossing and turning. Other symptoms include mood changes, irritability, anxiety, weeping, and weakness.

When to use Coffea Cruda?

This medicine can be prescribed to manage complaints of sleeplessness in depression cases.

How to use Coffea Cruda?

Consider its use in 30C potency once or twice a day.

What Causes Depression?

The causes of depression are not fully understood. But certain factors are thought to play a role.

These are as follows:

1.Genetics – Those with a family history of depression are at risk of developing it. The exact genes involved here are not known but research is going on to ascertain the genes that are involved.

2. Changes in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) – It is through the transmission of these chemicals from one nerve cell to the other that the communication of the brain with its different parts occurs. The chemicals include serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. They play a role in controlling a person’s feelings, moods, emotions, happiness, and pleasure. An imbalance between these chemicals is thought to play a role in causing depression.

3. Hormonal changes – Certain hormonal changes can be involved in causing the onset of depression. These changes can arise during pregnancy, after childbirth, during menopause, and due to thyroid.

4. Some changes in the structure of the brain, and the frontal lobe being less active are the other reasons that can trigger depression.

5. Having a history of disorders like anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD) and bipolar disorder increases the risk of depression.

6. Those having some chronic illness, chronic pain, and chronic disease are also prone to develop depression.

Who Is At Risk of Depression?

1. Those having some blood relatives suffering from depression

2. Those who have low self-esteem and are self-critical

3. People with negative thinking

4. Who have long-term stress

5. Women are more at risk as compared to men

6. Having a history of mental trauma like the death of a loved one, physical or sexual abuse

7. Those going through financial problems, difficult relationships, issues at workplace or job loss, divorce

8. Who have some serious chronic illness like cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic pain

9. Those abusing recreational drugs, and alcohol

10. People taking medicines like sleeping pills, certain medicines to control high blood pressure, and corticosteroids

What Are Its Symptoms?

Persistent sadness and depressed mood are the main symptoms. Many other symptoms accompany depression.  These mostly include hopelessness, tearfulness, lack of pleasure, interest in activities that were previously enjoyed, isolation, and withdrawal from social engagement.

Other symptoms that may appear with this are feeling of guilt, feeling of worthlessness, negative thoughts in mind, tiredness, changes in sleep (either excessive sleep or loss of sleep), and loss of sexual desire. In severe cases, thoughts of death and suicide may come across one’s mind.

In addition to the above, the rest of the symptoms that may appear include outbursts of anger, irritability, anxiety, concentration difficulties, difficulty in completing tasks, appetite changes (either loss of appetite or increased appetite), weight loss or even weight gain.

Some physical symptoms may also appear that include headaches, body aches, and gastric issues.

It can affect relationships with family members. Certain conditions can also get worse due to depression like heart disease, joint pains, asthma, obesity, cancer, and diabetes.

A) Among men, the main symptoms are sadness, hopelessness, anger, aggressiveness, anxiety, irritability, lack of interest in activities that previously gave them pleasure, tiredness, drugs /alcohol, thoughts of death, decrease in sexual desire, difficulty in concentration, changes in sleep patterns (excessive sleep or no sleep), bodyache, headache, digestive complaints.

B) In women the main symptoms are sadness, hopelessness, irritability, social withdrawal, loss of interest in activities, thoughts coming slowly/ talking, changes in sleeping habits (excessive sleep, difficulty in sleep or early waking), thoughts of suicide, decreased energy levels, changes in weight/ appetite, pains, and headaches.

C) Among children, irritability, mood swings, anger outbursts, feeling of incompetence, refusal to go to school, a decline in academic performance, and avoiding friends.

Are there any tests to diagnose it?

There are no tests that can diagnose it. The diagnosis is made based on clinical symptoms. Sometimes thyroid tests and Vitamin D and B12 tests are conducted as they can trigger depression.

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5 Natural Homeopathic Medicines for Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy refers to facial paralysis (loss of muscle function) affecting one side of the face and the onset is sudden. The cause in most such cases is not found. The cause is presumed to be inflammation of the facial nerve or reactivation of a previously acquired viral infection. The viral infection behind the cause is herpes simplex viral infection. The triggers which reactivate the latent viral infection include environmental changes like cold air exposure, trauma, and emotional factors. Homeopathic remedies for Bell’s Palsy are made of natural substances and with no side effects, provide a very effective treatment against the disease.

Homeopathic Treatment For Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy can be effectively treated with natural homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic treatment for Bell’s Palsy can help in complete recovery without any side effects. The results, however, vary from person to person depending on how chronic the problem is, and the degree of facial damage.

Top Natural Homeopathic Remedies For Bell’s Palsy

The top recommended homeopathic medicines to treat Bell’s palsy are Causticum, Belladonna, Aconite, and Hypericum.

1. Causticum

Causticum is the top recommended medicine to treat cases of Bell’s Palsy. This medicine is usually the first choice to treat cases of Bell’s Palsy. Though it can be used for paralysis of any side, it is more prominently indicated for facial paralysis of the right side. Those who need it have loose muscle function of the face on the side from forehead to chin. Pain in the jaws may also be present. The pain can be tense or drawing in nature. It is accompanied by difficulty in opening one’s mouth.

