Search Results for: Rhus tox

Pompholyx or dyshidrotic eczema refers to a skin condition where tiny blisters/vesicles form on the sides of fingers and palms of hands. Sometimes this condition may also affect the soles of feet. Homeopathic medicines for pompholyx are deep acting remedies of natural origin that helps in healing the eruptions associated with the condition and also manage other symptoms.      

Some factors that predispose or trigger pompholyx are mental or physical stress, skin sensitivity, the tendency of excessive sweating, reaction to certain metals (like nickel, cobalt), detergents, soaps or other chemical, atopic dermatitis and fungal infections of skin. A person having a family history of pompholyx is also at risk to develop a similar condition. Females are more affected by this condition as compared to the males, particularly between the ages of 20 to 40 years. 

Homeopathic Medicines for Pompholyx

Natural medicines treat both acute and chronic cases of pompholyx in an effective and natural way. These remedies further help in gradually eradicating the tendency to have recurrent pompholyx. The top homeopathic medicines for treating pompholyx are Graphites, Natrum Mur, Mezereum, Petroleum and Sulphur.

1. Graphites – For Vesicles Discharging Sticky Fluid

Graphites is most helpful for pompholyx with vesicles discharging sticky fluid. The vesicles appear between the fingers and toes. They discharge sticky, gluey, watery and transparent fluid. The vesicles may itch and burn intolerably. Graphites is also indicated for cracks, fissures, roughness on the affected skin.

2. Natrum Mur – For Vesicles having Watery Fluid

Natrum Mur works well in cases of pompholyx with vesicles containing watery fluid. The vesicles rupture and leave a thin scurf on the skin. Burning on skin may precede vesicle formation. A general aggravation from heat and warmth is usually seen in most cases needing Natrum Mur.

3. Mezereum – For blisters on the Sides of Fingers

Mezereum is prepared from the fresh bark of plant Daphne Mezereum commonly known as Spurge Olive. The natural order of this plant is Thymelaceae. Mezereum is indicated for pompholyx when blisters form on the sides of fingers. The blisters are surrounded by a red areola. The blisters are attended with intense burning sensation. Itching also appears in blisters. The blisters may discharge sticky fluid, get dry leaving scabs. Skin of hands may be rough.

4. Petroleum – For Dry, Cracked Rough Skin on Palms and Soles

Petroleum is very effective for pompholyx with dry, cracked rough skin on palms and soles. The cracks may be deep. It is attended with excessive burning and itching. Blood may appear from the cracks. It is also indicated for vesicular eruption with thick scabs that may be greenish.

5. Sulphur – To Manage Itching and Burning in Vesicles

Sulphur helps in managing itching and burning in vesicles of pompholyx. Vesicles with watery content or pustules may be present. Most cases needing Sulphur show worsening of itching in the evening and at night. Burning appears after scratching the skin. Sometimes bleeding appears from scratching.

6. Carbolic Acid – For highly Itchy Blisters

Carbolic Acid is well indicated for pompholyx with highly itchy blisters. In some cases itchy pustules are also present. The itching gets slightly better by rubbing or scratching. It may be followed by burning pain. An offensive odor on the skin may be present.

7. Rhus Tox – For Blisters discharging Yellow Fluid

Rhus Tox is significant medicine for pompholyx with blisters discharging yellow fluid. The blisters appear on palms of hands. The blisters may be tiny or large. It is attended with intense itching. The affected skin is also red and inflamed.

8. Arsenic Album – For Blisters on Soles of Feet and Toes

Arsenic Album is prominently used for pompholyx with blisters on soles of feet and toes. The blisters have dark edges. The blisters may discharge light yellow colored liquid. The discharge mostly occurs during the night and may be offensive in nature. Intense burning in blisters may be present. For using Arsenic Album, the blisters may also be present on the fingers also along with the soles and toes.

9. Ranunculus Bulbosus – For Blisters having Bluish Appearance

Ranunculus Bulbosus is prepared from a plant commonly known by the name of Buttercup. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Ranunculus Bulbosus is indicated for pompholyx with blisters having bluish appearance. Most times the vesicles appear on palms of hand and fingers. The vesicles are tiny and come up in crops. The eruptions tend to itch and burn. Stinging sensation may also be present in them. After scratching, redness and swelling arise. Thickening of the skin may also occur.

10. Hepar Sulph – For Infection when Eruptions Discharge Pus

Hepar Sulph is an important medicine for pompholyx with infection when there is a pus discharge from the eruptions. The pus may be offensive and tinged with blood. Sometimes the pus is dark coloured. Affected skin may be sensitive to touch.

11. Cantharis – For Vesicles with excessive Burning

Cantharis is a helpful medicine for pompholyx with vesicles attended with much burning. The vesicles are painful, tend to appear between fingers and toes. These may be large and exude watery content.

12. Anagallis – For Cluster of Small Blisters on Palm

Anagallis is prepared from a plant Anagallis Arvensis commonly known by many names including red chickweed, scarlet pimpernel and weather-glass. The natural order of this plant is Primulaceae. Anagallis works well for pompholyx with a cluster of small blisters appearing on the palm of hands and fingers. The blisters are attended with itching. In some cases, smarting sensation also appears in the blisters. There may be a discharge of yellow or brown fluid from blisters. The blisters then dry off. Following healing of these blisters, a new crop of blisters appears. The skin of hands and fingers is usually very dry in cases needing Anagallis.

