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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

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 357 Comments

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 bite. Recovery 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.

Homeopathic Medicines for Dengue Prevention

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 216 Comments

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

Note: Please 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.

Homeopathic Treatment for Swollen Fingers And Its Causes

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

The swelling of fingers is a medical condition many of us tend to take lightly. It may simply be due to a high salt diet, wrong posture while sleeping, overuse of hands or may be a symptom of a disease.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy offers very effective management for cases of swollen fingers. Homeopathic medicines are safe and natural and help in managing swelling of fingers by working on the root cause behind it. Homeopathic medicines are selected for managing swollen fingers based on the cause and individual symptoms varying from person to person. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine after consulting a homeopathic doctor. Homeopathic medicines are recommended only when swelling is mild to moderate and there is no serious cause behind it. In case of intense swelling, numbness in fingers, fever attending swelling, deformed fingers, inability to straighten the affected finger, a broken finger or a serious cause like pre-eclampsia (condition in pregnancy characterized by high BP), it is advised to take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Swollen Fingers

1. Rhus Tox – Top grade medicine

It is a leading homeopathic medicine for managing swelling in fingers, along with pain which is tearing type. Also, fingers may become stiff, crawling sensation in fingertips may attend. It is one of the best medicine for arthritis and tendinitis cases.

2. Bryonia – For Swelling, Heat, Pain In Fingers

It is prepared from the root of the plant Bryonia Alba having common name ‘white bryony’ and ‘wild hops’. This plant belongs to family Cucurbitaceae. It is well indicated when there is swelling, heat and pain in fingers. The fingers are puffy, sore (sensitive to touch) and painful especially on exertion. Warmth may help relieve pain.

3. Apis Mellifica – For Red, Swollen, Inflamed Fingers

It is the next prominent medicine for cases in which fingers are red, swollen and inflamed. Pain attends it which can be stinging, tensive or tearing in nature. Fingers are very tense and are burning hot. In some cases, there is sensation of numbness in fingers. It is a general medicine in homeopathy for managing bursitis, arthritis and paronychia cases.

4. Actaea Spicata – For Swelling That Worsens from the Slightest Fatigue

It is a natural medicine prepared from the root of the plant Baneberry. It belongs to family Ranunculaceae. It gives extremely good results in relieving joint inflammation when small joints become painful and swollen. Swelling in joints occurs from the slightest exertion.

5. Lithium Carb – For Swollen And Tender Finger Joints

It is beneficial for cases having swelling and tenderness of finger joints. In cases needing it, relief occurs by dipping hands in hot water. Itching on the sides of hands in some cases may be present.

6. Caulophyllum – For Finger Joint Swelling And Stiffness

This medicine is prepared from root of plant Caulophyllum Thalictroides commonly known as ‘blue cohosh’ and ‘squaw root’. It belongs to family Berberidaceae. It is an effective medicine when there is pain, swelling and stiffness in the finger joints. The pain can be drawing or cutting type. Cutting pain in the joints may be felt while making a fist. Pain in fingers also cause irritation and restlessness at night.

7. Silicea – For Cases Of Swelling In Felon

Felon is the subcutaneous abscess of the fingertip pulp.

This medicine works well in cases of finger swelling from felon (subcutaneous abscess of the fingertip pulp). In cases needing it, there is marked swelling and throbbing pain in the finger. Swelling may extend to the wrist. Itching may be felt, the finger is red too with collection of pus beneath skin. The affected area is sensitive to touch. Weakness may be present with the above symptoms.

8. Lycopodium – For Swelling And Nodes On Fingers Joints

It is prepared from plant Lycopodium Clavatum commonly known as ‘club moss’. This plant belongs to family Lycopodiaceae. It is a useful medicine for persons who have swollen finger joints and the formation of nodes. The finger joints are red along with pain. The pain is mostly tearing in nature. This medicine is well-indicated for treating gout as well.

Different Causes Behind Swollen Fingers

1. First reason is arthritis (joint inflammation) that leads to swelling, pain and stiffness in the joints. Among various types of arthritis, the most common ones are rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects small joints and causes symptoms like pain, swelling, stiffness, warmth in joints, and deformity in the long run. Osteoarthritis is a joint disorder that occurs from wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. Commonly affected joints are of knees, hands, hips and spine. Gout is a form of arthritis that arises from increased uric acid levels in the blood. It results in redness, swelling and tenderness in the joints.

2. It may arise from an injury in the hand/fingers. It results in inflammation with signs and symptoms including swelling, pain, tenderness and redness in the hands, fingers or wrist. Other than this, break in the skin, bruising may be there with numbness or tingling sensation.

3. One of the most common reasons behind swollen fingers is fluid retention. Swelling occurs from the collection of excessive fluid in the tissues of fingers. There may be puffiness and bloating in the body. The most common reason for fluid retention is a high-salt diet. Lymphedema which occurs from blockage in the lymphatic system also leads to build-up of fluid in the hands, fingers, feet and toes. Along with this, the skin may get discolored and water-filled eruptions (blisters) may appear.

In persons suffering from Angioedema, fluid retention occurs under the skin mostly from an allergic reaction. Hives (a skin condition in which itchy, raised wheals appear on skin) may appear which cause itching. In angioedema, swelling usually occurs on the face but may also appear in fingers in some cases.

4. Tendonitis (inflamed tendons that are the tough bands that connect muscle to the bone) may also cause swelling in fingers which become tender and painful. Common tendonitis in the fingers includes trigger finger and De Quervain’s tendonitis.

Trigger finger

Trigger finger refers to a condition in which there occurs sticking of one of the fingers in a bent position and the finger bends or straighten with a snap. De Quervain’s tendinitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. This mostly occurs from repetitive stress on these tendons from certain activities affecting these tendons, like writing.

De Quervain’s tendinitis

5. Another cause could be bursitis (inflammation of the bursa which are the fluid-filled sacs surrounding the joints). Though it mostly affects the larger joints, it may also occur in finger joints resulting in pain and redness in fingers.

6. It may occur from heat and exercise. During exercise, more blood goes to heart, lungs and muscles and less of it flows to the hands. It may cause swelling in fingers. In case the body heats up, blood vessels in the skin swell for heat expulsion from the surface to cool down the body. It may also occur from sleeping in a particular position that leads to swelling in the hands and fingers.

