Search Results for: top 4 headache

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Get rid of Headache due to Gas with simple Homeopathic medicines

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 4 Comments

Headache is a very common health issue experienced by almost everyone sometime or the other. It can happen from multiple reasons, one of the reasons being gas. Certain symptoms attending gas like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, abdomen pain and acid reflux can trigger headache.

Why Homeopathic Treatment?

There is great scope of treating headache due to gas in homeopathy. Homeopathic medicines target gas-causing reasons to bring relief in headache. These medicines also work in managing associated gastric issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, abdomen pain, acid reflux that could be triggering a headache. Homeopathy manages these gastric issues and headache in a natural manner without any side effects.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Headache Caused By Gas

Among various homeopathic medicines for managing headache due to gas, the top recommended ones are Carbo Veg, Lycopodium, China, Nux Vomica and Iris Versicolor.

1. Carbo Veg – Top Grade Medicine

Carbo Veg is a leading medicine to manage headache due to gas. In cases needing it, there is excessive gas in the abdomen along with heaviness and bloating especially in the upper abdomen. The pain in the head may be felt in the forehead over the eyes or in the entire head. A pressure is felt across the forehead, sides and top of the head.  Head feels heavy as well. Nausea is present along with headache. Burning in the stomach and sour burps can occur as well. Burping occurs especially after eating or drinking.

2. Lycopodium – With Gas In Lower Abdomen Soon After Eating

Lycopodium is an effective medicine for gas in the abdomen soon after eating, attended with headache. Even eating little food causes gas formation and abdomen fullness. Gas gets accumulated in the lower abdomen and there is much passage of gas from the anus. The gastric issue and headache, though may arise anytime but is usually worse from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Headache occurs especially on the right side. It may go from one side of the head to another as well. Headache is triggered when not eating at regular intervals. Lying down worsens the pain. There is relief in pain from eating.

3. China – With Gas And Bloating Of Whole Abdomen

This medicine works well for headache with gas and bloating of the whole abdomen. Headache is throbbing, bursting type. Pain gets worse from head movement. There is relief by applying hard pressure over the head. Gas in the abdomen is felt till long after eating. Due to gas in the abdomen, pain can be present as well. Bitter burps also occur. There may also arise vomiting of undigested food in some cases.

4. Nux Vomica – With Gas And Constipation

This medicine works magnificently when headache occurs along with gas and constipation. Pain may be felt in the forehead, the back of head or top of the head. There is pain in the stomach even with the least food, nausea may accompany. Constipation with an ineffectual urge to pass stool may be felt. Nux Vomica helps to relieve gas issues as well as constipation to relieve the gastric headache. Nux Vomica is also highly suitable for those who live a sedentary life (lifestyle with sitting for prolonged time periods with little to no physical activity or exercise) and consequent to it, suffer many gastric issues which further can lead to headache.

5. Iris Versicolor – With Gas, Heartburn, Acid Reflux

Iris Versicolor is a wonderful medicine to manage cases where headache occurs along with gas, heartburn (burning behind chest bone i.e. sternum in middle of chest), acid reflux (backflow of stomach acid into food pipe). In cases needing this medicine, headache is experienced in the forehead over eyes and sides of the head. A sensation of a band around the head is also felt. Nausea and vomiting are also well marked. Vomiting is of bitter, sour watery matter. Headache with loose stool is also treated well with this medicine.

6. Pulsatilla – Headache From Gas And Indigestion From Fatty Food

This medicine is prominently indicated when there is a headache from gas and also from indigestion from eating fatty food (like ghee, cream). Mostly one sided headache is felt in cases needing it. The pain is pulsating, bursting type. Headache may be better by walking in open air. With headache the abdomen may be painful and distended. There is rumbling of wind in the upper abdomen. Burps that taste of food eaten are prominent.

7. Ipecac – With Gas, Nausea, Vomiting

Ipecac is one of the best medicines when headache occurs from gas along with nausea and vomiting. Aching, throbbing and pressure are felt in the forehead. Nausea is constant. Vomiting of watery fluid occurs, but vomiting does not relieve nausea.