2.Belladonna

This is another natural medicine of great help in Bell’s palsy cases. Its use is suggested when the muscle of the face fails to function on one side. There may be numbness on the face. Additionally, twitching of facial muscles can be present. In most cases, the face goes red, flushes, and may as well witness a burning sensation. Besides, increased sensitivity to noises may be present.

3. Aconite

Aconite is used when there is a complaint of numbness or tingling sensation on the face on the affected side. The face also feels cold on the affected side. Apart from this, drawing pain in jaws can be felt. It is used in acute conditions in the very beginning when facial paralysis follows from sudden cold air exposure.

4. Hypericum

To deal with facial paralysis because of an injury to a nerve, the best homeopathic medicine is Hypericum. It can be of great help in the complete recovery of the patient with facial paralysis following injury. Tingling, numbness, or burning sensation on the affected side of the face may be experienced in addition to other symptoms of bell’s palsy. Hypericum is the top natural Homeopathic remedy for nerve injuries, and it always proves its worth by bringing positive results.

5. Ignatia

Ignatia is a very frequently used natural Homeopathic medicine for a variety of conditions arising out of grief. It is a very beneficial medicine in cases of Bell’s Palsy particularly triggered by grief too. Those who need this medicine carry symptoms of Bell’s Palsy and may also complain of frequent tooth bites while talking or swallowing. He or she may also have a mouth filled with excessive saliva. Other symptoms of grief like weeping, brooding and sadness are also present.

6. Agaricus

Agaricus is helpful when there is a dropping in the mouth corner due to facial paralysis. It is accompanied by drooling of the saliva. Twitching of the facial muscles may also be present. Tearing pain in the jaw may assist these symptoms.

7. Cadmium Sulph

It is administered when the patient has a distorted face. The swallowing of food becomes difficult. He or she also has difficulty speaking properly. And there is also an inability to close the eye on the affected side.

8. Homeopathic Medicines As Per The Side Of The Face Affected By Bell’s Palsy

The naturally efficient homeopathic medicines for Bell’s Palsy on the right side of the face are Belladonna, Causticum, and Kali Phos. For treating Bell’s Palsy on the left side, the efficient natural homeopathic medicines are Alumina, Cadmium Sulph, and Sulphur. To select the suitable medicines out of these, a proper case investigation needs to be carried out. Homeopathic remedies cannot be selected solely as per the side of the face affected by facial paralysis. The side of the face involved only forms a part of the totality of other symptoms narrated by the patient. So, the side of the face involved should be considered among other symptoms but not the only pointer to select this homeopathic remedy.

Symptoms Of Bell’s Palsy

In the majority of cases, the paralysis is unilateral. It means the disease occurs on one side of the face. In just one per cent of cases, it can involve both sides of the face. The onset of Bell’s Palsy is always sudden. The symptom intensity varies from case to case — from the slight weakness of the facial muscles to the entire paralysis (loss of muscle function). The signs and symptoms include:

1. Weakness or numbness of the face on one side

2. Drooping of face to one side

3. Drooling of saliva or drying of the mouth

4. Lachrymation (watering from eyes) or dryness of eyes due to inability to close eye on the affected side

5. Loss of facial expressions like frowning, and smiling

6. Pain about the jaw and behind the ear, sensitive hearing, inability to have a taste for food

7. Other symptoms include difficulty in eating and speech, headache, eye irritation on the affected side, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), tingling in the face, and twitching of facial muscles

 What Is The Recovery Time In Bell’s Palsy Cases?

The symptoms of Bell’s Palsy in most cases begin to get better within a few weeks (approx. 3 weeks). In the majority of the cases (about 80 per cent) of them, full recovery with complete resolution of the symptoms takes place in three months to 9 months time period. Though, in minor cases, complete recovery may take somewhat longer. In rare cases, the symptoms may be permanent. There are very few chances of recurrent Bell’s Palsy.

Causes Behind Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy results from compression, swelling/inflammation of the facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve). This nerve goes through a narrow passage within the skull. Its swelling leads to its compression by the nearby hard surface in the skull and affects the nerve functioning as well.

When this nerve gets inflamed, the nerve cells get deprived of blood and oxygen resulting in the weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. The reason behind the nerve damage has not been determined yet, it is widely believed that a viral infection sets off this damage.

There are various infections (viral and bacterial) associated with Bell’s Palsy. It mainly includes herpes simplex virus 1 which causes cold sores. Other viruses include Epstein – Barr virus, herpes zoster virus, HIV, cytomegalovirus, mumps virus, rubella virus, influenza B virus, coxsackie virus, and Lyme disease. Some factors linked with the reactivation of latent viral infection in the body and which may provoke Bell’s Palsy include stress, physical trauma, loss of sleep, some recent illnesses, and auto-immune health disease.

Risk Factors

Though anyone can suffer from Bell’s Palsy, those with the following symptoms are in a bigger risk zone:

1. Having diabetes or high blood pressure

2. Obesity

3. URTI (upper respiratory tract infection) like cold, flu

4. Pregnancy mainly in the third trimester (last three months of pregnancy), and the first week after giving birth to the child.