7. An infection in the finger is yet another cause for it. Its signs and symptoms include swelling in fingers, a wound on fingers, pain and tenderness in the fingers and fever. Some of the infections include paronychia and felon. Paronychia is an infection around the nails where nail and skin meet and is caused by bacteria or fungus. Felon is pus-filled infection in the fingertip.

8. Next reason is use of certain medicines, for example steroids, pain killers like aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen, medicines used for treating diabetes and high blood pressure.

9. Hormonal changes occurring during menstruation and pregnancy may also result in swelling and bloating. Swelling in the hands and fingers occurs commonly as a part of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and is also common during pregnancy.

10. Another cause is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) which occurs from compression of the median nerve. In this case, sometimes fingers become swollen along with its major symptoms that include numbness, pain, tingling, burning and weakness in the thumb, index, middle finger and ring finger.

11. It may also occur in case of pre-eclampsia. It is a condition that may occur in late pregnancy with symptoms like headache, swelling on the face, weight gain, pain in abdomen, and vision changes. This condition requires urgent medical treatment.

12. Next cause is Raynaud’s disease. It is a rare condition affecting blood vessels in fingers and toes in which the vessels become narrow when exposed to cold and when a person is under stress.

13. Other causes are sickle cell disease (a rare genetic condition in which red blood cells become sickle-shaped which results in improper blood circulation in the body) and scleroderma (an autoimmune condition in which changes occur in the skin, in the connective tissues of the body and in other organs as well).

14. Lastly, it may occur in case of diabetes and tuberculosis.

Coffea Cruda: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 9 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Coffea Cruda is prepared from raw berries or dried seeds of unroasted coffee. It belongs to family Rubiaceae. With potentization (a process that extracts medicinal properties from crude substance), the raw material gets converted into a highly valuable homeopathic medicine Coffea Cruda. It is a marvellous homeopathic medicine primarily used to deal with cases of sleeplessness medically known as insomnia. It is an important medicine for managing cases of nerve pain (medically called neuralgia) in different parts of the body.

The ‘Coffea Cruda’ Constitution

It is well-suited to tall, lean people with stooped back. It is also recommended to those who are sensitive, prone to suffer from complaints from fright. Coffea Cruda is well- indicated for children who suffer from nervousness, restlessness, tossing about, screaming and weeping. This medicine also helps children during infancy (period from birth to 12 months of life), and during their dentition period.

Drug Action

Coffea Cruda has a marked action on nerves causing great excitability and over sensitivity. This medicine has been found to be greatly effective to deal with sleeplessness, nerve pains and hyperactivity of mind and body. Other body parts in its sphere of action include mind, face, teeth, head, gastric organs, heart and female genitals.

Clinical Indications

Sleeplessness, neuralgia, toothache, facial pain, hyperactivity, gas, colic, heart complaints, high blood pressure, palpitations, fright, female disorders, headache, vomiting

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Sleep Issues (Sleeplessness, Disturbed Sleep, Restless Sleep)

Coffea Cruda is one of the top-listed medicines for treating sleeplessness (insomnia). Persons needing it have increased mind activity at night with a rush of ideas causing sleeplessness. It works well in both cases, sleeplessness before midnight or after midnight. In some cases, a person can sleep well only till 3 am and after that, he/she wakes up and is unable to fall asleep again or gets very little sleep. It can also be given in cases where a person feels sleepy but is unable to sleep. Coffea Cruda is also helpful when there is sleeplessness in the recovery phase of an acute disease. It offers great help in cases of restless sleep. The person keeps tossing and turning from side to side in bed. In such cases, there is also sudden waking up from sleep that happens frequently. Another characteristic feature for its use is disturbed sleep from excessive dreams.

Key Indicating Features

Sleeplessness from increased mind activity at night with rush of ideas

Sleeplessness after some acute disease

Restless sleep with tossing and turning from side to side in bed

Disturbed sleep from excessive dreams

2. Mind Complaints (Hyperactivity, Fear, Fright)

This medicine acts wonderfully on the mind. It is highly recommended for cases of hyperactivity of the mind. The mind is full of ideas which leads to sleeplessness. A person has a high energy level with acute memory. He/she talks too much (loquacity) with hurried movements most of the time. Coffea Cruda is a great medicine for relieving fear and fright. Its use is well-indicated when a person gets frightened even from a sudden pleasant surprise. A few marked fears where this medicine seems to help are fear of death from pain, fear of fresh air, fear of danger while asleep, etc. There is also marked sensitivity to noise. There is a tendency to faint from strong emotions. Lastly, it is very beneficial for intolerable pain causing weeping and hopelessness.

Key Indicating Features

Hyperactive mind, full of ideas causing sleeplessness

Fright from sudden pleasant surprise

Sensitivity to noise

Fainting from strong emotions

Intolerable pains causing weeping and hopelessness

3. Face (Trigeminal Neuralgia)

With its action on the face, Coffea Cruda proves to be highly successful in managing trigeminal neuralgia (nerve pain in the face from compression or irritation of trigeminal nerve). It is given for sharp pain in face, along with pain in the forehead, ear, scalp and molar teeth. The face is hot and dry with red cheeks.

Key Indicating Feature

Sharp pain felt in forehead, ear, scalp and molar teeth

4. Teeth (Toothache)

This medicine manages toothache wonderfully. The pain in the teeth is violent and intolerable. It is accompanied by marked anxiety and restlessness. Relief in toothache sets in by holding ice water in mouth. Coffea Cruda is an effective medicine to help cases of toothache occurring during menses.

Key Indicating Features

Toothache gets better from holding ice water in mouth

Toothache during menses

5. Head (Headache)

Coffea Cruda is an important medicine for headache that arises from overexertion of the mind. Headache that arise from excessive joy is also well treated with this medicine. It is also best for headache that occurs from intake of coffee or caffeine. Persons needing this medicine feel as if a nail has been driven into the head. Pain is marked in one side of head. Sometimes there is marked throbbing in the temples of the head attended with burning in the eyes. There is sensitivity to noise and music that worsens the pain. The headache gets worse from smell and light. Vertigo may occur along with headache. Along with headache, a person may have some bizarre feelings, like my head is small and filled with water, my head will burst if I move.

