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Blocked Nose troubling you at Night? Simple Homeopathic remedies will bring relief

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 10 Comments

Blocked nose at night can be quite uncomfortable and disturb a good night’s sleep. It can be caused by different reasons like flu, cold, allergies, polyps, etc. It is not that these conditions do not block the nose during the day, but while we lie down on the bed at night, the blockage of nose can worsen due to some reasons. Firstly, on lying down blood flow to the head increases which can lead to swollen blood vessels in nostrils that worsens stuffy nose. Secondly, lying flat on the bed at night in a person already having a stuffy nose might worsen the complaint. In the day, when standing or sitting, the  mucus keeps draining out from natural gravity pull.

But when lying flat in bed the body has to work against gravity and it becomes difficult for the sinus fluids to drain from nose. As a result fluid builds up in the nose that increases stuffiness. Another reason for blocked nose can be dry air in the room at night. To combat the dryness, nostrils may produce extra mucus to moisten nostrils which further add to the blockage. Blocked nose can be attended with symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge, nasal irritation, post nasal discharge (PND), snoring, headache, sleep apnea (a sleep disorder in which momentary pauses in breathing occurs several times during sleep) depending on the cause behind it.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy can be of great help to relieve blocked nose at night. Homeopathic medicines are natural remedies that help in clearing stuffy nose by treating the root cause behind it. Once the root cause is targeted, long term relief in blocked nose follows. The most suitable medicine is selected after taking into consideration the individual symptoms and the cause behind the blockage.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Blocked Nose At Night

1. Ammonium Carb – Top Grade Medicine

It is one of the best medicines for managing nasal blockage at night. It is very suitable for those who have to breathe through the mouth due to blocked nose at night. They may wake up several times from sleep due to nasal stuffiness and difficult breathing. Other symptoms that they may exhibit include profuse watery discharge from nose and a constant urge to sneeze. A very characteristic feature that can occur is nasal bleeding when washing face and hands in the morning.

2. Lemna Minor – With Nasal Polyps Or Turbinate Hypertrophy

Turbinate Hypertrophy

Turbinate Hypertrophy

It is a highly recommended medicine for blocked nose from nasal polyps or turbinate hypertrophy. In cases needing it, nostrils feel stuffed causing difficulty in breathing through the nose. A foul smell from nose may emanate. There may also occur nasal discharge which is thick, yellow or white and sticky in nature.

3. Teucrium – From Nasal Polyps

This medicine is suitable to relieve blocked nose from polyps. In cases needing it, the side on which the sufferer lies down gets blocked means lying on right side causes blockage of right nostril and lying on left side results in blockage of left nostril. There may be loss of smell. Lastly, crawling sensation in the nostrils along with sneezing, nasal discharge and watering from eyes may be present.

4. Sambucus – Blocked Nose In Children

Sambucus is the top-listed medicine to help cases of blocked nose in children. It works well both in cases of blockage due to nasal dryness as well as blockage from nasal discharge. In case of discharge from nose, the secretions are mostly thick and sticky. Children needing it have trouble breathing through the nose. They wake up several times at night from a feeling of suffocation.

5. Calcarea carb – For Stuffed Nose With Yellow Discharge

This medicine is beneficial when nasal stuffiness occurs along with yellow nasal discharge. The person needing it can hardly breathe through the nose at night. Besides, there is an offensive smell in the nose. A tendency to suffer from frequent cold from exposure to cold air may be present in those needing it.

6. Hepar Sulph – Stuffy Nose In Case Of Cold

This medicine is very effective to relieve stuffy nose from cold. Those needing it have watery nasal discharge or sometimes yellow sticky matter discharge from nose. In some cases, the nasal discharge may be blood stained. There is a desire to blow the nose continuously. Itching is felt in the nostrils along with sneezing. The nostrils feel painful with marked pain at the root of the nose. Burning sensation is felt in the nose. The nose is also sensitive to touch and also cold air.

7. Natrum Mur – In Case Of Allergies

This medicine can be used in case of blocked nose linked with nasal allergies. In cases needing it, nasal blockage and fluent nasal discharge occur alternately. The discharge is of clear white fluid. There is excessive sneezing, besides soreness inside the nose along with burning sensation. There may be loss of smell and taste.

8. Kali Bichrome – In Sinusitis Cases

This medicine works well in case of nasal blockage linked to sinusitis. Persons needing it have a constant sensation as if the nose is blocked. There is thick, sticky, ropy yellow or greenish discharge from nose. Mucus plugs or hard crusts in the nostrils may get formed in the nose. When these crusts are blown out by force, blood is seen at the edges of crusts. Post nasal discharge also occurs prominently. A pressure or tightness is felt at the root of the nose. A fetid smell is present in the nose. Pain in forehead is quite marked along with above symptoms.

9. Sticta – With Nasal Dryness

Sticta is well indicated when there is marked nasal dryness with blocked nose. Persons needing it feels like blowing the nose constantly but no discharge flows. The stuffed nose causes sleeplessness. There is relief in nasal blockage in the morning and in open air. The nostrils are painful along with dryness. The nasal secretions dry up quickly and form scabs which are difficult to expel. There is excessive sneezing, and frontal headache along with stuffiness in the nose.

10. Agraphis Nutans – From Enlarged Adenoids

It is the most prominent medicine to help cases of nasal blockage due to enlarged adenoids. In cases needing it, there is difficulty in sleeping from blocked nose. Tonsils may get enlarged. There is a tendency to catch cold easily from exposure to cold winds.

11. Lycopodium – For Blocked Nose With Mouth Breathing

This medicine is valuable to manage cases in which nasal blockage is accompanied with mouth breathing. It is highly useful for nasal blockage in children. The child needing it wakes up suddenly from sleep rubbing the nose. There may occur nasal discharge, along with red, watery eyes. The nasal discharge is thick yellow along with frontal headache.

12. Nux Vomica – For Blocked Nose At Night And Nasal Discharge In Daytime

This medicine is suitable when the nose is blocked at night but in daytime, nasal discharge flows. There is blockage of the nose on alternate sides. A crawling sensation is felt in the nose, besides sneezing. There is oversensitivity to smell. Snoring along with nasal blockage is also there.

What Are The Causes Of Blocked Nose At Night?

1. Cold, flu: It is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat, sinuses, larynx)

2. Nasal polyps:  These are soft non-cancerous growths arising from the mucous membrane of the nose or paranasal sinuses.

3. Turbinate hypertrophy: Swelling or enlargement of small sausage shaped structures (made up of bone and covered with soft tissue called mucosa) located within the nose.

4. Deviated nasal septum (DNS): Condition where thin wall separating right and left nasal passage is displaced to one side.

5. Enlarged adenoids: Enlargement of lymphoid tissue present at the back of nose (nasopharynx).

6. Sinusitis: Inflammation of any of the paranasal sinuses i.e. air-filled cavities in skull bone.

7. Nasal allergy/Allergic Rhinitis: It refers to an allergic reaction to allergens like dust, pollen resulting in nasal inflammation causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy/watery eyes.

