APPROCH TO VITILIGO

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDER – APPROCH TO VITILIGO
Dr. S. Sabarirajan., M.D. (Hom)
An autoimmune disorder is any of a number of conditions in which a person's immune system reacts against the body's own organs or tissues, and the person's immune system produces antibodies to them. An autoimmune disorder is NOT an "immune deficiency". Vitiligo is a condition that causes depigmentation of sections of skin. It occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation, die or are unable to function. In the case of vitiligo, we believe that the immune system probably sees the person's own pigment cells as foreign bodies, and attacks them, destroying them or weakening them. There is increasing evidence to support the view that vitiligo is an autoimmune disease and that it shows a familial trait in about 18% of cases. Vitiligo is a benign skin disorder due to loss of pigment. Estimated 1.2% of American and world population, about 8% of Indian and Mexican population suffer with this disorder.
Association Of Vitiligo With Autoimmune Disease:
Vitiligo is more common in people with certain autoimmune diseases (diseases in which a person's immune system reacts against the body's own organs or tissues). Autoimmune diseases that are associated with vitiligo include: hyperthyroidism (overactivity of the thyroid gland), adrenocortical insufficiency (the adrenal gland does not produce enough of the hormone corticosteroid), alopecia areata (patches of baldness), and pernicious anemia (a low level of red blood cells caused by the failure of the body to absorb vitamin B12).
The basis for the association between vitiligo and these autoimmune diseases is not well understood. Moreover, the connection between them seems optional. Most people with vitiligo, fortunately, have no autoimmune disease such as hyperthyroidism, adrenocortical insufficiency, alopecia areata or pernicious anemia.
Vitiligo & Hereditary
The cause of vitiligo is not fully known, but there are several theories. One theory of some substance is that people with vitiligo develop antibodies that, instead of protecting them, turn upon them and destroy their own melanocytes, the special cells that produce the pigment melanin that colors their skin.
Another theory is that the melanocytes somehow attack and destroy themselves. Finally, some people with vitiligo have reported that a single event such as a severe sunburn or an episode of emotional distress seem to have triggered their vitiligo. Events of this nature, however, have not been scientifically proven to cause vitiligo and may simply be coincidences.
Vitiligo may be hereditary and run in families. Children whose parents have the disorder are more likely to develop vitiligo. However, most children will not get vitiligo even if a parent has it, and most people with vitiligo do not have a family history of the disorder.
Psychological Effect
An important aspect of vitiligo is the psychological effect of the disease. Vitiligo is often immediately visible to others and those with the condition may suffer social and emotional consequences including low self-esteem, social anxiety, depression, stigmatization and, in extreme cases, rejection by those around them. In people with a pale white skin colour, vitiligo may cause little concern.
Aetiology
The cause of vitiligo is unknown, but research suggests that it may arise from autoimmune, genetic, oxidative stress, neural, or viral causes. various hypothesis are suggestive of its genesis. Among these the important ones are: -
• Immune Hypothesis - Melanocyte destruction and dysfunction or both may result into Hypopigmentation of vitiligo.
• Neural Hypothesis - Neurochemical inhibitors are released at nerve endings that destroy the melanocytes or inhibit their functioning.
• Melanocyte Self-Destruction Hypothesis - Proposes that an intermediate in melanin synthesis causes melanocyte destruction.
• Dietary deficiency of Proteins and Cupro minerals is a major factor for causing vitiligo. Serum skin and cerebro-spinal fluid copper levels are low in theses cases.
• A gastro-intestinal disorder like chronic amoebiasis, chronic Dyspepsia and Intestinal Worms may be additional factors.
• Use of Broad spectrum Antibiotics, especially Chloramphenicol and Streptomycin leads to appearance of vitiligo.
• Trauma or Local irritation caused by wearing the sari or Trousers too tightly do produce vitiligo in individuals predisposed to it.
• Acute Stress may be followed by fast spreading type of vitiligo proving the theory of Troponeurosis. Emotional crisis may be an additional factor.
• An Endocrinal disorder may be operative, Diabetes, Pernicious anaemia, Thyrotoxicosis, Myxoedema, and Addison's disease may be associated with vitiligo.
• Composite Hypothesis - None of the theories alone is entirely satisfactory. Actual mechanism of inhibition or destruction of melanocytes is much more complex than any of these mechanisms suggested.
Precipitating Factors: -
• Emotional Crisis - Death in family, Loss of job, Sudden shock etc.
• Gastro intestinal tract disorders like Worms, Jaundice, amoebiasis etc.
• Prolonged use of Drugs, antibiotics, Oral an ovulating agents etc.
• Local causes like trauma, burns exposure to chemicals etc.
• Pathologically: - A defect in enzyme Tyrosinase is held responsible for vitiligo. According to some Dermatologists, it is a Trophoneurosis and Melatonin, a substance secreted at nerve endings inhibits Tyrisinase, thus interfering in pigment formation.
Clinical Features
People with Vitiligo develop white patches on their skin of irregular shapes and sizes. Vitiligo is more common on the exposed areas for example hands face, neck and arms. It also occurs on covered areas too: – like genitals, breast and legs. In some patients the hair may also turn grey early and in the inside of the mouth, white discoloration may also occur.
The spread of Vitiligo cannot be determined. It may stop completely after the first patch but often these patches do spread. For some patients further development may takes years and for others the large areas can be covered in months. In some patients mental stress has been seen to increase the growth of these white patches.
The three main diseases that can be mistaken for vitiligo are tinea (pityriasis) versicolor, piebaldism and guttate hypomelanosis. Tinea versicolor is a superficial yeast infection that can cause loss of pigment in darker skinned individuals. It presents as pale macules typically on the upper trunk and chest, with a fine dry surface scale. Piebaldism is an autosomal dominant disease in which there is absence of melanocytes from the affected areas of the skin. It usually presents at birth with depigmented areas that are usually near the mid-line on the front, including a forelock of white hair. In idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, multiple small, white macules are noted, mostly on the trunk or on sun-exposed parts of the limbs. When vitiligo affects only the genital areas, it can be difficult to exclude lichen sclerosus, which sometimes can coexist with vitiligo.
