MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO COMMON GASTROINTESTINAL SYMPTOM - NAUSEA AND VOMITING

 

Abstract

Nausea and vomiting are symptoms of many different health conditions, including early pregnancy, concussions and the stomach flu. Happening in both adults and children, there are many ways to relieve nausea. This article review about causes, risk factors, different type, clinical presentation general management including some home remedies management and homoeopathic way of treatment of Nausea and vomiting. Homoeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homoeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition.

Introduction

Vomiting is an uncontrollable reflex that expels the contents of the stomach through the mouth. It’s also called “being sick” or “throwing up.” Nausea is a term that describes the feeling that you might vomit but aren’t actually vomiting.

Both nausea and vomiting are very common symptoms and can be caused by a wide range of factors. They occur in both children and adults, although they’re probably most common in pregnant women and people undergoing cancer treatments.

Causes of Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting may occur together or separately. They can be caused by a number of physical and psychological conditions.

Nausea

The most common causes of nausea are intense pain — usually from an injury or illness — and the first trimester of pregnancy. There are also a number of other relatively common causes, including: motion sickness, emotional stress, indigestion, food poisoning, viruses, exposure to chemical toxins. If have gallstones, also likely to feel nauseated. Certain smells bring on the feeling of nausea. This is a very common symptom during the first trimester of pregnancy, although it can also occur in people who aren’t pregnant. Pregnancy-induced nausea usually goes away by the second or third trimester.

Vomiting in children

The most common causes of vomiting in children are viral infections and food poisoning. However, vomiting can also be caused by: severe motion sickness, coughing, high fevers

Overeating, In very young infants, blocked intestines can also cause persistent vomiting. The intestines may become blocked by abnormal muscular thickening, hernia, gallstones, or tumors. This is uncommon but should be investigated if unexplained vomiting occurs in an infant.

Vomiting in adults

Most adults rarely vomit. When it does occur, a bacterial or viral infection or a type of food poisoning usually causes vomiting. In some cases, vomiting can also be the result of other illnesses, especially if they lead to a headache or high fever.

Chronic stomach conditions

Chronic, or long-term, stomach conditions can often cause nausea and vomiting. These conditions can come along with other symptoms, such as diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. These chronic conditions include food intolerances, such as celiac disease and dairy protein and lactose intolerance.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common stomach condition that causes bloating, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, fatigue, and cramping. It occurs when parts of the gut become overactive. Doctors usually diagnose IBS by identifying symptoms and ruling out other stomach and bowel conditions.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that commonly affects the intestines, though it can occur anywhere in the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks its own healthy gut tissue, causing inflammation, nausea, vomiting, and pain.

Doctors usually diagnose Crohn’s disease using a colonoscopy, a procedure that uses a small camera to explore the colon. Sometimes they also need a stool sample to help diagnose the condition.

Lifestyle choices

Certain lifestyle choices can increase your chance of experiencing nausea and vomiting.

Consuming a large amount of alcohol can cause damage to the lining of the gut. Alcohol can also react with stomach acid. Both of these will cause nausea and vomiting. In some cases, excessive alcohol consumption can also cause bleeding in the digestive tract.

Eating disorders

An eating disorder is when a person adjusts their eating habits and behaviors based on an unhealthy body image. It can cause nausea and vomiting.

Bulimia is an eating disorder in which a person induces vomiting deliberately to purge the stomach of any consumed food. People with anorexia may also feel nausea due to starvation and excess stomach acid.

Serious conditions

Though rare, vomiting can sometimes occur as a symptom of a more serious condition, including: meningitis, appendicitis, concussion, a brain tumor, migraines

General Management

Treatments for nausea and vomiting depend on the cause. You may get treatment for the underlying problem. There are some medicines that can treatment nausea and vomiting. For severe cases of vomiting, you may need extra fluids through an IV (intravenous).

There are things that you can do to feel better:

·        Get enough fluids, to avoid dehydration. If you are having trouble keeping liquids down, drink small amounts of clear liquids often.