8. Dryness of nose (rhinitis sicca)

 

 

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Top 10 Homeopathic Remedies For Cough Along With Vomiting

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 2 Comments

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

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Cough Along With vomiting

1. Ipecac – Top grade medicine

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

2. Cina – For Cough In Children

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

3. Coccus Cacti – When Complaint Gets Worse In Morning

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

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

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

5. Bryonia – For Dry Cough

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

6. Antimonium Tart – For Loose Rattling Cough

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

7. Pertussin – For Repeated Fits Of Coughing

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

8. Ferrum Met – When Cough Worsens After Eating Food

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

9. Conium – For Cough At Night

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Cough at night? Top 9 Homeopathic medicines for relief

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 8 Comments

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

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

Personalised medication

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

Homeopathy fixes the root cause

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

Safe natural medicines

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

Top 9 Homeopathic Medicines For Cough At Night

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

1. Drosera –Top Grade Medicine

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

When to use Drosera?

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

How to use Drosera?

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

2. Arsenic Album – For Cough After Midnight

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

When to use Arsenic Album?

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

How to use Arsenic Album?

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

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

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

When to use Cina?

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

How to use Cina?

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

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

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

When to use Belladonna?

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

How to use Belladonna?

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

5. Rumex – For Dry, Tickling Cough Preventing Sleep

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

When to use Rumex?

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

How to use Rumex?

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

6. Conium – For Continuous Dry Cough At Night

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

When to use Conium?

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

How to use Conium?

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

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

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

When to use Antimonium Tart?

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

How to use Antimonium Tart?

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

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

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

When to use Corallium Rubrum?

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

How to use Corallium Rubrum?

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

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

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

When to use Carbo Veg?

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

How to use Carbo Veg?

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

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

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

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

2. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

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

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

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

5. Chronic tonsil enlargement

6. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID -19)

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

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

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

a). Heart failure

b). Lung cancer

c). Severe lung infection (Pneumonia)

 

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Anosmia – Top 6 Natural Homeopathic Medicines for Loss of Smell

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 104 Comments

Homeopathy for loss of smell

Anosmia is a condition in which a person loses his/her sense of smell. The odor molecules in the air surrounding us enter our nostrils, and are detected by the olfactory receptors. These receptors send a signal to the brain center via a nerve where the smell is identified, this is how we identify different smells and odors. Loss of smell makes a person unable to perceive pleasant odors (like fragrances) and also sense danger situations that can be detected by smelling (like gas leakage or smoke). Our sense of smell also plays a significant role in how food tastes, and so anosmia can also lead to a loss of taste (ageusia) and lack of interest in eating. A person may suffer from partial or total loss of smell (conditions known as hyposmia and anosmia respectively). Loss of smell can be present since birth, in such a case a child is born without any sense of smell. Anosmia may be temporary or permanent depending upon the cause behind it.

Homeopathy offers natural and effective treatment for anosmia. These medicines are suitable to treat anosmia in people of all age groups. Since these medicines are made of natural substances, they treat the condition in a safe manner. They treat the root cause of anosmia to bring about excellent recovery. Homeopathy is recommended for treating cases of both partial and total loss of smell.

Homeopathic treatment is based on the totality of symptoms. So homeopathic medicines while treating anosmia also manages the attending symptoms. These give remarkable relief in accompanying symptoms like nasal blockage, post nasal discharges, nasal discharge, sneezing etc. This way homeopathy offers a great solution simultaneously to all issues related to anosmia at the same time.

As anosmia occurs from various causes such as nasal allergy, chronic cold, sinusitis, so to treat it from its root, the cause needs to be identified and treated. Homeopathy works in such a manner that it addresses the root cause and aids great recovery. If a person follows a complete course of homeopathic treatment under the guidance of a homeopathic doctor, complete recovery occurs in most cases of anosmia. The results vary depending on the chronicity of the problem, the cause behind it and the response of the individual to homeopathic medicines.

Among the different available homeopathic medicines to treat anosmia, the most suitable medicine is finalised after a thorough assessment of the detailed symptoms of the individual. The potency, dose, repetition of medicine is also done individually for every case as per homeopathic principles. With individualized treatment, wonderful results follow.

Homeopathy treats anosmia very safely and gently with natural remedies. There are no chances of any side effects of these homeopathic medicines.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines for Anosmia

The top indicated homeopathic medicines for anosmia include Natrum Mur, Silicea, Pulsatilla, Calcarea carb, Kali Bichrome and Lemna Minor. 

1. Natrum Mur – For Anosmia With Nasal Allergies

Natrum Mur is an effective homeopathic medicine for anosmia due to nasal allergies, along with nasal discharge that looks like egg white. Other features include nose blockage that makes breathing difficult and violent sneezing (especially during the morning). A very specific squirming sensation of a worm crawling in nostrils may be present along with the symptoms mentioned.

When to use Natrum Mur?

Its use is highly suggested to deal with cases of loss of smell linked to nasal allergies with intense sneezing and nasal discharge.

How to use Natrum Mur?

Among its different potencies 6X is most commonly recommended. Natrum Mur 6X can be taken three to four times a day as per case severity.

2. Silicea – For Anosmia Linked With Chronic Cold

Silicea is a well-indicated homeopathic remedy for anosmia where the person suffers from chronic cold. The people needing Silicea have a history of yellowish, chronic, offensive, fetid nasal discharge prior to loss of smell. For using Silicea, the symptoms that may be present along with a loss of smell include a burning sensation, dryness and the presence of hard crusts in the nostrils. In some cases, soreness and itching in the nostrils may also be present.

When to use Silicea?

Silicea is a great choice of medicine for handling cases of anosmia associated with tendency of chronic cold with bad smelling yellow discharge.

How to use Silicea?

Silicea is mainly used in 6X power two to three times daily.

3. Pulsatilla – For Loss Of Smell With Loss Of Taste

Pulsatilla is a wonderful medicine for anosmia attended with loss of taste. In some cases, the person may experience loss of appetite. Other attending features include thick greenish nasal discharge and sneezing. The symptoms tend to worsen indoors and get better in open air. In some cases, itching in nostrils may be felt mostly in the evening. Nose blockage in the evening while going to bed is another symptom that may be noted.

When to use Pulsatilla?

Its use is recommended where loss of smell along with loss of taste is present with thick green discharge from the nose.

How to use Pulsatilla?

The potency of this medicine differs from case to case from low to high. Usually, it is used in 30C potency that can be taken one to two times a day.

4. Calcarea Carb – For Anosmia And Nasal Blockage

This medicine offers great help when there is loss of smell and nasal blockage. Nasal blockage makes breathing through nose difficult especially at night. There may be nasal dryness while in some cases yellow-colored nasal discharge flows. It also offers best help when loss of smell is linked with nasal polyps.

When to use Calcarea Carb?

Calcarea Carb should be considered in anosmia cases where blockage of nose is marked with difficulty in breathing through the nose.

How to use Calcarea Carb?

It is advised to take Calcarea Carb 30C once a day.

5. Kali Bichrome – For Anosmia with Sinusitis

Kali Bichrome is a natural homeopathic medicine for anosmia that is linked with sinusitis. The main symptoms that indicate the need for Kali Bichrome include constant stuffiness in the nose, stringy/sticky/ropy nasal discharge and fullness at the root of the nose. A sinus headache also appears along with nasal symptoms. Other accompanying symptoms include a tickling sensation in the nostrils and postnasal discharge of mucus.

When to use Kali Bichrome?

It is the best choice of medicine to help cases of loss of smell occurring in persons who suffer from sinusitis with sticky/ropy nasal discharge.

How to use Kali Bichrome?

This medicine can be taken in 30C potency once or twice daily.

6. Lemna Minor – Homeopathic Cure for Anosmia with Nasal Polyps

Lemna Minor is an important homeopathic medicine for anosmia in cases of nasal polyps. The person requiring this remedy experience loss of smell, obstruction in nostrils, and frequent sneezing attacks. The other symptoms include a thick, viscid or excessive purulent (pus-like) discharge from the nose. The nasal symptoms tend to get worse in damp surroundings and rainy weather.