8. Bryonia – With Gas And Constipation With Dry, Hard Stool

This medicine is well indicated when a person suffers from gas and constipation with dry hard stool along with headache. Headache is worse from movement. Pain is bursting, splitting type. Abdomen is distended and there is loud rumbling, gurgling in abdomen. Stomach is sensitive to touch. Pressure is felt in the stomach after eating.

9. Robinia – With Gas, Vomiting Of Sour Fluid

Use of Robinia is highly suggested to manage headache with gas and acidic vomiting. There is vomiting of intensely sour fluid. Heartburn at night while lying down may also appear. Continuous sharp pain in abdomen during day and at night may present sometimes.

10. Sanguinaria Can – For Headache With Gas, Gets Better By Vomiting

This medicine may be considered when headache occurs from gas. There is relief from a headache after vomiting. Pain begins in the back of the head that extends upwards to the top of head and thereafter settles over the right eye. Abdomen is distended with gas. Burning may also occur in the stomach along with headache. Vomiting can occur of bitter, sour fluid or food that has been eaten.

11. Sulphur – For Pain In Back Of Head With Gas, Nausea, Vomiting

Sulphur is prominently indicated for pain in the back of head with gas, nausea and vomiting. Headache is preceded by gas in the abdomen. The nature of pain in the head is tearing or throbbing type. Its use is also considered when headache worsens from eating warm food.

Gastric issues that can lead to headache

Gastrointestinal reflux disorder (GERD)

Gastrointestinal reflux disorder (GERD)

1.GERD (Gastrointestinal reflux disorder): It refers to the backflow of stomach acid into the food pipe. It arises when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes abnormally allowing stomach acid to back flow in the food pipe. It causes symptoms like heartburn, burning in throat, sour/bitter burping, chest pain and sour taste in mouth.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): It is a functional disorder of the large intestine causing altered bowel movements (diarrhoea or constipation), stomach cramps, bloating.

H. pylori bacteria

H. pylori bacteria

3. H. pylori infection:  It is an infection of the stomach caused by helicobacter pylori bacteria.  It causes gastritis or peptic ulcers (ulcers in lining of stomach or the first part of small intestine i.e. duodenum)

4. Constipation

5. IBD (Inflammatory bowel disease): It is a term to describe two inflammatory disorders of gastric tract. One is ulcerative colitis and the second is Crohn’s disease. In ulcerative colitis, there is inflammation and ulcers appear in the lining of the large intestine and rectum. In Crohn’s disease, there is inflammation of the lining in any part of the gastrointestinal tract and involves deeper layers of gastric tract.

6. Gastroparesis: It is also known as delayed gastric emptying. In this disorder, the muscle contractions of stomach get weak as a result of which the food remains in the stomach for an extended period of time. The contents of stomach thereby get into the duodenum very slowly. The symptoms mainly include abdomen pain, feeling full soon after one starts to eat, bloating, nausea, vomiting.

7. Celiac disease: In this disease, eating gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye, barley) causes damage to small intestine in the persons suffering from this disease out of an autoimmune response. The symptoms that it causes include diarrhoea, abdomen cramps, bloating and fatigue.

 

 

 

 

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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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Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 357 Comments
homeopathic medicines for chikungunya

Homeopathic medicines for chikungunya

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

Homeopathic Treatment     

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

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

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Chikungunya Fever

1. Polyporus Pinicola –  Top Medicine For Chikungunya Fever

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

2. Eupatorium Perfoliatum –  To Manage Fever And Pains

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

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

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

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

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

5. Actaea Spicata – To Manage Small Joint Pain

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

6. Arnica – To Manage Sore Bruised Pains

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

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

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

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

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

9. Arsenic Album – To Manage Weakness And Fever

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

10. Ipecac – For Relieving Nausea And Vomiting      

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

11. Euphrasia – For Managing Conjunctivitis

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

Cause And Transmission Of Chikungunya

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

What Are The Symptoms Of Chikungunya?

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

Most common symptoms are:

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

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

Other symptoms are as follows:

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

2. Headache, muscle pain, fatigue

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

What Are Its Complications?