5. Family history of Bell’s Palsy (especially when there may occur recurrent episodes of Bell’s Palsy)

6. Have an autoimmune disease (in such diseases the infection-fighting cells start to damage the body’s own healthy tissues out of a misdirected response)

7. Cold sores

Complications

Mild cases of Bell’s Palsy are self-resolvable. In severe cases, complications may arise:

1.Permanent facial nerve damage that controls muscles of the face

2. Ulcers in the eye even blindness due to the drying of the cornea. Also, scratching the eye in the affected area. Blindness can be partial or complete.

3. Synkinesis – a condition in which one part of the face can be moved willingly, and there occurs simultaneous involuntary movement of another part of the face like the closing of the eye especially when one smiles. Synkinesis occurs when during the healing process/regrowth of nerve fibers, controlling the muscles of one part of the face also regrow on another part of the face.

Diagnosis

There is no lab test to diagnose Bell’s Palsy. It is diagnosed based on the physical examination of the face, and observing the muscle movement of the face when the eye is closed, or when one is asked to frown, or asked to show teeth or any form of a grimace. There are some medical conditions that can cause weakness or paralysis of facial muscles like stroke, tumours, lyme disease. If the cause is not clear, then the physician may advise some tests. These include

1. MRI and CT scan to rule out causes like skull fracture, and tumour

2. Electromyography: This test is to rule out the severity of nerve damage

 

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Top 7 Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Post Nasal Drip

Post Nasal Drip (PND) refers to mucus dripping from the back of the nose into the throat. It is also termed as the upper airway cough syndrome. PND is attended with a constant urge to clear the throat as the flow of the fluid in the throat is irritating. Another offshoot of PND is that the irritants present in the secretions could initiate a cough reflex.

Homeopathic medicines offer a safe and natural cure for post nasal drip cases treating the problem very effectively. Homeopathy uses the body’s defense system to combat the cause behind PND naturally, hence this line of treatment is comparatively non-intrusive. Along with PND, associated symptoms like hoarse voice, sore throat, cough, hawking and bad breath also get relieved wonderfully with homeopathic remedies.

Homeopathy offers long term relief and cure

Homeopathy aims to heal the root cause behind sinusitis to give long-term relief and cure. As PND has various causes like cold, allergies, sinusitis, acid reflux, homeopathy addresses these underlying causes as per the case to provide magnificent results. Homeopathic treatment if continued regularly as guided by a homeopathic physician can result in great recoveries.  It can also help in reducing dependency on conventional medicines used for PND treatment.

Individualized Medication

As no two cases of PND are alike, the homeopathic medicines also vary from case to case. The characteristic peculiar symptoms in each case of PND help to decide the individualized prescription in every case. Treatment following this individualized way tends to bring miraculous cures in PND cases.

Safe, side effects-free medicines

Homeopathy offers remedies for Postnasal Drip that are safe, successful and devoid of side-effects, whereas medicines used in the modern system of medicine can have side effects with prolonged use. Homeopathic medicines are toxin-free as they are drawn from natural substances, hence treat PND without any adverse reactions.  These can always help and never harm in any case. Persons of any age group can use these medicines to treat PND, however, the medicine selection, potency and dosage varies among different age groups.

homeopathic medicines for post nasal drip

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Post Nasal Drip

The best homeopathic medicines for PND are Hydrastis, Kali Bichrome, Corallium Rubrum, Natrum Mur, Hepar Sulph, Natrum Phos and Sticta.

 1. Hydrastis – For PND With Thick Ropy Secretion    

I can vouch for the fact that homeopathy assures excellent treatment for Post Nasal Drip. One of the top treatments in homeopathy for this condition is hydrastis. It is ideal for situations where the secretions are very thick, ropy and sticky in form. The secretions fall from the posterior nares into the throat. The patient complains of irritation due to a continuous feeling of mucus in the throat.  There is a lot of hawking in an attempt to expel the mucus. Usually, thick, yellow mucus is expectorated. Both the nares become raw and the person has a constant urge to blow out from the nose. In case of Postnasal Drip in children, the kid is usually suddenly aroused from sleep due to thick, sticky droppings. The throat feels raw and there is a lot of burning sensation.

When to use Hydrastis?

This medicine is the best choice for managing Post Nasal Drip with thick, ropy and sticky secretions with a lot of hawking.

How to use Hydrastis?

This medicine is used in different potencies like 30C, 200C, 1M. Initially, it is best to use it in 30C potency one to three times a day. For using higher potencies it is advised to consult a homeopathic doctor.

2. Kali Bichrome – For Post Nasal Drip With Sinusitis

It is another reliable remedy for Post Nasal Drip. It is especially recommended in sinusitis cases when the secretions are thick, yellow, green and ropy. The patient hawks a lot to clear the throat. The root of the nose and the frontal sinus are inflamed, causing a lot of pain and distress to the patient.

When to use Kali Bichrome?

This medicine is apt for cases of PND linked to sinusitis with thick, yellow, green, and ropy mucus discharges.

How to use Kali Bichrome?

It can be used in both low and high potencies among which the most preferred is 30C potency once to thrice a day, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

3. Corallium Rubrum – For PND With Cough

Corallium Rubrum is a wonderful remedy where a lot of mucus is secreted through the posterior nares. The patient hawks up a lot of mucus. Besides, there is cough that is dry and spasmodic. The nasal discharge has abundant secretions. A characteristic feature attending the above symptoms is the inhaled air feeling very cold.

When to use Corallium Rubrum?

It is a prominently indicated medicine to manage cough arising from PND.