Vitiligo & leucoderma
Vitiligo is also known as leucoderma in India, which is technically not correct. Leucoderma simply means white (leuco) skin (derma), i.e. a disorder where the skin loses its normal color. Leukoderma is a cutaneous condition, an acquired condition with localized loss of pigmentation of the skin that may occur after any number of inflammatory skin conditions, burns, intralesional steroid injections, postdermabrasion, etc In case of leucoderma, there is partial and superficial pigment loss; while in case of vitiligo there is deep and complete pigment loss.
General Measures
Diet & Regimen: Foods that are excessively sour should be avoided. The ascorbic acid in sour foods tends to reduce melanin pigmentation. So the patients should restrict their intake of citrus foods. Non vegetarian foods are also to be avoided as they act as a foreign body to pigment cells. Flavoured drinks are to be avoided. Artificial colours used in various food preparations should also be avoided. There may not be enough scientific evidence to prove how these foods worsen vitiligo.
Healthnotes Newswire (August 21, 2003)—Supplementation with a standardized extract of ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) may help slow the progression of skin depigmentation and actually increase pigmentation in adults suffering from vitiligo, according to a study in Clinical and Experimental Dematology . Other nutrients that may be useful in treating vitiligo include picrorhiza (Picrorhiza kurroa), a traditional Indian herb, may also stimulate repigmentation of skin in people with vitiligo.
Supplementation - A small study at the Department of Dermatology of the University of Alabama Birmingham Medical Center found that supplementation with folic acid, vitamin B12, and vitamin C resulted in noticeable repigmentation of the subjects' skin. Taking a vitamin-B complex containing 100 milligrams of each of the major B vitamins and at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily; 1,000 micrograms of vitamin B12 daily, and 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C twice daily.
Ayurveda, Natural Treatment - Local application of Babchi Oil over the depigmented areas, Use of Copper utensils.
Homoeopathic Management
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. Homoeopathy is able to give wonderful and miraculous cures in many cases of Vitiligo. This is due to the fact that homoeopathic treatment enhances the natural production of pigments. According to homoeopathic philosophy Vitiligo not a disease in itself but an expression of an inner disturbed state of the body. Thus, the cure should occur at a level where things have gone wrong.
Boericke- skin- leucoderma. - Ars.alb., Ars.sulph.flavum., Bacillinum., Graphites., Merc sol., Nat.mur., Nit.acid., Nux vom., Phos., Sep., Sil., Sulph., Thuja.
• Arsenicum Sulfuratum Flavum - This is one of the specific remedies used for the treatment of vitiligo in homeopathy. It has discoloration of the skin in blotches that are pale or white in color. It is also a good remedy for eczematous lesions which are moist and have intense itching with corrosive discharge. Pyoderma and urticaria also find a solution through this drug.
• Bacillinum - The patient is suffer from chronic cold, cough & occasional history of haemoptysis. He has loss in weight, loss of appetite, flat chested young boys & girls, prominent ribs & prominent clavicles. We get history of asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis & even T.B. in patients. A Maceration of a Typical Tuberculous Lung Mind. Taciturn, sulky, snappish, fretty, irritable, morose, depressed and melancholic even to insanity. Fretful ailing, whines and complaints; mind given to be frightened particularly by dogs.
• Graphites - Obese patient with a history of suppressed itch. Suited to – Excessive cautiousness; timid, hesitates; unable to decide about anything. Fidgety while sitting at work. Sad, despondent; music makes her weep; thinks of nothing but death.
• Merc sol. - There is history of dysentery with mucus & blood. Jaundice with liver enlargement. These patients are worst at night with salivation & have a syphilitic miasm. They perspire in bed & do not tolerate too hot or too cold climate. Nervous affections after suppressed discharges especially in psoric patients. Glandular and scrofulous affections of children.
• Nit. Acid - White spots are found at the muco-cutaneus junction. More at the angle of the mouth, eyes, nose, nipples, glans penis, vulva, etc. Along with it, there may be fissure at the same spot. In some of the patients along with this there is a desire for eating chalk, pencils, etc., particularly in children.
• Sepia - Best acted in females. Beside the usual white discolouration, these patients have irregular menses either early or late, scanty & painful menses in young girls. Leucorrhoea, prurites, dysparunia, & frigidity is noted. Most of the patients complain of morning sickness along with motion sickness, nausea, vomiting or headache travelling in a car or bus. These patients are not social, they prefer to be alone. Adapted to persons of dark hair, rigid fibre, but mild and easy decomposition.
• Sulphur - There is a history of suppression of skin diseases or any other suppression like suppressed diarrhoea, dysentery, jaundice, typhoid & in tropics many other fevers. There is heat in the palms, soles, eyes, anus, vulva, vagina & on the top of the head. Generally hot patient but could be chilly. Irritability & obstinacy is also noted. Adapted to persons of a scrofulous diathesis, subject to venous congestion; especially of portal system. Persons of nervous temperament, quick motioned, quick tempered, plethoric, skin excessively sensitive to atmospheric changes. For lean, stoop-shouldered persons who walk and sit stooping like old men. Standing is the worst position for sulphur patients; they cannot stand; every standing position is uncomfortable. Dirty, filthy people, prone to skin affections. Aversion to being washed; always <. after a bath.
• Thuja - There is history of vaccination. There is dreams of falling, startling in sleep, have warts on face or on the body, with loss of appetite after vaccination. There is history of tuberculosis or respiratory diseases. Adapted to hydrogenoid constitution of Grauvogl. Acts well in lymphatic temperament, in very fleshy persons, dark complexion, black hair unhealthy skin. Ailments from bad effects of vaccination; from suppressed or maltreated gonorrhoea. Fixed ideas: as if a strange person were at his side; as if soul and body were separated; as if a living animal were in abdomen; of being under the influence of a superior power.