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

Diagnosis of Chikungunya

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

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

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

Chikungunya Vs Dengue Fever

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

Preventive Tips

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

2. Control mosquito breeding.

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

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

5. Use insect repellants that have DEET or picaridin.

6. Use mosquito net to prevent mosquito bites.

 

 

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Top 5 Homeopathic medicines for a Dry Cough

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 82 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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Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Bronchitis

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 56 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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Top 10 Homeopathic Medicines For Treating Dry Throat

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 5 Comments

Dry throat is a very common problem that can arise simply from less fluid intake, dryness in air, cold winter months, or  it is a symptom of a medical health issue like allergic rhinitis, tonsillitis, strep throat, GERD, etc.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathy is highly effective in managing cases of dry throat. Homeopathic medicines bring gradual relief by targeting the root cause behind it. Along with dryness of throat, they also help to manage the attending signs and symptoms like sore, painful throat, inflamed tonsils, cough, voice hoarseness, and heartburn. The homeopathic prescription for dry throat cases varies depending on the attending symptoms and the cause behind it. So it is advised to consult a homeopathic physician before taking any homeopathic medicine. It is to be noted that when shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, high fever accompany throat dryness, one should take help from the conventional mode of treatment on urgent basis.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Dry Throat

1. Belladonna – For Throat Dryness And Sore, Inflamed Throat / Tonsils

This medicine is prepared from the plant ‘deadly nightshade’ of family Solanaceae. It is a very effective medicine for cases in which there is dryness, and inflammation of throat and tonsils. There is marked dryness on the roof of mouth and fauces (arched opening at the back of the mouth leading to pharynx). Burning and scraping sensation is felt in the throat and mouth. Swallowing may be difficult due to red, swollen tonsils with shooting, stinging type pain in the throat while swallowing. A lump in the throat sensation is also felt. Dry cough with tickling in the throat is yet another symptom. Fever may accompany the above-mentioned signs and symptoms.

2. Bryonia – For Excessive Roughness And Dryness Of Throat

It is prepared from root of the plant Bryonia Alba from family Cucurbitaceae. Use of this medicine is considered for cases in which there is excessive roughness, rawness and dryness of throat. There may be stitching pain in the throat while swallowing which causes irritation in the throat. Sometimes, there may be burning or crawling sensation in throat that induces cough.

3. Hepar Sulph – For Dry Throat And Tonsillitis

It is another medicine very helpful for relieving throat dryness and tonsillitis. There is usually stitching type of pain in the throat which extends to the ear. It worsens while  swallowing food. Smarting sensation and rawness is also felt in the throat. It appears as if a splinter or of a plug of mucus is stuck in the throat. The tonsils are red and swollen, studded  with enlarged reddish follicles or white pus points.

  4. Natrum Mur – For Dry Throat With Allergic Rhinitis

This medicine works well in cases of dry throat and allergic rhinitis. In cases requiring it, there is a feeling as of a plug in throat, rawness and burning pain in the throat. Besides, there is sneezing and watery discharge from the nose, some may complain of a blocked nose. Redness, itching and watering from eyes may be present. There may be cough with a tickling sensation in a dry sore spot in the throat.  Lastly, bitter or salty mucus is hawked from the throat.

5. Pulsatilla – For Dry Throat And Cold

This medicine is prepared from plant Pulsatilla Nigricans commonly called wind flower, from family Ranunculaceae. It is beneficial for cases in which a dry throat accompanies a cold.  A scraping sensation, rawness and scratching is felt in the throat, leading to cough in some cases. Dryness is mostly marked in the morning, when this medicine is required. Greenish yellow discharge comes out from the nose which gets worse indoors but better in open air. Nasal blockage and frequent sneezing can attend above symptoms.

6. Causticum – For Dry Throat And Voice Hoarseness

Causticum is an effective medicine when there is dryness of throat and hoarseness in voice. A constant desire to clear the throat occurs, there may be rawness and tickling in throat along with dry cough.

7. Drosera – For Throat Dryness And Cough

This natural medicine is prepared from plant Drosera Rotundifolia with common name ‘round leaved sundew’ from family Droseraceae. It is useful when the throat is dry along with dry, irritating cough. It may end in vomiting sometimes. There is stinging in throat while swallowing.