13. Silicea – For Excessive Sweat with Blisters

Silicea is considered for cases of pompholyx where excessive sweat appears along with blisters. The blisters appear on palms, soles along with intense sweating. The sweat may be offensive. There may be prominent pus discharge from the blisters. Like Hepar Sulph, Silicea is also used to treat infected cases of pompholyx with pus discharges.

Signs and Symptoms of Pompholyx

The signs of pompholyx include small fluid filled blisters on the palmar surface of hand and sides of fingers (and sometimes on soles of feet.) In most cases, intense itching and burning on the skin precedes the blister development. The blisters tend to appear in clusters/crops. The blisters in pompholyx are usually small. These may club together in some cases to form large ones. The blisters can be very itchy as well as painful and may ooze fluid. They heal and are followed by dry, cracked, peeling, red, tender skin. Sometimes the affected skin can be infected following intense scratching. In infected cases the blisters ooze pus, get very painful and become covered with crust.

Swelling in the joints in most cases tends to arise as a result of conditions like arthritis, injuries, and infections. Swelling of joints due to arthritis includes issues like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, infectious arthritis, septic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. The injuries where joint swelling is seen include injury to muscles, ligaments, tendons of joints, fractures, sprains, and strains. Apart from the above, swollen joints also arise in case of bursitis and tendinitis. Homeopathic medicines for swelling in joints help reduce the pain and stiffness in joints and bring about remarkable recovery.       

Homeopathic Medicines for Swelling in Joints

Homeopathy medicines can effectively treat swelling in joints by reducing the swelling and addressing the root cause of the problem. The top grade medicines to treat swollen joints are Rhus Tox, Apis Mellifica, Bryonia, Benzoic Acid and Actaea Spicata.

1. Rhus Tox – Top grade Medicine for Swelling with Pain and Stiffness

Rhus Tox is a top listed medicine for treating swollen joints in cases where there is marked stiffness. The affected joints are red and warm to touch, and there may be associated with swelling, pain, and stiffness present. The pain tends to worsen at rest where Rhus Tox is indicated. Motion tends to give relief in the pain of joints. In addition to the above, the joints feel weak, and there may be cracking in them upon stretching. Winter aggravation of the complaints is also noted. Rhus Tox is a prominent medicine to treat swollen joints in cases of arthritis, inflamed tendons/ligaments, injuries, and sprains.

2. Apis Mellifica – Important Remedy for Swollen Joints

Apis Mellifica is another effective medicine for treating swollen joints. The indications for using Apis are swelling in the shoulder, wrist, fingers, knees, ankles, and toes. The affected joints are inflamed, sensitive and sore to touch and there may be stinging pains present. Apis Mellifica is a prominent medicine for treating joint swelling in cases of arthritis, bursitis, and synovitis.

3. Bryonia – For Swelling with Pain Worsening from Motion

Bryonia is prepared from the root of the plant Bryonia Alba commonly named as White Bryony or Wild Hops. The natural order of this plant is Cucurbitaceae. Bryonia is well-indicated for treating swollen joints with pain that worsens from motion. Rest relieves the pain. The pains are mostly sharp, stitching or tearing in nature. The affected joints look red and shining and can be hot to touch because of pain and swelling. The joints are also tender and sensitive to touch. In cases needing Bryonia, warmth tends to relieve the pain. Bryonia is majorly indicated for swollen joints in conditions like arthritis or gout.

4. Benzoic Acid – For Swelling due to Gout

Benzoic Acid is a very significant medicine for treating swollen joints from gout. Benzoic Acid can be used as a remedy in cases of swelling in the wrist, elbow, knee, and great toe. The joints are also markedly red and painful. These symptoms tend to worsen during the night.

5. Actaea Spicata – For Swelling of Wrist Joint and Other Small Joints

Actaea Spicata is prepared from the root of a plant named Baneberry or Herb Christopher. The natural order of this plant is Ranunculaceae. Actaea Spicata is a highly effective medicine for treating swelling of the wrist joint. The wrist is red, swollen and intolerable to touch. The motion of the wrist is impossible. Actaea Spicata is also well-indicated for swelling of other small joints including the ankle, fingers, and toes. Swelling on the affected joints can appear from the slightest fatigue or even walking. There may be a pain in the joints which can be tearing or drawing in nature along with tingling. The pains tend to get worse from touch and motion in cases where Actaea Spicata is required.

6. Calcarea Carb – For Swelling in the Knee Joint

Calcarea Carb is useful to treat swelling of the knee joint. In cases requiring Calcarea Carb, the knee is warm and sensitive to touch along with swelling. This swelling tends to worsen during the night. In addition to the swelling, stinging, drawing or tearing pains tend to appear in the knee. The pains get worse from motion, and a cracking sound may be heard in the knee while walking. Weakness and lameness in the knees may also be present along with the above features.

7. Ledum Pal – For Swelling of the Ankle Joint

Ledum Pal is a magnificent medicine prepared from a plant called Wild Rosemary also known by the name of Marsh Cistus or Marsh Tea. The natural order of this plant is Ericaceae. Ledum Pal is a high-grade medicine to treat swelling of the ankle joint. Along with swelling, intolerable pain in the ankles is present. Stepping and warmth worsen the ankle pain, and the foot may feel heavy. Pressure is also felt in the ankle and lower part of the leg, and there may be itching present on the ankles. Ledum Pal is a foremost medicine to treat sprains of ankles and feet.