·        Eat bland foods; stay away from spicy, fatty, or salty foods

·        Eat smaller meals more often

·        Avoid strong smells, since they can sometimes trigger nausea and vomiting

·        If you are pregnant and have morning sickness, eat crackers before you get out of bed in the morning

Home remedies

Anti-nausea medications can help with nausea symptoms. However, they often have side effects, such as drowsiness. Some people may prefer to explore natural remedies for nausea.

·        Ginger is a popular natural remedy for nausea.It is not clear how ginger specifically treats nausea. However, experts believe ginger compounds may work similarly to anti-nausea medications. Several studies agree that ginger may help reduce nausea in various situations.For instance, consuming ginger may effectively decrease nauseaTrusted Source during pregnancy or after chemotherapyTrusted Source treatment.

·        Peppermint aromatherapy may also help reduce nausea.One study of 100 people found that peppermint essential oil significantly improvedTrusted Source nausea when used alone or alongside medications. In another study, peppermint oil reduced the frequency of nausea, vomiting, and retching in people undergoing chemotherapy. In a third study Trusted Source, using an inhaler containing peppermint oil at the onset of nausea reduced symptoms — within 2 minutes of treatment — in 79% of cases.

·        Citrusy smells, such as those from freshly sliced lemon, may help reduce pregnancy-related nausea.In one older study from 2014, 100 pregnant people inhaled either lemon essential oil or almond oil as soon as they felt nausea. At the end of the 4-day study, those in the lemon group rated their nausea 9% lowerTrusted Source than those given the almond oil placebo.

·        Fennel powder, which may reduce Trusted Source menstrual symptoms, including nausea, and help people experience shorter periods.

·        Cinnamon, which may decrease Trusted Source the severity of nausea that some people experience during menstruation

·        Cumin extract, which may help improve symptomsTrusted Source such as abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome

·        Relaxing your muscles, whether through massage or PMR techniques, may help relieve nausea.

·        Vitamin B6 is an alternative treatment for pregnant people who prefer to avoid anti-nausea medications.

·         Fresh air and ventilation: Stay in a well-ventilated area or step outside for fresh air, as stuffy or odorous environments can trigger or worsen vomiting.

·        Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that can induce vomiting, such as certain foods, strong smells or excessive movement.

·        Gradual reintroduction of food: Once vomiting has subsided, start with small, bland and easily digestible foods, such as crackers, rice or bananas, before gradually reintroducing a normal diet.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

Homoeopathy is a remarkable resource for those dealing with digestive disorders.  The unique physical, emotional and mental expression of illness is characteristic and is used to channel the course of Homoeopathic treatment. The remedies work by stimulating body’s natural ability to heal itself, acting as a catalyst for healing. Homoeopathy can be of assistance in retrieving normal motility and treating any psychological issues related to gastric disorders. The following homoeopathic medicines are often found indicated in cases of nausea and vomiting

 