When to use Lemna Minor?

Lemna Minor is the most helpful medicine when it comes to treat loss of smell linked with nasal polyps.

How to use Lemna Minor?

It is frequently given in mother tincture (Q) form. Lemna Minor Q can be used one to two times a day.

Symptoms Attending Anosmia

Depending on the cause behind anosmia, a person shows symptoms like nasal discharge, post nasal drip, sneezing and nasal blockage.

Persons having anosmia may also have loss of taste

Complete loss of smell may make it difficult to sense a dangerous circumstance and take measures to stop it, for example if there is gas leakage from cylinder or fire, a person suffering from anosmia may be unable to sense it and seek help.

Sometimes loss of smell may lead to depression.

Causes Of Anosmia

The reasons behind anosmia are variable. Anosmia may arise due to swelling in the nose, blockage in the nose that hinders odors reaching the top of the nose or due to damage to brain /olfactory nerve (that sends signal of smell from nose to brain) /olfactory receptors.  However, in approximately 20 per cent of the cases, anosmia has no cause (a condition known as idiopathic anosmia). The causes of anosmia are summed below:

Causes related to nasal irritation or congestion:

1. Sinusitis (acute or chronic) –Inflammation of the lining of paranasal sinuses

2. Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) – Nasal allergy where inhalation of allergens like dust mites, pollen leads to symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, itching in nose or eyes, watering from the nose

3. Common cold – Viral infection of upper respiratory tract

4. Influenza – Viral infection of respiratory tract caused by influenza virus

5. Non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis – In this condition, symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis appear, but without any known cause.

6. COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) – An infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus

Causes related to blockage / obstruction of nasal passage– Anosmia

1. Nasal polyps – Soft, non-cancerous growths in the lining of nasal passage or paranasal sinuses

2. Tumours in the nose

3. DNS (deviated nasal septum) –  Displacement of thin wall separating right and left nasal passage to one side.

Causes related to damage to brain or nerve

1. Ageing

2. Parkinson’s Disease – A nervous system disorder characterized by hand tremors, slowness of movement, muscle rigidity, impaired posture and balance

3. Alzheimer’s Disease – A neurological disorder that leads to decline in memory, forgetfulness and problems with thinking, reasoning and communication

4. Brain tumours

5. Multiple sclerosis – A disease in which myelin sheath of nerve cells gets damaged which impairs communication between brain and the rest of the body parts

6. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), diabetes, head/brain injury, epilepsy (tendency to get fits)

7. Chemical exposure that causes burns inside nose, certain medicines (like antibiotics, antihistamines)
8. Zinc deficiency, poor nutrition

9. Smoking, alcohol misuse

10. In some cases a baby is born with anosmia, then the condition is called congenital anosmia.

Anosmia linked with COVID-19

Loss of smell is one of the prominent symptoms of COVID-19 but the mechanism behind it is unknown. It is also one of the earliest and the most common symptom reported in COVID-19. This symptom is the most prominent predictive factor for COVID-19. Researches are still trying to find the underlying mechanism behind it. A research has found that COVID-19 does not cause permanent anosmia.

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Medorrhinum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 17 Comments

Medorrhinum is a deep acting polychrest medicine that acts on various body parts, and is highly valuable to treat several health issues. It is mostly administered to treat complaints arising from suppressed gonorrhoea. It is a well suited medicine for women suffering from pelvic disorders. Its use in treating joint complaints is also noteworthy. It is also well suited to children who have stunted growth. For cases of warts, especially on genitals, it proves to be a great medicine.

Drug ActionThis medicine has a widespread action on various body parts. It acts quite well on the brain, female, and male genitals. Next, it acts well on the nose, urinary organs, back, skin, limbs, joints and respiratory organs.

Clinical Indications

Memory weakness, various fears, drug-abuse, obsessive compulsive disorder, vaginitis, leucorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, ovary pain, inflammation, cysts, fibroids, sexual abuse, warts, gonorrhoea, prostate enlargement, itching, cold, sinusitis, bedwetting, cystitis, nephritis, urethritis, cough, asthma, backache, joint pains

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Complaints Regarding Brain (Memory Weakness, Various Fears, Drug Abuse, OCD)

Medorrhinum acts wonderfully on the brain. It is a brilliant medicine in cases of weak memory. Those who need it are very forgetful. They tend to forget names of closed ones even sometimes their own, words, spellings, and initial letters. They make mistakes in reading, and writing. They are forgetful while talking, and lose the thread of conversation often. It is magnificent medicine to manage cases of fear, anxiety, and panic attacks. Main fears that are present in those who require it include fear of dark, enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), misfortune, cancer, and sexually transmitted diseases. Those who need it are anxious, sensitive, nervous by their very nature. They are always in great hurry.   Its use is also suggested for cases of depression. There is sadness, tearfulness and such people keep dwelling in the past. Suicidal thoughts may occur. There is hopelessness about recovery. In many cases there may occur frequent mood swings. Happiness alternates with sadness. It also has an affinity to manage cases of schizophrenia (a mental health condition characterized by various hallucinations, and delusions and that affects thinking, emotions, behavior, and decision making quality of a person). It is of great use to tackle cases of drug abuse and alcoholism. Its use is also suggested in cases of OCD  or obsessive compulsive disorder (mental health condition in which the sufferer has constant unwanted thoughts and fears leading to repetitive behavior). There is fear of contamination, germs and the person keeps washing hands due to fear of contamination.

Key Indicating Features

Weak memory and forgetfulness

Forgetfulness of names of closed ones even sometimes own, words, spellings, and initial letters

Fear of dark, enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), misfortune, cancer and sexually transmitted diseases

Drug abuse and alcoholism

Obsessive compulsive disorder, fear of contamination, germs and washing hands again and again

2. Female Problems (Vaginitis, Leucorrhoea, Dysmenorrhoea, Ovary Pain, Inflammation, Cysts, Fibroids, Sexual Abuse)

It is very effective in treating several women related problems. It is of great clinical significance in treating warts on female genitals. It is a valuable medicine for treating vaginitis (vaginal inflammation). The main indication is vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea) which is thick, having fishy odour that causes burning and excoriation. There is marked vaginal itching too. Rubbing relieves it. Washing with lukewarm water also soothes the itching. Next, it can manage well painful periods (dysmenorrhea). Those women who need it experience intense labour like painful periods. It gets better by pressing feet against a support. Another complaint in which case it gives good results is heavy menses. It is used when the menses are heavy, offensive, dark and clotted. Other than this it can be used in cases of intermenstrual bleeding (metrorrhagia) especially during menopausal period. Its use is also recommended to manage ovarian pain. It gets worse on the left side. Pain is drawing in nature. It gets better from pressure. It is well suited to women having chronic inflammation of ovaries, fallopian tubes or have ovarian cysts (fluid filled sacs), fibroids (non – cancerous growths in uterus). Its use is also highly considered in cases of infertility in females. Complaints that occur after sexual abuse in women can be managed with this medicine. Lastly, it is administered to women who have excessive sexual desire or have sexual perversions.

