Editor, Author at Homeopathy at DrHomeo.com

What is Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome, Causes and Homeopathic Treatment

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a disorder in which there occur episodes of intense nausea and vomiting lasting from few hours to few days. In between these episodes, symptom-free period occurs. It can affect persons of any age group but it usually starts in childhood around 3-7 yrs of age. The characteristic of this syndrome is that the symptoms begin at the same time of the day, have the same intensity and last for the same duration of time in a particular person. The reason behind CVS is not clearly known, but what is known is that the vomiting in this syndrome does not arise from any infection or any medical condition. Vomiting and nausea are the main symptoms of CVS.

Other attending symptoms might include retching, abdomen pain, decreased appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, sensitivity to light and increased thirst. There are no tests to diagnose this condition. CVS is diagnosed by ruling out medical conditions (like gastritis, pancreatitis, food allergies, GERD i.e. gastroesophageal reflux disease etc.) that can cause symptoms similar to this condition. Some of the complications that can arise in this condition include dehydration from loss of body fluid, damage to the lining of food pipe from rise of stomach acid in the food pipe and decay of the tooth enamel from acidic vomiting.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines offer a very natural, safe and effective treatment for cyclic vomiting syndrome. Homeopathic medicines help to treat this condition symptomatically and gradually decrease the intensity and frequency of symptoms in this complaint. It can control complaint of vomiting and nausea magnificently. Besides, they can also manage associated symptoms like weakness, abdomen pain and headache. Homeopathic medicines are helpful in managing acute episodes of this complaint as well as in overcoming the tendency to have recurrent episodes of this problem. Homeopathic medicines for this complaint are prescribed individually in every case as per the presenting symptoms. It is recommended to get any case of cyclic vomiting syndrome evaluated by a homeopathic physician and take medicines as per physician’s advice. Self – medication should be avoided. Severe and continued vomiting can cause dehydration and that can be life threatening. So in any case signs of dehydration are seen or blood occurs in the vomit, one must immediately get help from conventional mode of treatment as homeopathy has limitation in helping such critical cases. Some of the signs of dehydration are decreased urination, skin dryness, dryness of mouth, increased thirst, exhaustion, sunken eyes and lack of tears while crying.

What Are The Causes Of Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome?

The cause behind CVS is not understood yet. However it is suggested that a genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalance and problem in the nervous system may play a role. Besides, it is also suggested that migraine may be linked with it. Children having CVS may have a family history of migraine and a tendency to develop migraine when they become adults. There are some known trigger factors for symptoms of CVS. These include cold, sinus infections, stress, anxiety, panic attack, emotional excitement, physical exhaustion, menstrual periods, excessive exercise, hot weather, motion sickness (inner ear disturbance caused by repeated motion of vehicle), fasting, lack of sleep, taking some particular food items (like chocolate, alcohol, cheese, caffeine, MSG i.e. monosodium glutamate) and overeating.

Homeopathic Medicines For Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome

1. Ipecac – Top Medicine

Ipecac is a top natural medicine for managing episodes of nausea and vomiting. In cases needing it, vomiting may have watery fluids, green/yellow-colored fluid or undigested food. Abdomen pain can attend it. Stomach may be sensitive to pressure. There may occur distension of the abdomen and throat dryness. After vomiting, the person may have desire to sleep. Loose stool can also occur along with vomiting. In some cases, vomiting occurs soon after eating. Nausea may get triggered from the smell of food. There may be excessive weakness.

2. Colchicum – For Nausea, Vomiting With Watery Stool

This medicine is well indicated when there occurs vomiting and nausea along with watery stool. Vomiting may be caused by movement of the body. It gets better by lying down perfectly still. There may occur a burning sensation in the stomach pit followed by nausea and then vomiting. Vomiting is followed by weakness. Nausea is particularly triggered from smell of cooking food especially eggs, fish and meat. Along with the above symptoms, there may occur pain in the stomach and an icy cold feeling.

3. Arsenic Album – For Vomiting Along With Weakness

This medicine is helpful for managing cases where vomiting is accompanied with excessive weakness. Vomiting occurs soon after eating or drinking. Vomiting may contain food, clear water or gastric fluids. Loose stool may occur along with vomiting. Nausea is also felt. Sight or smell of food is unbearable along with these symptoms. Anxiety and restlessness can be prominently experienced in cases requiring this medicine.

4. Nux Vomica – For Nausea And Vomiting In Morning

Nux Vomica is an effective medicine for those suffering episodes of nausea and vomiting in the morning. The vomiting may contain sour mucus or oily substance. Pain is felt in the stomach which gets worse especially after eating. A sensation of weight is also felt in the stomach. The stomach region may be sensitive to pressure. Nux Vomica is the best indicated medicine to manage gastric issues that occur from taking alcohol, and coffee.

5. Iris Versicolor – For Periodical Vomiting Episodes Every 4 To 6 Weeks

This medicine is recommended for cases when there occur periodical episodes of vomiting at interval of 4 to 6 weeks. Each episode may last for 2 to 3 days. Vomiting is attended with nausea. Vomiting is of sour tasting fluid. Before vomiting, pain is felt around the navel area. Sweating may occur after vomiting. Excessive heat in the head and weakness is also felt after vomiting. This medicine is also extremely helpful when nausea occurs after overexertion. Lastly, it is of great use in cases where nausea, vomiting occur along with headache.

6. Cocculus Indicus – For Nausea, Vomiting Triggered By Motion Sickness

This is the best medicine to deal with cases where motion sickness seems to trigger the symptoms. There occur nausea and vomiting when travelling in a car, train or a boat in cases needing this medicine. It is attended with bitter and foul smelling burps. Vertigo can occur along with nausea and vomiting.

7. Veratrum Album – With Marked Exhaustion

This medicine is beneficial in managing vomiting attended with intense exhaustion. There is excessive vomiting along with continued nausea. It occurs from drinking fluid and also from movement. It can be attended with vertigo and cold sweat. Loose motion may occur besides vomiting.

8. Colocynth – With Pain In Abdomen

Colocynth is considered in case of nausea and vomiting attended with pain in abdomen. Vomiting may contain food or yellow bitter fluid. Abdomen pain can be cramping or cutting in nature. It gets better by applying pressure and bending forward. In cases where anger triggers vomiting episode, Colocynth proves to be the most suited medicine.

9. Ferrum Met – For Vomiting After Exertion

This medicine is prominently indicated when vomiting occurs after exertion. Along with vomiting, the face becomes fiery red. The person experiences nausea attended with headache. It is also indicated for vomiting that occur soon after eating. It is attended with a constant pressure feeling in the pit of the stomach. Vomiting has a sour and acidic taste.

10. Sepia – For Nausea And Vomiting Triggered During Menses

This medicine gives great relief in cases where nausea and vomiting get triggered during menstrual period. Headache may be felt on one side of the head. There is also excessive weakness with a desire to lie down. Nausea gets worse from smell of cooking food.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Hydrocele

By Editor 257 Comments

Hydrocele refers to the swelling in the scrotum that holds the testicles due to the collection of excessive fluid in the sheath (tunica vaginalis) surrounding a testicle. Hydrocele can be congenital i.e. a child may be born with hydrocele or it may develop later in life. The causes of hydrocele developing late in life are inflammation or injury within the scrotum.

Homeopathy is a very safe, effective, and non-invasive alternative treatment option for cases of hydrocele. Hydrocele, which is considered a surgical condition in the conventional mode of treatment, can be treated magnificently with homeopathic medicines. Homeopathic medicines stop the further progression of this condition and help to reduce swelling in the scrotum by aiding fluid absorption collected in the sheath around the testicle. Along with swelling, they also help to relieve any associated symptoms such as pain or dragging sensation.

Homeopathic medicines for hydrocele are of natural origin, making them very gentle, safe, and harmless for use in children as well as adults. They treat hydrocele naturally and do not carry any toxic side effects. One may also easily discontinue homeopathic medicine on the advised homeopathic protocol after the desired outcome is obtained.

Homeopathic medicines for hydrocele are prescribed based on the principle of individualization in every case. Individualization means selecting medicines based on the characteristic key symptoms in every case. So, it is advised to always consult a homeopathic doctor to get the best results as self-medication might not help here. The prescription of the medicines, potency selection, dosage, and repetition vary from case to case as per many factors like the age of a person, duration of complaint, the severity of the issue, and amount of swelling. In adults, homeopathic medicines can be repeated frequently and high potencies can be used, as the case demands. On the other hand, in children, low potencies with infrequent repetition are usually done.

Homeopathy, if started well in time, can help in curing many hydrocele cases and save a person from surgery. However, the results vary depending on the duration, intensity of complaint, age of the patient and individual’s response to homeopathic treatment.

Top 7 Homeopathic Medicines for Hydrocele

The top recommended homeopathic medicines for hydrocele include Rhododendron, Clematis, Arnica, Apis Mellifica, Abrotanum, Digitalis, and Iodum.

1. Rhododendron – Top-Grade Medicine For Hydrocele

Rhododendron is a natural medicine prepared from fresh leaves of the plant ‘yellow snow rose’. It has shown great clinical improvements in cases of hydrocele. This medicine brings natural recovery, it works well in almost all cases of hydrocele, especially if arising from orchitis or epididymitis. Though rhododendron can be helpful for hydrocele on either side but is more prominently indicated for cases of left-sided hydrocele. In cases needing it, there is marked swelling of the scrotum. It may be hard and painful to touch.

When to use Rhododendron?

Rhododendron is a highly recommended medicine for left-sided hydrocele that mainly arises from the inflammation of the testes attended by pain on touching.

How to use Rhododendron?

Though it can be used in low and high potencies, it is usually preferred in 30C potency. Rhododendron 30C can be taken twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.