Key Indicating Features

Headache from overexertion of mind

Headache from excessive joy

Headache worsens from noise, music, smell and light

6. Female Problems (Painful Periods, Heavy Periods, Vaginal Discharge)

Females may find this medicine very useful for managing certain problems. This medicine may be given in cases of painful periods (dysmenorrhoea). It is mainly indicated when painful periods are attended with bleeding having large black-colored clots and sensitivity in vagina. There is also bearing down in genitals with increased urination. This medicine is also helps to control heavy menstrual bleeding accompanied with vaginal itching and increased sensitivity of vagina. Next indication for using Coffea Cruda is aversion to sex along with increased sensitivity in vulva and vagina. Another complaint where it proves effective is milky vaginal discharge that increases during urination. Further this medicine is prominently indicated to help cases of toothache during menses. This medicine is also known to act well on breasts to promote milk production in cases of agalactia (failure of milk secretion in females in lactating mothers).

Key Indicating Features

Painful periods with bleeding having large black clots and sensitivity of vagina

Heavy menstrual bleeding with vaginal itching and hypersensitivity of vagina

Aversion to sex attended with increased sensitivity of vulva and vagina

Toothache during menses

Agalactia (failure of milk secretion in females who have just given birth)

7. Gastric Concerns (Abdomen Pain, Belching, Nausea)

It is an excellent medicine for managing some gastric issues as well. Its use is mainly indicated when there is abdomen pain which is unbearable, attended with a feeling that the abdomen would burst. Tight clothing is unbearable around the abdomen. There is obstructed gas with pressure on the abdomen. It can also be given for burning sensation in stomach. There is marked belching which can be sour or like rotten eggs. Lastly it can be used for cases of nausea and vomiting occurring during an episode of headache.

Key Indicating Features

Unbearable abdomen pain attended with sensation as if abdomen would burst

Belching that are sour or like rotten eggs

Nausea and vomiting with headache

8. Action On Heart (High Blood Pressure, Palpitations)

With its action on the heart, it proves successful in cases of high blood pressure (hypertension). Its use is considered for palpitations after intense joy or surprise or unexpected news of good fortune. The palpitations are violent attended with trembling of limbs. Sleeplessness may also be a symptom.

Key Indicating Features

High blood pressure

Palpitations after intense joy, surprise or unexpected news of good fortune

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from strong emotions, excessive excitement, joy, strong odors, noise, mental exertion, alcohol, touch, cold wind and in open air

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from sleep, lying down and warmth

Dosage

This medicine can be used from 3C to 200 C potency. It action lasts for about one to seven days. In low potency it can be taken often but in high potency, frequent repetition is not recommended.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Aconite, Chamomilla, Ignatia, Merc Sol, Nux Vomica, Pulsatilla and Sulphur

It antidotes: Belladonna, Cicuta, Chamomilla, Colocynth, Nux Vomica and Valeriana

Followed well by: Fluoric Acid, Aconite, Aurum Met, Lycopodium, Nux Vomica, Opium and Sulphur

It can be compared with other remedies including Chamomilla, Aconite, Coca, Belladonna, Causticum, Bryonia, Cocculus Indicus, Ignatia, Opium and Nux Vomica

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Glossitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 31 Comments

Inflammation of the tongue is called glossitis. In this condition, the tongue becomes red and swollen. In some cases, the papilla (small raised protrusions) on the tongue may disappear. Glossitis is attended with pain and difficulty while eating and talking.

Homeopathy holds great promise to help cases of glossitis. Homeopathic medicines magnificently reduce inflammation and swelling of the tongue along with providing remarkable relief in associated symptoms like pain and burning sensation on the tongue.

Homeopathic medicines for treating glossitis are very natural and safe to use. In mainstream medicine, the treatment for glossitis mainly includes medications like antibiotics or antifungal pills and in some cases steroid applications which may have side effects from long term use. On the other hand, homeopathy works gently to aid natural recovery and never causes any side effects at all.

Homeopathic medicines fixes the root cause

Homeopathic medicines work beyond reducing inflammation and offering symptomatic relief in glossitis. These medicines work on a deeper level to eliminate the root cause from the body to provide relief in glossitis cases. These work effectively in acute and chronic cases of various types. The time taken for complete cure varies as per chronicity, severity of problem, cause behind it and individual response to medicines.

Individualized Medication as per homeopathic principles

In homeopathy, the medicines for glossitis are selected individually for every case according to fixed homeopathic fixed principles. As homeopathy is a symptom-based science, hence homeopathic prescription varies from case to case. Even selection of potency (power), dose and repetition of medicines is done as per homeopathic guidelines. A properly selected and prescribed homeopathic medicine following homeopathic laws proves to be highly effective in showing great results.

Natural, harmless medicines

Homeopathic medicines for glossitis are prepared from naturally occurring substances and are used in highly diluted doses. Hence, these are 100 pc safe with zero side effects. These are safe to use in all the age groups.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Glossitis

The top homeopathic medicines for treating glossitis are Merc Sol, Apis Mellifica, Belladonna, Crotalus Horridus, Nitric Acid and Natrum Mur.

1. Merc Sol – Top-grade Medicine For Glossitis

Merc Sol is a highly effective medicine for glossitis. In cases needing it, the tongue is markedly red with intense pain and burning. Pain gets worse when any drink or food touches the tongue. At times shooting pain or needle-like pricking is felt on the tongue. In some cases, ulcers and vesicles (tiny fluid-filled bumps) may be present on the tongue. The tongue is always moist with an excessive production of saliva, along with an extremely offensive smell in the mouth. There is difficulty in eating due to the inflamed tongue.

When to use Merc Sol?

This medicine should be preferred as the first line of treatment for glossitis with red tongue along with pain, burning sensation and difficulty eating.

How to use Merc Sol?

It can be used in both low and high potencies. To begin with, one may take Merc Sol 30C once or twice a day according to the intensity of the symptoms. Consider its higher potency only after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

2. Apis Mellifica – For Glossitis With A Burning Sensation

Apis Mellifica works well in cases of glossitis when it is accompanied by burning sensation. The tongue is fiery red and swollen. The tongue is dry with marked difficulty in swallowing food. At times, vesicles are present on the tongue along with a stinging sensation.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

Apis Mellifica can be used in cases where the tongue is red, swollen, dry with burning sensation.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

Though it can be used in different potencies like 30C, 200C and 1M, usually this medicine is recommended in 30C power. Apis Mellifica 30 C can be used twice or thrice a day as per severity of the problem.