In order to archive this, the patient is analyzed on various aspects of mental and physical and familial attributes and also a complete study is done on the psychological-environment that the patient has gone through in his life. The exact remedy is best chosen by a qualified homoeopath.
References
1. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/vitiligo
3. Homeopathic Materia Medica by Boericke
4. http://viticlear.com/vitiligo.asp
5. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leukoderma
6. Vitiligo: Current Knowledge & Nutritional Therapy by MD, MS and FRCPC Leopoldo F. Montes
7. http://www.njhonline.com/forums/viewtopic.
8. http://hpathy.com/cause-symptoms-treatment/vitiligo-leucoderma-2/
9. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics
10. http://www.drhomeo.com/about/
11. http://www.homeorizon.com/homeopathic-articles/dermatology/vitiligo-cure
12. Wanakee' s Nutritional Approach to Vitiligo & Other Autoimmune Diseases by Wanakee Hill N.D. and Michael D Hill
13. http://www.askdrshah.com/remedies.htm
14. http://hpathy.com/cause-symptoms-treatment/vitiligo-leucoderma/
15. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics


Dr. S. SABARIRAJAN., M.D. (Hom) (Prac. of Med), Professor, Dept. of Practice of Medicine

POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME

POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME
– HOMOEOPATHY IS AT RESCUE
Dr. S. Sabarirajan., M.D. (Hom)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common female endocrine disorders. PCOS is a complex, heterogeneous disorder of uncertain etiology, but there is strong evidence that it can to a large degree be classified as a genetic disease. PCOS produces symptoms in approximately 5% to 10% of women of reproductive age (12–45 years old). It is thought to be one of the leading causes of female subfertility and the most frequent endocrine problem in women of reproductive age.
PREVALENCE AND INCIDENCE
Polycystic ovary syndrome (or PCOS) is common, affecting as many as 1 out of 15 women and is diagnosed in women in their 20s or 30s. Treatment can help control the symptoms and prevent long-term problems. The symptoms often begin when a girl's periods start. Women with this disorder often have a mother or sister who has symptoms similar to those of polycystic ovary syndrome
CAUSES
PCOS is a complex, heterogeneous disorder of uncertain aetiology. There is strong evidence that it is a genetic disease. The symptoms of PCOS are caused by changes in hormone levels. There may be one or more causes for the hormone level changes. PCOS seems to run in families, so chance of having it is higher if other women in a family have PCOS, irregular periods, or diabetes. PCOS can be passed down from either mother's or father's side. The clinical severity of PCOS symptoms appears to be largely determined by factors such as obesity.
WHAT ARE HORMONES, AND WHAT HAPPENS IN PCOS?
Hormones are chemical messengers that trigger many different processes, including growth and energy production. Often, the job of one hormone is to signal the release of another hormone.
For reasons that are not well understood, in PCOS the hormones get out of balance. One hormone change triggers another, which changes another. For example:
• The sex hormones get out of balance. Normally, the ovaries make a tiny amount of male sex hormones (androgens). In PCOS, they start making slightly more androgens. This may cause to stop ovulating, get acne, and grow extra facial and body hair.
• The body may have a problem using insulin, called insulin resistance. When the body doesn't use insulin well, blood sugar levels go up. Over time, this increases chance of getting diabetes.
CLINICAL PRESENTATION
Symptoms tend to be mild at first. Women may have only a few symptoms or a lot of them. The most common symptoms are:
• oligoovulation and/or anovulation
• Acne.
• Weight gain and trouble losing weight.
• Extra hair on the face and body. Often women get thicker and darker facial hair and more hair on the chest, belly, and back.
• Thinning hair on the scalp.
• Irregular periods. Often women with PCOS have fewer than nine periods a year. Some women have no periods. Others have very heavy bleeding.
• Fertility problems. Many women who have PCOS have trouble getting pregnant (infertility).
• Depression.
Most women with PCOS grow many small cysts on their ovaries. That is why it is called polycystic ovary syndrome. The cysts are not harmful but lead to hormone imbalances.
DIAGNOSIS
Not all women with PCOS have polycystic ovaries (PCO), nor do all women with ovarian cysts have PCOS; although a pelvic ultrasound is a major diagnostic tool, it is not the only one.
Standard diagnostic assessments includes
• History-taking, specifically for menstrual pattern, obesity, hirsutism, and the absence of breast development. A clinical prediction rule found that these four questions can diagnose PCOS
• Gynecologic ultrasonography, specifically looking for small ovarian follicles. These are believed to be the result of disturbed ovarian function with failed ovulation, reflected by the infrequent or absent menstruation that is typical of the condition.
• Laparoscopic examination may reveal a thickened, smooth, pearl-white outer surface of the ovary.
• Serum (blood) levels of androgens (male hormones), including androstenedione and testosterone may be elevated. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels above 700-800mcg/dL are highly suggestive of adrenal dysfunction because DHEA-S is made exclusively by the adrenal glands. The free testosterone level is thought to be the best measure.