2. Clematis – For Right-Sided Hydrocele

Clematis is the next well-indicated medicine for hydrocele. It is also a natural remedy prepared from leaves and stems of the plant ‘virgin’s bower’. It is a highly suitable medicine for cases of right-sided hydrocele. Those needing it have a drawing pain in the testicle. The scrotum is swollen. At times the testicle may be painful to touch. It is also very helpful for cases of hydrocele arising from orchitis.

When to use Clematis?

This medicine is well indicated for cases of right-sided hydrocele with drawing pain in testicles.

How to use Clematis?

Clematis 30C can be used twice a day.

3. Arnica – For Hydrocele After An Injury

Sourced from a plant ‘leopard’s bane’, Arnica is a herbal medicine of great importance in treating hydrocele that follows an injury. It gives promising results in hydrocele cases occurring after an injury. In cases needing it, there is swelling of the scrotum attended with sore, bruised pain. This medicine along with healing injury helps to reduce swelling of the scrotum and manages any associated pain.

When to use Arnica?

Arnica should be considered as the first choice of medicine for cases of hydrocele that occurs after an injury.

How to use Arnica?

Arnica 30 C can be taken two times a day for good results.

4. Apis Mellifica – For Hydrocele With marked Swelling

Apis Mellifica is the next most effective medicine for managing hydrocele. It is beneficial when there is excessive swelling of the scrotum. This medicine helps to absorb fluid that is collected around the testicle. Inflammation of testicles may be present in cases needing it along with stinging pain.

When to use Apis Mellifica?

This medicine can be opted for in cases where there is intense swelling of the scrotum with stinging pain.

How to use Apis Mellifica?

Its use is preferred in 30C potency. Apis Mellifica can be taken twice a day in 30C potency.

5. Abrotanum – For Congenital Hydrocele

Abrotanum is the most wonderful medicine for hydrocele where the condition is present from birth. It is of natural origin prepared from leaves and stems of plant ‘southernwood’ and is entirely safe for use among children.

When to use Abrotanum?

Its use is particularly considered in newborn boys having hydrocele.

How to use Abrotanum?

It is advised to consult a homeopathic physician before using this medicine for the right potency and repetition that varies from case to case.

6. Digitalis – For Left Sided Hydrocele

Digitalis is also a natural remedy of plant origin for treating hydrocele. It is prepared from the leaves of a plant named ‘foxglove’ and is very helpful for left-sided hydrocele with marked swelling of the scrotum. The scrotum seems like a bladder filled with water. Bruised pain may accompany the condition in such cases which will respond well to Digitalis.

When to use Digitalis?

Digitalis is prominently indicated for left-sided hydrocele with bruised sort of pain.

How to use Digitalis?

Digitalis 30C twice a day is an ideal dose to start with.

7. Iodum – For Hydrocele With Pain

This medicine can be considered in cases of hydrocele with pain. An aching, pressing pain is felt in the testicles. This is worse after sexual intercourse. The testicles may feel hard as well along with the above complaints.

When to use Iodum?

Use of Iodum is suggested in cases of hydrocele with pain usually worse after sexual intercourse.

How to use Iodum?

Its use is advised in 30 C potency twice a day.

Note Any of the above homeopathic medicines can be taken for about one month. If no relief sets in, kindly consult a homeopathic physician for further case evaluation and a change in prescription.

Causes of Hydrocele

Though hydrocele can occur at any age but is most common in newborns and males over 40 years of age.

A). In Infants (Babies Less Than One Year Age)

During the development of a male baby, the testicles descend from the abdominal cavity into the scrotum shortly before birth. There is a natural sac (containing fluid) surrounding the testicles. This sac closes and fluid absorption occurs during the first year of the baby. But if this sac does not close, it results in hydrocele results which is termed communicating hydrocele. If the sac closes but some fluid remains behind around the testicle, it is termed non-communicating hydrocele.

B). In adults

Hydrocele may occur when the sac (tunica vaginalis) produces excessive fluid or when the fluid is not properly absorbed, it results in the build-up of fluid around the testicle.

Hydrocele may arise from:

1. Injury or inflammation of scrotum

2. Infection/inflammation of testicles (orchitis) or epididymis(epididymitis)

3. Sexually transmitted infections

4. Rare Inguinal hernia

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Hydrocele?

In most cases swelling in the scrotum is the only sign. It may be on one side or both sides. The swelling may be less in the morning and more in the evening.

Other than this, it may cause discomfort, a dragging sensation in the scrotum along with heaviness. In some cases, pain, and redness of the scrotum may also be present.

If there occurs sudden intense pain in the scrotum or swelling mainly after scrotal injury, immediate medical help should be taken. This could be due to blocked blood flow from twisted testicles (testicular torsion) that needs urgent treatment to prevent permanent damage to the testicle.

Types of Hydrocele

1. Communicating hydrocele: A natural sac (containing fluid) surrounds the testicles that close and fluid absorption occurs during the first year of the baby. If this sac does not close, it results in hydrocele which is termed communicating hydrocele. Communicating hydrocele is associated with inguinal hernia.

2. Non-communicating hydrocele: If this sac closes but some fluid remains behind around the testicle, it is termed non-communicating hydrocele.

3. Nuck’s hydrocele (also called Female hydrocele): It is a rare form of hydrocele occurring in female children when the complete obliteration of the canal of nuck (abnormal patent pouch of the peritoneum) fails to take place.

How to diagnose Hydrocele?

In cases suspected of hydrocele, the doctor conducts a physical examination to check swelling, pain and tenderness in scrotum. Then he will do a transillumination test. In this test a doctor will shine a strong light through the scrotum. In the case of hydrocele, the light will pass through the scrotum due to the fluid in it while in the case of some solid mass (tumor) the light will not pass. To confirm the diagnosis of hydrocele, an ultrasound of the scrotum is the most commonly recommended test.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. There is swelling in my scrotum, Is it hydrocele?

Swollen scrotum may occur from various causes. Hydrocele is one of the reasons among these, some other causes include varicocele, spermatocele, epididymitis, and hematocele. So kindly visit a doctor who will do a physical examination and conduct investigations to confirm the diagnosis.

2. Can hydrocele develop on both sides?

Usually, hydrocele develops on one side but there are also chances of getting hydrocele on both sides.

3. Should I avoid weightlifting if I suffer from hydrocele?

The problem of hydrocele may increase from lifting heavy weights, so it is better to avoid heavy weight lifting.

4. I have hydrocele, should I avoid going to the gym?

If you have hydrocele, try to avoid strenuous exercises that put pressure on the scrotum and cause discomfort.

5. Does hydrocele affect sperm count and male fertility?

No, hydrocele does not affect sperm count and male fertility.

6. Does hydrocele lead to erectile dysfunction?

Though hydrocele directly does not lead to erectile dysfunction, the psychological effects of a swollen scrotum, and when swelling is quite large, may hinder normal sexual activity.

7. Is hydrocele cancerous?

No, it is a non-cancerous (benign) condition arising from fluid build-up in tunica vaginalis sheath that surrounds a testicle.

8. Do all kinds of hydroceles require surgery?

No, in many cases hydrocele resolves on its own with time. But if the hydrocele is very large and is quite painful, then surgery might be required. It is best to consult a surgeon to decide on the surgery option in any case of hydrocele.

9. Does hydrocele recur after surgery?

Yes, there are chances of recurrence of hydrocele after surgery in about 5-10% of cases.

10. My baby aged 3 months has scrotal swelling due to hydrocele, does he require surgery?

In most cases of hydrocele below one year of age, there is about a 70% chance that hydrocele will resolve on its own around the age of one to two years. However, it is always recommended to visit a pediatrician to check if a baby needs surgery or not and rule out any other medical condition that might be causing scrotal swelling other than hydrocele.

Top Homeopathic Medicines for Headache during Menopause

By Editor 1 Comment

Menopause refers to the end of menstrual cycles in a female’s life that occurs as a part of the natural aging process. A female is said to have attained menopause when no menses have occurred for consecutive 12 months together. It occurs between ages 45 to 55 yrs. A woman tends to face different health issues during menopause. One might have commonly heard of issues like hot flashes, emotional disturbance, mood changes, hair loss and weight gain during menopause. Headache could also be one of the concerns that many women complain of during menopause. Not every woman has headache during menopause. However, in some women who have hormonal headaches prior to menopause may feel relief in headache during menopause in terms of frequency or intensity. The reason behind headache during menopause is the hormonal changes taking place. The hormone affected includes estrogen and progesterone. Along with headache, some other symptoms might attend like nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, feeling of a band around the head, some strange sensations in the head, dizziness and fatigue. It may also lead to sleep issues, depressed feeling and anxiety. Women suffering from migraine (i.e. one sided headache often accompanied with nausea and vomiting and sensitivity to light, smell, noise) or tension headache (this type of headache is linked with stress and is characterized by a tight feeling in the forehead and back of the head) may find that their headache gets worse around menopause.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines are highly effective in managing headache during menopause. Made from natural substances, these medicines are free from any sort of side effects. These medicine help to gradually decrease the intensity and frequency of headache during menopause. Other associated complaints of menopause like heat flashes, weight gain, mood changes and hair loss are also wonderfully managed with these medicines. Homeopathic medicines for managing headache are selected based on individual symptoms in each and every case. Though it is safe to use homeopathic medicines, it is advised to consult a homeopathic physician prior to taking any of the homeopathic medicines for treating headache.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Headache During Menopause

1. Sepia – Top Remedy

Sepia is the topmost medicine to manage headache during menopause. In cases needing Sepia, headache may be attended with nausea and vomiting. There is bursting type of headache as if the head would burst and the eyes would come out. It gets worse from any kind of movement and stooping. Headache may get better after taking meals. Heaviness and coldness may be felt on the top of the head. Not just headache, this medicine is best suited to manage other concerns during menopause as well, like hot flashes, hair thinning, weight gain and vaginal dryness.