3. Belladonna – For Glossitis When Tongue Is Very Sore To Touch

Belladonna is a natural homeopathic medicine for glossitis when the tongue is extremely sore to touch. Tongue is red and dry with heat. Cracks are also present on the tongue in some cases. There may be inflammation in the entire buccal cavity (mouth) and even in the pharynx. An offensive smell from the mouth, especially in the morning, may also be noted.

When to use Belladonna?

This medicine is suggested when the tongue is sore to touch along with redness.

How to use Belladonna?

Consider using Belladonna 30C twice or thrice a day. If no changes are seen, Belladonna 200C can be used once a day.

4. Crotalus Horridus – For Glossitis When Tongue Is Fiery Red In Colour

It is an excellent medicine for glossitis when the tongue is fiery red and extremely swollen. The tongue is smooth and appears as if it has been polished. Along with this, there is fetid breath or a moldy smell in the mouth. Frothy saliva may also be noted.

When to use Crotalus Horridus?

This medicine is indicated when tongue is fiery red, smooth and looks as if polished in glossitis cases.

How to use Crotalus Horridus?

It is a strong medicine used in infrequent doses. It is advised to consider its use only after consulting a homeopath.

5. Nitric Acid – When Tongue Is Red And Dry Along With Fissures (cracks)

This medicine is useful when the tongue is red and dry, and fissures are also visible. It is attended with pain. The tongue is so sensitive that even soft foods cause pain. Blisters or ulcers on the tongue may appear along with burning and pricking pain.

When to use Nitric Acid?

This medicine is best to handle cases where the tongue is red, dry, cracked, painful and sensitive to touch.

How to use Nitric Acid?

Its use can be done in 30C potency and the dose should be limited to just once a day. Do not self-medicate with its high potencies like 200C or 1M. Always seek homeopathic physician’s advice to use high potency.

6. Natrum Mur – For Geographic Tongue

Geographic tongue

Natrum Mur is helpful for cases of geographic tongue. In such cases, there are patches of red color on the tongue which look like a geographical map, hence the name. In some cases, ulcers or vesicles (tiny fluid-filled eruptions) appear on the tongue causing burning smarting pain. Pain gets worse when food or drink touches it.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Its use is recommended for red patchy discoloration on the tongue in geographical tongue cases.

How to use Natrum Mur?

It is available in different potencies but the most frequently used is 6X potency, to be taken three to four times a day.

Causes of Glossitis

1. An allergic reaction: This may happen from oral care products (like certain toothpastes, mouthwashes), medicines (for example medicines to treat high blood pressure), and certain food items.

2. Mouth injury: This may happen when dentures/tooth braces irritate and injure the tongue, or if there are burns or cuts on the tongue.

3. Nutritional deficiency: Iron deficiency or low vitamin B12 levels are associated with glossitis.

4. Tongue Irritation from eating spicy food, alcohol or tobacco use.

5. Mouth dryness: It is medically known as xerotomia which in some cases can be a part of Sjogren’s syndrome in which dry mouth and dry eyes are the main symptoms. Dry mouth favours the growth of bacteria that can result in an inflamed tongue.

6. Certain infections: A viral infection, like herpes simplex, may lead to tongue inflammation though its main clinical feature is blistering around the mouth. It may also occur from bacterial/fungal/yeast infection in the mouth.

7. Symptom of disease: Tongue inflammation can be a symptom of a disease like celiac disease (an autoimmune gastric condition in which eating gluten which is a type of protein found in wheat, rye, barley damages the small intestine) and pernicious anemia (a condition in which there occur decrease in red blood cells due to improper absorption of vitamin B12 by intestines).

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Glossitis?

Signs: Main signs are redness and swelling of the tongue. In some cases, the tongue looks smooth and glossy due to the loss of papillae (small bumps) from the surface of the tongue

Symptoms: Pain, tenderness and burning sensation on the tongue, and difficulty while eating or speaking.

Types Of Glossitis

1. Acute glossitis: Tongue inflammation occurs suddenly with severe symptoms

2. Chronic glossitis: Tongue gets swollen occasionally due to some underlying health condition.

3. Atrophic glossitis: Loss of multiple papillae from the tongue.

4. Geographic tongue: Map-like pattern on the tongue in which smooth red patches appear on the tongue surrounded by white borders.

5. Median rhomboid glossitis: It usually happens from a fungal tongue infection.

Best 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Its Causes, Signs and Symptoms

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 14 Comments

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of a blood clot in the deep veins of the body, usually in the leg. It is a serious condition as the clot can break off (embolus) and get carried to the lungs through the bloodstream, and block blood supply (pulmonary embolism). Though in DVT, the clot is often formed in the veins of leg, it may also originate in the veins of arms or pelvis. When both DVT and pulmonary embolism are simultaneously present, it is known as venous thromboembolism.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be considered as supportive help in DVT cases along with conventional treatment to manage its signs and symptoms. By working on the root cause of the problem, homeopathic medicines in DVT cases mainly focus on easing its signs and symptoms. The main advantage is that homeopathic medicines have zero side effects. Homeopathic medicines for managing DVT should be taken only after consulting a homeopathic expert. Do not self-medicate as DVT is a serious health problem. Homeopathic medicines are recommended only for DVT of veins of legs or arms when the symptoms are limited to these parts. However, in case of a clot that reaches the lungs, homeopathy is strictly not advisable, seek immediate help from conventional mode of treatment as it is a life-threatening condition.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For DVT

The top recommended medicines for managing DVT are Lachesis, Bothrops Lanceolatus, Vipera, Apis Mellifica, Carbo Veg and Arsenic Album.

1. Lachesis

Lachesis works exceptionally well on the venous system of the body where it effectively manages complaints like varicose veins (enlarged dilated, swollen, twisted veins), inflamed veins, venous leg ulcers that arise from problem of blood circulation in veins of legs and DVT. In case of DVT, Lachesis is indicated when there is swelling of the leg along with bluish red discoloration. On touch, the swollen area of the leg feels hard. In cases needing this medicine, inflammation of veins (medically known as phlebitis) can be present. Its use is also indicated when the veins of legs have been enlarged since pregnancy. The veins appear blue and knotty. Burning, stinging sensation accompanies swollen veins.