8. Phytolacca – When Burning In Throat Attends

It is prepared from plant Phytolacca decandra commonly known as ‘poke root’ or ‘red ink plant’ from family Phytolaccaceae. This medicine is recommended when the throat is dry, rough, sore and is accompanied by burning sensation. There is disposition to hawk frequently and clear the throat accompanied by cough sometimes. Swallowing is difficult along with the above symptoms. The tonsils are dark red, bluish, dark purple, congested and swollen. The breath is offensive.

9. Merc Sol – When Throat Is Constantly Dry

This medicine is indicated for constant dryness of throat. The tonsils are red, dark, enlarged and may have whitish spots or ulcers on them. It is attended with sharp pain. The pain may radiate to the ears. Swallowing is difficult along with bad odor from the mouth.

10. Robinia – For Dry Throat And Acid Reflux Symptoms

It is prepared from the fresh bark of young twigs of the plant Robinia Pseudacaciafrom family Leguminosae. It is an important medicine for managing throat dryness along with acid reflux. Persons needing it have dryness and scratching in throat. They have acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, sour belchings and vomiting of intensely sour fluid. The acidity symptoms are most marked at night on lying down.

What Causes Dry Throat?

The first medical issue that can lead to dryness in the throat is hay fever/allergic rhinitis. It is an auto-immune disease, in which the person’s immune system overreacts to allergens that are normally harmless to the people who are not suffering from allergy. Some of the common allergens are dust mites, pollen, grass, pet dander, mold,etc. Its symptoms are sneezing, runny nose or stuffed nose, itching in nose, eyes and cough. In case of nose blockage, the person breathes through the mouth that can lead to dryness in the throat.

Second is common cold, a viral infection of the nose and throat. Dryness, soreness and a scratchy sensation is felt in the throat. The other symptoms of common cold include runny nose, stuffy nose, cough, sneezing, bodyache and mild fever.

Next it can arise in case of flu (influenza), a respiratory illness caused by influenza virus. The symptoms in case of flu are quite similar to common cold but are severe than common cold. These includes stuffy nose, runny nose, dry throat, sore, scratchy throat, fever, chills, weakness, cough, and pain in head and muscles. It can have various complications including ear infection, sinus infection, pneumonia (inflamed air sacs in lungs) and bronchitis (inflamed bronchial tubes) and pharyngitis (inflamed throat).

Tonsillitis (Inflamation of tonsils, a mass of lymphoid tissue in the back of the throat one on either side) is yet another reason behind dry throat. Its signs and symptoms include sore throat, red swollen tonsils, dry throat, white spots on tonsils in some cases, fever, headache and bad breath.

Other than these, it can arise in case of strep throat, an infection of the throat caused by bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes. Its signs and symptoms are sore throat, dry throat, red, swollen, inflamed tonsils, white patches on the tonsils, fever, bodyache, swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Another cause for dry, scratchy throat is mononucleosis caused by an infection by the Epstein Barr virus (EBV). Its signs and symptoms are swollen tonsils, dry, scratchy throat, tiredness, fever, headache, muscle weakness, swollen lymph nodes in neck and armpits. Acid reflux, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux), can also lead to it when the stomach acid back-flows into the food pipe from stomach. Its common symptoms include burning sensation in chest behind sternum (breast bone), problem in swallowing, lump in throat sensation, nausea, and vomiting.

Sleeping with an open mouth can also lead to dry throat. The saliva that helps moisten the mouth and throat is dried by the air that result in dryness in the mouth and throat. A person who keeps the mouth open during sleep may also have other signs and symptoms that include bad breath, snoring and weakness during the day.

Some other causes for dryness in throat are dehydration, tobacco use, voice strain, some medication side effects (like from use of antihistamines), pollution, coughing and vomiting.

What Signs And Symptoms Can Attend It?

Dryness of throat can be accompanied by other signs and symptoms depending on the cause behind it. These include sore, painful throat; enlarged, swollen, inflamed tonsils; white patches or pus on the tonsils; cough, voice hoarseness, heartburn, vomiting and difficulty while swallowing. Some general symptoms that can attend are fever, fatigue, bodyache and muscle weakness.