Indicated Remedies	Indications
Nux vomica	One of the primary remedies for vomiting, especially when associated with overeating, indigestion or excessive alcohol consumption. The person may experience nausea, a sour or bitter taste in the mouth and an irritable disposition.
Ipecacuanha	Indicated for persistent nausea and vomiting, even when the stomach is empty. The person may feel weak, exhausted and may have a constant inclination to vomit.
Arsenicum album	This is suitable for vomiting accompanied by anxiety, restlessness and a feeling of extreme weakness. The person may have a burning sensation in the stomach and may experience relief from sipping warm drinks
Phosphorus	Recommended for vomiting with a sour or bitter taste in the mouth and a sensation of burning in the stomach. The person may feel weak and may have a strong desire for cold drinks
Veratrum album	A remedy indicated for violent vomiting and diarrhoea, with profuse sweating, coldness and weakness. The person may have a pale face and a craving for icy-cold drinks
Pulsatilla	This remedy can be helpful if nausea is worse in the afternoon and evening (often in the morning, as well). The woman is not very thirsty, although she may feel better from drinking something cool. She can crave many different foods, but feels sick from many things (including foods she craves). Creamy foods or desserts may be appealing, but can cause discomfort and burping or bring on vomiting. A woman who needs this remedy usually is affectionate, insecure, and weepy—wanting a lot of attention and comforting.
Bryonia alba	Recommended when vomiting occurs after eating or drinking, and the person experiences intense nausea and a desire to remain still. The person may feel worse with any motion
Carbo Vegetalis:	If the vomiting is associated with indigestion, heartburn, flatulence, and a bloated feeling, carbo vegetalis can be the ideal remedy. Food regurgitation or GERD with a sour taste in the mouth is a good indicator for using this remedy. There is gas in the stomach which causes distention and burping, especially in children, and this remedy is very useful in such cases.
Ignatia:	Vomiting is brought on by emotional stressors, associated with depression and trying to curb this feeling. The person may be crying and have mood swings and sleeplessness. This is also used in children who may complain of a lump in the throat. In children especially, everything that is said will be taken very personally.
Antimonium crudum	The tongue is coated with a white layer and vomiting occurs soon after eating or drinking. There could be history of eating indigestible foods or overloaded stomach.
Kreosote:	When undigested food stays in the stomach for prolonged periods or used in vomiting associated with cancerous growths and kidney diseases.
Aethusa:	If a child is vomiting curd-like material followed by exhaustion, this is a good solution. The hungry child eats and goes through the bout of nausea, and the cycle repeats.
Asarum	This remedy is indicated when a woman feels very ill, with constant nausea and retching. She is extremely sensitive to everything—especially noise, which can aggravate the nauseous feelings. She feels best when lying down and resting. Cool drinks or food may help, but it is hard for her to even think of eating.
Lacticum acidum	This remedy is indicated for “classic morning sickness”: nausea worse immediately on waking in the morning and on opening the eyes. The woman may salivate a lot and have burning stomach pain. She usually has a decent appetite and feels better after eating.
Sepia	Gnawing, intermittent nausea with an empty feeling in the stomach suggests a need for this remedy. It is especially indicated for a woman who is feeling irritable, sad, worn out, and indifferent to her family. She feels worst in the morning before she eats, but is not improved by eating and may vomit afterward. Nausea can be worse when she is lying on her side. Odors of any kind may aggravate the symptoms. Food often tastes too salty. She may lose her taste for many foods, but may still crave vinegar and sour things.
Tabacum	This remedy can be helpful to a woman who feels a ghastly nausea with a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach. She looks extremely pale, feels very cold and faint, and needs to lie very still and keep her eyes closed. If she moves at all, she may vomit violently—or break out in cold sweat and feel terrible.

Conclusion

Homeopathic remedies can help rebuild mind, body and spirit as well as personal relationships for a balanced lifestyle. Homeopathy will reinforce and tone the body’s systems. Homeopathic remedies can help deal with anxiety, depression, and stress along with digestive problems. It will attend to nutritional problems and help the patient develop a healthier body image.Homeopathic constitutional treatment based on the individual case is the most suitable and would aim to heal the underlying physical or emotional crisis causing digestive disorders.

 

References:

 

1.      Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

2.      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

3.      Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine,

4.      https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics

5.      https://www.lybrate.com/topic

6.      https://www.homeopathyschool.com/the-clinic/self-help-conditions/vomiting/

7.      E.A.Farrington , Clinical Materia Medica

8.      W. Boericke, Pocket Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica and Repertory

9.      M.L.Tyler, Homeopathic Drug Picture.

10. https://medlineplus.gov/

11. H.C.Allen, Allen’s Keynotes.

12. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics

13. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics

14. /https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/

15. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/

16. Dr. K.N.Mathur, Principles of Prescribing

 

About the author

Prof. Dr. S. SABARIRAJAN., M.D. (Hom) (Pract. of Med), PGDHHM

HOD, Dept. of Practice of Medicine, Sivaraj Homoeopathic Medical College and Research institute (Affiliated to The Tamilnadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai), Thumbathulipatty, Salem - 636307, Tamilnadu