How to use Corallium Rubrum?

It is advised to take this medicine in 30C power once or twice a day.

4. Natrum Mur – To Manage PND Related To Cold Or Nasal Allergy

Natrum Mur is a leading homeopathic medicine to help cases of PND associated with cold or nasal allergy. Those needing it complain of mucus dripping from the nose into the throat along with other symptoms of cold or nasal allergy. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose and watering from eyes. Nose may be blocked sometimes.

When to use Natrum Mur?

It is the most important medicine when it comes to treat PND linked with cold or nasal allergy. It is frequently accompanied by sneezing, runny nose and watering from eyes.

How to use Natrum Mur?

This medicine is usually prescribed in 6X power. Natrum Mur 6X can be taken three to four times a day as per the intensity of the complaint.

5. Hepar Sulph – When PND Is Linked With Cold, Sinusitis

This medicine is beneficial when PND is associated with cold and sinusitis. In cases needing it, there is thick discharge from the nose along with sneezing. It gets triggered by cold air. The inhaled air feels cold inside the nose. The mucus dripping into the throat may be blood-stained.

When to use Hepar Sulph?

This medicine is recommended to manage PND in cases of cold or sinus infection along with thick nasal discharge and sneezing that gets worse from cold air exposure.

How to use Hepar Sulph?

Hepar Sulph 30C can be used two to three times a day.

6. Natrum Phos – For Managing Acid Reflux And PND

In cases where a person has acid reflux issues along with PND, this medicine can be considered. When this medicine is required, thick yellow mucus is found dripping into the throat. It gets worse at night waking the sufferer from sleep. The person has to sit up to clear the throat. Besides, symptoms of acid reflux like heartburn, sour burps may be experienced.

When to use Natrum Phos?

Its use can be considered when PND is associated with complaints of acid reflux. PND is usually worse at night when this medicine is required.

How to use Natrum Phos?

One may use Natrum Phos 6X twice or thrice a day.

7. Sticta – For PND, Blocked Nose And Fullness At the Root Of Nose

Sticta proves effective when there is dripping of mucus in posterior throat and blocked nose. Fullness at the root of the nose is prominent. Nasal blockage gets worse at night and disturbs sleep. There is mucus in the throat that dries soon forming scabs. There is an urge to blow the nose but no discharge occurs.

When to use Sticta?

Its use is suggested when there is PND attended with nasal blockage and a sensation of fullness at the root of the nose.

How to use Sticta?

Sticta 30C can be used one to two times a day.

Symptoms of Postnasal Drip

Postnasal Drip is characterized by excessive mucus production by the nasal mucosa. This mucus then collects in the back of the nose or the throat, giving rise to:

1. Sensation of mucus falling from the back of the nose

2. Hawking and an urge to clear the throat frequently

3. A sore throat, and chronic cough

4. Hoarse voice

5. Bad breath

6. Painful ear infections

Causes of PND

It can be caused by multiple reasons which are as follows:

1. Cold, & flu: These viral infections affect the nose and the throat. Among these, flu is more severe than cold. These can cause PND along with other main symptoms of nasal congestion, nasal discharge, sneezing, sore throat, body aches, and fever.

2. Sinusitis: It refers to swelling and inflammation of air-filled spaces within the skull. It can lead to PND with other symptoms of headache, nasal discharge, nasal blockage, pain/ tenderness around eyes, cheeks, nose, forehead, sore throat, and cough.

3. Nasal allergy (allergic rhinitis): It refers to a response to a specific allergen (like dust mites, pollens) causing sneezing, runny nose, itchy watery eyes, stuffy nose. PND may accompany these symptoms.

4. Non allergic rhinitis: In this form of rhinitis, symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis appear but there is no allergic reaction.

5. DNS (deviated nasal septum): A condition in which the wall that divides nasal cavity into two halves is displaced to one side. As a result, one side of the nasal cavity becomes small, hindering mucus drainage causing PND.

6. Gastric reflux: The backflow of stomach acid from the stomach into the food pipe, throat and mouth

7. An object stuck in the nose in children can be one of the causes

8. Some medicines: Medicines that help treat high blood pressure, and birth control pills can trigger PND

9. Pregnancy

10. Swallowing disorder: In the case of swallowing disorders, the root cause lies not in excess production of mucus but rather in inadequate clearance of the throat

11. Weather change, cold weather, dry air, and eating some food items like highly spicy food

Pathophysiology

Our nose and throat produce small amounts of mucus continuously. This mucus has three functions. Firstly, it keeps the nasal membrane moist, secondly, it helps trap and filter any inhaled foreign matter (like virus and bacteria) and thirdly it fights infection. This mucus is being swallowed unaware by everyone. But when due to whatever reason the production of mucus increases, it starts to accumulate in the back of the throat. When excessive or thick mucus drips down the throat from the back of the nose, then only one becomes aware of it. The irritants in the mucus can activate receptors in the respiratory tract resulting in protective cough.