8. Arnica – For Swelling due to Injury

Arnica is prepared from the plant Arnica Montana commonly known as Leopard’s-Bane or Fallkraut. The natural order of this plant is Compositae. Arnica is a prime medicine for treating joint swelling that arises from injuries. Here, sore bruised pain in the joints is marked. In some cases, a drawing pain with crawling and pricking sensation in the joints is present. There is great fear to touch the affected joint due to intense pain.

9. Ruta – For Swelling and Pain due to Sprains and Inflamed Tendons, Ligaments

Ruta is prepared from the plant Ruta Graveolens commonly known by the name of Garden Rue or Bitterwort. The natural order of this plant is Rutaceae. Ruta is a prominent medicine to treat cases of joint swelling and pain from sprains and inflamed tendons and ligaments. The pain attending swelling of joints is mostly sore, aching, and bruised in nature. The joint also feels lame with swelling and pain in cases where Ruta is indicated.

Symptoms Accompanying Swelling in Joints

There is a possibility of swelling in a single joint, or in multiple joints. The main symptoms that accompany swollen joints include pain and stiffness in the joints. The affected joint may be red, tender and feel warm to touch. Mobility of the joint may be reduced, depending upon the intensity of swelling and pain in the joint.

Barber’s itch is mainly a type of folliculitis affecting the beard area of men. Folliculitis refers to infection or inflammation of the hair follicles. Barber’s itch is caused by infection of hair follicles of the beard by bacteria staphylococcal aureus. A condition similar to barber’s itch that affects the beard area in men is tinea barbae. However, tinea barbae is caused by a fungal infection.

Symptoms of Barber’s Itch

The symptoms of Barber’s itch include a cluster of eruptions in the beard that may be red-colored, pimple-like or pus-filled (pustular). It is attended with itchiness. Redness, burning, and inflammation of the skin is observed. The eruptions or break out is followed by crust formation. Scarring may also appear as the eruptions heal.

Homeopathic Medicines for Barber’s Itch

Homeopathy is a very safe and effective mode of treatment for Barber’s itch. Homeopathy medicines work on curing Barber’s itch rather than suppressing it. They boost the self-healing mechanism of the body and make it strong enough to fight the infection naturally. Homeopathy medicines heal the eruptions in Barber’s itch and treat the attending symptoms such as itching and burning. Top rated among Homeopathy medicines prominently indicated for Barber’s itch are Calcarea Sulph, Graphites, Phytolacca Decendra, Rhus Tox, Silicea, Sulphur, Sulphur Iodatum, Tellurium, and Thuja. The most appropriate Homeopathy medicine is selected based on the individual symptom presentation.

1. Calcarea Sulph – For Pimples under Beard that Bleed when Scratched

Calcarea Sulph is one of the most wonderful medicines for Barber’s itch where the indicating feature is pimples under the beard that discharge blood when scratched. These pimples are tender to the touch. Calcarea Sulph is also indicated in case of eruptions in the beard covered with yellowish or greenish scabs. Also, for pustular eruptions in beard discharging yellowish pus, Calcarea Sulph is one of the best Homeopathic medicines for Barber’s itch.

2. Graphites – For Sticky Discharge-oozing Pimples under Beard

Graphites is rates among the most useful medicines for Barber’s itch with pimples in the beard that ooze sticky discharge. This is followed by crust formation. Heat worsens the eruptions. Burning and stinging in the eruptions is observed. Falling of hair from the beard may also be noted.

3. Phytolacca Decendra – For Barber’s Itch with Pale Red or Dark Red Inflamed Spots

For cases where the chief symptom is pale or dark red inflamed spots in the beard, Phytolacca Decendra is an excellent choice among medicines for Barber’s itch. The spots are attended with itching. Washing worsens the inflammation. The skin in the beard area feels dry.

4. Rhus Tox – For Moist Eruptions with Thick Scabs under the Beard

Rhus Tox is one of the most suitable medicines for Barber’s itch cases where the beard area is covered with moist eruptions with thick scabs. Suppuration in eruptions may be noted. It is attended with itching. Washing with hot water may bring relief. Sweating worsens the itching as also rubbing the eruptions.

5. Silicea – For Pustular Eruptions under the Beard

In the case of pustular eruptions in the beard, Silicea is one of the most effective medicines for Barber’s itch. Discharge of offensive pus is an attending feature. The eruptions itch a lot. Itching is most prominent during the daytime or in the evenings.

6. Sulphur – For Marked Itching and Burning in Eruptions

Sulphur is among the most beneficial medicines for Barber’s itch where eruptions in beard are attended with marked itching and burning. Burning sets off when eruptions are scratched. Itching is worse mainly in the evening and night. Washing the face worsens the itching. Sulphur is also a good choice of medicine for Barber’s itch that has been suppressed with use if ointments in the past.

7. Sulphur Iodatum – For Obstinate cases of Barber’s Itch

For cases of Barber’s itch that are obstinate, Sulphur Iodatum is one of the most prominently indicated medicines. In fact, Sulphur Iodatum is almost specifically meant for such cases. It is indicated both where painful, suppurating eruptions arise under the beard and where the beard hides red, inflamed skin.

8. Tellurium and Thuja – For Barber’s Itch with Sensitive Eruptions

Tellurium and Thuja are counted among the most effective medicines for Barber’s itch and have shown remarkable recovery. Among them, Tellurium is the ideal choice where bright red pimples with very sharply defined borders are present in the beard area. Small vesicles may also be present. Thuja is mostly prescribed for sensitive eruptions in the beard. Itching and burning attend. Washing with cold water worsen the itching and burning in most cases.