2. Lachesis – For Pain On The Top Of Head

Lachesis is a highly effective medicine to manage headache that occurs on the top of the head i.e. the vertex. Along with this, a pressure/weight sensation and burning heat is felt on the top of the head. It is also useful to manage a throbbing sensation that occurs on the sides of the head i.e. temporal region. It also feels as if blood has rushed to the head. In some cases, headache may be attended with dimness of vision or flickering in front of the eyes. Pain may be one-sided, the left side is especially affected. Sometimes pain from the head may extend to the neck and shoulders. Hot flashes are quite prominent along with headache. There may be sleeplessness too.

3. Glonoine – For Throbbing Headache

This medicine is recommended to manage throbbing (to pulsate with force rapidly) pain in the head. Besides, there is a feeling of rush of blood to the head causing congestion and sensation as if the head would burst. There also occurs a feeling as if the eyes will protrude out of the sockets. Pain gets worse from walking and shaking the head. There is relief by sleeping. Hot flashes are felt on the head and face. Nausea and vomiting may accompany headache. A weight is also felt on the top of the head. Vertigo may occur along with headache.

4. Sanguinaria Can – For Right-Sided Headache

This medicine is beneficial for managing right-sided headache. In cases requiring it, pain begins in the back of head, then goes upwards and finally settles over the right eye. Headache gets better by vomiting, and taking a good sleep. If headache occurs periodically, means at fixed interval after every 7 days, then this medicine in particular is very helpful. Along with headache, burning sensation in the hands and the soles of feet may be present.

5. Amylenum Nitrosum – For Left-Sided Headache

This medicine is indicated to manage left-sided headache. Throbbing is felt in the head. It seems blood has rushed to the head and face causing marked redness on the face. There is a feeling as if the head would burst. Hot flashes are a prominent indication where this medicine is required. Hot flashes are followed by excessive sweating and cold skin.

6. Cyclamen – For Continuous Sort Of Headache

This medicine is helpful in females experiencing continuous pain in the head. Headache is accompanied with nausea. Vertigo may also occur. Vomiting occurs almost every day that relieves the headache. Though pain may be felt on any region of the head but is worse on the left side. Headache gets worse by movement and in open air. This medicine is also indicated for headache occurring in the morning attended with flickering (to flash on and off) in front of the eyes.

7. Ferrum Met – With Feeling Of A Band Around The Head

This medicine can be used when there is headache and a feeling of a band around the head. The pain is pulsating type in cases needing it. There is a heated sensation in the head. Flashes of heat are also felt in the face. The pain from the head may radiate to teeth. Stinging sensation can be felt in the head. Headache may last for two-three days in cases needing it. This medicine is also indicated for dull pain in the forehead that spreads to the top of the head. It gets better by applying pressure with hands on the head.

8. Strontium Carb – For Pain In The Neck Neck Spreading Upwards

This medicine is selected when pain begins from the neck and then spreads upwards. It is relieved by wrapping the head warmly. The pain from head may go to the upper jaw along with nausea and vertigo. Flashes of heat are felt. Excessive sweating occurs at night.

9. Crocus Sativus – For Headache With Pressure In Eyes

Crocus Sativus is of great use when headache is accompanied by pressure in the eyes. Burning is also felt in the eyes. The pain is throbbing, pulsating in nature. It is felt in different parts of the head. Headache gets better by applying pressure over the head. The blood vessels of the head feel dilated. The headache may disturb sleep as well.

10. Theridion – For Headache With Nausea And Vomiting

Theridion is prominently indicated to manage headache with nausea and vomiting. The pain is mostly felt in the forehead that may extend to back of the head. A pressure is felt behind the eyes. Heat is felt inside the head along with the above symptoms.

Top 8 Homeopathic Remedies for AVN – Avascular Necrosis Treatment

By Editor 147 Comments

AVN, also known as osteonecrosis, bone infarction and ischemic bone necrosis/aseptic necrosis refers to a condition which leads to the death of bone cells due to interruption in blood supply. Avascular Necrosis (AVN) can cause unbearable pain in the bones. Since there is no blood supply to the bone, the bone breaks and finally collapses. AVN may involve almost any bone of the body, but it mostly affects hip joints, knees and shoulder joints. One or more bones may be affected at a given time.

Homeopathy has good scope to manage cases of AVN. It firstly aims at halting the destruction of bones in the patients of Avascular Necrosis because of interrupted blood supply. The second aim of these remedies is to reduce the pain in bones because of bone damage. There are several natural remedies in homeopathy that can help to relieve pain and stiffness, and improve the range of movement of the joint. These medicines use the body’s own restorative process to fight back the disease naturally.

Homeopathy treats AVN very safely. It uses natural medicines that offer natural healing which have zero side effects. Homeopathy can help AVN occurring in hip joint as well as any other joint. The medicines are selected after taking into account the proper case history of the patient. The medicines are prescribed based on the bone involved, the kind of bone pain and other peculiar symptoms in each individual case. The duration of homeopathic treatment for AVN varies from several months to a year or two, depending on the stage, chronicity, and intensity of the complaint.

Unfortunately AVN is not curable and there is no current treatment option available in any system of medicine that claims to reverse pathological changes that have already taken place in AVN cases. But with proper homeopathic treatment, the progression of bone changes in AVN can be slowed down and symptoms can be eased to a great extent.

Homeopathy can be a great alternative to surgery in AVN cases. Surgery should be the last option when all the alternative treatment methods have proved fruitless. Homeopathic medicines though will not be able to reverse the changes that have already occurred, but can surely help in remarkable symptom relief. The results of homeopathic treatment vary according to the intensity and stage of AVN. Homeopathy brings significant improvement and excellent results in grade 1 and 2 cases. It has limited role for grade 3 AVN patients and a very minimal role to play in cases of Grade 4 AVN and all the cases in these stages might not respond equally well to treatment. In these stages, the use of homeopathic medicines can be considered along with other treatment options to get whatever best help that these can collectively provide in a given case.

Top 8 Homeopathic Medicines For AVN

The top recommended homeopathic medicines for treating AVN are Syphilinum, Strontium Carb, Natrum Sulph, Fluoric Acid, Asafoetida, Silicea, Symphytum and Phosphorus.

1. Syphilinum – For Bone Pains At Night

Syphilinum is well known for its beneficial action on body tissues wherever the destructive process is present. Due to its universal healing action to stop the destruction of body tissues, Syphilinum is of great help in treating bone necrosis. The most dominant feature for selecting Syphilinum in any given case of AVN is the worsening of bone pains at night. The person experiences pain throughout the night and is unable to sleep on account of the severe pain. The pains may compel the patient to walk, which seems to bring relief. Such persons remain comparatively well the whole day. Another marked symptom that can help in selecting Syphilinum for AVN cases is a specific pattern regarding the appearance and disappearance of pains. The pattern followed is a gradual increase in bone pains and in the same way, a gradual disappearance of pains. The third symptom that may be present in a few AVN patients needing Syphilinum is worsening of pains because of heat and some relief by applying cold water. History of excessive alcoholism may be present in persons requiring Syphilinum.

When to use Syphilinum?

Syphilinum is a leading medicine indicated for managing AVN cases when bone pains are worse at night and from heat.

How to use Syphilinum?

Its use is recommended in high potencies like 200C, 1M in infrequent doses. Initially its one dose can be used in 200 C power only once in every 15 days or after one month gap. For any changes in dose or potency consulting a homeopathic physician is a must.

2. Strontium Carb – For Avascular Necrosis of Femur (Bone In Thigh)

Strontium Carb is a natural remedy recommended for cases of AVN of femur bone of thigh. Those needing it have worsening of pain in cold air. Besides AVN, it is a prominent medicine to deal with cases of weak and brittle bones prone to break easily.

When to use Strontium Carb?

This medicine is suitable to manage AVN of femur bone in thigh when pain is worse from cold air exposure.

How to use Strontium Carb?

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

3. Natrum Sulph– For Hip Joint Necrosis

Natural remedy Natrum Sulph should always be considered in cases of AVN of the hip joint. Natrum Sulph is one of the most beneficial medicines when dealing with hip joint AVN. The patient mainly complains of pain during movement or when stooping.

When to use Natrum Sulph?

This medicine can be considered in cases of AVN of hip joint when pain is worse from movement and stooping.

How to use Natrum Sulph?

Usually this medicine is used in 6X power. Natrum Sulph 6X can be taken three to four times a day.

4. Fluoric Acid–For AVN Of Long Bones

Fluoric Acid is the most effective for the necrosis of long bones. The bones include humerus (bone in the upper arm), femur (bone in the thigh) and tibia (bone in front of the leg). Fluoric Acid is mainly used to halt necrosis appearing in long bones. The persons needing Fluoric Acid usually have excess body heat and the external heat worsens the condition. Apart from long bones, necrosis of the bones of the ear (which are rarely involved) are also covered under Fluoric Acid, which helps in improving the blood circulation and preventing further necrosis of bones.

When to use Fluoric Acid?

This medicine is prominently indicated for AVN affecting long bones as in the upper arm, thigh and leg when pains in general get worse from heat application.

How to use Fluoric Acid?

One may take it in 30C potency once or twice a day as per severity of complaint.

5. Asafoetida – For Necrosis Of Tibia ( A Bone In Leg) Bone

Asafoetida is a wonderful medicine for AVN of the tibia. There is worsening of pain at night along with over-sensitivity in bones. The bone pain can be darting, sharp or stitching in nature.

When to use Asafoetida?

Its use is advised when AVN involves tibia bone in leg with pains at night along with marked sensitivity to touch.

How to use Asafoetida?

Though this medicine may be used in different potencies, it is best to begin with 30C potency once or twice a day. Higher potencies like 200C and 1M can also be considered afterward but only under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor.

6. Silicea– For Bone Pains Worse From Cold Air Exposure

Silicea is considered among the best natural medicines for necrosis (premature death of cells) of a variety of bones ranging from long to small bones. The necrosis of jaw, wrist bones, hand bones, feet bones, ankle, knees and long bones —including humerus (bone in the upper arm), femur (bone in the thigh) and tibia (bone in front of leg) — are the sites of action for using Silicea. The general symptom for using Silicea is sensitivity to cold air when bone pain worsens even from the slightest exposure to cold air. Warmth brings relief.