2. Bothrops Lanceolatus

This medicine has a marked action in managing cases in which blood clots form in different body parts including veins via blood stream via blood stream. It is well indicated when clots form in the veins of leg. This medicine is used in cases of swollen leg with marked heaviness. It is also given in cases of varicose veins and inflamed veins.

3. Vipera

Vipera is another homeopathic medicine recommended for managing DVT cases. The key indicating feature to use this medicine is unbearable pain in the affected part with a feeling that the leg would burst if allowed to hang down. There is a need to keep the legs elevated because of this sensation. The veins are swollen and sensitive, intense cramping pain in legs may be present. There is bluish discoloration of legs. This medicine is also considered in case of swollen arm, especially right arm, along with pain which gets worse on letting the hand hang down.

4. Apis Mellifica

It is prominently indicated when there is intense swelling of legs, ankle or feet. The legs look pale, pain in the left leg is marked. There is burning or shooting type of pain and at times stitching type. The feet feel heavy and stiff in the morning.

5. Carbo Veg

Mottled leg

This medicine is prominent for cases of thrombosis of leg veins and venous ulcers. Persons needing it have cramps in lower legs while walking. Uneasiness is felt in the legs towards the evening with a need to stretch legs frequently. The lower limbs also feel heavy. In case of venous ulcers, the legs appear purple and mottled. It is attended with burning sensation at night.

6. Arsenic Album

Arsenic Album is suggested when there is swelling of legs attended with burning pain, accompanied by cramps in legs. In some cases, drawing pain is felt in the legs while resting feet on the floor. It is also indicated for thrombosis of veins of groin area with violent pains.

Causes And Risk Factors

DVT occurs due to a blood clot which obstructs a vein and hinders with proper circulation of blood in body. Certain factors increase the risk of developing DVT which are enumerated here.

1. Damage to vein: This may happen from an injury, surgery, infection or inflammation.

2. Inactivity: Sitting position for extended periods of time causes pooling of blood in legs and predispose them to clot formation. Being bed–ridden due to a medical condition or post-surgery raise chances of clot formation.

3. Age: Being over 60 years of age increases risk of clot formation, however clot may form at any age.

4. Pregnancy, use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy

5. Being overweight

6. Smoking

7. Having a family history of DVT or having a genetic condition called Factor V Leiden thrombophilia (persons having this disease have a tendency to develop abnormal blood clots)

8. Cancer, chemotherapy, IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), heart failure

What Are Its Signs And Symptoms?

In around 30 % of DVT cases, no symptoms arise. However, if they do arise, they may be as follows:

A). In case of DVT of lower limb, the following symptoms are noticed

1. Swelling of leg or foot on one side of the body

2. Cramping or throbbing pain in the leg mostly in area around calf muscles, usually felt while standing or walking

3. Tenderness in leg

4. Color changes in skin of the affected leg that can be pale, red, bluish or purple

5. Swollen, enlarged veins that are hard and sore

6. Affected skin area being warm to touch

B). In case of DVT of upper limb, the following symptoms are noticed:

1. Pain in neck or shoulder or upper arm extending to forearm

2. Swollen arm or hand

3. Bluish discoloration over affected area

4. Weakness of hands

C). In some cases, a person has no idea if he/she has DVT until clot moves from leg/arm to lungs. This condition is known as pulmonary embolism which is a serious condition needing emergency treatment. Its symptoms include pain in the chest which gets worse from deep breathing, shortness of breath, cough with blood expectoration, light-headedness or dizziness, rapid pulse and fainting.

Complications

1. Pulmonary embolism: It is a serious life threatening complication of DVT. It happens when blood clot from leg breaks and reaches lungs and blocks a blood vessel. Take help from conventional treatment right away in this case, as it is a serious life threatening condition.

2. Post-phlebitic or post-thrombotic syndrome: It occurs from damage to veins when blood clot hinders proper blood flow. When it occurs in legs symptoms include swelling in leg, heaviness in leg, pain in leg, red skin, fluid build – up in leg, and leg ulcers in severe cases.

Measures To Prevent DVT

Avoid crossing legs while sitting

1. Move legs or stretch feet and legs if sitting for long time or bed-ridden

2. After surgery, try to be mobile to reduce chance of blood clot

3. In case of recent surgery, take blood thinners as recommended by doctor

4. Avoid crossing legs while sitting

5. Quit smoking

6. If overweight, try reduce the weight

7. Keep a check on blood pressure

Homeopathic Treatment Of Throat Clearing, Best Medicines And Its Causes

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 3 Comments

Everyone tends to clear their throat once in a while. This may be in response to an irritant lodged in the throat, out of a habit, or from stress/anxiety. If there is a persistent need to clear the throat, it may be due to a medical reason (like post nasal drip, nasal allergies, etc) that needs to be treated.

Homeopathic Management

These medicines boost the body’s natural healing capacity to treat throat clearing. Along with throat clearing, it also alleviates complaints like postnasal drip, sore throat, hoarseness of voice, cough, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion and heartburn. Every case of throat clearing is treated individually keeping in mind the cause and the attending symptoms.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Throat Clearing

1. Kali Bichrome – For Marked PND And Throat Clearing

This medicine is well indicated for cases having excessive PND – post nasal drip (dripping of mucus from the back of nose into the throat) and throat clearing. The mucus in PND is thick, tenacious and gelatinous that can be drawn out like a long thread. Sore throat and pain while swallowing can attend it. In some cases needing it, ulcers in the rear part of the throat can be present. They have elevated edges and are filled with thick white matter.

2. Argentum Nitricum – For Throat Clearing From Thick Mucus In Throat

It is a very effective medicine for cases needing clearing thick tenacious mucus from the throat. Along with this, there is hoarseness of voice. There can also be rawness and soreness which create an urge to clear the throat. A feeling that a splinter or stick is lodged in the throat may be felt while swallowing. Lastly, dryness and burning in the throat may occur.

3. Causticum – For Constant Desire To Clear The Throat

This medicine is indicated when there is a constant desire to clear the throat. Persons needing it may also have rawness and tickling sensation in the throat. It is attended with dry cough, sometimes burning sensation in the throat is felt. A person may also complain of lump-in-the-throat feeling. Other than the above, there can be hawking of mucus from the posterior nares. Inflammation of the larynx and hoarseness of voice can accompany the above symptoms.