Fibromyalgia is a long-term disorder characterized by widespread pain in the body, accompanied by general fatigue. There may be sleep issues, memory issues (brain fog) and depression. A person suffering from fibromyalgia tends to have pain in specific areas of the body (known as tender points) that are extremely sensitive and painful. Even the slightest pressure on the tender points can cause pain. This unexplained pain that goes on for more than three months at a stretch is diagnosed as fibromyalgia.

Homeopathy medicines offer a natural treatment for fibromyalgia and help alleviate the symptoms and treat the problem for long-term relief. Complaints of pain, weakness, sleep issues, brain fog – all can be managed wonderfully with these medicines. The traditional treatment for fibromyalgia involves the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), anti-seizure drugs, pain relievers and antidepressants. As evident, these methods are palliative (only treat the pain) and mask the symptoms instead of addressing the root of the problem. Long-term use of these can cause some severe side effects as well. But, on the other hand, homeopathic medicines have no side effects and are safe for use.

Symptomatic treatment

Homeopathic treatment for fibromyalgia is given according to the symptoms in every individual case. A detailed case history is taken in every case that includes symptoms on both physical and mental level. Then the case is evaluated as per the homeopathic principles. Based on that, homeopathic prescription is done. This properly prescribed medicine works on every aspect of the case and provides remarkable results.

Homeopathy Treats the root cause

Homeopathic medicines work on the core of the problem to address the underlying cause. Due to this reason, it works beyond just symptom relief. It aims for complete cure in cases of fibromyalgia. Initially, with homeopathic medicines the intensity of the symptoms reduces and with a complete course of treatment as prescribed by a homeopath, gradually the symptoms resolve completely and cure sets in.

Homeopathy is natural mode of treatment

The best part of opting homeopathic treatment for fibromyalgia is that it has zero side effects due to natural medications. It works in a very gentle, safe and harmless way to ensure natural recovery.                                                                                                                         

Top 9 Homeopathic Medicines for Fibromyalgia

Rhus Tox, Arnica, Kali Phos, Bryonia, Magnesia Phos, Arsenic Album, Coffea Cruda, Ignatia and Phosphoric Acid are the top remedies for fibromyalgia.

1. Rhus Tox – Effective Medicine For Managing Pain In Fibromyalgia

Rhus Tox is a top-listed medicine for treating fibromyalgia. It is indicated in cases where there is widespread pain in the body. The pain is present in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments and can be tearing, shooting, stitching in nature. The pain gets worse at rest and better by movement. Along with pain, there is marked stiffness in the body. Back pain is very prominent, and it gets better with movement. Rhus Tox is also indicated for numbness and a prickling sensation in the limbs.

When to use Rhus Tox?

Rhus Tox is an excellent medicine to manage pain in different body parts along with stiffness in case of fibromyalgia. A key feature is worsening of pain at rest and better from movement.

How to use Rhus Tox?

It works well in all potencies. Initially, it is best to use it in 30C potency two to three times a day. High potencies should be used under the supervision of a homeopathic expert.

2. Arnica – For Sore Pain Worse From Touch

Arnica is a natural medicine for fibromyalgia used in cases of sore, bruised pains in the body that get worse from touch. The affected part is highly sensitive to touch, and the person feels afraid to touch the painful parts. The body feels lame and sore as if beaten. Fatigue, numbness, and tingling of limbs may be present. A history of injuries is usually present in people needing this medicine.

When to use Arnica?

This medicine is highly suitable to manage sore bruised pain in body parts that gets worse from the slightest touch in cases of fibromyalgia.

How to use Arnica?

This medicine is usually used in 30C potency that can be taken once or twice daily.

3. Kali Phos – For Fatigue, Tiredness And Sleep Issues

Kali Phos is a wonderful remedy to treat marked tiredness, fatigue and sleep issues in cases of fibromyalgia. There is severe weakness and the whole system feels drained out. The affected person gets easily fatigued and has body aches. Exertion worsens the condition. Sleeplessness is another major issue that is treated well with this medicine. A prickling sensation in the hands and feet and fibromyalgia linked with stress are also indicative of this remedy.

When to use Kali Phos?

Kali Phos is an effective medicine to manage tiredness, weakness and complaint of sleeplessness in cases of fibromyalgia.

How to use Kali Phos?

Usually its biochemic form is preferred in 6X potency that can be used two to three times a day.

4. Bryonia – When Pain Gets Worse from Movement

Bryonia is a very beneficial medicine for fibromyalgia when pain gets worse from motion. Lying down and absolute rest offers relief in pain. The type of pain varies from sharp, stitching, bursting, sore to tearing in nature. Pressure causes pain on tender points. Stiffness also attends the pain.

When to use Bryonia?

Its use should be considered in cases of fibromyalgia with pains that increases from movement and get better from rest.

How to use Bryonia?

Among its various potencies, it is best to begin with 30C potency twice or thrice a day.

5. Magnesia Phos – When Warmth Relieves Pain

Magnesia Phos is a prominent medicine for fibromyalgia cases where warmth relieves pain. The pains in the body are mostly shifting in nature, changing from one place to the other frequently. The character of the pain is mostly sharp and shooting. Light touch tends to worsen the pain, and there is a pain in the neck, lower back, and lower limbs. The pains also tend to radiate from the point of origin. Restlessness and extreme weakness are present, and cold tends to worsen the pains.

When to use Magnesia Phos?

This medicine should be opted to manage pain that gets better from warm applications in cases of fibromyalgia.