Prof. Dr. S. R. AMEERKHAN BABU., M.D. (Hom) (Pract. of Med), MBA

HOD, Dept. of Practice of Medicine, Excel Homoeopathy Medical College & Hospital (Affiliated to The Tamilnadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai), NH544, Komarapalayam, Namakkal Dt. - 637303, Tamilnadu

MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO SEASONAL RESPIRATORY DISORDER - BRONCHITIS

 Abstract 

Cough is the most common illness-related reason for ambulatory care visits for hospitals. Cold, chest discomfort and an irritating cough that may be lasting for weeks? If these symptoms sound familiar then you possibly have Bronchitis. This article review about causes, risk factors, different type, clinical presentation general management including some home remedies management and homoeopathic way of treatment of bronchitis. Homoeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homoeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition.

Introduction

Bronchitis is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the bronchi, the airways that carry airflow from the trachea into the lungs. Bronchitis can be divided into two categories, acute and chronic, Acute Bronchitis is caused by a virus that gives you common cold whereas in Chronic Bronchitis the air passages are continuously red, swollen, become narrow and clogged with mucus which makes it easier for bacteria to settle in the airways and become infected.

Acute bronchitis is characterized by the development of a cough, with or without the production of sputum, mucus that is expectorated(coughed up) from the respiratory tract. Acute bronchitis often occurs during the course of an acute viral illness such as the common cold or influenza. Viruses cause about 90% of cases of acute bronchitis, whereas bacteria account for fewer than 10%.

Chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is characterized by the presence of a productive cough that lasts for three months or more per year for at least two years. Chronic bronchitis most often develops due to recurrent injury to the airways caused by inhaled irritants. Cigarette smoking is the most common cause, followed by air pollution and occupational exposure to irritants.

Protracted bacterial bronchitis is defined as a chronic wet cough, with a positive bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). It is usually caused by streptococcus  pneumoniae, haemophilus influenzae, or moraxella catarrhalis.

 

Causes of bronchitis:

- Allergy (environmental and industrial pollutants, pollen, etc.)

- Tobacco

- Infections (viral, bacterial, fungus

- Immunological

- Exposure to temperature changes (extreme cold, change from cold to heat and vise versa, etc.)

Clinical Manifestations
Cough is the most common symptom. The cough may be either dry (without mucus) or wet (with mucus), depending on the cause and severity. Allergic cough is often dry while infective cough has a tendency to have mucus production. The symptoms of Bronchitis may be listed as under:

§ Cough (with or without mucus)

§ Fever

§ Chest pain,

§ Difficulty in breathing. (dyspnea)

§ Throat pain

§ Nose congestion,

§ Body ache, joint pain, tiredness (usually due to infection.)

§ Abnormal sounds in the lungs called rales or other abnormal breathing sounds may be heard.

Investigation may include:

· Chest x-ray

· Lung function tests provide information that is useful for diagnosis and outlook.

· Pulse oximetry helps determine the amount of oxygen in blood. This quick and painless test uses a device that is placed onto the end of our finger. Arterial blood gas is a more exact measurement of oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, but it requires a needle stick and is more painful.

· Sputum samples may be taken to check for signs of inflammation or bacterial infection.

 

Recurrent or long lasting Bronchitis make vulnerable to recurrent respiratory infections and also promote lung complications. A few of the most common complications are:

· Pneumonia is a viral, bacterial or fungal infection of the lungs where the air sacs get filled with pus and mucus preventing oxygen from reaching blood stream appropriately.

· Emphysema is a condition when the lungs lose its elasticity due to troublesome breathing causing air to be trapped in the air sacs and impairing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

· Respiratory failure occurs when the body fluids become acidic and the lungs are unable to expel all the carbon dioxide that the body produces.

General Management

· Stop smoking and also avoid second hand smoke.

· Avoid triggers of attack such as dust, allergens, etc.