Key Indicating Features

Warts on female genitals

Vaginitis with thick discharges from vagina of fishy odour that causes burning and excoriation

Vaginal itching, gets better from rubbing, and washing with lukewarm water

Painful periods with intense labour like painful periods with drawing up of knees

Heavy periods with offensive, dark and clotted blood

Inflammation of ovaries, fallopian tubes, ovarian cysts, fibroids

Infertility in females

3. Male Problems (Gonorrhoea, Urethritis, Prostate Enlargement, High Sex Drive)

Males may find this medicine quite useful in treating some of the health concerns. Firstly, it is an important medicine to manage gonorrhoea (a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae). It is indicated when there is a thin, transparent urethral discharge mixed with white mucus staining clothes yellow. Secondly, it is helpful to manage urethritis with marked soreness of urethra. Thirdly, it is used in cases of enlarged prostate gland with frequent painful urination. This medicine is very suitable to control men with high sex drive. Those men who need it have intense sexual fantasies, intense erections day and night, and behaviour that points towards sexual desire. It is also preferred in cases of sexual perversions.

Key Indicating Features

Gonorrhoea with thin, transparent urethral discharge mixed with white mucus staining clothes yellow

Urethritis with marked soreness of urethra

Enlarged prostate gland with frequent painful urination

Men with high sex drive and intense sexual fantasies, intense erections day and night, and behaviour indicating sexual desire

Sexual perversions

4. Limbs (Joint Pain, Restless Legs, Cramps, Leg Pain, Burning)

This medicine acts quite well on the limbs and the joints. It helps manage pain and stiffness in any of the body joints. Another remarkable indication for its use is deformity of finger joints with large puffy knuckles. It is also administered in cases of pain, swelling and stiffness of ankles. Another complaint in which it gives excellent results is restlessness of the legs, and people cannot keep them still. There are cramps in the legs that get better by stretching. It can also be given in cases of pain in the legs especially felt while walking. The legs feel very heavy and walking may get difficult. Lastly, it can deal effectively in cases of burning sensation in hands and feet.

Key Indicating Features

Pain and stiffness in any of the joint of body

Deformity of finger joints with large puffy knuckles

Restlessness of legs, person cannot keep them still

Burning sensation in hands and feet

5. Back (Backache, Neck Pain)

It manages backache very well. It is usually given when there is pain in the back along with burning sensation in the spine. The burning starts in the neck, and goes down the spine. There is also soreness, and tenderness in the spine. It is also well-indicated for lower back pain that arises from straining caused by lifting. This medicine can be used for neck pain as well. The pain in neck goes to either side, shoulder, and down the back. There is a drawing sensation in the neck. Spasms (involuntary muscle contraction) in neck muscles may occur too.

Key Indicating Features

Backache along with burning sensation in the spine

Back pain that occurs from straining caused by lifting

Neck pain which goes to either side, shoulder, and down the back

6. Nasal Problems (Sinusitis, Hay Fever)

It has wonderful action on nose and paranasal sinuses. It proves to be highly effective in managing cases of sinusitis. Here it is prominently indicated for thick, yellow green nasal discharge, post nasal discharge that is thick and yellow. It is also indicated for managing allergic rhinitis/ hay fever (an allergic condition arising from response to allergens for eg, dust-mites, pollens resulting in symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, stuffy nose, and itchy, watery, and red eyes). This medicine is prominent in cases in which there is a constantly runny nose. Along with this there is marked burning pain in nostrils, crawling in left nostril, itching in nostrils, and an obstructed sensation at the root of the nose.

Key Indicating Features

Sinusitis with thick, yellow green nasal discharge or post nasal discharge that is thick, and yellow

Allergic rhinitis with constantly runny nose, burning and itching in nostrils, and obstruction at root of nose

7. Urinary Concerns (Bed-wetting, Kidney Pain, Cystitis, Urethritis, Nephritis)

This medicine can be given to treat certain urinary issues as well. It is useful to treat bedwetting that occurs at night. Those who need it tend to pass excessive amount of strong smelling dark urine in bed at night. It is also well indicated to manage cystitis (bladder inflammation) and urethritis (urethra inflammation). It is also accompanied by burning pain. It also helps in kidney pain. The kidney pain gets worse when one rises after stooping. This pain gets better upon passing urine. It is also indicated for nephritis (inflammation of kidneys) cases. In those who need it, scalding occurs during urination. The urine may stain clothes dirty brown.

Key Indicating Features

Bedwetting at night – passage of excessive amount of strong smelling dark urine

Kidney pain worse when rising from stooping

Kidney pain better by passing excessive urine

8. Skin Issues (Warts, Itching)

Medorrhinum has marked action on the skin. This medicine is mainly indicated to treat warts (fleshy bumps on skin caused by human papilloma virus) on skin. It is most helpful in cases of small pedunculated warts. It proves very beneficial to manage skin itching. There are no eruptions on the skin. One feels like scratching skin until it bleeds. The itching increases at night. Itching is continuous in many cases. Itching also gets worse when one just thinks about it. This medicine also works well when itching occurs specifically over the left side of the body. This medicine also offers help to relieve pricking sensation on the entire body.

Key Indicating Features

Small pedunculated warts on skin

Skin itching worse at night

Itching worse when thinking of it

9. Respiratory Problems (Cough, Asthma)

This medicine also acts well on the respiratory system. It is useful in managing cough. The cough is dry, hacking type. It gets worse when one eats sweets. A characteristic feature is that one gets relief from coughing by lying on the stomach. Its use is also recommended to manage asthma cases. The guiding feature for its use is that the asthma gets better by lying on the abdomen with the protruding tongue. The sufferer has cough with wheezing and whistling in chest occurring when lying on the side or the back. There is desire to take a deep breath. There may be ropy mucus that is difficult to expectorate.

Key Indicating Features

Cough worsens from eating sweet things

Cough gets better by lying on the stomach

Asthma better by lying on abdomen and protruding tongue

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse in damp and cold weather, 3:00 am to 4:00 am, from sunrise to sunset, when one thinks of the complaints

Relieving factors: Complaints get better at seashore, in fresh air, bending backwards, lying on the abdomen

Dosage

Use of this medicine is recommended in high potencies. This medicine should not be repeated frequently.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Ipecac

Followed well by: Sulphur and Thuja

It can be compared with medicines including Natrum Sulph, Thuja and Pulsatilla

 

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Top 7 Natural Homeopathic Remedies for Post Nasal Drip

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 241 Comments

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

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

Homeopathy offers long term relief and cure

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

Individualized Medication

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

Safe, side effects-free medicines

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

homeopathic medicines for post nasal drip

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Post Nasal Drip

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

 1. Hydrastis – For PND With Thick Ropy Secretion    

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

When to use Hydrastis?

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

How to use Hydrastis?

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

2. Kali Bichrome – For Post Nasal Drip With Sinusitis

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

When to use Kali Bichrome?

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

How to use Kali Bichrome?

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

3. Corallium Rubrum – For PND With Cough

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

When to use Corallium Rubrum?

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

How to use Corallium Rubrum?

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

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

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

When to use Natrum Mur?

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

How to use Natrum Mur?

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

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

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

When to use Hepar Sulph?

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

How to use Hepar Sulph?

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

6. Natrum Phos – For Managing Acid Reflux And PND

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

When to use Natrum Phos?

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

How to use Natrum Phos?

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

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

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

When to use Sticta?

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

How to use Sticta?