How to use Magnesia Phos?

This medicine gives the best results in 6X potency and can be taken two to three times a day.

6. Arsenic Album – For Marked Tiredness, Weakness

Arsenic Album is a useful medicine for fibromyalgia with marked tiredness, weakness, and fatigue. The key indications for using this medicine include sudden weakness, excessive tiredness, exhaustion from slight exertion, burning pain in the body in areas like the back and limbs. Use of this medicine is also considered in cases of fibromyalgia when intense anxiety (particularly about health) and restlessness are present. All the complaints are seen to get worse during night.

When to use Arsenic Album?

This medicine is very helpful for cases of fibromyalgia with tiredness, weakness along with anxiety, restlessness.

How to use Arsenic Album?

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

7. Coffea Cruda – For Sleep Issues

Coffea Cruda is a medicine used to treat sleep issues in fibromyalgia. The person needing this medicine has severe insomnia (sleeplessness). It is indicated in cases of restlessness and disturbed sleep. Hypersensitivity towards pain is another common feature.

When to use Coffea Cruda?

This medicine is highly recommended to help manage sleeplessness in cases of fibromyalgia.

How to use Coffea Cruda?

It is advised to use Coffea Cruda 30C once or twice daily.

8. Ignatia – For Fibromyalgia with Depression

Ignatia is a herbal medicine for fibromyalgia and depression. A history of some emotional shock like loss of a loved one, or any major grief or disappointment may be present in people needing this medicine. Symptoms of depression like sadness, weeping, desire to be alone are well marked along with mental and physical exhaustion.

When to use Ignatia?

This medicine is of great help for cases of fibromyalgia attended with depression with marked sadness and weeping spells.

How to use Ignatia?

It proves effective in 30C power that can be taken once or twice a day.

9. Phosphoric Acid – For Fibromyalgia With Brain Fog

Phosphoric Acid is indicated for fibromyalgia where a person suffers from extreme brain fog. The person needing this remedy finds it difficult to collect thoughts, faces difficulty to concentrate on a task and comprehend things. In most cases, a history of some grief or sorrow may be present. Issues of sleeplessness and extreme weakness may also be present with the above symptoms.

When to use Phosphoric Acid?

This medicine suits well cases of fibromyalgia with marked brain fog with difficulty in concentration and intense weakness.

How to use Phosphoric Acid?

Phosphoric Acid 30C can be taken once a day.

Causes Behind Fibromyalgia

No clear mechanism explains the cause of fibromyalgia. The most common theory suggests that people who have fibromyalgia are in fact, suffering from some problem with the pain reception. Such people develop an increased sensitivity towards pain. Their body’s tendency to feel pain is higher as compared to others. In other words, we can say that they have low threshold levels to tolerate any painful condition.
The most common factors responsible for this increased sensitivity to pain are serotonin, Substance P (a peptide) and nerve growth factors. In fibromyalgia, there is a low level of serotonin which plays a vital role in inhibiting pain signals. Further, there are high levels of Substance P and nerve growth factor present, which spread the pain signals. All these factors together lead to central sensitization of the brain, causing hypersensitivity to pain and chronic pain. So, the individual suffering with fibromyalgia will experience more pain in the same injury as compared to someone who does not have fibromyalgia.
Due to central sensitization, the patient tends to develop hypersensitivity to touch or to the things which generally do not cause pain. Their brain is in a constant state of high reactivity. That is why they also experience pains, even if touched gently. Because of central sensitization, the pain tends to get worse if the individual is going through some psychological or physical stress like anxiety, depression, injury/trauma or sleeplessness. This central sensitization can develop due to multiple factors in people with fibromyalgia, like after an injury/trauma or surgery, depression, insomnia, and some genetic factors.

Triggering Factors

Family History – A person with a family history of fibromyalgia is at risk to develop it.

Gender – Women are more at risk of developing fibromyalgia. According to NIAMS (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases), between 80 to 90 % diagnosed cases of fibromyalgia are women, and the female hormone estrogen has been linked to this.

Age – Fibromyalgia is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 to 50 years.

Other Diseases – People with certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, are at an increased risk to develop fibromyalgia.

Sleep Disorders – People with sleep disorders including sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome tend to develop fibromyalgia.

Infections – Infections caused by certain viruses tend to trigger or worsen fibromyalgia. These viruses include the Epstein-Barr virus, influenza virus, and viruses that cause hepatitis B and C. Apart from this, Lyme disease caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi is also linked with fibromyalgia.

Trauma – Physical or mental trauma can trigger fibromyalgia. Physical injury mainly in the cervical spine is linked with fibromyalgia. Emotional trauma like a divorce or the death of a family member/ loved one is another trigger factor noted in cases of fibromyalgia.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

1. Pain is the primary symptom of fibromyalgia. The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is widespread and is described as a constant deep, dull ache. However sometimes throbbing, sharp, shooting, burning pains can also be present. The pain is present in the muscles, tendons, ligaments and around the joints. Exercise tends to worsen the pain. Numbness and tingling sensations and stiffness upon lying in the same position for too long are other symptoms.

A person with fibromyalgia has tender points, which are about nine pairs of specific points in the body which when pressed cause intense pain.
As per the guidelines of American College of Rheumatology guidelines, a person is said to have fibromyalgia when at least 11 of these 18 tender points are painful when a certain amount of pressure is applied on them. The tender points are located around the back of the neck, front of the neck, hips, elbows, lower back, upper back knees, chest, and shoulders.