When to use Silicea?

This medicine can be used for AVN with prominent bone pains worse from exposure to cold air and relief from warm applications.

How to use Silicea?

Its use can be done in 6X potency three to four times a day.

7. Symphytum – For Managing Bone Fracture

Symphytum can be considered in all cases where there is a bone fracture. It helps in proper knitting of the bone. It helps provide the necessary callous material needed for bone reformation. So, in every case of fracture where Symphytum is used, it acts as a preventive agent against necrosis as the bone is very neatly and efficiently woven by this medicine.

When to use Symphytum?

This medicine is of great use to deal with bone fracture in cases of AVN.

How to use Symphytum?

This medicine is mainly used in Q (mother tincture) form in liquid two to three times a day.

8. Phosphorus– For AVN Of The Jaw

Phosphorus is an effective remedy for treating lower jaw AVN. It is of great help when the lower jaw is affected due to lack of blood supply. It is pertinent to mention here that Phosphorus is used in match-box making factories and some persons may acquire AVN there inhaling phosphorus fumes for a long duration.

When to use Phosphorus?

Its use is highly suggested for managing AVN particularly of the jaw.

How to use Phosphorus?

Phosphorus 30C can be used once or twice a day.

Symptoms Of AVN

In the beginning, no symptom is noticed by the patient. But gradually when more and more blood cells start dying, pain in the affected joint increases. For example, in case of AVN of hip joint, pain may be felt in the groin, thigh or buttock. Initially pain is felt when the joint is put under pressure. In case of hip or knee AVN, walking, standing, and stair climbing become difficult. Limping occurs while walking. As the condition reaches the most advanced stages, pain in the affected joint increases in intensity due to small breaks in the bone and pain becomes a constant feature. Other symptoms include stiffness of joint and limited range of movement at the joint. When condition has progressed excessively, then the bone collapses. Bone collapse makes one unable to use the joint. The symptoms of AVN may occur on both sides of the body. In jaw AVN, pus may be present.

Bones prone to AVN

Avascular Necrosis can involve almost any bone of the body, but it mostly affects hip joints, knees and shoulder joints. Among these, hip joint is the most commonly involved joint, the bone mainly involved is head of the femur (a bone in the thigh extending between the hip and the knee). Humerus (bone in the upper arm extending between shoulder and elbow) is the next commonly affected bone. Scaphoid bone (bone in wrist), jaw, ankles, hand and foot may be affected as well.

What are the Causes and risk factors behind AVN?

AVN results from decreased or hindered blood supply to bone. Reduced blood supply to bone causes death of bone cells. Under normal conditions, our body keeps replacing old bone tissue (which gets damaged as a part of daily wear and tear) with new one to keep bones healthy and maintain their strength. Blood supply to bones provides oxygen and nutrients essential for regeneration of new bone tissues. If due to any reason blood supply to bone is hindered, our body becomes unable to make new bone tissue at right pace. As a result, the old-aged bone breaks down and dies.

AVN may happen from many reasons. Broadly the causes can be divided into two categories:

1. Traumatic AVN: It occurs after breaking of bone or joint dislocation

2. Non-traumatic AVN: It arises from some medical health problem which is causing obstruction of blood supply to bone. In most cases of non – traumatic AVN, the same bones on either side of the body get affected like AVN of left hip and AVN of right hip.

The various causes and risk factors are enumerated below:

1. Injury / trauma: An injury or trauma can reduce or stop blood supply to a bone which is the main cause of AVN. For example, joint dislocation or a fracture (broken bone)

2. Smoking: Smoking makes the blood vessels narrow that reduces blood supply to body tissues including that of bone.

3. Excessive consumption of alcohol: It is known that alcohol can lead to hyperlipidemia (increased level of lipids means fats like cholesterol, triglycerides in blood) and fatty deposits in blood vessels. High levels of fat tend to block blood vessels and reduce blood flow.

4. Excessive use of steroid medication, like prednisone, for a prolonged period of time also makes a person prone to develop AVN. The reason is that these medicines can raise lipids (fat) in the blood that causes blockage of small blood vessels

5. Exposure to radiation and chemotherapy used for cancer treatment predisposes a person to AVN

6. Bisphosphonate therapy used in the treatment of bone cancer and osteoporosis makes a person prone to AVN. It is mainly related to cause AVN of jaw

7. Decompression sickness/caisson disease (a medical condition in which bubbles form in the blood of a person from rapid decrease in surrounding pressure), and Leg-Calve Perthes disease (a condition occurring in childhood from interruption of blood supply to the head of femur of hip joint)

8. Having high cholesterol, HIV infection, rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune joint disorder causing inflamed, stiff, painful joints especially starting from small joints and later on may involve large joints as well), high blood pressure, sickle cell anemia (Inherited disorder affecting shape of red blood cells, RBCs become sickle shaped that can slow blood flow), leukemia (blood cancer), Gaucher disease (build-up of fatty substance in certain organs), organ transplant like kidney transplant, pancreatitis, SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – an autoimmune disease causing inflammation and damage to various organs), HIV are other risk factors.

9. Sometimes AVN occurs without any cause, for example, spontaneous AVN in the knee (known as SPONK or SONC).

10. In some cases, the reason for interrupted blood flow is not known, for example in Kienbock disease (breakdown of a bone in wrist known as lunate bone from interrupted blood supply) and Preiser’s disease (AVN of scaphoid bone which is one of the bones in wrist).

11. Chances of AVN are more in men as compared to women.

12. Persons aged between 30 yrs to 60 yrs are the most at risk though it can occur in person of any age group.

Pathophysiology Of AVN

AVN begins when there is decrease in subchondral (bone lying beneath the cartilage) blood supply. It leads to low oxygen (hypoxia) in bone tissue resulting in death of cells (necrosis) of bone. It is suggested via experimental evidence that bone cells die within 12 hrs to 2 days’ time from reduced blood supply and low oxygen levels. With progression of the condition, degeneration and the collapse of joint occurs.

Stages of AVN

There are four stages defined as per progression of AVN

Stage I: In this stage, X-ray is normal but in MRI, dead bone can be detected.

Stage II: X-ray can reveal bone damage changes related to AVN. At this stage, the collapse of bone of femoral head has not taken place.

Stage III: X-ray shows sign of bone collapse (crescent sign).

Stage IV: It is the serious stage. At this stage, X-ray shows bone collapse and significant cartilage damage (osteoarthritis)

Ficat: Four stages classification system of AVN based on standard radiographs

Stage I – Normal radiograph

Stage II – In this stage femoral head contour is normal but in radiographs, signs of bone remodelling are seen (cystic and sclerotic portions)

Stage III – Flattening of femoral head occurs in this stage

Stage IV – It is characterized by narrowed joint space and degenerative signs in acetabulum.

Frequently Asked Questions of AVN

1. I have hip pain from the last 6 months, am I suffering from AVN?

Hip pain may arise from various causes. AVN is just one among those causes. Other reasons might be osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis. So only having hip pain does not confirm AVN. A complete detailed case history and MRI of hip is required to confirm the diagnosis in each and every case.

2. Is groin pain indicative of hip AVN?

Though groin pain can occur in hip AVN but not all those having groin pain are actually suffering from AVN. There could be other reasons as well that could be causing groin pain. For example, inguinal hernia, kidney stones, sprains, tendinitis, pinched nerve, UTI (urinary tract infection), and certain male problems like hydrocele, varicocele, epididymitis, orchitis and testicular torsion. It is advised to consult a doctor for groin pain to find the exact cause behind it.

3. I have no pain in hip, but my MRI shows AVN hip joint on right side, do I need treatment?

See, AVN in early stages is usually painless. But if left untreated, there is progression of AVN, bone damage worsens and pain starts to appear which initially is intermittent (occurring at some intervals and not continuous) but gradually may become constant from intense bone damage. So, it is advised to not ignore it and start with its proper treatment to halt progression of this condition and prevent associated pain.

4. Can a person with AVN hip run, or do jogging?

In recently diagnosed AVN hip cases, it is usually advised to avoid running, jogging or other activities that put excessive pressure on the hip joint to prevent the collapse of femur head. A doctor should always be consulted to get advice regarding resumption of such activities.

5. Is AVN self-limiting and can it heal on its own?

AVN unfortunately is a progressive condition that goes on worsening. Very rarely if AVN’s cause is alcohol or steroid use and it is caught (diagnosed) in early stages entire stoppage of alcohol, or steroids can stop its progression and healing may take place from formation of new blood vessels.

6. Which investigations can confirm AVN?

MRI and CT scan are the most valuable to check and confirm AVN. These tests can reveal early bone changes in AVN cases. X-ray may also be done but it shows changes in bone only in later stages of AVN. For checking early AVN stages, X-rays are not helpful to detect any bone changes. A bone scan (nuclear bone scan or bone scintigraphy) is the next recommended investigation. In this test, a radioactive substance is injected via a vein before doing the scan and after that, the bone scan is done to see the injured areas of bone. In some cases, biopsy is advised in which the bone sample is removed with help of a needle or during surgery to check tissue for abnormal cells or cancer. If other tests are normal but still doctor doubts that it is AVN, then functional bone test is recommended. This test measures pressure inside the bone.

6. Is surgery the only option for AVN?

Not all cases of AVN require surgery. If it is diagnosed in early stages, it can be managed with medicines. The stage of AVN decides whether surgery is needed or not. Stages I and II of AVN can be managed with medicines. However, in stage III AVN surgery may be required. In IV stage, surgery may be the only treatment option when all the conservative methods have failed to provide relief, and the pain is unbearable. An orthopedic surgeon is the right person to tell whether a given case of AVN needs surgery or not.