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Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya

homeopathic medicines for chikungunya

Homeopathic medicines for chikungunya

The name Chikungunya comes from an African Makonde language means ‘that which bends up’” The disease was given its name because it led to the affected persons walking in a stooped posture due to intense joint and muscle pains. Chikungunya is a viral infection caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). Like dengue, it is also transmitted to humans after being bitten by the Aedes mosquito infected with this virus. Compared to dengue which is a serious infection, Chikungunya is usually not serious or fatal but the joint pains caused by it can be really nerve–wracking and disabling. High fever and joint pains are the most common symptoms of chikungunya. One infection with chikungunya virus gives lifelong immunity means a person cannot get this infection twice in his/her life.

Homeopathic Treatment     

The homeopathic mode of treatment ensures complete relief from the symptoms of Chikungunya fever. It can be treated very effectively with natural homeo medicines that are made of natural substances and have no side-effects. The homeopathic treatment for Chikungunya fever is absolutely safe and can only benefit the patient, never harm. The aim of the homeopathic mode of treatment is to provide complete symptomatic relief to the patients. These medicines are also highly effective to manage chronic Chikungunya arthritis. The same medicines help in giving relief from the joint pains during the acute phase, and in some cases that may otherwise trouble a patient for months or even years.

The homeopathic medicines for treating Chikungunya fever are selected based upon the unique individual symptoms.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya Fever

1. Polyporus Pinicola –  Top Medicine For Chikungunya Fever

Polyporus Pinicola is a leading homeopathic medicine for Chikungunya fever. It works best and manages fever with joint pains and headache. With fever – chills and shivers are felt. The joint pains are distinctly present in ankles, knees, hip, elbow, wrist, and finger joints. Fingers may be stiff as well. Restlessness may attend along with joint pains at night time. In some cases, back pain, and pain in the legs may be present. Those who need Polyporus Pinicola have severe headache along with confusion in head with a hot flushed face. Constant nausea may also be present.

2. Eupatorium Perfoliatum –  To Manage Fever And Pains

Eupatorium Perfoliatum effectively manages high fever with severe pains. Pains can be in joints, bones, muscles, and the back. Those who need it feels as if the bones are broken. Chills are also accompanied along with pains all over the body. Vomiting specifically after chills may occur. Along with the above-mentioned symptoms there is excessive weakness, and fatigue.

3. Bryonia Alba – To Manage Fever, Joint / Muscle Pains Worse With Motion

Bryonia is a natural medicine to help manage fever and joint / muscle pains. The foremost feature to use this medicine is worsening of joint or muscle pains from movement and relief after complete rest. The joints along with pain are swollen and feel warm. In some cases, warm application on joints offers relief from the pain. During fever, chills are distinctly present. There is increased thirst and the mouth goes dry.

4. Rhus Tox – To Manage Joint Pains, Muscle Pain, Backache

Rhus Tox is an excellent remedy to control joint pains and muscle pain in case of fever. It can be given for pain in any joint of the body. A key feature to use Rhus Tox is worsening of joint pains while resting and relief from movement. The joints show stiffness along with pain. Backache during fever can also be relieved by Rhus Tox. Chills accompanying the fever are also noted that alternate with heat in the body. Rhus Tox is also indicated to manage chronic Chikungunya arthritis.

5. Actaea Spicata – To Manage Small Joint Pain

It is a wonderful remedy to help in case of pain in small joints. Pain in small joints including the wrist, fingers, ankle, and toe. The affected joint may be swollen as well. Pain gets worse upon touching and moving the affected joint.

6. Arnica – To Manage Sore Bruised Pains

This natural remedy is perfect to manage pains that are sore and bruised which means the affected part pains upon being touch. It feels as if the part under pain is being hit hard or beaten. Pain can be generalised, or in some joint or muscle or back. Arnica can be used to manage pain during the acute phase, and it can also be administered in case of pain that lasts for longer duration, particularly, at the time one is making a recovery from infection.

7. Gelsemium – To Manage Weakness, Muscle Pain, Headache

Gelsemium is a herbal medicine to manage weakness in Chikungunya. Those needing it have marked weakness and desire to lie down. They have excessive drowsiness and sleepiness. Chill along with shivering is marked. Usually, a person does not feel thirsty. Pain in muscles is prominent along with headache and heaviness in eyes.

8. Belladonna – To Manage Headache, Fever And Red Rash

Belladonna is the top medicine for managing headache. In cases requiring it, pain is mostly felt on the sides of the head (temples). Relief by tight bandage is a sign for using Belladonna. Pain may get worse from noise and  light. There is fever with intense heat in body and body feels burning hot when touched. Belladonna is also indicated to manage reddish rash on skin along with above features. It is also recommended to manage conjunctivitis with redness of eye and burning pains.

9. Arsenic Album – To Manage Weakness And Fever

Arsenic Album is brilliant medicine to manage weakness and fever. Those needing it have so much weakness that they even cannot stand without feeling weak. They feel like lying down all the time. Internal chills are felt during fever. However, on touching the body form outside, it feels hot. Anxiety and restlessness accompany fever. Thirst for small quantity of water at very small intervals is felt.

10. Ipecac – For Relieving Nausea And Vomiting      

Ipecac is considered the best natural homeopathic remedy for providing relief from nausea and vomiting. It can be used for persistent nausea and vomiting during Chikungunya Fever. Homeopathic medicine Ipecac always shows its worth in providing relief from nausea and vomiting. The tongue is usually found to be almost clean in most cases.