 2.Fatigue (tiredness) is another major complaint in people who have fibromyalgia. Even after sleeping for long hours, people with fibromyalgia feel tired and drained out. Some people describe this fatigue similar to that experienced during the flu. The person feels too tired to do simple, everyday things.

3. Most people with fibromyalgia havesleep issues. They may have difficulty falling asleep or maintaining sleep. Some may experience poor sleep quality in the form of light or easily disturbed sleep. Sleep disturbances arise due to a pain that wakes the person frequently at night. Sleep disturbance may also be linked with other sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea that many people with fibromyalgia tend to have. Feeling lazy and weak in the morning is also very common.

4. Fibro-fog and cognitive problems are other symptoms of fibromyalgia wherein a person has difficulty paying attention, focussing and concentrating on mental tasks. Remembering information, learning new things, and following conversations also becomes difficult.

Apart from the above, other symptoms and related conditions include headaches, depression, anxiety, tingling, prickling, numbness, burning sensation in hands, feet, arms, legs, pain in lower abdomen, painful periods in women, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Diagnosing Fibromyalgia

It is often difficult to diagnose fibromyalgia because of the lack of a specific investigation. Further, its symptoms (mainly pain) mimic many other conditions. A diagnosis of fibromyalgia is made when the patient experiences widespread pain in the tender points of the body for a minimum of three months for no specific reason.

Clinical Diagnosis of Fibromyalgia

There are no lab tests that can confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Certain tests are done to rule out other conditions that have symptoms (mainly chronic pain) similar to fibromyalgia. These include a rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP ( anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide), ESR, CBC (complete blood count), and thyroid function test.

 

Infections caused by the presence of a virus in the body are known as viral infections. One or more viruses cause these infections, and they are common in clinical practice. Although these infections can affect anyone, children and aged people are more susceptible due to weaker immune systems. Homeopathic treatment for viral infections helps resolve the condition by naturally strengthening the immune system, thereby enabling the body to fight infection.   
Some viral infections are self-limiting while others can lead to severe complications. These infections produce debilitating symptoms and affect the day-to-day life of the infected person.
The symptoms vary depending on the organs or systems affected by the virus. The most prominent symptoms include high fever and severe body pain with marked weakness. In addition to this, specific symptoms also occur.

How do Viral Infections Spread?

Viral infections are highly contagious and get transferred very quickly by direct or indirect contact. Viral infections of the skin like herpes and chickenpox spread by direct or indirect contact through infectious discharge. This discharge oozes from skin eruptions that are a common symptom of these diseases.

Viral infections of the respiratory system spread through exposure to nasal or respiratory discharges. Discharge is spread while coughing or sneezing, or by direct contact with items like contaminated handkerchief or utensils.

Viral infections can lead to gastroenteritis or hepatitis. Here the spread occurs by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Few viral infections spread by the bite of insects like mosquitoes or ticks. They include hemorrhagic fevers e.g. dengue, chikungunya, etc. There are the sexually transmitted viral infections like AIDS, Hepatitis B, etc. They spread by unprotected intercourse with infected partners. The spread can also occur via blood transfusion.

Symptoms of Viral Infections

The symptoms of a viral infection depend on the nature of the virus, age and health status of the patient, and the organ affected.
However, there are general symptoms present in all viral infections. These include high fever and rising and ebbing temperature accompanied by chilliness. The patient may complain of extreme weakness and fatigue. Marked pain in the head, body-ache, muscle-pain, and joint-pain is also noted.
Nausea and vomiting are some other symptoms associated with viral infections.

Fever is the most common symptom that is present in almost all viral infections. It is the reaction of body’s immune system against foreign bodies, like viruses. It is a worrisome symptom in children and quick-relief is often sought through drugs to lower fever.
Fever-lowering drugs suppress the fever temporarily, but infection inside the body persists.

Homeopathic Treatment for Viral Infections

Conventional drugs do not offer comprehensive treatments for viral infections. Certain viruses like Influenza, HIV, etc. have tendencies to mutate (change) very rapidly, thereby lowering the effectiveness of such medicines. Additionally, viruses quickly develop resistance to these drugs, making the development of preventive medicine somewhat challenging. Conventional medications therefore only provide supportive management and suppression of the symptoms.
Homeopathic treatment for viral infections helps ease the symptoms and also enables the body to heal naturally.

Homeopathy treatment for viral infections is steadily gaining popularity as a natural way to deal with viral infections. These medicines help reduce the frequency and intensity of acute symptoms like weakness, fever, body pain, etc. These help with quick recovery. In some cases, they reduce the chances of further complications. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections treats the symptoms not by suppressing them, but by strengthening the immune system. It activates the body’s natural restorative properties by producing symptoms similar to the ones experienced by the patients. This method helps settle underlying internal disturbances in the body. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections also minimizes the weakness and fatigue commonly encountered as an aftermath of the infection.

Viral infections are highly communicable and spread rapidly from one person to another. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections is also preventative and helps reduce the chances of contracting the infection.

1. Viral Infections that Affect the Skin

The most common viral infections of skin include Herpes simplex infection, warts and eruptive fevers like chickenpox, measles, rubella, etc.