· Avoid contact with persons who have Bronchitis.

· Wash your hands more often.

· Get lots of rest so your body has enough energy to fight the infection.

· Drink plenty of water.

· Try coughing up the mucus.

· Eat a healthy diet.

Home remedies

· ½ tsp. of Turmeric powder in ½ cup of warm milk is an effective home remedy for Bronchitis.

· 1 tsp. of raw onion juice in the morning has beneficial expectorant properties, it liquefies the mucus and prevents its further formation.

· Include garlic in your diet, it is a natural antibiotic.

· Hot towel application over the chest in 3 consecutive turns for 3 minutes each followed by one cold towel turn is very helpful in Acute as well as Chronic Bronchitis.

· Honey has been used as medicine since ancient times. It’s prized for its antibacterial properties. But the main reason honey is a bronchitis sufferer’s friend is that it soothes irritated mucus membranes, and it’s a sweet addition to tea or warm lemon water.

· Hot chili peppers, which contain capsaicin, may also ease congestion by thinning out mucus. 

· Vitamin C intake like fresh orange juice or fresh lemonade is very helpful in preventing and hastening cure of respiratory infections.

· Fresh air and outdoor exercises are essential for Bronchitis patients.

· Inhaled steam is widely recommended for loosening mucus and relieving wheezing. You can use a warm-air humidifier or vaporizer, Adding a drop or two of an essential oil, like eucalyptus, to the mix can also help open up a clogged airway.

· Swishing warm saline water in mouth and throat several times a day may help wash away excess mucus. Gargling may also help stave off future upper respiratory infections, like colds, which can progress to bronchitis.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

 

Homoeopathy, the most efficient solution to conquering Bronchitis, is very successful in managing all the symptoms of Bronchitis, and as well plays a significant role in preventing further complications and improving the general health of the person. Homoeopathic approach concentrates on the body’s natural healing ability for a genuine cure of the condition. Homoeopathic treatment does not treat the disease itself, but is prescribed on the basis of physical, emotional and genetic make up that individualizes a person. The healing response is the most arduous but harmonized activity within the human physiology and often cannot be enhanced appreciably without a comprehensive natural Homeopathic approach.