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

Symptoms of Postnasal Drip

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

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

2. Hawking and an urge to clear the throat frequently

3. A sore throat, and chronic cough

4. Hoarse voice

5. Bad breath

6. Painful ear infections

Causes of PND

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Pregnancy

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

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

Pathophysiology

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

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Kali Muriaticum: Homeopathic Medicine — Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 23 Comments

The remedy Kali Muriaticum is derived from potassium chloride. Potassium chloride is inert in its crude state and when it goes through potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines via which medicinal properties of a crude substance are aroused), it gets converted into a brilliant homeopathic medicine Kali Muriaticum. It is one of the 12 biochemic medicines in homeopathy also known by the name of Schuessler’s twelve tissue remedies. Its use is highly recommended for cases of ear infection, cold and sore throat. Complaints attended with thick white discharges is one of the marked indications pointing towards its use.

Drug Action

This medicine’s chief action is noted on the ears, nose and throat. It also manifests its action on head, mouth, respiratory system, limbs and joints.

Clinical Indications

Ear disorders, otitis externa, otitis media, eustachian tube congestion, otorrhoea, cold, nasal congestion, epistaxis, sore throat, tonsillitis, headache, dandruff, sinusitis, mouth ulcers, oral thrush, stomatitis, cough, bronchitis, joint pains

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Ear Complaints (Ear Infection, Ear Discharge, Blocked Eustachian Tube, Noises In Ear)

Kali Muriaticum acts magnificently on the ears and is of special service in treating numerous ear-related problems. It is a superior remedy in treating cases of infection of outer ear canal (otitis externa also known as swimmer’s ear) and middle ear infection (otitis media). It is mainly used when white discharge comes out from the ears. Ear discharge is medically known as otorrhoea. Ear ache and difficulty in hearing are also felt due to swollen and congested middle ear. Swelling of the glands around the ear may be noted as well. It acts favourably on the eustachian tube (a thin tube that connects the throat to middle ear). Kali Muriaticum can manage cases of blocked, sore and swollen eustachian tube. In cases of blocked eustachian tube, its use is preferred when there is difficulty in hearing. Along with this there is a sensation of fullness and being plugged in the ears. Noises are felt in ears (tinnitus). Its use is considered mainly for popping or snapping noises in ears. It can also be given for crackling noises that arise when swallowing or when blowing the nose.

Key Indicating Features

Infection of outer ear canal or middle ear

Ear discharge (otorrhoea) of white color

Earache and difficulty in hearing from swollen and congested middle ear

Blocked eustachian tube with difficult hearing, fullness/plug sensation in the ears and noises

Popping or snapping noises in ears or  crackling noises on swallowing / when blowing the nose

2. Nasal Problems (Cold, Frontal Sinusitis, Nasal Bleeding)

Its action is also marked on the nose. Kali Muriaticum has a considerable clinical reputation as a medicine for some of nasal complaints. Among these, it is a powerful medicine to manage cases of cold. The guiding feature to use it in cold is white colored mucus discharge from the nose. The discharge is thick, profuse and along with this sneezing is present. There may be hawking of mucus from posterior nares as well. A stuffed feeling in head is felt. It is also well indicated for frontal sinusitis with white mucus discharge from nose. It is a beneficial medicine to manage cases of bleeding from nose (epistaxis). It occurs mostly in the afternoon or at night. Bleeding especially occurs from the right nostril. Lastly, it can also manage cases of stuffy cold well.

Key Indicating Features

Cold with thick, white, profuse discharge from nose

Frontal sinusitis with white mucus discharge from nose

Nasal bleeding in afternoon or at night

3. Throat Issues (Sore Throat, Tonsillitis)

Kali Mur is highly recommended for managing sore throat . There is greyish-white coating in throat along with ulcers. In cases needing it, there is hawking of thick, white, mucus, cheesy small lumps having bad odor and taste. It is also useful for cases of tonsillitis. There is swelling, inflammation and enlargement of tonsils. The tonsils may be covered with white or whitish grey coating. There is intense pain in the throat while swallowing even water.

Key Indicating Features

Sore throat with greyish white coating in throat along with ulcers

Hawking of thick, white, mucus, cheesy small lumps having bad odor and taste

Tonsillitis – swollen, enlarged tonsils covered white/whitish grey with intense pain when swallowing

4. Head (Headache, Dandruff)

With its action on head, Kali Mur proves highly effective in managing headache. It has a great capacity to relieve sinus headache. Here the characteristic to use it is headache with hawking of white mucus. The frontal sinuses are affected. Along with headache, sneezing and cold is experienced. Its use is indicated for headache accompanied by vomiting of white phlegm. Lastly, it also treats dandruff. It works well mainly when there is excessive dandruff which is white, falling as small flakes. It is attended with scalp itching.

Key Indicating Features

Sinus headache with hawking of white mucus

Headache with vomiting of white phlegm

White dandruff in excess that falls as small flakes with itching

5. Mouth (Ulcers, Oral Thrush, Stomatitis, Coated Tongue)

Kali Mur gives considerable relief in cases of mouth ulcers. Those needing it have ulcers inside the lips and upper surface of tongue. It is accompanied by excessive saliva. It is a prominently indicated medicine for treating cases of oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth). In these cases, it suits well when there are white ulcers in mouth. The breath is very fetid with ulcers. The taste of mouth can be salty or bitter. Besides, Kali Mur is a valuable medicine for treating cases of stomatitis (inflamed, sore mouth). The entire mucus surface of mouth is red with multiple grey ulcers. This medicine is also important for cases where tongue is coated greyish white, thick, sticky and slimy.

Key Indicating Features

Ulcers inside the lips and the upper surface of tongue with excessive saliva

Oral thrush with white ulcers in mouth

Stomatitis with redness of entire mucus membrane of mouth along with multiple grey ulcers

Tongue coated greyish white, thick, sticky and slimy

6. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Bronchitis, Pneumonia)

Kali Mur has a great tendency to relieve cough. Its use is mainly preferred when cough is attended with thick, white sputum expectoration. Its use can be done in managing cases of bronchitis (inflammation of bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) and pneumonia (inflammation and infection of air sacs of lungs). There is formation of thick white mucus which is hard to cough up. Rattling sounds are heard when air passes through thick, sticky mucus in bronchi.

Key Indicating Features

Cough with thick, white sputum expectoration

Respiratory complaints with thick white mucus formation which is hard to cough up

7. Limbs And Joints (Joint Pains, Chilblains, Stiffness)

In case of joints, Kali Mur is very useful in managing joint pains. In cases needing it, joint pains are mainly felt during movement or at night. Swelling around the joints is well-marked. It can be given to persons who persistently have cold hands and feet. Its use can be done in chilblains cases as well. Lastly, its use is suggested to manage stiffness of hands while writing.

Key Indicating Features

Joint pain during movement or at night with marked swelling

Cold hands and feet

Stiff hands while writing

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from cold drinks, fatty food, in open air and at night

Relieving factors: Complaints get better from cold drinks, rubbing and movement

Dosage

Use of this medicine is recommended in low potency varying from third to twelfth power. Among these, it is most frequently used in 6X potency. In 6X potency, it can be taken three to four times a day depending on the case presentation.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Antidoted by: Belladonna, Hydrastis, Calcarea Sulph and Pulsatilla

It can be compared with medicines Kali Bichrome and Hydrastis in case of thick, tough mucus secretions.

In case of joint complaints, it can be compared with medicines Bryonia and Rhus Tox.

Lastly, its comparison is done with medicine Mercurius Dulcis in eustachian tube complaint and ear inflammation.