 

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Top 6 Homeopathic Remedies for Ear Pain

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 61 Comments

Homeopathic Remedies for Ear pain

Ear pain is medically known as otalgia. Earache mostly troubles children though it may affect people of any age group. The pain may be in one ear or both, and it varies in intensity and can be mild, moderate or severe.  The nature of pain may also vary being dull, sharp, tearing, or throbbing. Earache usually occurs because of two reasons. The first is a primary or local cause, mainly an infection in the middle ear (Otitis Media). The second reason is the secondary or referred cause in which the pain does not start in the ear, but is referred secondarily to the ear through some primary problem in another part of the body.  Here, the primary problem can be in the teeth (dental caries, cutting the wisdom tooth) or throat infection (Tonsillitis).

Homeopathic medicines for ear pain offer a complete cure by treating the root cause of the condition. Prepared from natural substances, these remedies for ear pain have zero side effects. Homeopathic medicines along with ear pain also take care of its attending complaints like ear discharge, fullness sensation in ears, hearing difficulty, noises in ears, redness, and swelling of ears. Rather than providing temporary relief in pain with use of pain killers or antibiotics, homeopathic medicines give long term relief in ear pain. Homeopathic medicines also help to treat the tendency of recurrent ear pain occurring quite often. Homeopathy offers help in most cases of ear pain having mild to moderate intensity with no complications. However, in cases of severe intensity and in cases having complications,  help from conventional mode of treatment is recommended.

Homeopathy treats root cause

Ear pain has multiple causes and by addressing the underlying cause it can be cured. Homeopathic medicines target the root cause of ear pain which may be a result of infection, inflammation, sore throat, cold, or allergies. However, there are few causes where homeopathy has its limitations like ear drum perforation, and foreign object in the ear.

Individual medicine selection

Homeopathic medicines for cases of ear pain are finalised after a detailed case analysis in every individual case as homeopathy never prescribes the same medicine for every case of ear pain. The most suitable medicine is selected after a detailed symptom evaluation of the individual where the type of pain, its associated symptoms and the cause behind the pain are taken into account. Also, the potency, dose, repetition of the medicine are decided for every single case separately. So, self-medication should not be done and consultation with a homeopathic doctor should be done to use any homeopathic medicine.

Safe homeopathic medicines

Due to the use of natural remedies in homeopathy, there are no chance of any side effects in any case. These medicines are used in highly diluted forms that treat ear pain without toxic effects.

Top 6 Homeopathic Medicines For Ear Pain

The top most medicines for treating ear pain are Belladonna, Pulsatilla, Chamomilla, Verbascum Thapsus, Merc Sol and Plantago.

1. Belladonna – Top Grade Medicine For Ear Pain

Belladonna is a natural remedy which proves highly effective in cases of ear pain. In most cases needing it, there occurs throbbing, tearing, shooting or stitching pain in the ears. Pain feels very deep-rooted. The ear becomes hot and sensitive to touch. The slightest noise and chewing makes the earache worse. In some cases, pain from the ear spreads to the face. It is an ideal remedy for ear pain arising from acute inflammation/infection in the middle ear (Otitis Media) or from a throat infection with pain in the throat radiating to the ear.

When to use Belladonna?

Belladonna is highly recommended as a first line of treatment in cases of ear pain occurring from acute infection or inflammation in the ear or in cases of throat infection (when pain from the throat goes to the ears) especially when pain is worse from noise exposure and when chewing food.

How to use Belladonna?

It can be used in both low and high potencies, among which the most preferred is 30 C potency. Belladonna 30 C can be taken twice or thrice a day depending on the severity of the problem.

2. Pulsatilla – For Ear Pain With Ear Infections

Pulsatilla is a highly effective medicine for ear pain associated with ear infections. Here, it is given when there is shooting, pulsating, jerking, darting pain in ears. It gets worse at night and may continue throughout the night, extending to the head. It is attended with thick yellow / yellowish green ear discharge. There may be difficulty in hearing, the ear feels heavy and stuffed. At times, roaring or humming noises (tinnitus) are heard in the ears.

When to use Pulsatilla?

The foremost indication to use Pulsatilla is ear pain resulting from an ear infection with thick yellow or yellowish green ear discharge.

How to use Pulsatilla?