Indicated Remedies	Indications
Antimonium tartaricum:	This remedy is indicated when the person has a feeling of wet mucus in the chest, and breathing makes a bubbly, rattling sound. The cough takes effort and is often not quite strong enough to bring the mucus up, although burping and spitting may be of help. The person may feel drowsy or dizzy, and feel better when lying on the right side or sitting up.
Bryonia:	This remedy is often indicated when a cough is dry and very painful. The person feels worse from any movement, and may even need to hold his or her sides or press against the chest to keep it still. The cough can make the stomach hurt, and digestion may be upset. A very dry mouth is common, and the person may be thirsty. A person who wants to be left alone when ill, and not talked to or disturbed, is likely to need Bryonia.
Belladonna:	Sudden, violent attack of dry cough, which comes in short bouts and causes redness of the face, a sensation of constriction in the throat, the cough is worse when lying down at night. These symptoms require urgent need of the said medicine. The dry cough usually disturbs sleep, it lessens with warm drinks and in a warm room, and there is a dislike for open air also.
Calcarea carbonica:	This remedy is often indicated forbronchitis after a cold. The cough can be troublesome and tickling, worse from lying down or stooping forward, worse from getting cold, and worse at night. Children may have fever, sweaty heads while sleeping, and be very tired. Adults may feel more chilly and have clammy hands and feet, breathing problems when walking up slopes or climbing stairs, and generally poor stamina
Causticum:	Bronchitis with a deep, hard, racking cough can indicate a need for this remedy. The person fees that mucus is stuck in the throat and upper chest, and may cough continually to try to loosen it. A feeling of rawness and soreness can develop, or a sensation as if a rock is stuck inside. Chills can occur along with fever. Exposure to cool air aggravates the cough, but drinking something cold can help. The person may feel worse when days are cold and clear, and better in wet weather.
Drosera :	The symptoms that confirm the use of medicine Drosera 30 can be mentioned as violent, dry, whooping cough in young persons, bouts of cough follow each other so rapidly that the child gets breathless, turns blue and sweats profusely.Sensation of a feather in the throat that excites cough, the cough is worse from talking, singing, when lying down. These can be said as the other symptoms. At night; the person desires to be in open air.
Dulcamara:	When a person easily gets ill after being wet and chilled (or when the weather changes from warm and dry to wet and cool) this remedy may be indicated. The cough can be tickly, hoarse, and loose, and worse from physical exertion. Tendencies toward allergies (cats, pollen, etc.) may increase the person’s susceptibility to bronchitis.
Hepar sulphuris:	The cough that fits this remedy is usually hoarse and rattling, with yellow mucus coming up. The person can be extremely sensitive to cold—even a minor draft or sticking an arm out from under the covers may set off jags of coughing. Cold food or drink can make things worse. A person who needs this remedy feels vulnerable both physically and emotionally, and may act extremely irritable and out of sorts.
Ipecacuanha :	when the person is suffering from various problems such as dry cough with wheezing and rattling in the chest and accompanied by nausea and vomiting, a bout of vomiting does not relieve nausea, long bouts of cough render the person breathless and blue in face, cough is worse in cold, dry weather i.e. winter but improves by warmth, and thirstlessness.
Kali bichromicum:	A metallic, brassy, hacking cough that starts with a troublesome tickling in the upper air-tubes and brings up strings of sticky yellow mucus can indicate this remedy. A sensation of coldness may be felt inside the chest, and coughing can lead to pain behind the breastbone or extending to the shoulders. Breathing may make a rattling sound when the person sleeps. Problems are typically worse in the early morning, after eating and drinking, and from exposure to open air. The person feels best just lying in bed and keeping warm.
Pulsatilla:	Bronchitis with a feeling of weight in the chest, and a cough with choking and gagging that brings up thick yellow mucus, may respond to this remedy. The cough tends to be dry and tight at night, and loose in the morning. The fever may be worse in the evening and at night. Feeling too warm or being in a stuffy room tends to make the person worse, and open air brings improvement. Thirst is usually low. A person who needs this remedy often is moody and emotional and wants attention and sympathy. (This remedy is often helpful to children who are tearful when not feeling well and want to be held and comforted.)
Silicea:	A person who needs this remedy can have bronchitis for weeks at a stretch, or even all winter long. The cough takes effort and may bring up yellow or greenish mucus, or little granules that have an offensive smell. Stitching pains may be felt in the back when the person is coughing. Chills are felt more than heat during fever, and the person is likely to sweat at night. A person who needs this remedy is usually sensitive and nervous, with low stamina, swollen lymph nodes, and poor resistance to infection.
Sulphur:	This remedy can be indicated when a person has had many bouts of bronchitis (sometimes the resistance has been weakened by taking antibiotics too often for minor complaints). The cough feels irritating, burning, and painful; yellow or greenish mucus may be produced. Problems can be worse if the person gets too warm in bed, and breathing problems at night may wake the person up. Redness of the eyes and mucous membranes, and foul-smelling breath and perspiration are often seen when a person needs this remedy.

 

Conclusion

Homoeopathic treatment will clear up the infection, alleviate inflammation in the air passages and relieve discomfort, pain and pressure caused by coughing by opening the airways in lungs and aid in loosening the bronchial secretions making elimination of mucus easier helping to breathe better and naturally. Its constitutional approach furthermore boosts up the immune system of the patient hence preventing recurring infections. Since Homoeopathic remedies treats in totality, it leads to a long-lasting cure, rather than a temporary suppression of symptoms. Since it is safe and gentle, devoid of all chemical toxicity, it is the ideal medicine for people of all ages, even the most sensitive like a newborn baby. Along with Homoeopathic medicines, the lifestyle, personal habits & food habits modification may be useful for treatment of patients with bronchitis.