Do You have a Weak Urine Stream? Try Homeopathy

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A weak urine stream is a very common problem, especially in elderly people aged above 50 years. Though it can occur in both men and women, it occurs more commonly in males. A weak urine stream indicates that the bladder is not getting emptied properly. When a person has difficulty initiating or maintaining urine flow, it is medically termed which urinary hesitancy. Weak urine stream can arise due to various reasons, among which benign prostate enlargement (BPH) and urinary stricture (narrowing of urethra through which urine leaves the body) are the main causes. Weak urine stream can be attended with other symptoms as well depending on the cause behind it like dribbling after finishing urine, frequent urination, discomfort in the lower abdomen, sensation of incomplete emptying of bladder, and pain while urinating. If not diagnosed and treated well, the condition may worsen and lead to urinary retention (means complete inability to urinate). Urine retention that occurs all of a sudden is a serious health issue needing immediate medical help.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic mode of treatment carries a great scope to manage cases of weak urinary stream. Homeopathic medicines aim to correct the underlying cause behind the thin urine stream to give great relief. These are natural remedies that treat this condition with zero side effects. Along with a weak urine stream, they also manage any associated symptoms present. These medicines are recommended for mild to moderate cases where no associated complication is present. In case of acute urine retention, one should immediately take help from conventional mode of treatment as homeopathy has limitations in treating such critical cases. Homeopathic prescription for weak urine stream varies from case to case based on the cause and characteristic individual symptoms, so one should take homeopathic medicine under the supervision of a homeopathic doctor and avoid self–medication.

Homeopathic Medicines For Weak Urine Stream

1. Clematis – Top Remedy For Weak Stream For Stricture

Clematis is a highly recommended medicine to deal with cases of weak urinary stream due to a urethral stricture. Persons who require this medicine have to strain to initiate urine flow. Urine passes in a thin stream and quite slowly. Urine may start and stop several times till complete urination. After finishing urination, dribbling (passing drop by drop) of urine occurs. There is a frequent desire to pass urine. Urine passed is scanty. Burning may sometimes be felt while urination.

2. Chimaphila – For Weak Stream From Enlarged Prostate

Chimaphila is an effective medicine for weak urine stream due to prostate enlargement. Those needing it have difficulty in starting urine flow, and urine stream is thin like a thread. They need to strain a lot to pass urine. They may need to stand with feet apart and bend forward and strain to empty the bladder. Burning sensation may be felt while passing urine. This medicine is also recommended for cases of difficult urination in cases of prostate enlargement.

3. Cantharis – For Thin Stream Due To Stricture, Urine Infections

This medicine is helpful to manage weak urine flow in case of urethral stricture as well as urinary tract infections. Pain or burning sensation while passing urine is prominent. Burning/ pain may be present before as well as after passing urine. The urge to pass urine is also quite frequent and sometimes almost constant. There is an urge to pass urine even if there is little quantity of urine in bladder.

4. Thuja – For Weak As Well As Split Stream Of Urine

Thuja works well in cases where urine stream is poor as well as split (which means the urine stream goes in two directions instead of one). There is increased frequency to urinate especially at night. The urge to pass urine can also be sudden. In some cases, urine dribbles and has foul smell.

5. Sarsaparilla – Along With Pain Towards End Of Urination

This medicine is useful for persons having weak stream of urine along with severe pain towards the end of urination. The urine passed is scanty. It may contain flakes or sandy particles. This medicine is also of great help for cases of kidney stones.

6. Merc Sol – With Frequent And Urgent Urination

Merc Sol is of great help in cases in which the urine stream is small and weak along with increased frequency and urgency. Only little urine passes at a time. There may be an urge to pass urine every hour. Burning in the urethra may occur especially in the beginning of urination. Sometimes, urine passes drop by drop and may contain mucus and blood. The bladder area may be painful to touch.

7. Alumina – For Frequent And Poor Urine Flow In Elderly

This medicine is highly beneficial for elderly people who suffer from frequent urination attended with poor urine flow. They also face difficulty in initiating urine. They need to strain to start urination. Little amount of urine is passed. One feels burning and smarting pain while urinating. There is always a feeling as if some drops of urine have remained back in the urethra that could not be passed out.

8. Hepar Sulph – With Feeling Of Incomplete Bladder Emptying

Hepar Sulph is suited to those having poor urine flow and a feeling as if the bladder has not been emptied completely. The urine stream does not start immediately when there is an urge to urinate, one has to wait for urine to start. After urinating, one feels that some urine has remained behind in the bladder. Burning or stitching pain may be felt in the bladder.

Causes Of Weak Urine Stream

1. Benign prostate enlargement (BPH) – It refers to the enlargement of prostate gland that surrounds the first part of urethra in males. When prostate enlarges, it puts pressure on the urethra thus blocking flow of the urine. It results in symptoms including frequent urge to urinate, straining to initiate urine, weak urine stream and dribbling after urination.

2. Urinary stricture – It refers to narrowing of urethra (a tube through which urine leaves the body). It is common in males as compared to females. It results when there occurs scar tissue in urethra following an injury to urethra, catheter use, recurrent urinary tract infections, some urinary tract surgery like done for stone removal or prostate surgery. The first complaint it causes is weak urinary stream. Other complaints arising from it includes split stream of urine, frequent and urgent need to urinate and interrupted urination.

3. Underactive bladder – A condition in which the bladder has reduced strength to contract and results in slow emptying of bladder. Its symptoms include poor urinary stream, needing to wait to start urine flow, straining to pass urine, interrupted urine stream, prolonged time to pass urine, decreased sensation of bladder fullness and a feeling as if the bladder has not emptied entirely.

4. Bladder outlet obstruction – It indicates blockage at the base of bladder. It causes symptoms like constant feeling of bladder fullness, abdominal pain, slow urine flow, frequent urine and straining to pass urine.

5. Kidney stones and any tumor blocking the urinary bladder or urethra

6. Nerve damage (for example from diabetes) and nervous system disorders like multiple sclerosis (an autoimmune disease in which there is damage to the myelin sheath that protects the nerves) and Parkinson’s disease (a disorder of nervous system starting with hand tremors at rest followed by muscles stiffness, stooped posture, changes in speech, impaired balance and reduced arm swing).

7. Infections like prostatitis (inflammation of prostate gland that causes pain/burning when urinating, increased frequency and urgency to urinate, weak urine flow, pain in pelvic region, genitals or groins and painful ejaculation) and UTI (urinary tract infection that causespain/ burning with urination, increased frequency to urinate, strong smell from urine and in case of upper tract UTI fever, chills, pain in the upper back and sides and nausea and vomiting occurs.)

8. Use of certain medicines (for example nasal decongestants, anti-allergy medicines, some medicines used to treat cold and antidepressants) and psychological reasons.

What causes Pelvic Pain in Women and its Homeopathic Remedies

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Pelvic pain refers to pain in the lowest part of the abdomen that can arise from various reasons. It is a very common complaint in many women. It may arise from a problem in the reproductive organs, urinary organs or gastric organs. Besides, it can be a result of some medical issues related to muscles and ligaments in the pelvic floor. The pain may be acute that arises suddenly and remains for a brief period of time. In some cases, it may be chronic which remains for six months or more. The pain can be of varying types and intensity. The pain can be constant or it may come and go. Depending on the cause the pain may radiate to the lower back, thighs and hips.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic mode of treatment carries a great scope to treat multiple health concerns in females including pelvic pain. Homeopathic medicines aim at the root cause behind pelvic pain to bring excellent results. Along with pelvic pain, any attending symptoms are also well managed with these medicines like abnormal vaginal discharge, heavy menstrual bleeding, painful intercourse, intermenstrual bleeding and painful urination. Homeopathic medicines for treating pelvic pain are made of natural substances, hence are very safe to use without any toxic side effects. Some of the causes behind pelvic pain can be quite serious like ectopic pregnancy, cancer, appendicitis so it is advised to always get your case evaluated by a doctor to find out the reason behind it and its appropriate timely treatment. Homeopathic prescription to treat pelvic pain varies from case to case based on the cause behind the pain and the characteristic symptoms in an individual. So any of these medicines should be taken under supervision of a homeopathic doctor and self-medication should be avoided.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Pelvic Pain In Women

1. Sepia – Top Remedy

Sepia is the topmost medicine to deal with cases of pelvic pain in females. In cases needing it, pelvic pain is well marked. The pain may go to the back and down the thighs. It can be attended with a constant bearing down (a dragging feeling as if pelvic organs will come out of vagina) sensation in the pelvic area. Pelvic discomfort is felt throughout the night. Besides, there is yellowish greenish vaginal discharge which has a very foul smell. Bloating in the abdomen may attend. In some cases, pain during intercourse can be an attending concern. At times, frequent urge to urinate may be felt. This medicine is well-indicated to treat different medical conditions including PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease), uterine fibroids and painful menses.

2. Pulsatilla – For Pelvic Pain In Case Of PID

Pulsatilla is a natural remedy to relieve pelvic pain occurring in cases of PID. Females needing it feel cutting type of pain in the pelvis. Pelvic region is also very sensitive to touch. Pain may also be felt during intercourse. There is thick milky white vaginal discharge attended with burning, itching and stinging pain in vagina. Besides PID, this medicine is also indicated to manage pelvic pain during menses. Pain may radiate from the abdomen to the back. There may be a frequent ineffectual urge to pass stool.

3. Magnesia Phos – For Pelvic Pain During Menses

It is an ideal choice of medicine for managing pelvic pain during menses (dysmenorrhea). This medicine works wonders to manage lower abdomen pain which is of cramping, shooting type. One gets relief by putting a hot water bottle or heating pad over the lower abdomen. It also gets better by applying pressure on the lower abdomen.

4. Sabina – In Case Of Fibroids

Sabina is a highly suitable medicine to manage pelvic pain occurring from uterine fibroids. The characteristic symptom to use it is pain radiating from the sacrum (a bone made of five fused sacral vertebrae at the bottom of the spine) to the lower part of the abdomen in front of the pelvis i.e. pubes. Along with this, there is heavy uterine bleeding with dark clots. The blood is offensive. Bleeding may occur in between periods as well. Thick yellow foul-smelling vaginal discharge may accompany above complaints.