 

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Top 5 Homeopathic medicines for a Dry Cough

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 81 Comments

Cough is a common reflex action to clear breathing passages and airways. A dry cough refers to a cough free from mucus or phlegm also known as non – productive cough. A dry cough is annoying and troublesome and makes a person restless. In some persons, dry cough occurs in a continuous spasm, making the person anxious.  It may also cause difficulty in breathing and sleeping. Depending on the cause behind dry cough, few signs and symptoms can attend. These include runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, chest pain, headache, breathing difficulty, wheezing, watery itchy eyes, post nasal discharge, fever and heartburn.

homeopathic treatment for a dry cough

Homeopathy offers a very safe and effective treatment for dry cough. Homeopathic medicines work naturally to reduce the severity of dry cough setting relief gradually and completely. Besides, they also manage any associated symptoms like headache, chest pain, breathing difficulty and wheezing. Homeopathic medicines for treating dry cough are made up of natural substances and are very safe. Homeopathic medicines not only provide relief in acute cases of dry cough but also help to stop the recurring tendency of the disease. Conventional treatment mainly uses medicines which are cough suppressants. They distort the body’s natural healing processes, make the body dull and can lead to many side effects. Homeopathic medicines do not suppress cough temporarily but use the body’s restorative processes to treat cough and give long-term relief without slowing down body processes.

As dry cough can arise from different causes such as infections, allergies, post nasal drip, so homeopathy aims to address this root cause. This way, rather than short term relief, it results in complete recovery. With the approach of proper identification of cause and its treatment, homeopathy promises great cures.

In homeopathy, an individualized prescription is recommended in cases of dry cough. It means the medicine is finalised as per the characteristic signs and symptoms of the patient in every case. This properly prescribed remedy can bring wonderful cures in cases of dry cough. Expert guidance from a homeopath is needed to select homeopathic medicine and its dosage, potency and repetition as it varies from case to case. Self-medication should be avoided.

Homeopathic medicines are natural remedies which work very gently yet effectively to treat dry cough. They have no side effects as they have no toxins or chemicals. Cases of dry cough respond exceedingly well to natural homeopathic treatment.

Top 5 Homeopathic Medicines For Dry Cough

The top listed homeopathic medicines to manage dry cough are Bryonia, Drosera, Spongia, Rumex and Belladonna.

1. Bryonia – Top Medicine For Dry Cough

Bryonia is the top-most medicine for managing cases of dry cough. On coughing, pain may be felt in the head and chest. The pain is mainly stitching type. It feels as if the head and chest would break into pieces from pain. Pain may also be felt in the abdominal muscles while coughing. The cough worsens from eating or drinking. At times, vomiting of food occurs while coughing. Bryonia is also indicated when cough increases when a person enters a warm room.
When to use Bryonia?
Bryonia is the most commonly used medicine for treating dry cough especially with pain in head and chest.
How to use Bryonia?
It is a short-acting medicine that can be repeated frequently. Bryonia 30C can be taken three to four times a day at a three-hour interval.

2. Drosera – For Dry Cough At Night

Drosera is the most important medicine to manage dry cough that gets worse at night. A very peculiar feature to use this medicine is cough as soon as a person lies down at night. Besides, this medicine is suitable when cough gets worse while laughing or singing. In some cases needing it, vomiting may occur with cough.
When to use Drosera?
For dry cough that gets worse at night as soon as a person lies down, Drosera is highly recommended.
How to use Drosera?
Initially, Drosera 30C can be used two to three times a day. Once relief starts, the dose should be reduced.

3. Spongia – For Dry Cough That Gets Better By Warm Food Or Drinks

Spongia suits well when dry cough gets better by taking warm food or warm drinks. Cough is absolutely dry. Along with cough, burning may be felt in the chest. Cough worsens from lying down and gets better by sitting up. In some cases, wheezing and weight are felt in the chest. Besides, difficult breathing can be there which gets worse by talking or moving. Spongia is very effective for managing dry cough in bronchitis and asthma.
When to use Spongia?
Spongia is the best remedy in cases of dry cough which is relieved by intake of warm food or warm drinks.
How to use Spongia?
It works well in both low and high potency. To start with, 30C potency is usually preferred and can be taken once or twice a day.

4. Rumex – For Dry Cough From Temperature Change From Cold To Warm Or Vice Versa

Rumex is a very effective medicine for dry cough that arise from sudden change of temperature from cold to warm or warm to cold. Cough happens from tickling/irritation in the throat pit. Another very specific indication to use Rumex is cough that occurs by inhaling cold air. In majority of the cases needing Rumex, coughing is the most troublesome during the day. Besides cough, there is marked weakness and headache. Sometimes, few urine drops escape involuntarily while coughing.
When to use Rumex?
Rumex should be selected in dry cough cases that are triggered from change of temperature from cold to warm or vice versa along with irritation in the throat pit.
How to use Rumex?
It is advised to take Rumex 30C one or two times a day.

5. Belladonna – For Persistent Cough Day And Night

This herbal medicine is very useful when dry cough occurs day and night. It occurs from a tickling sensation in the throat. Along with cough, the throat is red and inflamed. Headache may attend cough. Its use is also recommended for cough that arises from inhaling fine dust in air.
When to use Belladonna?
Belladonna can be used to calm dry cough that persists day and night along with a red, inflamed throat.
How to use Belladonna?
It can be used in low (30C) as well as high potencies (like 200C and 1M). The dose varies from case to case. Usually in the beginning, 30C potency can be used twice or thrice a day.

Causes Behind Dry Cough

1. Viral infections: Viral infections, like common cold and flu, can cause cough. In such cases, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing tend to resolve early but cough may take a few weeks to resolve and in some even one to two months.

2. Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI): It refers to an infection of nose, pharynx, larynx, bronchi with virus or bacteria. Some examples include common cold, pharyngitis, and sinusitis.

3. Asthma: It is an inflammatory disease in which airways swell, constrict and produce excessive mucus. Cough in asthma can be productive or dry but most of the time, it is dry along with its main symptom of difficulty in breathing, tightness in chest and also wheezing. However, in cough variant asthma (an asthma type), dry cough is the main symptom.

4. Bronchitis: It refers to inflammation of bronchial tubes via which the air passes from the trachea to the lungs. In bronchitis, cough is dry in the initial stages but gets productive afterwards.

5. Post nasal drip: It means dripping of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat. PND tends to irritate nerves in the throat leading to cough.

6. Allergies: People suffering from nasal allergy (allergic rhinitis) can get cough along with other symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itchy watery eyes.

7. COVID-19: Dry cough can be a symptom of COVID – 19. About 50 to 70 % people having coronavirus infection suffer dry cough along with other symptoms like fever, sore throat, weakness.

8. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): It refers to back flow of stomach acid into the food pipe and throat. This acid can cause cough by irritating the throat.

9. Air pollution, dust and smoke can also trigger dry cough.

10.  A dry cough may be the result of overexertion or a psychological condition. Sometimes, people develop a habit of coughing, especially under stress or even without any stress.

11. Some other rare causes are idiopathic lung fibrosis (in this scar tissue forms in lungs), lung cancer and heart failure.

 

 

 

 

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Kali Sulphuricum: Homeopathic Medicine – Its Use, Indications And Dosage

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

Homeopathic medicine Kali Sulphuricum is prepared from potassium sulphate which is inactive in its crude form. After potentization (process of preparing homeopathic medicines that arouses medicinal properties of a crude substance), it gets converted into a highly beneficial homeopathic medicine Kali Sulphuricum. It is one of the 12 biochemic medicines also called Schuessler’s twelve tissue remedies. It offers great help in managing various skin complaints (like psoriasis, eczema), dandruff (seborrhoea) and cold.