• Some other blood tests are suggestive but not diagnostic. The ratio of LH (Luteinizing hormone) to FSH (Follicle stimulating hormone), when measured in international units, is greater than 1:1 (sometimes more than 3:1), as tested on Day 3 of the menstrual cycle.
Common assessments for associated conditions or risks are
• Fasting biochemical screen and lipid profile
• 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (GTT) in patients with risk factors (obesity, family history, history of gestational diabetes) may indicate impaired glucose tolerance (insulin resistance) in 15–33% of women with PCOS. Insulin resistance can be observed in both normal weight and overweight patients, 50–80% of PCOS patients may have insulin resistance at some level.
• Fasting insulin level or GTT with insulin levels (also called IGTT). Elevated insulin levels have been helpful to predict response to medication
• Glucose tolerance testing (GTT) instead of fasting glucose can increase diagnosis of increased glucose tolerance and frank diabetes among patients with PCOS according to a prospective controlled trial.
• Pregnancy test (serum HCG)
• Prolactin level
• Thyroid function tests
TREATMENT
General
• Patients should be reassured and taught not to be panic
• Regular exercise, healthy foods, and weight control are key treatments for PCOS. Medicines to balance hormones may also be used. Getting treatment can reduce unpleasant symptoms and help prevent long-term health problems.
The first step in managing PCOS is to get regular exercise and eat heart-healthy foods. This can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease. It can also help to lose weight if need to.
• Try to fit in moderate activity and/or vigorous activity on a regular basis. Walking is a great exercise that most people can do.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet. In general, this diet has lots of vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, and whole grains. It also limits foods that are high in saturated fat, such as meats, cheeses, and fried foods. If have blood sugar problems, try to eat about the same amount of carbohydrate at each meal. A registered dietitian can help to make a meal plan.
• Most women who have PCOS can benefit from losing weight. Even losing 4.5 kg may help get hormones in balance and regulate menstrual cycle. PCOS can make it hard to lose weight, so work with family doctor to make a plan that can help to succeed.
• If have habit of smoking, consider quitting. Women who smoke have higher androgen levels that may contribute to PCOS symptoms.1Smoking also increases the risk for heart disease.
HOMOEOPATHIC TREATMENT
• Management of PCOD primarily involves prescribing a constitutional Homeopathic remedy capable of working on the ovaries and the entire endocrinal system. This approach usually helps in correcting the pathology associated with PCOD.
• There are numerous remedies capable of influencing this condition. The remedy prescribed is chosen after carefully understanding your entire constitution, which includes:
o Presence of any genetic predisposition
o Physical makeup (obesity)
o Peculiarities of menstrual cycle
o entire physical and personality characteristics
• Homeopathy for PCOS or PCOD should be continued for a significant duration of time as the appearance and normalization of the menstrual cycle as well as decrease or absence of cyst formation are the only means by which improvement can be monitored
Some Homoeopathic remedies for PCOD
• Lachesis- Pain in ovaries, especially left sided relieved by discharges from uterus,Labour like pain in uterus,Os feels open
• Sepia - Irritability is marked in the patient. Cannot tolerate the sight of children. Periods are early and profuse. Backache more on washing.
• Graphites - Very useful to correct the menstrual irregularities and to cure pre-menstrual related problems. Patient has induration of ovaries with aversion to opposite sex. During periods severe nausea and constipation. Good medicine for obesity also
• Caulophyllum, useful to women with a history of irregular periods, discomfort during periods and pain in the pelvic region
• Lycodium, which may relieve sweet cravings, insatiable appetites, extended periods, bloating, indigestion, constipation, insomnia and anxiety.
• Nat. Mur, which may reduce inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and vertigo, and may alleviate PMS.
• Calc-carb - Periods too early, profuse and long lasting. Least amount of excitement brings the flow. Before periods mammary tenderness, sweating on forehead and external genitalia.
• Silicea - Chilly and desirous of warmth, has milky white leucorrhea, increased flow of menses with icy coldness of body. Nipples sore and are drawn in, vaginal and ovarian cysts with hard lumps in breasts.
• Myristica - A very good antiseptic. It hastens suppuration hence can be used when the condition is highly inflammatory.
• Platina - With severe gastric irritation and increased sexual urge; patient will be always with delusion of grandeur.
• Oophorinum - Usually helpful in climateric states. Ovarian cysts in young girls.
• Medorrhinum - Should be used as a Miasmatic remedy. Has offensive flow with difficulty in washing. May or may not be associated with warts on genitalia. Left ovary more painful, breast tenderness with dysmenorrhoea.
• Apis - Thin walled multi locular ovarian cyst with tenderness in lower abdomen. Menorrhagia after a long gap of amenorrhoea. Aggravation by heat and touch and > cold.
• Ova tosta - Ovarian cyst especially of left side, bearing down sensation, Backache and pain in left hip, Cannot tolerate tight bands on waist.
References