Pulsatilla is usually recommended in 30C potency that can be taken once or twice a day. Its higher potencies can also be used but only after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

3. Chamomilla – When Ear Is Sensitive To Touch Along With Pain

Chamomilla is very helpful when the affected ear is very sensitive to touch along with pain. Nature of pain is stitching, pressing or tearing type. Pain may be severe enough to make the person cry. The ear is swollen along with heated sensation, the ear also feels blocked. Chamomilla is also well-indicated for middle ear infection with earache and fever. Warm application on the ear may offer some relief. It is a highly suitable medicine to manage earache in children, when a child is highly irritable along with pain in the ear. It is also one of the best medicines to treat cases where pain from teeth radiates to ears.

When to use Chamomilla?

The key symptom to use Chamomilla here is severe earache with marked sensitivity of ears to touch. It is highly recommended to manage earache in children when excessive irritability is present.

How to use Chamomilla?

It can be taken two to three times a day in 30C power.

4. Verbascum Thapsus – For Ear Pain And Hearing Difficulty

Verbascum Thapsus is the best medicine for managing ear pain and hearing difficulty along with  a feeling of ear blockage. It is also highly recommended for ear pain of nerve origin. It is indicated when ear ache is part of the facial pain of nerve origin (Trigeminal Neuralgia). The pain is more pronounced on the left side and gets worse with the slightest movement. The ear is always dry inside.

When to use Verbascum Thapsus?

This medicine can be used when the leading complaint is ear pain with hearing difficulty. Next it can also be taken when ear pain is of nerve origin and is a part of trigeminal neuralgia.

How to use Verbascum Thapsus?

It can be taken once or twice a day in 30 C potency, but for high potency seek a physician’s advice. Verbascum Thapsus is popularly known as Mullein Oil and can also be administered as ear drops on the affected side of the ear for relieving earache and dry scaly condition of ear meatus along with internal usage in 30C potency.

5. Merc Sol – For Earache In Case Of Sore Throat

This medicine is suitable to manage ear ache in cases of sore throat. The key feature to use this medicine is pain in the throat extending to the ears. Pain in the ears can be shooting or tearing type which gets worse at night from the warmth of bed. Thick yellow discharge from ears may be noted. At times, pus having foul odor gets discharged from the ears.

When to Use Merc Sol?

Use of Merc Sol should be considered in cases where earache occurs in cases of sore throat with pain radiating from the throat to the ears.

How to Use Merc Sol?

To begin with, one may take Merc Sol 30C one or two times a day. Its higher potencies can be used as well but only after consulting a homeopathic doctor.

6. Plantago – For Earache Associated With Toothache

Plantago is a natural and highly beneficial medicine to manage pain in the ear related to toothache. Persons needing it complain of sharp pain in ears and teeth. The reason may be tooth decay.

When to Use Plantago?

Consider it as a first remedy in earache cases associated with dental issues with marked toothache.

How to Use Plantago?

You may take this remedy in 30C potency two to three times a day for good relief.

What Are The Causes Behind Ear Pain?

The causes can be divided into primary and secondary causes:

1. A) Primary causes: The causes that lead to earache originating within the ear are primary causes.

1.Ear infections: It remains one of the main causes behind ear pain that can relate to either outer, middle or inner ear.

a) Outer ear infection/ otitis externa: Also named swimmer’s ear, infection occurs in the outer ear canal usually from trapping of water in ear from swimming that favours bacterial growth.  Cleaning ears with earbuds/hairpins and use of ear devices like hearing aids may cause scratches in the ear which also increases chance of infection.

b) Middle ear infection (otitis media) is a bacterial/viral infection in the middle ear, which is the air-filled space behind the eardrum. It arises mainly from cold/flu when infection spreads to throat and via eustachian tube to the middle ear.

c) Inner ear infection (labrynthitis) results from viral or bacterial infections from cold or flu.

2. Ear blocked from earwax: Excessive build-up of earwax deep inside the ear canal may sometimes cause earache.

3. Barotrauma: Ear has a eustachian tube that works to regulate air pressure inside and outside the ear. When ear damage occurs from pressure changes inside and outside the ear, it is called barotrauma that can cause earache along with hearing loss, dizziness and pressure inside the ear. Some examples that can cause imbalance in pressure are flying in airplane, scuba diving, travelling in the hills, etc.