Drug Action

The most important action of this remedy is noted on the skin, mucus membranes, scalp and respiratory system. Its action is well marked on the nose, ears and head. It is one of the best medicines in homeopathy for complaints presenting with yellow coloured discharge.

Clinical Indications

Dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, cold, sinusitis, cough asthma, bronchitis, eustachian catarrh (mucus build up), headache, otorrhoea (ear discharges), ozaena, pneumonia, polyps

Scope As A Homeopathic Remedy

1. Skin Problems (Scaling, Psoriasis, Seborrhoeic Dermatitis, Eczema, Ringworm, Itching And Ulcers)

Kali Sulphuricum acts magnificently on the skin to treat numerous skin concerns. It majorly helps skin conditions in which there occurs excessive scaliness, flakiness and peeling of the skin. The scales are specifically yellow in colour where it is required. It is a highly recommended medicine in homeopathy to treat psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition characterized by patches of inflammation on the skin covered with silvery white scales. It is given when there is marked flakiness of the skin. Its use is considered in cases of ringworm (fungal infection causing ring-shaped lesions on the skin). It gives good results when ringworm affects the scalp or the beard area. The lesions are covered with scales where this medicine is required. In seborrheic dermatitis, Kali Sulph can be very helpful when flakes are yellow.  It is a skin condition in which there occurs red, itchy rash with flaky scales mainly on the scalp, around the nose, behind the ears, eyebrows and the eyelids. Its role in treating eczema is also marvellous. It is well indicated when papular (solid raised area on the skin less than 1cm) eruptions appear on the skin along with itching and burning sensation. It is given in cases of skin itching. For using it here, the notable feature is skin itching getting worse from heat. Lastly, it is effective in treatment of skin ulcers, especially the ones that ooze thin and yellow watery liquid.

Key Indicating Features

Psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis with marked scaling on the skin

Ringworm on the scalp or in the beard area when lesions are covered with much scales

Eczema with papules attended with itching, burning

Skin ulcers oozing thin yellow watery liquid

2. Nose (Cold, Sinusitis And Ozaena)

It has marked action on the mucus membrane of the nose which helps manage cold. The guiding symptom to use it is yellow, thick and slimy discharge from the nose. Nose feels blocked. It can be used in cases of sinusitis (inflammation of the lining of the paranasal sinuses that are air – filled spaces inside the skull) as well. In such cases it can be given when there is thick and green nasal discharge. Kali Sulphuricum is also considered in treating ozaena. Ozaena is also called atrophic rhinitis in which there is shrinking of nasal mucus lining and the underneath bone due to long term inflammation. In these cases, it works well when there is thick yellow and offensive nasal discharge along with loss of smell and taste. It proves very effective for treating complaints that remain after removal of adenoids like swelling of the nasal membrane, mouth breathing and snoring.

Key Indicating Features

Cold with yellow, thick, slimy discharge from the nose

Sinusitis with thick, green nasal discharges

Ozaena with thick yellow offensive nasal discharge along with loss of smell and taste

Swelling of nasal membrane, mouth breathing and snoring remaining after removal of adenoids

3. Ears (Ear Discharge, Deafness, Polyps)

Kali Sulpuricum is the most helpful to manage ear discharges. It works best for yellow or brownish discharge from the ears which stinks. It also treats polyps (non-cancerous growths) in the ear when accompanied with offensive discharge. Lastly, it is well indicated for managing deafness caused by swelling and mucus build- up in the middle ear and the eustachian tube.

Key Indicating Features

Yellow or brown offensive discharge from the ears

Ear polyps with offensive discharge

Deafness from swelling and mucus build-up in middle ear and eustachian tube

4. Head (Dandruff, Headache)

Kali Sulph yields excellent results in cases of dandruff (seborrhoea). Kali Sulphuricum is one of the best homeopathic medicines for cases in which there occurs excessive scaling on the scalp and the scales are moist, sticky and yellow. It is recommended for treating headache. It is useful when headache occurs from head movement from side to side or backwards. Next characteristic is headache worsens in a warm room and relieved in open air.

Key Indicating Features

Dandruff with copious scaling on the scalp when the scales are moist, sticky, yellow

Headache from head movement from side to side or backwards

Headache worse in warm room and relieved in open air

5. Respiratory Issues (Cough, Asthma, Bronchitis, Pneumonia)

This medicine can handle well certain respiratory problems too. It works well in cases of cough. It is well indicated when cough gets worse in hot weather. It can take care of bronchitis (inflammation of the lining of bronchial tubes that carry air to and from the lungs) cases. There is rattling of mucus in the chest. There is yellow, slimy and thin profuse mucus expectoration. Kali Sulpuricum can be utilized in asthma cases as well when there is yellow slimy expectoration. In pneumonia (infection and inflammation of the air sacs of lungs), it is recommended when there is wheezing in the chest and yellow rattling mucus that is expectorated with difficulty.

Key Indicating Features

Cough worse in hot weather

Bronchitis with mucus rattling and expectoration of yellow, slimy, thin profuse mucus

Asthma with yellow slimy expectoration

Pneumonia with wheezing and yellow rattling mucus that is expectorated with difficulty

Modalities

Worsening factors: Complaints get worse from noise, in evening, warm air, warm weather and heated room

Relieving factors: Complaints get better by walking, in cool open air, from passing gas and from fasting

Dosage

This medicine can be used in both low and high potency but the most preferred is 6x potency. When using 6X potency it can be taken three to four times a day depending on the case details. In high potencies, frequent repetition should be avoided.

Relationship with Other Remedies

Followed well by: Acetic Acid, Arsenic Album, Calcarea Carb, Hepar Sulph, Pulsatilla, Sepia, Silicea and Sulphur

It can be compared with other remedies including Kali Bichrome, Natrum Mur and Pulsatilla

 

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Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Bronchitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 55 Comments

Homeopathic Remedies For Bronchitis

Bronchitis refers to the inflamed lining of bronchial tubes through which air passes to and from the lungs. Along with inflammation, airways get filled with mucus leading to cough. Prolonged coughing, mucus expectoration of varying color, pain in the chest, difficulty in breathing – all these symptoms are indicative of bronchitis. The acute inflammation of bronchial tubes (acute bronchitis) usually follows an episode of cold or influenza caused by viral agents. The cold and influenza affect the upper respiratory system, including nose, sinuses, and larynx. In cases of maltreated or neglected cold or influenza, the infection travels in a downward direction and leads to inflammation of bronchial tubes, producing varying symptoms.

Homeopathy is a natural mode of treatment which serves a very reliable and safe treatment to get rid of bronchitis. Homeopathic medicines are free from any side effects and there is absolutely no chance of suppression of symptoms in the homeopathic treatment of Bronchitis. Homeopathic remedies for bronchitis effectively help in reducing inflammation of bronchial tubes.  These serves as natural expectorant to aid easy exit of the mucus from the bronchi. As the mucus is effortlessly thrown out, the cough, chest pain and difficulty in breathing also begin to subside and almost finish subsequently consequently. Modern system of medicine usually recommends cough suppressants, inhalers and antibiotics that act for a short time due to which the complaint may not resolve completely and additionally side effects may also follows its usage. While homeopathy acts on the root of the problem to provide complete recovery with no adverse after effects.

Homeopathic medicines target the underlying cause of bronchitis for effective cure. It boosts body’s stamina to overcome health illness in a natural way. It never suppresses the complaint that eliminates chances of recurrence of problem again and again. Rather it works on the main reason causing bronchitis to help in achieving cure.