1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polycystic_ovary_syndrome
2. Notes On Gynaecology by R K Sachdeva
3. Gynaecology By Ten Teachers by Ash Monga
4. http://women.webmd.com/tc/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-topic-overview
5. Homeopathic Materia Medica by Boericke
6. http://www.homoeotimes.com/aug07/html/pcod_nahida.htm
7. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics
8. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics
9. http://www.homeopathyworldcommunity.com/profiles/blogs/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-and
10. http://www.homeoconsult.com/pcos.php
11. Principles of Prescribing, Dr. K.N.Mathur.




Dr. S. SABARIRAJAN., M.D. (Hom) (Prac. of Med)
Professor, Dept. of Practice of Medicine
Vinayaka Mission’s Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital,
Salem, Tamilnadu.

APPROACH TO ANOREXIA NERVOSA – A TEENAGE DISORDER

APPROACH TO ANOREXIA NERVOSA – A TEENAGE DISORDER

Dr. S. Sabarirajan., M.D. (Hom)

A large number of teens and adults these days undertake anxiety about their appearance and opt for choices that steer them towards unhealthy eating disorders, affecting both physical and emotional wellbeing. Being heavy in earlier years and the influence of media, friends, even family at times can be accountable in promoting Anorexia as opposed to a healthy and balanced diet. Anorexia Nervosa requires immediate medical and psychological help, as it can become a life threatening condition.

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by excessive food restriction and fear, irrational fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body self-perception. It typically involves excessive weight loss. Anorexia nervosa usually develops during adolescence and early adulthood. Due to the fear of gaining weight, people with this disorder restrict the amount of food they consume. This restriction of food intake causes metabolic and hormonal disorders. Outside of medical literature, the terms anorexia nervosa and anorexia are often used interchangeably; however, anorexia is simply a medical term for lack of appetite. However, people with anorexia nervosa do not lose their appetites. Anorexia nervosa has many complicated implications and may be thought of as a lifelong illness that may never be truly cured, but only managed over time. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by low body weight, inappropriate eating habits and obsession with having a thin figure. Individuals suffering from it may also practice repeated weighing, measuring, and mirror gazing, alongside other obsessive actions, to make sure they are still thin, a common practice known as "body checking"

Causes of Anorexia Nervosa:

· Unknown.

· People with diverse cultural upbringing can develop Anorexia Nervosa if they hesitate adapting a new culture.

· Being under continuous pressure of having an ideal figure, due to a Mom or sister with a perfect body.

· Low self-esteem.

· Traumatic events like rape, death of a loved one, etc.

· Stress.

· Hormonal changes.

· Substance abuse.

Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa:

Anorexia sufferer’s typically exhibit a range of physical and behavioural symptoms, with physical sign that can include:

· A substantial drop in body weight

· Distended stomach

· Fatigue

· An erratic heart beat

· Low blood pressure

· Osteoporosis or poor bone density

· Thinning hair; and

· Dry skin

· Hypokalaemia, a drop in the level of potassium in the blood, is a symptom of Anorexia nervosa. A significant drop in potassium can cause abnormal heart rhythms, constipation, fatigue, muscle damage and paralysis.

Psychological and behavioural symptoms are also common, and can include any of the following:

· Obsessive exercising

· Depression

· Distorted self image

· A fixation with food

· A refusal to acknowledge they have a problem; and

· Rejection of food and eating

· 50-75% of individuals with an eating disorder experience depression. In addition, 1 in 4 individuals who are diagnosed with anorexia nervosa also exhibit obsessive compulsive disorder

Self-care measures:

· Identify the influences in your life that upholds your eating disorder.

· Communicate with a family member or a close friend about your eating issues or over exercising.

· Parents – do not make your child feel guilty about their eating problem.

· Assist your child formulate a healthy relationship with food.

· Commend your child for what they do and not what they look like.

· Reinforce behaviors that promote healthy eating, healthy weight, body image and self-esteem.

· Develop a resilient sense of identity based on your inner qualities rather than on appearance.

· Appreciate the genetic diversity of body shapes and sizes.

· Create a physically active lifestyle and take pleasure in eating well for health, energy and hunger satisfaction.