4. Belladonna – With Sore Throat And Tonsillitis

This medicine is prepared from a plant commonly known as ‘deadly nightshade’. It belongs to family Solanaceae. It is very beneficial, when there is throat clearing along with sore throat and tonsillitis. The throat and tonsils are inflamed, markedly red, shiny and painful where it is required. There is pain in the throat while swallowing. A lump-like sensation, dryness and heat in the throat, and difficulty in swallowing and cough may be the other accompanying symptoms.

5. Alumina – When Dry, Raw, Rough Throat Leads To Throat Clearing

This medicine works well in cases of dry, raw, rough throat. The voice turns husky. There may also occur a lump sensation in the throat. Thick mucus drops from the posterior nares. Coughing aggravates especially in the evening. The throat is red with stitching pain.

6. Natrum Phos – For Acid Reflux And Throat Clearing

Use of this medicine is recommended for acid reflux and throat clearing. Persons who need it have a lump sensation in the throat and dropping of thick, yellow mucus from the posterior nares, especially at night. The person is forced to wake up, sit and clear the throat half-asleep. There is inflammation in the throat. The tonsils are coated with a yellow and creamy mucus. The person also complains of heartburn and sour belching in addition to the above symptoms.

7. Sabadilla – For Throat Clearing, Sneezing, Runny Nose

It is a natural medicine prepared from seeds of plant Sabadilla Officinalis having common name Cebadilla. Its use is considered when there is throat clearing, sneezing and runny nose. Itching in the nose and stuffy nose can also be there. There can be excessive tough phlegm in the throat which causes pressure and burning sensation in the throat. Roughness with a constant desire to swallow or hawk is there. Lastly, there may be a feeling of skin hanging loosely in the throat or something lodged in the larynx.

8. Sulphur – For Roughness, Scraping In Throat Attended With Throat Clearing

It is a very useful medicine for persons having roughness attended with throat clearing. There is feeling of a lump in throat and there can be dryness in the throat. It may excite a cough. Sore throat along with excessive burning sensation is yet another symptom that can attend. Stitching or pressive type of pain in the throat may occur on swallowing.

What Are The Medical Reasons Behind It?

The first reason behind it is LPR – laryngopharyngeal reflux /silent reflux. The stomach acid flows back into the throat and larynx causing an uncomfortable sensation and frequent throat clearing. Some other symptoms that accompany it are a feeling of something stuck in the throat, postnasal drip, hoarseness of voice and difficulty in swallowing.

Second common cause for throat clearing is post nasal drip (PND) when mucus drips from the back of the nose into the throat. It happens when there is excessive production and build-up of mucus in the para nasal sinuses, throat or nose. Some of the reasons behind PND are allergies, cold, flu, sinusitis, DNS (deviated nasal septum) and acid reflux. PND can be attended with some other symptoms like cough, scratchy throat, nausea and foul breath.

Third cause is nasal allergies (allergic rhinitis). It refers to nasal inflammation and irritation triggered by allergic reaction to airborne allergens like pollen, dust mites and animal dander. Throat clearing can be one of its symptoms along with symptoms that include runny nose, sneezing, stuffy nose, nasal itching, scratchy throat, itchy watery eyes and cough.

Throat clearing may just be one of the tic disorders. Tics refers to uncontrollable repetitive twitches, certain movements or sounds that occur semi-voluntarily. Some other examples of tics apart from throat clearing are head jerking, frequent eye blinking, repeating a sound like grunting, shoulder shrugging, sniffing and facial grimacing.

Tourette’s syndrome may be another causes of throat clearing. It refers to a neurological disorder in which there occurs involuntary motor tics (movement-based tics) and vocal tics (tics related to sound production). For Tourette’s syndrome to be diagnosed, there must be multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic for more than a year in a person.

Food allergies may be a cause of throat clearing in some cases. Some people may have itching, irritation or tickling in the throat after consuming certain food products that can lead to throat clearing. Some examples of such food products include rice, dairy products, etc.

Outgrowths like cysts, polyps and nodules on the vocal cord may also lead to throat clearing. Other than throat clearing, the other symptoms are feeling of something stuck in the throat, voice changes (like scratchy voice, hoarse voice), pain while speaking and difficult breathing.

Laryngitis, chronic inflammation of the larynx (voice box), can also cause throat clearing.

It may occur in case of tonsillitis which is inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils are the two oval-shaped masses of lymphatic tissue present at the back of the throat, one on either side.

PANDAS (pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcus) is also one of the cause. In this syndrome, there occurs major changes in behaviour, personality and movement in children after suffering a bout of infection of Streptococcus Pyogenes bacteria. Obsessive compulsive disorder or tics mainly occur in this medical condition.

Zenker’s diverticulum is a rare cause behind throat clearing. In this condition, food travels from the food pipe to stomach via a pouch at the junction of the pharynx and the food pipe.

Rest of the causes include side effect of certain medications (e.g., blood pressure medications, inhaled steroids), throat injury, damage to the throat tissue due to tobacco use, pollution, voice strain, chemical exposure and excessive vomiting.

What Signs And Symptoms Can Attend It?

Apart from feeling of something stuck in the throat, other symptoms include postnasal drip, sore throat, hoarseness of voice, difficulty in swallowing, cough, scratchy throat, offensive breath, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, noisy breathing, heartburn and tics.

Swelling On The Face? Best 10 Homeopathic Medicines, Causes And Concerns

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 8 Comments

Facial swelling can arise from minor causes that are easily treatable or can be a symptom of a serious medical problem that needs urgent medical help. Depending on the cause, there are some visible signs and symptoms that can attend facial swelling, like pain, redness and burning sensation on the face, and fever.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is helpful in managing cases of facial swelling with natural medicines. These medicines stimulate the body’s self-healing mechanism to recover wonderfully. They go deep into the root cause of the issue to bring effective cure. Homeopathic medicines for facial swelling are recommended only in mild cases. It is strictly advised to take homeopathic medicines under supervision of a qualified homeopathic practitioner. In no case should self – medication be done. If there is a serious cause (like kidney failure, heart ailment), it is advised to take urgent help from conventional mode of treatment.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Facial Swelling

1. Apis Mellifica – Top-grade Medicine

It is a leading medicine for managing facial swelling. Persons who need it have swelling and redness on the face. They have marked burning sensation on the face attending it. Along with this, one feels intense stinging pain on the face. Mostly right side of the face is affected when this medicine is required. The face looks pale and waxy. Puffiness is marked under the eyes in persons needing Apis Mellifica. Hives (eruptions) with itching, burning and stinging sensation may be present on the face. It is one of the best medicine for angioedema and bee sting. Wash the face with cold water brings relief.