5. Colocynth – For Pain In Case Of Ovarian Cyst

Colocynth is a well indicated medicine to manage pain due to ovarian cyst. The pain is one sided and can be sharp, cramping or cutting type. It gets better by applying pressure or bending forward over the abdomen. Though pain can occur on any side of the lower abdomen, it is mostly present on the left side which becomes sore. The pain can be worse during or before menses.

6. Medorrhinum – For Pain During Ovulation

It is one of the best medicines to manage pain on one side of the pelvic area in ovarian region during ovulation. The affected side of the pelvis is also painful to touch. A heated sensation accompanies it. A feeling as if the ovary may be felt. In most cases, there is vaginal discharge that has a specific fishy odor. Medorrhinum is also an excellent medicine to manage PID cases.

7. Cantharis – From Urinary Complaints Like Infection, Bladder Inflammation

Cantharis is a prominent medicine to manage pelvic pain occurring from urine complaints including inflamed bladder or urinary infection. In most cases needing it, there is pain in the bladder region attended with painful, burning urination. Pain and burning may occur before, during or after urination. Pain gets worse from drinking even small quantity of water. Besides, there is frequent urination. The bladder region is sensitive to touch and feels heavy even on the slightest movement.

Causes Of Pelvic Pain In Women

1.PID (Pelvic inflammatory disease) – It refers to infection in the female’s genital organs (uterus, ovaries, fallopian tube) caused by sexually transmitted infections. It leads to vaginal discharge (leucorrhea), pain in the lower abdomen / pelvic region, painful intercourse, bleeding during intercourse, painful periods, bleeding between periods, fever with chills, painful urination.

2. Menstrual period pain and pain during PMS – There may be pelvic pain, mainly cramping pain. The pain may radiate to lower back or thighs. Nausea and vomiting can attend it. In some cases, pain may occur before periods start as a part of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) along with other symptoms like pain in breasts, bloating, irritability, mood swings and headache. These symptoms of PMS go away when menstrual bleeding starts.

3. Uterine fibroids – These are non-cancerous growths developing in the uterus. It may cause pain in pelvis, heavy periods, back pain, pain / bleeding during intercourse, bleeding between periods.

4. Endometriosis – It is a condition in which the tissue lining the inner surface of uterus starts to grow in some body parts other than uterus, like ovaries, fallopian tube, rectum, urinary bladder. Bleeding occurs from these parts during menses. It results in pelvic pain, pain on passing urine or stool, bleeding from rectum or bladder during menses, pain during intercourse, heavy periods and infertility.

5. Ovarian cysts – It refers to fluid-filled sacs in ovaries. It may lead to one-sided pain in pelvis.

6. Ovulation pain – This pain is felt in pelvic region on one side during ovulation i.e. when an egg is released from ovary.

7. Ectopic pregnancy – It happens when an embryo gets implanted and grows at a place other than the uterus, for example in the fallopian tube. In this medical condition, a woman experiences sharp crampy pain in the pelvis on one side. Besides bleeding from vagina, there may be nausea and dizziness.

8. Cancer in pelvic organs – Cancer of uterus, cervix, and ovaries can lead to pain in pelvis and lower abdomen. Along with this vaginal discharge and painful intercourse attends. Cancer of urinary tract may also cause pelvic pain.

9. Urinary issues – These include urinary tract infection (UTI), interstitial cystitis and kidney stones. UTI is quite common in females. It can involve any part of urinary system including urethra, bladder, ureter and kidneys though bladder infection is the most common. The symptoms of UTI are pain / burning with urination, increased frequency to pass urine, pelvic pain, strong smell from urine. In case of upper tract UTI fever, a person feels chills, pain in the upper back and sides, besides nausea and vomiting. Interstitial cystitis refers to inflammation of bladder without any reason known yet. This can lead to pelvic pain, pain when urinating, frequent urination and painful intercourse.

10. Gastric issues – Some gastric issues like constipation, appendicitis, etc can also cause pelvic pain.

How to treat Insomnia in Elderly with Homeopathy

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Insomnia refers to a condition when a person has trouble falling asleep, or maintaining sleep or there is a lack of quality sleep for about three or more nights consecutively in a week. When such a complaint persists for three or more months, it is referred to as chronic insomnia. It is a very common complaint experienced by elderly people. Persons aged above 60 years of age are predisposed to suffer insomnia. It has been estimated that about 30 % to 50 % of elderly people experience insomnia. A person can have sleeplessness or restless sleep once in a while, however, if there is a lack of sleep on a regular basis, it can adversely affect his/her health. Changes in routine, medical ailments occurring with aging, chronic stress and use of certain medicines affect sleep in elderly people.

Medical conditions causing insomnia include high blood pressure, joint pains (arthritis), memory loss (dementia), depression, anxiety disorders, diabetes, thyroid issues and heart complaints. Some other medical conditions are GERD, RLS and OSA. GERD refers to gastroesophageal reflux disease in which the stomach acid back-flows into the food pipe due to the weakening of LES i.e. lower esophageal sphincter. RLS refers to restless leg syndrome which is a condition in which a person has an irresistible urge to move the legs due to some discomforting sensations felt in the legs. OSA is obstructive sleep apnea in which there occur momentary pauses of breathing during sleep.

Certain medicines the use of which can cause sleep issues include antidepressants and antihistamines. Use of alcohol and caffeine can also lead to sleep problems. Besides, there occurs changes in our circadian clock and sleep–wake cycles with advancing age. This occurs from hormone changes that mainly include less production of sleep-regulating hormone called melatonin which may have an impact on sleep. A sleep cycle has four stages, including 2 stages of light non rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and one stage of heavy non rapid eye movement sleep, followed by rapid eye movement sleep stage. In case of elderly people, the time in heavy NREM gets shortened which can keep them awake throughout the night.

Symptoms

The symptoms of insomnia might include difficulty in initiating sleep or maintaining sleep or waking up earlier than usual. There may occur sleepiness the next day along with a tired feeling, difficulty in concentration, memory issues, irritability, disturbed mood, and aggressive behavior. Insomnia may also lead to depression or anxiety, or insomnia may occur because of depression or anxiety.

Homeopathic Treatment

Homeopathy carries excellent scope to help several complaints occurring in elderly people. Among these complaints, it offers wonderful treatment for insomnia. Derived from natural substances, homeopathic remedies treat insomnia naturally without any side effects. These medicines have given great clinical results in such cases. These are effective for both –sleeplessness as well as cases of restless sleep. Homeopathy is a symptom-based science, which means medicines are prescribed based on the characteristic individual symptoms in each and every case after a detailed case analysis. So, homeopathic prescription for any given complaint varies from case to case. It is advised to take any homeopathic medicine after consulting a homeopathic physician.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Insomnia

1. Passiflora – Top Medicine

Passiflora is a topmost recommended medicine for managing insomnia in the elderly. Persons needing it remain wakeful at night along with marked restlessness. When there is sleeplessness due to exhaustion, this medicine seems to work well. Besides these, Passiflora is well-indicated to manage insomnia in those who are in a constant state of worry and are overworked.

2. Kali Phos – For Complaint From Stress And Worries

Kali Phos is the next general remedy suitable for managing insomnia that arises from some sort of stress or worry. Those requiring it remain sad, anxious, irritable and tired. They suffer fatigue, both mental and physical. Besides, they may have weak memory and forgetfulness. This medicine is also indicated for those who have restlessness during sleep. The body may feel hot during sleep.

3. Coffea Cruda – For Insomnia From Constant Chain Of Thoughts

This medicine works well in cases where a person is unable to sleep due to a constant chain of thoughts going in the mind. There is restlessness along with tossing and turning in bed. This medicine is prominently indicated when a person wakes up early in the morning around 3:00 am and after that is unable to get sleep again. It can also be given for disturbed sleep from enormous dreams. When the use of excessive coffee has resulted in sleeplessness, this medicine can be of great help. Lastly, this medicine is recommended for sleeplessness occurring after suffering some acute disease.

4. Baryta Carb – For Sleeplessness Or Frequent Waking Up At Night

This medicine is indicated when a person is sleepy but is unable to sleep. Secondly, it is indicated when a person falls asleep at night, but wakes up frequently and remains uneasy. There is restlessness throughout the night. It is attended with heated sensation in the body. One feels drowsy during the day. The limbs feel tired on waking up.

5. Calcarea Carb – When Multiple Thoughts Crowd Mind

This medicine is effective for cases where sleeplessness occurs from many thoughts coming in the mind. In some cases, the same thought crosses the mind again and again. In most cases, sleeplessness remains till 2 am or 3 am. Persons needing it can have sleeplessness or they have a very light sleep and frequent waking up at night. Before going to sleep excessive sweating may occur on the face. This medicine is also useful when there is sleeplessness or restlessness at night due to migraine headache.

6. Opium – For Sleeplessness Or Restless Sleep

Opium is a well-indicated medicine for both sleeplessness as well as restless sleep at night. It is used in persons who feel sleepy but are unable to sleep and remain wakeful. They have marked sensitivity to noises and any noise occurring even at a distance, disturbs them and keeps them awake. It is also helpful for persons who are very restless at night and keep tossing in bed constantly. They keep on imagining things.

7. Phosphorus – For Restless Sleep Due To Dreams

Phosphorus can be considered in cases where a person has restless sleep and frequent waking up due to dreams. The person wakes up with a jerk from sleep and is anxious. There is restlessness all night and sleepiness during the day. The person feels headache in the morning on waking up. It is also useful when there is disturbance in sleep due to heated sensation in the body.