Homeopathic approach to Anorexia Nervosa:

Homoeopathy is a remarkable resource for those dealing with eating disorders. Homeopathic constitutional treatment based on the individual case is the most suitable and would aim to heal the underlying physical or emotional crisis causing eating 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 weight and treating any psychological issues related to Anorexia Nervosa. It will also prevent relapse of Anorexia Nervosa. 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 stimulating appetite. It will attend to nutritional problems and help the patient develop a healthier body image.

Anorexia Rubrics

• anorexia, nervosa - arg-n., ARS., calc., carc., caust., CHIN., hyos., ign., kali-p., lach., levo., merc., nat-m., perh., ph-ac., phos., puls., rhus-t., sac-alb., sep., staph., SULPH., syc., tarent., tetox., thuj., vanad., verat.

• refuses, to eat - ars., bell., caust., cocc., croc., grat., HYOS., ign., KALI-CHL., kali-p., lach., op., PH-AC., phyt., plat., puls., sep., TARENT., VERAT., VIOL-O.

• obsessive, compulsive disorder - anac., arg-n., ARS., aur., calc., CARC., HYOS.,ign., iod., MED., merc., nat-m., nat-s., NUX-V., plat., psor., PULS., sil., staph., stram., sulph., syph., thuj., verat.

· Arsenicum alb. - Extreme fastidiousness especially about germs and dirt. Anorexia coupled with fear of being poisoned. Fear of getting certain diseases so they starve.

· Carcinosin - Obsessive compulsive disorder. Perfectionism, fear of becoming fat, fear of rejection. Etiology: abuse, grief or fears, often related to weight. Chronic insomnia, workaholics.

· Hyosyamus - Anorexia plus mania, insanity, fear of being poisoned. Could have pathological jealousy, over concern about weight and getting fat.

· Ignatia - Perfectionism, fear of becoming fat, fear of rejection. Hysteria - loss of control of emotions, fainting. Etiology: grief or big disappointment, often related to weight.

· Natrum mur. - Most often indicated remedy in anorexia, a lot of guilt. Fear of being rejected, hurt easily, very self conscious. Dry lips, emaciate, dry skin, constipated, loose appetite. Behind this is perfectionism and fear of becoming fat. Nat mur have more confidence.

· Phosphoric acid - Etiology: grief with loss of appetite with emaciation, pining away from loss of love, second stage they get indifferent to all emotions and food. Deadness inside (Sepia, Aurum met). Grief - anorexia than some chronic disease.

· Platina met. - Obsessed with their appearance, fear of becoming fat. Very obsessive and impulsive personality, egocentric and arrogant, all tied up with their sexuality, religious mania.

· Pulsatilla - Feeling of worthlessness, unloved, loneliness, fixed ideas about. Food especially certain foods are bad, than amount of foods that are bad grows, fear of gaining weight, pulsatilla's gain weight easily, they can eat a pastry and swear they gained weight. Ignatia, Puls. and Nat. mur. are constantly weighing themselves. Scanty menses.

· Sepia - Anorexia plus hormonal problems, nausea, sensitivity to smell. Disgust for food, worse since childbirth, hormones causes lack of appetite.

· Stapysagria - Acute of Carcinosin, more visible, visibly upset. Carcinosin can control it more, Staph. may it more. Deep sense of worthlessness and depression, even suicidal. Humiliation, mortified, put down, criticized, zero confidence.

· Tarentula - Mania could be religious mania. Underneath you have a fear of being poisoned. Obsessiveness about weight, very restless and hyper energy people, they do everything fast - talk, move.

· Thuja occid. - Fear of being impure, dirty blood, anxiety about health, obsessed with idea of have to clean themselves out.

· Veratrum alb. - Religious mania, loquacious, end of world is coming. Punish themselves, fast to appease god. Behind this you see guilt.

References

1. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/anorexianervosa
3. Homeopathic Materia Medica by Boericke
4. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001510/#adam_000479.disease.symptom
5. American Psychiatric Association Guidelines
6. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics
7. Anorexia Nervosa: A Guide to Recovery by Lindsey Hall & Monika Ostroff
8. http://health.hpathy.com/murphy-eating-disorders.asp
9. www.homeopathic-cure.com/ANOREXIA_NERVOSA_AND_HOMEOPATHY
10. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics
11. http://www.homeopathiccentre.com.au/a_anorexia_nervosa.htm
12. http://www.naturaltherapypages.com.au/article/Homeopathy_for_Anorexia_Nervosa
13. Principles of Prescribing, Dr. K.N.Mathur.

Dr. S. SABARIRAJAN., M.D. (Hom) (Prac. of Med)

Reader, Dept. of Practice of Medicine

Vinayaka Mission’s Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital,

Salem, Tamilnadu.

SUN SIGNS AND BIOCHEMIC MEDICINES

SUN SIGNS AND BIOCHEMIC MEDICINES

A German physician Dr. Schussler realized that a deficiency of certain tissue salts can lead to a number of diseases. These salts are normal components of healthy tissues are essential for the growth and development of the body. Although this system is considered to be an offshoot of Homoeopathy, it has its independent standing. Unlike homeopathic medicines that are in thousands and are available in various potencies or scales, the biochemic remedies are just twelve in number and are available in the 3X, 6X, 12X, 30X, and 200X potencies.