Herpes Simplex

Herpes simplex is a viral infection that can occur in any part of the body. Most common sites include the mouth, face, genitals and anal region. It is of two types – Type 1 and Type 2.
Type-1 is oral herpes that mainly affects mouth and face. It spreads by direct contact with an infected person.
Type-2 is a sexually transmitted infection that affects the genital and anal region. Sores develop in the mouth, face, genital and anal area. General symptoms of fever, body pain are also present. In some cases, the infection may spread to eyes and lead to eye pain, discharge, and grittiness in the eyes.
Homeopathy treatment for viral infections like herpes simplex includes the use of medicines like Natrum Mur, Rhus Tox, and Petroleum.
Natrum Mur is indicated where eruptions develop on the skin during fever. They are filled with fluid and burst eventually, leaving behind a thin crust. They may present around the mouth, or on arms and thighs.
In cases where intolerable itching and burning accompany the herpes simplex infection,  medicine Rhus Tox is used. The patient has an urge to scratch, but scratching provides no relief. Eruptions may contain a yellow-watery fluid.
Petroleum is a medicine for herpes simplex accompanied by itching sores. The eruptions may change into ulcers and be present on the chest, neck, and knee.

Eruptive Fevers

Eruptive fevers, as the name indicates, are viral fevers in which general symptoms are present with characteristic rashes. Chickenpox, measles, and rubella are all eruptive fevers.

Chickenpox

The varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox. It is a highly infectious disease that mostly affects children, but can also affect adults. It spreads through contact with an infected person via sneezing, coughing, saliva, and discharges from rashes.
The symptoms are mild in children and more pronounced in adults.
The symptoms of chickenpox include general symptoms of viral infections along with a typical rash. The rash erupts first on the trunk and face, where it is dense. It then spreads to the limbs.
These rashes are red-colored, itchy blisters filled with fluid with a crust on top.
Every new rash eruption comes with a rise in temperature. Homeopathy treatment for chickenpox includes medicines like Antim Crud and Antim Tart.
Antim crud is used when there is a formation of pustules accompanied by itching. There is soreness upon scratching. The eruptions may ooze out yellowish-green fluid. Eventually, thick crusts may develop and the patient may feel weak.
Antim Tart is another treatment for chickenpox with itching and red rashes. Painful vesicular eruptions may present on the whole body. They may fill up with pus and dry up, forming a brown crust. Fever often occurs with these eruptions.

Shingles

Herpes zoster (shingles) is a common skin disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus. In some cases, the virus is present in the nerves of the body in an inactive form. The virus becomes active and affects the nerves in case the immunity weakens. It leads to painful skin eruptions and is common in adults and old people. General symptoms accompany the development of rash over the length of the nerve. The rash develops in a small band or strip area. As the disease progresses, rashes change into fluid-filled blisters. Pain and itching are present, followed by the formation of a crust. Healing takes between 15-30 days, but the pain may persist for longer.
Treatment for viral infections like herpes zoster includes medicines like Ranunculus bulb, Mezereum, and Clematis. Ranunculus bulb is indicated when the blisters are of bluish –black color. They may fill with fluid and cause extreme burning and itching. Upon bursting, hard crust forms in place of the blister.
Mezereum is used in treatment for shingles with severe neuralgic pains accompanied by itching. It may get worse by touch in most cases. The blisters may burn and form brown scabs that heal slowly.
Clematis is a well-known treatment for long-standing cases of herpes zoster. The eruptions (in cases where this medicine is required) are red, coupled with intense itching that may get worse after washing.

Measles

Measles is another highly infectious disease caused by the rubeola virus. It affects children the most and spreads through contact with an infected person. Symptoms include general symptoms of viral infections and a typical reddish-brown rash. Sneezing, watery eyes, and cough may also be present. A characteristic feature is the presence of bluish –white spots in the oral mucosa (koplik spot).
Homeopathy treatment for measles includes medicines like Pulsatilla, Euphrasia, and Morbillinum. Pulsatilla and Euphrasia are given mostly in the catarrhal stage of measles. Severe coryza with redness of eyes and profuse lachrymation (flow of tears) may also be present.
Morbillinum is chiefly a preventive medicine for measles.

Warts

Viral warts occur due to infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These are harmless growths of the skin that commonly spread through direct contact with an infected person. Warts can occur at any age but are more common among school children. Warts are of various types; like plane warts (with a flat surface) as seen on face and hands, plantar warts on foot soles, filiform warts (with stalk) on the face, and mucosal warts in the mouth or around lips.
Homeopathy treatment for viral infections like warts includes medicines like Thuja, Nitric Acid and Causticum. Thuja is used to treat all types of warts. They are large and mostly appear on the back of their hands.
Warts accompanied by soreness and burning are treated with Causticum. Nitric acid helps in cases where there is pricking pain, bleeding after washing, and warts that are painful to touch. These usually appear on the upper lip.

2. Viral Infections that Affect the Respiratory System

Viral infections of the respiratory system include the common cold, sore throat, sinusitis, influenza, etc.

Common Cold

The common cold and sore throat are the most common viral infections, and every person usually experiences these at least once in a lifetime. These are highly contagious and spread from person to person through sneezing or coughing. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, stuffy nose, pain in throat, body aches, and fever.
Homeopathy treatment for the common cold includes the use of medicines Allium cepa and Euphrasia. Allium cepa is used in cases where there are profuse acrid nasal discharges accompanied by sneezing. A headache may also be present, along with discharges from eyes. The cold usually appears after exposure to damp winds. Euphrasia is also used to treat the common cold where sneezing accompanies profuse nasal discharges. Irritating eye discharges may also be present.