8. Arsenic Album – For Sleeplessness With Anxiety And Restlessness

Arsenic Album can be given in cases having sleeplessness from anxiety with excessive restlessness. There is constant tossing and turning in the bed. This complaint is worse after midnight. Those needing it have different anxieties like anxiety about health, about future, about others, and of several little things. They may be fearful causing trembling and restlessness. Cold sweating may occur. Difficult breathing, constriction in chest and weakness may be felt.

9. Syphilinum – For Sleeplessness After Midnight

Syphilinum works well in persons who are sleepless after midnight (12 pm) and are unable to get sleep again until 6 am. Persons needing it are very restless at night and cannot remain in one position for long.

10. Sulphur – For Those Unable To Sleep Despite Feeling Sleepy

Sulphur is beneficial for persons who feel sleepy in the evening, but are able to get only little sleep at night and feel uneasy. They may wake up around 3 am to 5 am and cannot fall asleep again. They may suffer different kinds of pain at night. They can have a tendency to sweat and have skin itching at night. Jerking of muscles may also occur. The person doesn’t feel fresh in the morning causing constant yawning, sleepiness, and irresistible drowsiness during the day.

Suffering from Diarrhea due to Anxiety and Stress? Try these top Homeopathic Medicines

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Diarrhea refers to passing loose, watery stool frequently, which means three or more three times a day. It can be attended with pain or cramps in the stomach, urgency to pass stool and passing stool involuntarily (means without your own knowledge). Diarrhea can happen due to many reasons. You might have generally heard of the common causes, like stomach infection, food poisoning or some other gastric issue. What most of us don’t know is that anxiety (refers to state of fear, nervousness and worry) and stress too can lead to diarrhea. It is very common to have an upset stomach resulting from stress and anxiety. The turmoil going on in our mind due to stress and anxiety can affect our gut. Besides diarrhea, other symptoms of stress and anxiety include sadness, fear, irritability, tiredness, sleep issues, palpitations, restlessness and headache.

Causes Of Diarrhea From Anxiety And Stress

1. There is a relation between our brain and gastric system. This is known as the brain–gut axis. Our gastric system contains numerous nerve cells about 600 million that is why it is also referred as enteric nervous system or the second little brain. Several studies have suggested that the brain in skull constantly communicates with the gut brain. So any mood issue tends to have an effect on the gut and any gut problem does have an impact on the mood. When a person is anxious or stressed, brain signals and the hormones going in the gastric tract result in chemical imbalance hindering the digestive process. This can result in many gastric symptoms including diarrhea.

2. Our body’s fight or flight mechanism also plays a role. It refers to the reaction our body gives on recognising some threat or harm about to occur to the body. On perceiving a threat, a series of physical changes occur in the body like increased heart rate, high blood pressure and changes in digestion process (resulting in diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps). To be precise, the function of small intestine slows down and the motility of the large intestine increases which results in diarrhea.

3. Other reasons how stress and anxiety can cause diarrhea include increased blood flow to the affected muscle instead of the gastric system (blood flow is diverted from gastric organs to confront a crisis resulting from anxiety or stress), release of cortisol and adrenaline and change in gut bacteria with increase in number of unhealthy bacteria.

4. In a research, it has been found that persons having anxiety have increased amount of interleukin -1 beta that tends to affect the protective barrier of the intestine and result in pain and defective absorption of water and sodium from intestine. These can cause diarrhea.

5. There is a very well–known, quite common gastric issue related to anxiety and stress i.e. IBS – Irritable bowel syndrome. It is a disorder of the large intestine resulting in changes in bowel habit either diarrhea or constipation and in some cases alternation between the two; stomach cramps and bloating. It is well known that stress and anxiety could be potential triggers for IBS symptoms. In such cases, stress and anxiety act on nerves and make the gastric system hyperactive.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines carry great scope to manage cases of diarrhea due to anxiety and stress. The use of these medicines is recommended in both acute as well as chronic cases. They can handle diarrhea that has occurred from acute episode of anxiety and stress as well as help gradually decrease the tendency to have diarrhea from chronic stress and anxiety. These are equally helpful in managing cases of IBS-related diarrhea. These medicines primarily focus on the psychological level to treat the root cause of anxiety and stress which is causing diarrhea. Once anxiety and stress go away, diarrhea itself gets better. The best part of using these medicines is that they are free from side effects as well as are not habit-forming. It is advised to get every case of diarrhea evaluated by a physician so that the cause behind this condition can be rightly diagnosed as it can arise from several causes, followed by its proper treatment. Self – medication should be avoided in any case.

Homeopathic Medicines For Diarrhea Due To Anxiety And Stress

1. Argentum Nitricum – Topmost Medicine

Argentum Nitricum is the most frequently recommended medicine for managing cases of diarrhea from anxiety. To be more specific, it is highly suitable when diarrhea occurs in cases of anticipatory anxiety. It refers to anxiety occurring from a chain of thoughts in mind about some event that is about to happen in the near future. As for example a family function, a school examination, some public meeting, some stage performance, a visit to a doctor’s clinic and so on. Here the constant thoughts keep coming one after the other about failure causing anxiety. In such cases, sometimes a person suffers from diarrhea and Argentum Nitricum is the best choice of remedy. Diarrhea may get worse soon after eating or drinking anything in cases, needing this medicine. Stool is attended with much gas. Besides, persons needing this medicine are always in a hurry, are impatient and impulsive.

2. Gelsemium

Gelsemium is the next prominent medicine to deal with cases of diarrhea due to anxiety, stress and fear. Persons needing this medicine have a number of anxieties and fears. For example, anxiety about present and future, about health, from hearing some bad news and fear of going to public places, of attending a public event. Any anxiety or fear episode brings loose stool. The stool is painless. In some cases, involuntary passage of stool can occur too.

3. Arsenic Album

Another well-indicated medicine to manage diarrhea from anxiety is Arsenic Album. In cases requiring it, loose stool is passed, along with weakness and a cold feeling in the limbs. There are marked anxieties like anxiety about health, about others, about the future, etc. Other attending symptoms may include restlessness, trembling, chest constriction and difficulty in breathing.

4. Kali Phos

Kali Phos is a leading medicine in homeopathy to manage mind-related stress and complaints arising therefrom. This medicine helps in controlling stress and managing its associated diarrhea wonderfully. It is suitable to persons who get stressed out from little things, remain sad and worried. This stress is affecting their gastric system. They suffer loose stool having foul smell and excessive gas in abdomen. Other complaints that can be present along with above symptoms includes sleep issues and tiredness.

5. China

China is very beneficial when there is frequent loose stool with excessive weakness. Along with this there is excessive gas in abdomen and bloating of abdomen. Stool has foul smell. Rumbling sensation in stomach pit can be felt. In cases needing it, there is a tendency to get anxious on small things.

6. Ignatia

It is another natural remedy for managing diarrhea related to stress, anxiety, depression, fright. It is indicated for persons who remain sad, irritable, and depressed from stress. They get frequent loose stool without pain. Though stool is frequent, it is scanty. There is gas rumbling in the abdomen.

7. Silicea

This medicine is suited to those who have anxiety issues, are very nervous and fear appearing in public. They feel high level of anxiety when have to give a speech or perform an act on stage with fear of speaking in front of a group of people. They have loose stool with pain in abdomen and weakness. Rumbling and heat are felt in the abdomen. There is a tendency to sweat heavily especially on hand and feet, where this medicine is required.

Cough due to Post Nasal Drip (PND) and its Homeopathic Remedies

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Post nasal drip (PND) refers to dripping of mucus from the back of the nose into the throat. It can lead to multiple symptoms. One amongst these symptoms can be chronic cough. PND is one of the most common causes among various reasons for chronic cough means cough that lasts for more than eight weeks. The particles present in the mucus can trigger cough as a defence mechanism to protect airways. Those suffering from PND may feel like hawking to clearing the throat frequently. They may also get a sore throat, tickling/ irritating feeling in the throat, sensation of mucus in the throat, feeling of something being stuck in the throat, hoarse voice and bad breath. Generally, small amount of mucus is continuously produced by our nose and throat which is being swallowed. It functions to maintain moisture of the nasal membrane, filter infection-causing agents like bacteria and virus, and fight infection. If due to any reason, there is over-secretion of mucus, it starts collecting in the back of the throat. It can also be felt as dripping down from the back of the nose into the throat.

The reasons for increased mucus production here could be multiple. It firstly includes viral infection of the nose and throat – a cold or flu. Second reason is nasal allergy/allergic rhinitis which indicates overreaction of the nasal mucosa to allergens like dust mites, pollen leading to symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, stuffed nose, itchy watery eyes, and sometimes attending PND. Third cause is sinus inflammation (sinusitis) which refers to inflammation of air-filled spaces within the skull called paranasal sinuses. It results in PND along with other symptoms like nasal discharge, nasal blockage, headache, pain/tenderness around the nose, forehead, eyes, cheeks, sore throat and cough. Rest of the reasons include deviated nasal septum (DNS – in which the wall dividing nasal cavity into two parts gets displaced to one side hindering mucus drainage causing PND); use of certain medicines to treat medical conditions like high blood pressure; acid reflux where stomach acid back flows into the food pipe; cold weather or dry air.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic medicines can prove highly effective in cases of cough due to PND. Sourced from natural substances, they relieve cough by controlling mucus dripping in the throat from the back of the nose in the most harmless way with zero side effects. These can also relieve any attending symptoms like hawking (throat clearing efforts), sore throat, hoarse voice, bad breath along with cough. These medicines target the root cause behind PND that is trigerring cough to give long term relief. In homeopathy, the medicine most suitable is selected after detailed case analysis based on individual characteristic symptoms. So, it is advised to take any homeopathic medicine after getting your case evaluated by a homeopathic physician.

Homeopathic Medicines For Cough Due To PND

1. Corallium Rubrum – Leading Medicine

Corallium Rubrum is the most commonly recommended homeopathic medicine to manage cases of cough due to PND. In cases needing it, there is excessive nasal secretion of mucus dripping down the throat. It is accompanied with continuous coughing, mostly the entire day. There occur long episodes of cough at very frequent intervals. It gets worse after eating. It is followed by vomiting of thick sticky mucus. Weakness also occurs after coughing. There is also continual hawking due to the accumulation of mucus in the back of the throat.