11. Euphrasia – For Managing Conjunctivitis

Euphrasia is a well-indicated homeopathic medicine for managing conjunctivitis in a person with chikungunya infection. The symptoms of redness, watering, burning, itching in eyes get relieved by using Euphrasia.

Cause And Transmission Of Chikungunya

Chikungunya is caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV). It is transmitted to humans via bite from mosquito of aedes genus – Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti which are already infected with this virus. Such mosquitoes contract this virus when they bite a human being who has this virus in his blood. It can also spread by coming in contact with blood of infected person. It can also spread from a pregnant mother having chikungunya infection to the baby.

What Are The Symptoms Of Chikungunya?

The symptoms of Chikungunya viral infection start to appear around 3 to 7 days after mosquito biteRecovery usually occurs in about a week or two but joint pains may linger on for long in some. The symptoms are as follows:

Most common symptoms are:

1.High fever above 102°F : The fever in Chikungunya infection usually subsides within three to four days

2. Joint pains: These occur in more than 85% of the cases. Multiple joints get affected here. Joint pain is symmetrical means if one joint wrist is affected on one side, then same joint on other side gets affected as well. The joints may also show swelling and stiffness. The joint pains continue for weeks, few months and even years in a few persons (approx. 40 % of persons) having this infection. This is then referred as Chronic Chikungunya Arthritis.

Other symptoms are as follows:

1. Rash on skin:In about 50% cases, the rash appears on the skin. The rash is red at times with small bumps. The rash may be localised to one body part or it may affect even 90% of body skin.

2. Headache, muscle pain, fatigue

3. Sometimes there may be abdomen pain, nausea, vomiting, conjunctivitis (inflamed conjunctiva – membrane that covers white of eyes and eyelids) and backache.

What Are Its Complications?

In most cases, no complications arise but in some cases, they may arise. Those at risk are persons with diabetes, high blood pressure, elderly people, young children. The complications include inflammation in various body parts like inflammation in liver (hepatitis), inflammation of kidneys (nephritis), inflamed retina of eyes or uveitis (inflammation of middle layer of eyewall), inflammation of spinal cord / membranes of brain.  A complication may arise in the form of bleeding from any body part,  cranial nerves function loss and Guillain barre syndrome (an autoimmune disorder affecting nervous system beginning with weakness in feet / lower legs usually that spread up that may progress to paralysis) .

Diagnosis of Chikungunya

1. The main recommended test is Serological test ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays) to rule IgM and IgG antibodies to chikungunya virus. It is a blood test. In chikungunya fever IgM antibodies can be detected 3 to 4 days following symptom start and remain for 3 to 4 months. IgG antibodies are detectable 6 to 7 days post symptom onset and persist for many years.

2. Virological test: RT-PCR(reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction). It is a rapid method to detect chikungunya virus in blood.

3. In addition to the above, in CBC (complete blood count) lymphocyte count is found to be less.

Chikungunya Vs Dengue Fever

Both Chikungunya and Dengue are viral infections transmitted to human beings by bite of an infected mosquito of Aedes genus. But dengue is a much serious infection and can turn fatal if not treated carefully and timely, while chikungunya is not usually fatal and a person recovers in a week or two. In both these infections, high fever and joint pains are prominent but in dengue, pain behind eye is highly characteristic. Additionally, in dengue, bleeding from various body parts like under skin from the nose, gums, rectum can occur if the platelets get lowered (called dengue hemorrhagic fever) which usually is not the case with chikungunya. As both Chikungunya and Dengue have common symptoms of high fever and joint pain in the initial phase, so confirmed diagnosis cannot be made alone on symptom picture and blood tests are required to confirm whether it is dengue or chikungunya.

Preventive Tips

1. The best preventive tip to prevent chikungunya infection is to prevent a mosquito bite.

2. Control mosquito breeding.

3. Wear full sleeves clothes and clothes that cover the entire legs when going outside.

4. Throw away unused containers holding water. Properly clean the necessary water-holding containers regularly and keep them covered.

5. Use insect repellants that have DEET or picaridin.

6. Use mosquito net to prevent mosquito bites.

 

 

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Homeopathic Medicines for Dengue Prevention

Dengue Fever triggers an instant scare, and rightly so. It’s a viral fever that spreads by the bite of female mosquitoes of Aedes genus mainly Aedes aegypti which is itself infected with dengue virus. The mosquito gets dengue virus on biting a person carrying dengue virus in his/ her blood. It is also known as ‘break bone fever’. Dengue fever can range from mild to severe. Severe dengue fever can be life-threatening and needs to be urgently treated at a hospital. In any case of dengue fever, one needs to be vigilant regarding the signs and symptoms and if any warning signs of severe form come up, take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment without any delay.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathic medicines for dengue fever are very effective. Eupatorium Perfoliatum leads the chart of homeopathic medicine to manage dengue fever. These medicines are made of natural substances, are completely safe with no side effects and have shown effective cure in treating thousands of dengue cases. These medicines can be considered in mild to moderate cases under the supervision of homeopathic physician. In no case self- medication be done. In case of severe cases/dengue hemorrhagic fever, dengue shock syndrome immediately rush to the hospital for emergency help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Remedies For Dengue Fever

Homeopathic Remedies For Dengue Fever

NotePlease note that Dengue and Dengue Hemorrhagic fever can turn into a critical life-threatening condition, hence should not be treated only with homeopathic medicines and they should only be considered as an additional help along with conventional mode of treatment. Hospital supervision of the patient is very essential.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Dengue Fever