4. Foreign object stuck in the ear

5. Perforation (a hole) in eardrum

6. Blocked eustachian tube

7. Skin problems affecting ears (herpes zoster oticus, dermatitis of ear)

B) Secondary causes: When the cause of earache relates to a medical problem in some other part of the body other than the ear, it is referred to as a secondary cause. Some such causes are as follows:

1. Dental problems (cavities, infected tooth – tooth abscess means pus pocket in tooth from an infection)

2. Sinusitis (inflammation of lining of the paranasal sinuses)

3. Sore throat or tonsillitis (inflamed tonsils)

4. Temporomandibular joint disorder: Pain and restricted movement of jaw due to some problem (for example, inflammation, infection, injury) of temporomandibular joint that connects lower jaw to the skull.

5. Trigeminal neuralgia: Electric shock-like pain on one side of the face from irritation, compression or injury of trigeminal nerve.

What Other Signs And Symptoms May Attend Ear Pain?

Depending on the cause, pain in the ears can be attended with other signs and symptoms like ear discharge, hearing loss, fullness in ears, noises in ears, clicking or popping in ears, redness/swelling of ears, eruptions on ears, fever, headache and jaw pain. In children, pulling the ear, irritability, excessive crying, loss of appetite may be felt.

 

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Top Homeopathic Medicines For Dry Nose

By Dr. Vikas Sharma MD 4 Comments

 Dryness in the nasal passage is medically known as rhinitis sicca. It can be uncomfortable yet harmless, and rarely serious. The inner membrane of the nasal passage secretes mucus daily. It lubricates the nasal cavity, moisturises the air so that it smoothly passes through the respiratory tract and traps dust, irritants and the germs that we may breathe in. If mucus production is not adequate or it dries up, it results in dry nose.

Homeopathic Management

Complaint of dry nose can be effectively managed with use of homeopathic medicines. These medicines help by working to treat the root cause, as a result nasal dryness gradually decreases. The attending signs and symptoms like nasal congestion, itching, burning in nose, redness, swelling and pain in nose, scabbing inside nose, recurrent sneezing also get managed with these medicines. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from naturally occurring substances so are very safe to use without any side effects. These medicines can be used in most cases of nasal dryness but in case of nasal dryness along with high fever, excessive difficulty in breathing, uncontrolled bleeding from nose, urgent help from conventional mode of treatment is advised.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Dry Nose

1. Sticta – Top-Grade Medicine

Sticta is a leading medicine in homeopathy for managing cases of dry nose. Persons needing it have excessive dryness and pain inside the nose. They may have nasal secretions that dry up quickly and forms scabs in nostrils. These are difficult to dislodge and cause nasal stuffiness. The nose feels obstructed; it gets worse at night which disturbs sleep. There is a feeling of stuffiness at the root of the nose. There can be excessive sneezing and loss of smell.

2. Kali Bichrome – For Nasal Dryness And Pain At Root Of Nose

It is a very effective medicine for cases having nasal dryness and pain at the root of nose. The nose feels constantly blocked. Swelling and burning sensation in the nose is felt. Its use is also indicated when the nose is filled with dry, hard crusts that can be blood-tinged. There can be discharge of ropy mucus from the posterior nares (post nasal discharge). Foul smell in nose may also be present along with the above symptoms.

3. Calcarea Carb – For Dry Nose At Night

This medicine is helpful for managing cases in which there is dryness in the nose at night. Nostrils may have soreness and ulceration. The root of the nose may be swollen. It is also useful when there is offensive yellow discharge from the nose. Frequent sneezing from itching/tingling in the nose can accompany these symptoms.

4. Sambucus – For Nose Dryness With Difficult Breathing Through Nose

It is a natural medicine prepared from fresh leaves and flowers of a plant Sambucus Nigra, commonly known as ‘elder’. It belongs to family caprifoliaceae. This is a prominent medicine for managing nose dryness with difficulty in breathing through the nose. In cases needing it, the nose is dry and obstructed. In some cases, nose is blocked with thick tenacious mucus. Sambucus is the most commonly indicated medicine for nasal dryness in babies.