2. Belladonna – For Facial Redness, Swelling, Heat

This medicine is prepared from a plant known as ‘deadly nightshade’. It is very effective for treating cases of facial swelling with red, hot and shiny face. There may be excessive sweating on the face with tearing pain in the face especially on the right side. Swelling on the upper lip is marked. Cheeks may also be swollen with burning pain. It is a very suitable medicine for sinusitis also.

3. Calcarea Carb – For Pale Puffy Face

This medicine is well indicated for cases in which there is pale and puffy face. The eyes are sunken surrounded with blue rings. Calcarea Carb is also indicated for tearing pain in the cheeks followed by swelling. The facial pain tends to get worse from exposure to cold air. It is one of prominent medicine for treating hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

4. Hepar Sulph – For Swelling Of Face With Vesicular Eruptions

This medicine works well in cases of swollen face with vesicular (fluid-filled) eruptions on the face. There can be burning sensation across the face. There is tearing pain that begins from the cheeks and extends to the ear or temporal region i.e. sides of the head.

5. Merc Sol – For Swollen Cheeks With Pain In Teeth

It is a very effective medicine for cases of swollen cheeks along with toothache and increased salivation. Persons needing it may also have red cheeks along with puffy, bloated face. They can have tearing or lacerating pain on the face which is hot. There may be eruptions on the face, which bleed when scratched, with offensive discharge and itching.

6. Rhus Tox – For Swelling Mainly Around Eyelids And Ears

This medicine is suitable when there is marked swelling on the eyelids and the ears. The face is red with burning sensation. There can be moist eruptions on the face along with thick scabs in cases needing it.

7. Arsenic Album – For Swelling Of Upper Lip And Below Eyelids

This medicine is valuable for managing cases in which there is swelling of the upper lip and area below the eyelids. In cases requiring it, stinging pain in the face is also felt. Itching of the face may also be present.

8. Aconite – For Swollen Lower Jaw And Lips

It is prepared from plant Aconitum Napellus commonly known as ‘monkshood’. It is a useful medicine for swelling of the lower jaw and lips. The lips are dry, black or blue along with peeling of the skin. Burning and tingling sensation in the lips can attend, besides pain on the face.

9. Chamomilla – For Left-Sided Facial Swelling

This medicine is prepared from the plant Matricaria Chamomilla. This plant belongs to family Compositae. It is helpful for cases in which there is left-sided facial swelling. There is pain on the face, which appears bloated and puffy, along with heat and redness of the cheeks.

10. Arnica – For Right-Sided Facial Swelling

It is prepared from a plant Arnica Montana having common name ‘leopard’s bane’ or ‘fallkraut’. It is beneficial for persons with right-sided facial swelling, especially around the cheeks. It is accompanied by throbbing and pinching pain. In some cases needing it, stinging pain is felt in cheeks. Dry heat in the face towards the evening is also felt which extends to the ears.

What Are The Causes Behind Facial Swelling?

The reasons behind it are variable.

Firstly, it can arise from sinusitis ( inflammation of paranasal sinuses due to allergy or bacterial viral infection). It can cause swelling around the nose, eyes or the cheeks causing pain. Other attending symptoms include headache, stuffy nose, runny nose, sore throat, poor sense of smell, fever, cough and weakness.

Second cause is a tooth infection. A person having an infection in gums or teeth can experience swelling, pain and tenderness along the jawline.

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) is yet another reason behind facial swelling. A person has puffy and swollen face along with other signs and symptoms, like weight gain, fatigue, feeling cold, constipation, depression, skin dryness and weakness in the muscles.

Next cause is allergic conjunctivitis (eye inflammation due to a reaction to allergens like dust, pollen and pet dander). Its signs and symptoms include redness and itching in the eyes which may be puffy or watery.

Facial injury is also one of the reasons.

Another cause is cellulitis. It leads to swelling in the affected part of the skin along with redness and pain. Fluid may ooze out from the skin in some cases. The affected area is hot and tender to touch sometimes. Fever and chills can attend which indicates a serious infection. It is a medical emergency that needs prompt treatment under conventional mode.

Other causes include angioedema and anaphylaxis.

Angioedema is a severe form of swelling that occurs under the surface of the skin due to an allergic reaction to allergens (like food product, insect bite, etc). A characteristic symptom is hives (raised, itchy raised bumps known as wheals that develop on the skin) that may be accompanied by stinging and burning sensation.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that needs urgent medical help because if not treated immediately can prove fatal. Its symptoms include facial swelling, breathing difficulty, swelling in throat and the mouth, rapid heart rate, a dip in blood pressure and loss of consciousness.

Another reason for swelling on the face is Cushing’s syndrome which is a disorder that arises from excessive production of cortisol hormone in the body. It may result from a drug allergy (use of anticonvulsants, antibiotics like penicillin) which is a medical emergency.

A condition called preeclampsia can arise during pregnancy that can cause swelling of the face. This condition needs immediate medical treatment because it can prove fatal if not attended immediately. Its signs include high blood pressure and high protein level in urine. Other symptoms are swelling of the hands, headache, vision changes, pain in the upper abdomen, reduced urine output and nausea or vomiting.

Actinomycosis, a rare but long-term bacterial infection in which sores and abscesses appear in the soft tissue of the body may also lead to facial swelling.

Lastly, it can also be a sign of vital organ failure of heart, liver or kidneys.

Ledum Palustre: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 15 Comments

Ledum Palustre is a natural homeopathic medicine derived from plant ‘wild rosemary’, also known as ‘marsh tea’. It belongs to family ericaceae. The dried small twigs and leaves of this plant collected after flowering begins undergo potentization process. Its medicinal properties are extracted and intensified and as a result we get a highly valuable homeopathic medicine Ledum Palustre. This medicine is of great benefit in treating joint pains, insect bites, bee stings and injuries (mainly punctured wounds caused by sharp objects).