1. Eupatorium Perfoliatum – One Of The Best Homeopathic Medicines For Dengue Fever

Homeopathic physicians rank Eupatorium Perfoliatum as the best Homeopathic medicine for Dengue Fever. It is undoubtedly the first medicine to be used in dengue fever cases. The characteristic feature to use it is severe muscle, bone and joint pains with high fever. This medicine is also popularly known as ‘bone set’ as it brings about the quickest relief in severe bone and joint pains in fever. The pain can be present in any bone or it may generally be felt in the whole body. In general body ache, it feels as if the whole body is broken. Apart from relieving joint pains, it is also very beneficial if there is severe pain in the eyeballs caused by dengue fever. It helps in recovering from headache with nausea and vomiting too. The headache is present mostly on the top (vertex) of head. Mainly the patients requiring this remedy for Dengue have severe chill with shivering and severe body pains. After the chill is over, vomiting occurs. In majority of the cases, sweat brings relief in all the symptoms, with the exception of pain in head. Weakness, tiredness may attend above symptoms.

Eupatorium Perfoliatum as a preventive homeopathic medicine for dengue

Although there is no concrete research on the role of Eupatorium Perfoliatum as preventive homeopathic medicine for dengue fever, it is widely used as a prophylaxis for dengue. It is used as its usage is in accordance with homeopathic laws of prophylaxis (Laws stated in homeopathic philosophy suggest that the homeopathic medicine that is closest in symptom-match to the symptoms of an outbreak of a disease can be used as a prophylaxis). The homeopathic medicine which closely matches the symptoms of dengue outbreak is Eupatorium Perfoliatum. It can be used in 30C potency twice daily during an outbreak of dengue fever.

2. Bryonia Alba – To Manage Fever And Muscle / Joint Pains

Bryonia Alba is of great help in providing relief from muscle/ joint pains in dengue fever. This medicine offers the best help when there is worsening of pains by any movement even in the least degree. Complete rest gives relief from pain. There is fever with marked chills. With chills, there is heat in the head.  Extreme thirst for water with a dry mouth may be felt along with this specific feature.

3. Rhus Tox – To Relieve Pain (Muscle, Bone, Joint Pains)

Rhus Tox is another highly recommended medicine to relieve pain in body during fever. It works best when muscle bone or joint pains get worse from rest and are better from movement. There is fever with alternating heat and chill stage. There occur burning heat in body followed by chills and shivering.

4. Gelsemium – For Dengue Fever With Weakness And Prostration

Gelsemium is the best for dengue fever patients who experience utmost weakness and prostration. A state of dullness, dizziness and drowsiness is the perfect description to select gelsemium. The patients needing it seem lethargic and have a desire to lie down in perfect silence without any disturbance. He or she also wants to be quiet and dislikes conversation. The patient experiences shaking chills which is most typically marked in the back and travels up and down the back. Another feature is headache with heaviness of eyes. The headache is mainly present in the back of the head that in most cases travels up to the forehead and eyes. There is also an absence of thirst in majority of cases. Muscle pains may attend above symptoms.

5. Belladonna – To Manage Headache, Pain Behind Eyes And Fever With Marked Heat

Belladonna is the best choice to manage headache. In cases needing it, though pain may be felt in any part of the head but is mostly marked on the sides of head (temples). For using Belladonna, the pain is very violent, and throbbing in nature. Tight binding of the head provides relief. It is also helpful in relieving pain behind the eyes. During fever, there is intense heat in body with red flushed face and lack of thirst.

6. Arsenic Album – To Manage Weakness And Fever

Arsenic Album is an ideal homeopathic medicine to manage weakness during fever. Even standing and walking result in fatigue where this medicine is required. There is a need to lie down all the time because of tiredness. There may be internal chills in the body but the body is hot to touch from outside. Fever mostly comes at night and is attended with marked anxiety and restlessness. There is thirst for little quantity of water at very small intervals. Arsenic can also be given for managing nausea and vomiting. Nausea gets worse by the smell or sight of food and vomiting gets worse from eating or drinking anything.

7. Ipecac – To Manage Nausea And Vomiting

For relieving nausea and vomiting, Ipecac can be used as a first medicine. It is of great help when there is persistent nausea and vomiting. Nausea does not get better even after vomiting. There is vomiting of watery fluid, along with cutting pain in abdomen.

8. Homeopathic Medicines For Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Although there are certain homeopathic medicines to manage bleeding in dengue hemorrhagic fever, it is strictly advised to take urgent medical help from conventional mode of treatment in such cases as this condition can be life-threatening and may need urgent hospitalization. For help to manage bleeding, homeopathic medicines can be used along with conventional treatment and should not be in any case considered as a substitute treatment to conventional mode. The main homeopathic medicines that can help in dengue hemorrhagic fever are Hamamelis and China.

Hamamelis is a brilliant medicine to manage bleeding from any body part. It is indicated to manage bleeding under skin, from nose, gums, rectum, in urine, in vomitus. There is excessive exhaustion. China is equally important medicine to manage bleeding. It is of great help when there is profuse bleeding along with marked exhaustion. Debility and utmost prostration with hemorrhages is its main indication.