There are many natural and herbal remedies in homeopathy to help cases of bronchitis. But as homeopathy is a symptom-based science, medicines are not prescribed only based on the disease name rather medicines are recommended based on the characteristic individual symptoms in each case separately. With the help of properly selected medicines and potency, excellent recoveries occur in cases of bronchitis.

Homeopathy is recommended for both acute as well as chronic cases of bronchitis. To get total cure, a complete course of homeopathic treatment needs to be followed as per guidelines of a homeopathic doctor. Self-medication may not help as the medicine, its potency, dosage, repetition vary from person to person.

Homeopathy is safe to use among persons of all age groups. The main advantage of homeopathy is has no side effects thus is 100% safe to use. Medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances.

Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Bronchitis

The top recommended homeopathic medicines for bronchitis are Bryonia, Antimonium Tart, Arsenic Album, Hepar Sulph, Pulsatilla and Ipecac.

1. Bryonia – For Dry Cough

Bryonia is the best medicine for managing dry cough in bronchitis cases. Persons needing it have cough with irritation in the throat. Pain is felt in the chest and head while coughing. The cough gets worse after eating or drinking. It also increases from movement and talking. Besides, sneezing and scratchy sensation is felt in the throat. Fever with chills can also accompany.

When to use Bryonia?

Bryonia should be considered in the early stages of bronchitis when there is dry cough along with pain in the chest and head.

How to use Bryonia?

This medicine is recommended in 30C potency. Bryonia 30C can be taken three to four times a day at a three-hour interval.

2. Antimonium Tart – For Bronchitis With Loose Rattling Cough

Antimonium Tart is a natural remedy for bronchitis with loose rattling cough. The bronchial tubes are overloaded with mucus and mucus is heard rattling in the chest while coughing. The mucus does not get expelled easily and if it does get coughed out, the quantity is meagre. Antimonium Tart is of great help in relieving cough and aiding the expectoration of the mucus present in bronchial tubes. Whistling and a feeling of heaviness in the chest occurs along with the above symptoms.

When to use Antimonium Tart?

It is the first medicine to be prescribed when cough is loose and a rattling sound is heard while breathing due to excess mucus lodged in bronchial tubes. Whistling in the chest may occur.

How to use Antimonium Tart?

Antimonium Tart can be taken once or twice a day in 30C potency.

3. Arsenic Album – For Cough, Breathing Difficulty And Wheezing In Chest

Arsenic Album is highly recommended for cases in which there occurs cough with difficulty in breathing and wheezing /whistling in the chest. In most cases needing it, the cough gets worse at night. The phlegm is frothy white or thick yellow, may be blood streaked in some cases. During cough, soreness is felt in the chest, which may also feel tight sometimes. Following an episode of cough, one feels very weak.

When to use Arsenic Album?

Arsenic Album can be used in cases presenting with cough, difficult breathing and wheezing in chest when the complaint is of mild intensity.

How to use Arsenic Album?

It is usually given in 30C potency once or twice a day. Its higher potencies are also used in some cases for which homeopathic doctor’s advice is a must.

4. Hepar Sulph – For Loose Cough With Yellow Sputum

It is a well indicated medicine for cases having loose cough with yellow sticky sputum. The expectorated phlegm is abundant. Cough gets worse from exposure to cold air or from drinking cold water. In some cases requiring it, blood-stained mucus is expectorated. While coughing, burning in the throat and chest are felt. Sneezing may occur.

When to use Hepar Sulph?

This medicine is most helpful for cases of loose cough with yellow sputum expectoration.

How to use Hepar Sulph?

It is mostly recommended in 30 C potency twice or thrice a day as per the severity of the problem. Its higher potencies like 200C, 1M are also available but they should not be used without a doctor’s prescription.

5. Pulsatilla – For Cough With Thick Yellow Or Green Expectoration

Pulsatilla is an ideal herbal medicine for bronchitis when cough is attended with thick yellow or green mucus expectoration. The sputa may have bitter, salty or a bad taste. Cough gets worse in the morning and also in a warm room, while it gets better in open air.

When to use Pulsatilla?

Pulsatilla is the best choice of medicine for cough with thick yellow or green phlegm expectoration.

How to use Pulsatilla?

Pulsatilla 30C once or twice a day gives good results.

6. Ipecac – For Rattling Cough With Vomiting

Ipecac is another medicine for cough that is similar when Antimonium Tart is recommended. But Ipecac is considered when cough with rattling of mucus in bronchi is followed by vomiting. It is suggested when there is coughing with excessive mucus in bronchial tubes and constant coughing does not seem to expel the mucus from bronchial tubes. Ipecac helps in expelling the mucus out with the least effort. Slight blood can be noticed in the coughed out sputa. Shortness of breath and a constricted sensation in the chest may be present. Wheezing (breathing noisily), sneezing and cold may accompany the above symptoms.

When to use Ipecac?

Ipecac can be given in case of loose rattling cough with vomiting.

How to use Ipecac?

It can be used in varying potencies varying from 6C to 200C. Ipecac is generally used in 30C potency two to three times a day.

Note: Use of the above medicines is recommended only in mild to moderate cases of bronchitis as per symptoms. After matching the symptoms, one may take these medicines for about one week if the condition improves. To continue these for more than one week, or if there is no visible sign of improvement, consult a homeopathic doctor. In severe cases like high fever, extreme difficulty in breathing, chest pain or pneumonia, it is strictly advised not to self-medicate with any of the above medicines, take immediate help from conventional mode of treatment.

Causes Of Bronchitis

1. Acute Bronchitis:It commonly arises from viruses that cause common cold and flu (influenza). These viral infections are the cause behind 85-95 per cent of all the acute bronchitis cases in adults.

Rarely, acute bronchitis can result from bacterial infections like chlamydia pneumoniae, mycoplasma pneumoniae, etc.

2. Chronic Bronchitis: The common reason for chronic bronchitis is cigarette smokingin about 90% of the cases. Passive smoking also increases the risk. Prolonged exposure to polluted air, dust or chemical fumesmay also be one of the reasons. Repeated bouts of acute bronchitis also may turn into chronic bronchitis. Those having asthma or allergic tendency are also predisposed to chronic bronchitis.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Bronchitis?

1. Cough is the main symptom. Initially, the cough can be dry. Afterward, the cough becomes productive which means loose cough with production of mucus. The mucus can be clear, white, yellow, green, grey in colour. At times, mucus is even blood-stained though very rarely. Cough may last from one week to three weeks.

2. Difficulty in breathing

3. Fever and chills

4. Wheezing or whistling sound from chest on breathing and chest congestion/discomfort /tightness

5. Weakness, fatigue

6. In acute bronchitis, symptoms like runny nose, blocked nose, sore throat, headache and body aches may be present.

Types of Bronchitis

Acute bronchitis (chest cold): It generally lasts for one week to ten days, but the cough may linger for two to three weeks in some cases.

Chronic bronchitis: Bronchitis is termed chronic, when cough along with mucus lasts for minimum three months in a year with recurrence at least in two consecutive years.

Risk factors

Though anyone can get infected by bronchitis but infants (babies less than one year of age), young kids (under 5yrs) and elderly people are at the highest risk. Other risk factors include low immunity, cigarette smoking, excessive exposure to dust, chemical fumes, air pollutants and acid reflux (where stomach acid back-flows in upward direction to throat and causes irritation predisposing a person to develop bronchitis).

Complications

In some cases, pneumonia (inflamed air sacs that get filled with fluid) may occur as a complication. It can be life threatening and require immediate medical attention.

 

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