Influenza

Influenza is another viral infection of the respiratory system, also known as the flu. The causative virus is influenza virus A and B. Influenza virus is a constantly-changing strain and new strains appear every year. It usually affects young children and old people. People with low immunity, chronic heart or lung disease are more at risk of contracting this virus. It is self-limiting in a few cases while causing severe complications in others. Symptoms of influenza initially resemble the common cold. Fever with a chill, head pain, body pain, congestion of nose and throat, pain in the throat, weakness, running nose, sneezing, watery eyes, etc. are the typical symptoms. These develop suddenly and tend to last longer than the common cold. These symptoms are severe for 3-4 days, but the patient recovers after 7-10 days.
Homeopathy treatment for viral infections like the flu includes medicines like Aconite, Gelsemium, Oscillococcinum, and Influenzinum.
Aconite is indicated in cases where there has been an exposure to drafts of cold, dry winds. The symptoms appear suddenly and with high intensity. The nose becomes stuffy with scanty, watery nasal discharges. Fever may occur, along with restlessness.
Gelsemium treats influenza where dullness and drowsiness accompany typical symptoms, and the patient is prone to contract the virus with the change of weather. The after-effects of influenza remain for a long time. Weakness, along with thin, acrid, watery discharges from the nose, is present. Redness of eyes with watery discharges is also a common symptom.
Influenzinum is a medicine that reduces the intensity of these symptoms. It also prevents the spread of infections. Oscillococcinum is also used to treat and it helps in reducing the duration and severity of symptoms like fever, body pains, headache, etc.

3. Viral Infections that Affect the Gastrointestinal Tract

Gastroenteritis 

Rotavirus and Norovirus are the common causes of gastroenteritis (inflammation of stomach and intestines) in infants and young children. These are highly contagious and spread by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Symptoms of infection include fever, nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, pain in abdomen, weakness, body pain, etc. In some case, it is self-limiting, and the patient recovers within a few days. However, in other cases, it can cause severe dehydration. Arsenic Album and Nux vomica are the medicines used to treat viral infections of the gastrointestinal tract. Arsenic album is used in cases where diarrhea and vomiting are present with severe burning and restlessness. In most cases, the symptoms get worse after eating and drinking.
Nux vomica treats cases where constant nausea and vomiting are present, and the patient usually feels better after vomiting. Diarrhea, with a constant urge to pass stools is present, but only a small amount excretes at a given time.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is another highly infectious disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. It leads to inflammation of the liver. The virus spreads through contaminated food and water. Symptoms of hepatitis include nausea, vomiting, pain in the abdomen (usually on the right side), loss of appetite, yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice), dark-colored urine and clay-colored stool.
Treatment for viral infections like hepatitis includes medicines Chelidonium and Phosphorous.
Both medicines cover all the symptoms of hepatitis. In cases where Chelidonium is used, most patients feel better after eating hot food. Phosphorous is used when all the other symptoms accompany a burning and a desire to eat cold food.

4. Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections

AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome)

AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) refers to the fatal, final stage of the HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus) infection.
The immune system weakens as a result of this syndrome. HIV destroys CD 4 T- cells which are essential for a person’s immunity, thus making the patient more prone to common infections.
HIV is sexually transmitted by an infected person to healthy person through unprotected intercourse. It can also spread through sharing of contaminated needles or blood.
The virus also gets transmitted to a growing baby in the womb if the mother is infected. It can spread from an infected mother to her child during delivery or breastfeeding. Initial symptoms occur a few weeks after exposure and resemble a flu-like fever. Lymph glands swell up, but the patient may remain asymptomatic for months, or years before the symptoms become severe.
Treatment for AIDS can currently only delay the associated complications, but complete recovery is not yet possible. The virus is prone to rapid changes, which is why there is a lack of vaccines in the conventional system to prevent infection. These medicines help the body restore its natural healing properties. Homeopathy treatment for viral infections strengthens the body’s immune system. Some medicines used to manage the complications associated with AIDS include Crotalus horridus, Medorrhinum, and Merc Sol.

5. Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers

The most common viral hemorrhagic fever include Dengue and Chikungunya fever. The virus in both infections gets transmitted to a healthy person by the bite of an infectious mosquito. The symptoms of dengue include high temperature and severe body, joint, and muscle pain. Pain in the head and eyes is common, along with nausea, vomiting, and weakness. Rashes also appear on the skin. People with weak immunity or those experiencing a second attack by dengue virus are more likely to have hemorrhages, called dengue hemorrhagic fever. In some cases these are mild, but in other instances, massive hemorrhages may lead to shock. If not managed properly, death may occur.
In Chikungunya fever, all symptoms resemble a common viral illness, but with severe joint pains. Most patients make a full recovery, but joint pains may persist for a few weeks to months.
Homeopathy treatments for viral infections like dengue and chikungunya work on restoring the body’s natural healing systems. Medicines for hemorrhagic fevers include Eupatorium perfoliatum and Gelsemium.
Eupatorium perfoliatum is used to treat severe body and muscular pain.
Gelsemium treats cases of hemorrhagic fever where there is a severe headache. The patient may complain of weakness and dullness, and muscular pains accompany the illness.

Mumps

Mumps is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the mump virus. It is mainly an infection of salivary glands (most commonly the parotid glands). Mumps spread through direct contact with an infected person via saliva and nasal discharges. Symptoms include painful swelling of the glands, in addition to general symptoms of a viral infection.
Belladonna and parotidinum are the medicines used to treat mumps. Belladonna is used in case the parotid gland is swollen and painful. The glands are very hot and sensitive to touch and may be accompanied by ear pain. Parotidinum is a prophylactic against mumps infection.