Symptoms Of Dengue fever

The symptoms start anytime between 4 days to 14 days after bite of an infected mosquito. However, in 80% cases no symptoms arise. Recovery occurs in three to seven days approximately in most cases. But it may develop into a severe disease known as dengue hemorrhagic fever/ dengue shock syndrome.

The main symptoms of dengue fever are:

1. Sudden onset High fever (over 104 degree F). Fever is saddleback (or biphasic) type means after the first peak of fever, subsidence of fever occurs for at least a day which is followed by a second peak of fever for a day or two.

2. Pain typically behind eye worsened by eye motion or pressure

3. Severe muscle, bone and joint pains

4. Severe headache

5. Nausea or vomiting

6. Skin rash: It is noted in about 50 % to 80% of the cases. Initially, skin appears red, flushed and later on a measles-like rash occurs.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

A few cases of dengue fever (around 1 in 20) progress to a serious disease called dengue hemorrhagic fever. It is a serious life-threatening condition needing emergency medical help in hospital. In this serious form, bleeding occurs from different body parts. It usually starts to happen in 24-48 hrs after fever has subsided. In such cases, the platelets (cells responsible for clotting of blood) in the blood significantly decrease leading to hemorrhages (bleeding).

The bleeding may be

1. Under the skin

-Petechiae – tiny bleeding points under skin

– Ecchymosis – blue or purple spots on skin from breaking of blood vessels near skin

– Purpura is similar to ecchymosis but lesions in it are small as compared to ecchymosis

2. From the nose (Epistaxis)

3. From gums

4. Vomiting of blood (Hematemesis)

5. Blood in stool

6. Blood in urine

Along with bleeding, severe abdomen pain and persistent vomiting, fatigue, restlessness, irritability can attend. Those having weak immunity and those having dengue infection for the second time are at a high risk to suffer dengue haemorrhagic fever.

Dengue Shock Syndrome

Like dengue hemorrhagic fever, it is also a serious life-threatening condition needing emergency medical help at hospital.

In case severe bleeding occurs, shock may develop with very low blood pressure, rapid or weak pulse with cold clammy skin and restlessness. It may eventually result in death. Such severe cases with shock are referred to as Dengue Shock Syndrome.

Cause of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is caused by dengue virus. A person gets this virus infection on being bitten by Aedes mosquito itself infected with dengue virus.

After the entry of dengue virus into the skin of the person, it enters white blood cells and starts reproduction. Certain proteins – cytokines and interferons – are produced by WBCs as a response to virus multiplication resulting in symptoms like fever and pains. If infection gets severe, virus multiplication increases rapidly and affects organs like liver and bone marrow. This may decrease the number of platelets required for blood clotting that may lead to bleeding from various body parts.

Dengue fever cannot pass directly from person to person like via direct skin contact. But one may get infection if they come in contact with infected blood.

In pregnant women, dengue virus can pass to the baby in womb.

There are five strains of dengue virus that can cause dengue fever. Getting infected by any dengue virus strain gives you lifetime immunity to that particular strain of dengue virus. But this does not nullify the chances of getting infected by rest of the strains of dengue virus. A person may suffer infection from all the five strains (only once with each of them) of dengue virus in his/her life. The chances of severe dengue rises on getting dengue fever more than once.

Complications

The complications include internal bleeding, seizures (fits), brain inflammation and damage, liver damage, lung damage, shock due to low blood pressure from excessive bleeding that if not promptly treated, can turn fatal.  In pregnant women having dengue infection, the dengue virus may pass to the baby in womb, it also increases the risk of miscarriage and the chance of low birth weight of baby and pre-term birth also increases.

Diagnostic Investigations

1. Dengue RNA PCR test:  It can detect dengue virus in early stage of infection and also help to detect the particular strain of dengue virus causing infection.

2. Viral antigen detection test – NS1 (named Dengue NS1 Antigen Test). NS1 means non structural protein 1. It can also detect virus in early infection stage and should be done within the first 5 days of appearance of symptoms.

3. Dengue serology – Dengue virus-specific antibodies IgG and IgM test.

Among these, IgM antibodies appear in early stage of infection and their detection while symptoms have already appeared indicates dengue infection. The presence of IgM antibodies cannot be detected one to three months after infection.

IgG antibodies detects infection in late stage as IgG levels increase slowly. It can be detected till over 60 yrs age or even through a lifetime indicating past infection.

4. Platelet count: This is lowered in dengue hemorrhagic fever. Normal platelet count is 1.5 lac to 4.5 lac/microliter of blood. Low platelet count is medically termed thrombocytopenia. In dengue cases platelet count may drop to as low as 20000 to 40000 / microliter of blood.

Prevention of Dengue Fever

1. The best possible way to prevent dengue fever is to prevent mosquito bites and control mosquito breeding.

2. Take measures to stop breeding of mosquitoes. Do not let water collect in any pot, can, old tyres or any other box as mosquitoes breed in standing water. Throw away any pots or boxes where rainwater can collect.

3. Keep windows and doors closed as far as possible to prevent mosquito entry in house.

4. When going out, wear full sleeves clothes, and clothes that cover legs and also wear socks.

5. Use mosquito repellents containing 20% to 30% of DEET.

6. Use of mosquito nets can be helpful.

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