Bio = Living (life), Chemic = Chemical.

It means chemical activity in living or life. In Homoeopathy whatever the drug that we ultimately use contains chemicals which may be organic or inorganic. The source may be from vegetable, animal kingdom or may be mineral, sarcode or nosode. For example, Colocynth which is derived from vegetable kingdom contains Magnesium phosphate (Mag-phos); Arnica and China contain Potassium phosphate (Kali-phos); Lycopodium contains Silicea and so on. Biochemic salts are nothing but Homoeopathic medicines in the Decimal scale.

Dr George Washington Carey went beyond seeing a connection between the sun signs and the tissue salts. Dr. George W. Carey came up with his theory of a person’s astrological sign corresponding to a particular biochemic salt. The fact is that there are twelve months and twelve sun signs and there are twelve biochemic salts. These are the salts that go with each of the sun signs according to Dr. Carey. A few doses a month will help to maintain the balance in the body. Each person's astrological salt can be given together with the salt necessary for the ailment concerned. In this article we discuss about biochemic medicines prescriptions on the basic of zodiac signs.

 

AQUARIUS (21 Januvary – 19 February) – NATRUM MURIATICUM

§  Emaciation though eating well

§  Ill effects of malaria, marshy place and masturbation

§  Craves salt ; Aversion to bread

§  Hypochondriac mood after constipation

§  Involuntary urination while coughing

§  Vesicular eruptions at the border of the hair roots, urticarial rash and ring worms

§  Mind: Dwells on past unpleasant events, sad, depressed, melancholic, disappointment, hysterical, weeping tendency, hypochondriac

PISCES (20 February – 20March) – FERRUM PHOSPHORICUM 

§  First aid in injury

§  First stage of any diseases

§  Pain comes suddenly and disappears suddenly

§  Haemorrhage: Blood profuse, bright red, coagulate easily

§  Hungry after vomiting, must eat, food allergies

ARIES (21 March-20 April) – KALIUM PHOSPHORICUM

§  Weariness, weakness, exhaustion in septic diseases

§  Motor and sensory nerves paretic to paralytic stage

§  Necrosis and gangrenous conditions

§  Twitching and jerking with numbness

§  Disorientation with time, space and personality

§  Produces euthanasia in grave diseases

§  Mind: Brain tonic, bashful, shy, timid. Home sickness; disappointment; lack of self confidence; loss of memory; weeping tendency; insominia.

TAURUS( 21 April – 21 May) – NATRUM SULPHURICUM

§  Biochemic Thuja,  where history of warts, condylomata, gonorrhea, over growth etc

§  Hydrogenoid remedy – cannot tolerate water in any form

§  Preeminently a liver remedy – jaundice and diabetes

§  Early morning diarrhea – Greenish watery stool with mucus flatus

§  Important remedy for humid asthma in children

§  Pnemonia – left lower lobe lying on left side

§  Mind; Music makes her sad, suicidal disposition by shooting or by hanging psychoneurosis

GEMINI- (22 May – 21 June) – KALI MURIATICUM

§  Biochemic Sulphur

§  Second stage of inflammation

§  Ill effects after vaccination

§  Specific drug for follicular tonsillitis and otitis media

§  Skin: Burns, Warts and chronic eczema

§  Chief remedy in stuffy cold, diphtheria and croup

CANCER (22 June – 23 July)– CALCAREA FLOURICA

§  Glands and ducts induration and tumour like female breast, tonsils, nodosities

§  Bone: Osteophytes, corn, callosities, osteosclerosis, exostosis, caries

§  Blood vessels: Loss of elasticity of wall and their valves, varicose veins and ulcers, piles etc

§  Cracks in palm and soles, cataract, corneal opacity in eyes

§  Croupy cough, asthma with lumpy discharges

§  Mind: Fear of poverty

LEO (24 July – 23 August) – MAGNESIA PHOSPHORICA

§  Pain: Crampy, neuralgic, spasmodic, electric like: comes suddenly, disappears suddenly

§  Right sided complaints

§  Chorea and convulsion in teething children without fever

§  Prevents deposition of calcium and cancerous condition

VIRGO (24 August – 23 September) – KALI SULPHURICUM

§  Third stage of inflammation

§  Pain: Sharp, shooting, shifting, spotty

§  Always irritable, hungry, always constipated

§  Sweat promoter

§  Chief remedy in respiratory disorders like sinusitis, lung abscess etc

 LIBRA (24 September – 23 October) NATRUM PHOSPHORICUM

§  Hyperacidity, worms  and gouty disposition

§  Constipation in obstructive jaundice, stool clay coloured

§  Gonorrhoea and Diabetes

§  Infertility in female due to excessive acidic vaginal secretion

§  Thin, watery frequent emission of semen during night with severe backache

§  Diarrhoea early morning, acrid, burning, golden yellow, sour smelling with much flatus

§  Mind: Easily started, feels as if some misfortune will happen, hears footsteps in next room

SCORPIO (24 October – 19 November) – CALCEREA SULPHURICA

§  Antiseptic similar to broad spectrum antibiotics inflammation, suppurative tendency, eruption with vent formation