2. Kali Bichrome – With Thick, Sticky, Ropy Mucus

This medicine is highly effective when there is thick, sticky, ropy mucus secretions moving down the throat from the back of the nose. The mucus sticks in the throat. Mucus going down the throat excites cough. Cough is attended with thick, yellow sticky mucus expectoration that usually comes out in form of long threads. There is tickling sensation in the throat that results in coughing. There is dry, short, continuous cough. Cough gets worse in the morning with thick mucus expectoration. It also gets worse after eating. This medicine acts best on inflamed nasal membrane and sinus inflammation (sinusitis) with excessive PND and resultant associated cough.

3. Hydrastis – For Cough With Thick White / Yellow Mucus

Hydrastis is a natural medicine to relieve cough associated with thick white / yellow mucus falling in the throat from back of nose. It is also sticky and ropy like that in case of above medicine. It is indicated for both dry and loose cough. Dry cough occurs from an irritation in the larynx (voice box). During loose cough there occur expectoration of thick yellow colored mucus. There is dryness and soreness in the throat along with a smarting pain.

4. Hepar Sulph – When Cough Worsens From Exposure To Cold Air

This medicine is of great help when there is worsening of cough due to exposure to cold air. The mucus trickling down causes lose cough. Besides, there is hawking of thick, yellow mucus. Cough gets worse from taking cold drinks or cold food. Additionally, stitching pain in the throat and a feeling of a plug or a splinter (a small sharp piece of wood or glass broken off from larger piece) in the throat are other problems the person may complain of. This medicine is prominently indicated when chronic cold or sinus inflammation are present with PND as one of the complaints.

5. Rumex – For Dry Cough Disturbing Sleep

Rumex is an effective medicine when there is dry cough at night that disturbs sleep. Cough happens from irritation in the throat. Itching occurs in the nose that extends down to the throat. In cases needing it, cough gets worse from inhaling cold air. Talking also increases coughing. Besides, Rumex is a suitable medicine when cough occurs from change in weather from cold to warm or vice versa. A lump sensation is felt in the throat which does not get relieved by hawking. One feels relief on swallowing food. A scraping sensation in the throat may be felt along with the above symptoms.

6. Causticum – For Cough Worse In Evening

Causticum is the next well-indicated medicine when cough gets worse mostly in the evening. There is cough along with the collection of excessive mucus in the throat. The cough may continue till midnight. Cough is dry. Burning sensation is felt in the throat. There is a constant urge to clear the throat. The mucus cannot be expectorated by hawking and needs to be swallowed. The voice may get hoarse.

7. Coccus Cacti – When Cough Occurs From Hawking Mucus

Coccus cacti is beneficial when there is excessive sticky mucus in the throat and hawking (clearing throat) causes cough. Along with cough, vomiting can occur. Throat feels constricted. It feels as if some plug has stuck in the throat. Cough is worse in the morning on waking up. Thick mucus gets detached from the throat while coughing.

8. Sticta – For Dry Cough At Night And Loose Cough In Morning

Sticta is helpful when cough is dry at night and loose in the morning. Dry cough prevents sleep at night. There is tickling sensation in the throat that sets off a cough episode. The mucus drips from the back of the nose into the throat. Nose feels blocked along with dryness and pain.

Iritis: Top Homeopathic Medicines for Relief and its Causes

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Iritis refers to the inflammation of iris which is the colored part in the front of the eye around the pupil. Iritis is also known as anterior uveitis (Uveitis is inflammation of middle layer of eye called uvea and iris is present in its front area, which means anterior part of uvea). Iritis can be acute that appears all of a sudden in some hours or days or it can be chronic which occurs gradually and remains for more than three months. Iritis may affect one or both eyes, though it is usually one sided. The signs and symptoms include redness of eye, pain in eye, sensitivity to light, eye floaters, eye watering, abnormally shaped pupils, blurred vision and headache.

Homeopathic Management

Homeopathic mode of treatment carries great scope to manage cases of iritis. Homeopathic medicines address underlying cause of iris inflammation to bring excellent results. These are natural remedies that gradually decrease the inflammation of iris and halt further progression of the complaint. Besides, they manage wonderfully its signs and symptoms like eye redness, eye pain, light sensitivity, eye watering, headache and floaters before eyes. Homeopathic medicines for managing iritis are made of natural substances, hence are very safe to use without any toxic side-effects. They are recommended for mild to moderate cases where no associated complication is present. Homeopathic prescription for iritis varies from case to case based on the characteristic individual symptoms, so one should take homeopathic medicines under supervision of a homeopathic doctor and avoid self–medication.

Top Homeopathic Medicines For Iritis

1. Merc Sol – Top Medicine

Merc Sol is a leading medicine to manage cases of iritis. In cases needing it, there is pain in the affected eye that can be of varying type. It can be a cutting, tearing or boring kind of pain. Pain may spread around the eye and side of the head. The eye is sore to touch. There is intense sensitivity to light along with the other symptoms. Besides, heat and pressure are felt in the eye. The eyes also become red.

2. Belladonna – With Eye Redness

Belladonna is a prominently indicated medicine for managing iritis. It is used when there is marked redness in the eye. Besides, pain is felt in the eye, especially when closing the eye and on eye movement. There is sensitivity to light. Sparks or flickering (shining with light) before eyes may be felt. There may be dimness of vision.

3. Merc Cor – For Iritis With Marked Eye Pain

This medicine is suitable to manage iritis with marked pain in the eye. The pain is mostly burning type. It is worse at night in most of the cases. Persons needing it may also have excessive sensitivity to light. There is also redness in the eye.

4. Rhus Tox – In Case Having Joint Inflammation Or Injury

Firstly, Rhus Tox is recommended for a person suffering from iritis who has joint inflammation as well. Secondly, it is also indicated when iritis follows an eye injury. In cases needing it, there is pain in the eyes. The pain may be pressive or sharp in nature. Pain from the eye may shoot to the back of the head. It gets worse at night. Eyes become red and there may be light sensitivity. In some cases, inflammation may reach choroid layer of the eye leading to choroiditis.

5. Euphrasia – With Eye Watering And Dimness Of Vision

This medicine is indicated when there is eye watering and dimness of vision in iritis cases. Besides, there is a constant aching in the eye. Darting type of pain occurs in eyes occasionally. Mild redness may be visible in the eyes. Euphrasia can also be considered when there is inflammation of the cornea (keratitis) along with iris inflammation after an injury. Here, pain is marked in the eyes which can be stitching type or burning in nature along with excessive eye watering.

6. Arnica – For Iritis After An Injury

Arnica is a suitable medicine for managing iritis that occurs due to an injury. It is useful when there is redness along with shooting or tearing type of pain in the eye. It is attended with excessive watering from the eyes. Sensitivity to light also occurs. The complaint is relieved by applying gentle pressure over the eye.

7. Apis Mellifica – To Manage Eye Pain And Light Sensitivity

This medicine is effective in managing pain in the eye and light sensitivity in cases of iritis. The pain can be aching, shooting, burning, stinging or pressive type. Pain can be felt in and around the eyes. Pain gets worse from eye movement. Pain may also occur in the forehead. Eyes are red. There may occur watering from the eyes that causes a burning sensation.

8. Argentum Nitricum – With Sore Eyes

This medicine is helpful in cases where the eye is sensitive to touch. There is pain and heat in the eyes. It gets worse from movement and touch. There is a sensation of fullness in the eye, along with dryness. This medicine is also recommended for managing inflammation of the cornea and iris, with pain emanating from top of the head to the eye.

9. Pulsatilla – For Burning Heat Sensation In Eye

Pulsatilla is a medicine beneficial for burning heat sensation in and around the eye. There is also sensitivity to light. It is attended with stitching pain in the eyes. Sometimes tearing or shooting pain is felt in the eye. Dimness of vision can be there. There may be excessive watering from the eyes in open air. Persons needing it may see fiery circles in front of the eyes.

What Causes Iritis?

1. An infection from a virus, bacteria or parasite. Some examples of infections include herpes zoster (a viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus characterized by painful rash/ blisters on the skin), fever blisters (it is caused by herpes simplex virus that leads to tiny blisters on the lips or around the mouth), tuberculosis (an infection of lungs caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis).

2. An injury to eye

3. Some form of arthritis (joint inflammation) may lead to iritis. It firstly includes ankylosing spondylitis (a type of arthritis beginning from sacroiliac joint and then moving up to involve the joints of the spine). The second kind of arthritis is reactive arthritis (it refers to joint inflammation that occurs after an infection in some other body part like genitals, urinary tract). Next is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (joint inflammation for more than six weeks in children aged 16 yrs or younger) and psoriatic arthritis (arthritis occurring in some persons suffering from psoriasis which is a skin condition with red spots covered with silvery white scales).

4. Any autoimmune disease in which body’s disease fighting cells known as immune cells start damaging body’s own healthy tissues by mistake. For example, sarcoidosis (disease in which small clumps of inflammatory cells grow in different body organs leading to its inflammation). Other examples are ulcerative colitis in which inflammation and ulcers occur in colon and rectum, multiple sclerosis (a disease that causes damage to myelin sheath of nerve cells) and psoriasis (skin disease with red spots on the skin covered with silvery white scales).

5. Use of certain medicines like cidofovir, rifabutin

6. Behcet’s disease, a disease that lead to inflammation of blood vessels all over the body

7. Weak immunity, genetic predisposition and tobacco smoking are some of the other risk factors.

Complications

If iritis is not rightly treated on time, some complications may arise that can cause vision loss. These includes glaucoma (an increased pressure in the eye that can lead to vision loss), cataract (clouding/opacity of lens in eye), swollen retina, irregular shape of pupil and calcium crystal build up on the cornea.