5. Ammonium Carb – For Excessive Dryness Of Nose

It is a well-indicated medicine for cases in which nose is extremely dry. There is marked blocking of nostrils that forces a person to breathe from the mouth, especially at night. There can be swelling, pain and sensitivity in the nostrils. Sometimes, there is bleeding from nose in the morning.

6. Natrum Mur – For Nasal Dryness And Sneezing

This medicine works well in cases in which nasal dryness and sneezing are present. In some cases needing it, loss of smell and taste can be there. Scabs in the nose occur sometimes. There may be burning and soreness in the nose. It is also a suitable medicine for managing cases of alternate fluent and dry coryza.

7. Silicea – For Dryness In Nose With Crusts

It is a well-indicated medicine for cases having dryness of the nose with crust formation. The nose feels blocked from hardened mucus in it. There can be hard, dry masses of mucus in the nose in the morning with an offensive smell. Itching in the nose can attend it. It is also indicated for cases having alternate dry and fluent coryza. History of long-term coryza may be present in the cases needing it.

8. Graphites – For Dry Nose With Loss of smell 

Graphites is an important medicine for managing cases in which there is dryness in the nose along with loss of smell. Dryness in nose may be sometimes painful. There can also be dry scabs in the nose. It is accompanied by soreness, cracks and ulcers in the nostrils. In some cases, there is discharge of thick yellowish offensive mucus from the nose.

 9. Petroleum – For Dryness and Burning In Nostrils

It is an important medicine to manage dryness and burning sensation in the nostrils. The nostrils can be cracked and ulcerated too. Next, there can be swelling in the nose with pain at the root of the nose. There may occur scabs or discharge of mucus and pus from the nose.

10. Belladonna – For Dry Nose With Frontal Headache

This medicine is prepared from the plant ‘deadly nightshade’. Use of this medicine is considered when there is dryness in the nose accompanied by frontal headache. Frequent sneezing may be present along with it. Swelling, redness and inflammation in the nose may be marked too. Pain may be felt on touching the nose. In cases needing it, dryness in the larynx, trachea may also be present along with dry nose.

 What Are Causes Of Dry Nose?

1. Dry nose may simply be due to environmental factors like low humidity levels (from very hot or cold climates), excessive use of air conditioners or blowing the nose very frequently.

2. In other cases, it may also result from colds or nasal allergies and long-term nasal inflammation.

3. It may arise from use of certain medications(for example, antihistamines, antibiotics, prolonged use of nasal sprays, nasal decongestants).

4. Some women may get it from hormonal changes during menopause.

5. High blood pressure and dehydration may also result in a dry nose.

6. Tobacco smoking is another reason that can lead to dry nose.

7. In some cases, it can occur from some medical conditions.  These conditions includes atrophic rhinitis and sjogren’s syndrome. Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disorder that affects the mucous membranes and glands (that secrete moisture) of eyes and mouth which leads to decreased tears and salivation. The main symptoms of this syndrome are dry eyes and a dry mouth. Dryness in the nose and skin may be felt sometimes. Atrophic rhinitis refers to chronic inflammation in the interior of nose resulting in atrophy of nasal mucosa.

What Are The Other Signs And Symptoms?

Dry nose may be attended with other signs and symptoms depending on the underlying cause. These include nasal congestion, itching, burning sensation in nose, redness, swelling and pain, scabbing or crust formation inside the nose, bleeding from nose, change in smell or alteration in the smell, recurrent sneezing and breathing from the mouth. In case it is attended with high fever, nasal bleeding that doesn’t stop, weakness, extreme difficulty in breathing, urgent medical help should be taken.

What Are Its Complications?

Irritation in the nose and respiratory discomfort can lead to disturbed sleep. Dry nose increases chances of infection in the nose and rest of the respiratory tract (this is because dry nose makes it unable to trap the germs that can enter from nose due to lack of mucus production in nose). Constant dryness of nose may lead to nose bleeding. Other than this, sore throat, pharyngitis, laryngitis and sinusitis may occur. Sore throat means irritation, scratching sensation or pain in the throat.  Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx (back of the throat). Laryngitis refers to inflammation of the larynx (voice box).  Sinusitis means inflammation of the mucous membranes that lines the para nasal sinuses (air-filled spaces surrounding the nasal cavity).

 

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