§  Immunological deficiency and autoimmune diseases

§  Pyrexia of unknown origin and septicemia

§  Painless fistula about anus

§  Prevents stone formation

SAGITTARIUS (20 November – 21December) – SILICEA

§  Malassimilation of food. Retarted growth in children with enlarged head, open fontanelles and sutures

§  Skin: Unhealthy, ulcerative and suppurative tendency, profuse offensive sweat

§  Ill effects after vaccination

§  Headache from nape of neck to vertex, settles over right eye, periodical by profuse urination

§  Eyes: Turbidity of lens and vitreous humour, styes

§  Constipation: Shy stool, requires to be removed mechanically

§  Nails: White spots, brittle, whitlow

§  Mind: Want of grit, anticipatory anxiety, shy, timid, capriciousness, obstinate, fixed ideas, pin mania, wants to be magnified

CAPRICORN(22 December – 20 January) – CALCAREA PHOSPHORIA

§  Craves for bacon, ham. Salted or smoked meats, PICA

§  Dentition diarrhea, spluttering

§  Fistula in ano alternates with chest symptoms

§  Tendencies to catch cold, growing rapidly, haemorrhage

§  Mind: Alternating states. Fear and frights. Wants to be magnetized

DOSAGE:

Dr. Schuessler and other writers recommended 2 grains to 5 grains of the powder per dose for the adult and the same dose for children as for adults.

However, it is also seen that if 1/2 or 1 grain of the powder (single medicine) is dissolved in 4 ozs. of water (preferably luke warm) and one tea-spoonful is given every 2 or 3 hours in chronic cases and every few minutes in serious fatal diseases like Cholera, it is generally even more efficacious than the same given in powder form.

BIOCHEMICS AND SPECIFIC PROBLEMS

SYMPTOM S / DIAGNOSIS	BIOCHEMIC INDICATED
Abscess (bleeding), boils (painful)	SILICEA,  CALC SULPH
Acidity, indigestion, heart burn, peptic ulcer	NAT PHOS
Allergic bronchitis (cough,wheezing),breathing disorders	KALI MUR
Allergic rhinitis (sneezing, cold, headache)	NAT MUR,  NAT SULPH
Angina (Chest pain)	MAG PHOS
Anxiety, tension	KALI PHOS
Constipation	NAT MUR
Corns (feet)	SIL
Diabetes	NAT SULPH
Fever	FERR PHOS, KALI PHOS
Hair falling - thin hair strands	NAT MUR
Hair falls due to weakness or ailments suffering from	CAL PHOS
Hair falls in bunches	SIL
Hair growth - to stimulate	CALC PHOS & SIL
Hair loss (bald spots) due to dandruff	KALI SULPH
Impotency	CAL PHOS / KALI PHOS
Jaundice	FERR PHOS, KALI MUR, NAT SULPH
Leucorrhoea	CAL PHOS / KALI MUR / NAT MUR
Lumbago - aches worse by cold & better by heat & pressure	MAG PHOS
Lumbago - pain at nape & cervical region	CALC PHOS
Lumbago - pain worse while resting, better by heat.	CALC FLUOR
Mania (depressions, mental problems)	KALI PHOS
Mouth ulcers	FERR PHOS, KALI MUR, NAT PHOS
Obesity (overweight)	CALC PHOS, NAT MUR & SIL
Osteoarthritis	MAG PHOS
Pain - colic, abdominal, stomach	MAG PHOS
Paralysis	CALC PHOS, KALI PHOS, MAG PHOS
Piles (Itching, bleeding)	CALC FLUOR
Pimples , acne	CALC PHOS
Sinusitis	KALI MUR & SIL
Sleeplessness (Insomnia)	KALI PHOS & FERR PHOS
Stone in kidney	MAG PHOS TO ALLEVIATE PAIN SIL & CALC PHOS TO DISSOLVE STONE
Suicidal disposition (wants to die)	KALI PHOS
Tonsillitis, pharyngitis, sore throat	KALI MUR
Toothache	KALI PHOS
Typhoid (fever)	FERR PHOS, KALI PHOS & KALI MUR
Vertigo (giddiness)	KALI PHOS
Weakness, general debility, exhaustion	KALI PHOS
Worms (children)	NAT PHOS & KALI MUR

References

1.      The Biochemic System of Medicine of Schussler  by George.W.Carey

2.      http://shalinikagal.hubpages.com/hub/Biochemic-Salts-And-The-Sun-Signs

3.      http://www.healthizen.com/holistic-healing/the-biochemic-system-of-medicine.aspx

4.      http://www.homoeopathynet.com/introduction_to_bio_chemic.html

5.      http://www.njhonline.com/1994/mar_april_94_vol_111_no_2/misc/do_biochem_salts_placebos.shtml

6.      http://www.homeopathicare.org/cellsalts.phtml

7. http://www.homeoint.org/site/deepak/biochemic.htm
8. The Biochemic Handbook, J.B. Chapman, and Edward Perry
9. The Twelve Tissue Remedies of Schussler by Boericke and Dewey
10. The Twelve  Schuessler  Tissue Remedies by The Father Muller’s Homoeopathic Poor Dispensary.
11. Homoeopathy for All – Homoeopathic hand book and Planner 2006.

Dr. S. SABARIRAJAN., M.D. (Hom) (Gen.med)