The ‘Ledum Palustre’ Constitution

Ledum Palustre acts best on persons who suffer from joint inflammation. It suits people who feel cold and chilly most of the time. Lastly, its use is prominently indicated for those having history of alcohol abuse.

Drug Action

The main action of this medicine is on joints, tendons and skin. Rest of the body parts where it manifests its action includes eyes and face.

Clinical Indications

Joint complaints, gout, ankle sprain, ankle swelling and pain, insect bites, bee stings, injuries, punctured wounds, bruises, ecchymosis, whitlow, felon, carbuncle, black eye and facial eczema.

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. For Joint Pains/Ankle Sprain

Ledum Pal is a magnificent medicine for managing joint complaints. It has shown great clinical improvement in cases of joint pain. The characteristic feature to use it is joint pain starting in the lower limb and then ascending upwards. The joints are swollen, hot, and tense and look pale. Stinging or drawing type of pain occurs in joints. It gets worse from movement and warmth in bed. Pain also increases in intensity in the evening and night. Ice water application relieves pain. Ledum Pal is also successfully used for treating gout (inflammation of joints due to high uric levels). It works well mainly for pain in foot, toes, and hands and in small joints. It is attended with cracking in joints. Nodes are present on joints with high uric acid levels. Next, it has marked action where it is extensively used for ankle pain and swelling or ankle sprain (overstretching, twisting or tearing of ligaments which are cords of tough fibrous tissue that connect one bone to another). Cases with tendency of easy spraining of ankles can be handled wonderfully with this remedy. It can also be given for shoulder joint pain. Mainly it is indicated for stitching pain in shoulder, it gets worse by raising the arm. Pressure is felt with pain in the shoulders that increases with any kind of motion. Its action is well marked on knee joint as well. There is knee pain and soreness if touched. Tearing, sticking, tensive knee pain is felt which gets worse from motion or walking. Additionally, the knee is swollen, stiff and there is cracking in knee.

Key indicating features

Joint pain that begins in lower limb and then ascend upwards

Joint pain gets worse from motion, warmth of bed, in evening and night

Joint pain better from applying ice water

Ankle pain, ankle swelling, ankle sprains

2. Skin (Insect Bites, Stings, Ecchymosis, Bruises Whitlow, Felon, Carbuncle)

This medicine also manifests its action on skin. Here it is well indicated for managing insect bites, stings, ecchymosis, bruises, whitlow, felon and carbuncle. Ledum Pal is ranked as a top grade medicine in homeopathy for insect bites and bee stings. It is also indicated for wasp stings and mosquito bites. (NOTE: In case of bee stings or insect bites, this medicine is indicated only for mild to moderate cases with localised symptoms on skin. In case of a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis presented with features like swelling in throat, tongue, sudden drop of blood pressure, dizziness, rapid pulse, unconsciousness, its use is strictly not recommended as these are life threatening conditions requiring urgent help from conventional mode of treatment). Next it is highly recommended for ecchymosis and bruises cases. Ecchymosis refers to blue or purple spots on skin occurring from leakage of blood from injured capillary under the skin. Bruises refers to black, blue or purple skin discoloration from damaged blood vessels under skin resulting in pooling of blood underneath skin typically resulting from an injury, a fall or bumping into something. When skin discoloration lasts for prolonged time after injection, vaccination or some injury, then Ledum Pal can be used with excellent results. Its use is also suggested for cases of felon and whitlow. Felon is an infection of soft tissue resulting in pus-filled pocket on finger tips. Felon resulting from a needle prick, splinters and punctured wounds can be treated effectively with this remedy. There is redness, swelling and throbbing pain. Whitlow is an infection of fingers caused by herpes simplex virus. For cases of carbuncles too this medicine proves helpful. Carbuncles are clusters of swollen, painful boils (hair follicle infection with pus collection under skin) connected together under skin. Initially carbuncles appear as red bumps with pain which then fill with pus.

Key indicating features

Insect bites, mosquito bites, bee stings, wasp stings

Black, blue or purple skin discoloration in case of ecchymosis and bruises

Prolonged skin discoloration after injection, vaccinations or some injury

3. For Injuries

It is a brilliant homeopathic medicine for managing injuries. It is of great value in cases of punctured wounds, these are injuries caused by sharp pointed objects like pins, needles, nails, splinters, insect bites etc. In cases needing it, the injured parts usually feel cold to touch. There is relief by cold application on wounds. Its use is highly appreciable to help cases of bruises. It can be really useful for discoloration of skin after an injury or at injection site. Next it gives promising results in case of black eye (bruise around the eye from an injury to face or head) and ankle sprain. Lastly, it can deal with cases of panaritium (an inflammation with formation of pus on the area surrounding the nail plate) caused by an external injury.

Key indicating features

Punctured wounds caused by sharp pointed objects like pins, needles, nails, splinters, insect bites

Bruises (black, blue, purple skin discoloration) and black eye

Ankle sprains

4. Eyes (Black Eye, Pus Discharge, Eye Watering)

With its action on eye it mainly helps to manage black eye caused by injury. Next it is valuable for ptosis (drooping of upper eyelids) cases from injury. It can be used for management of pus discharge from eyes. Last indication for its use is eye watering that cause soreness of lower lids and cheeks.

Key indicating features

Black eye from an injury

Droopy eyelids (ptosis) after an injury

5. Face (Acne, Eczema)

Ledum Palustre can be used for acne (pimples). It is indicated when acne mainly occurs on cheeks and forehead. Next complaint where it can be given is facial eczema. Besides,it helps when there are crusty eruptions around mouth and nose. It is attended with itching, burning and smarting.

Key indicating features

Pimples on cheeks and forehead

Crusty eruptions around mouth and nose with itching, burning and smarting

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints worsen from heat of bed, warmth, evening, night, joint movement and injury

Relieving factors: Relief by ice water application and cold bathing

Dosage

Depending on the case presentation it can be used from low to high potencies. In general, it can be repeated often in low potencies. Frequent repetition is usually not advised when using its high potency.

Relationship With Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Camphor and Rhus Tox

It antidotes: Apis Mellifica

Followed well by: Aconite, Belladonna, Sulphuric Acid, Nux Vomica, Pulsatilla, Rhus Tox and Sulphur