MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO CONQUER PILES WITH HOMOEOPATHY & NO SURGERY

 ABSTRACT 

Piles are another term for haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids are collections of inflamed tissue in the anal canal. They contain blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibers. Piles are certainly one of the commonest ailments that afflict mankind. This article provides an overview of the aetiology, diagnosis, and appropriate general & homoeopathic management of this disorder.

INTRODUCTION

Haemorrhoids are dilated veins occurring in relation to the anus, and originating in the sub epithelial plexus formed by radicals of the superior, middle, and inferior rectal veins. Haemorrhoids may be external or internal to the anal orifice. The external varieties are covered by skin, while the internal varieties lie beneath the mucous membrane. It is difficult to obtain any accurate idea of their incidence, but clinical experience suggests that very many people of both the sexes suffer from haemorrhoids, and that even more perhaps have piles in the symptom less form. It is frequent experiences to find haemorrhoids at routine rectal examination in patients who never had any complaints referable to them. The incidence of piles apparently increases with age, and it seems likely that at least 50% of people over the age of 50 years having some form of haemorrhoidal formation

 

AETIOLOGY

The veins around anus tend to stretch under pressure and may bulge or swell. Swollen veins (haemorrhoids) can develop from an increase in pressure in the lower rectum.

Factors that might cause increased pressure include:

· Straining during bowel movements  

· Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet.

· Chronic diarrhea or constipation

· Obesity

· Pregnancy

· Anal intercourse

· Diet is also a major factor; people who eat foods low in fiber are prone to constipation and hemorrhoid symptoms. Also, people who eat spicy foods may have exacerbation of their symptoms. Some people who simply do not drink enough fluid may suffer from constipation and haemorrhoid symptoms

· Haemorrhoids are more likely as get older because the tissues that support the veins in rectum and anus can weaken and stretch with aging.

· Other diseases like carcinoma of Rectum, cirrhosis of liver, portal hypertension

 

CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS

Haemorrhoids are usually not painful, but if a blood clot forms, they can be very painful.

Common symptoms include:

· Painless bright red blood from the rectum

· Anal itching

· Anal ache or pain, especially while sitting

· Pain during bowel movements

· One or more hard tender lumps near the anus

· Prolapse of the haemorrhoids is a later development.  It occurs initially at defecation, the piles appearing at the anal orifice at the height of the expulsive effort, and slipping back immediately afterwards. Later the piles tend to remain in a prolapsed condition after the motion has been passed and the patient finds it necessary to replace them digitally into the anal canal. At this stage they are also liable to come down on any exertion such as sneezing, coughing, lifting, walking or on passing flatus, so that the patient may find himself frequently inconvenienced by the piles prolapsing at the various time during the day. Finally a stage is reached when the piles are more or less permanently prolapsed, with anal mucosa exposed and in contact with the under clothing

 

 

 

Grades of internal haemorrhoids

Internal haemorrhoids are classified by the degree of tissue prolapse into the anal canal.

· Grade I (First degree) - haemorrhoids project into the anal canal with minimal bleeding or may be asymptomatic but do not prolapse.

· Grade II (Second degree) - haemorrhoids protrude beyond the anal verge with straining or defecating and reduce spontaneously when straining ceases.

· Grade III (Third degree) - haemorrhoids protrude spontaneously or with straining and require manual reduction.

· Grade IV (Fourth degree) - haemorrhoids chronically prolapse and, if reducible, fall out again. Others prolapse out of the anus and are irreducible (strangulated), creating a surgical emergency

Complications of Haemorrhoids are rare but include:

· Anemia. Chronic blood loss from Haemorrhoids may cause anemia, in which you don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your cells. This may result in fatigue and weakness.

· Strangulated hemorrhoid. If blood supply to an internal hemorrhoid is cut off, the hemorrhoid may be "strangulated," which can cause extreme pain and lead to tissue death (gangrene).

 

Test and Examination

Tests and procedures to diagnose internal haemorrhoids may include:

· Examination of anal canal and rectum for abnormalities. During a digital rectal exam, physician inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into rectum. He or she feels for anything unusual, such as growths.

· Visual inspection of anal canal and rectum. Because internal Haemorrhoids are often too soft to be felt during a rectal examination, doctor may also examine the lower portion of colon and rectum with an anoscope, proctoscope or sigmoidoscope. These are scopes that allow seeing into anus and rectum.

· Physician may want to do a more extensive examination of entire colon using colonoscopy. This might be recommended if: signs and symptoms suggest might have another digestive system disease, if have risk factors for colorectal cancer, you’re older than age 50 and haven't had a recent colonoscopy.

 

Prevention of Haemorrohids

The best way to prevent Haemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft, so they pass easily. To prevent Haemorrhoids and reduce symptoms of Haemorrhoids, follow these tips:

1. Eat high-fiber foods. Eat more fruits, vegetables and wholegrains. Doing so softens the stool and increases its bulk, which will help you avoid the straining that can cause Haemorrhoids or worsen symptoms from existing Haemorrhoids. Add fiber to your diet slowly to avoid problems with gas.

2. Drink plenty of fluids. Drink six to eight glasses of water and other liquids (not alcohol) each day to help keep stools soft. Consider fiber supplements. Most people don't get enough of the recommended amount of fiber — 25 grams a day for women and 38 grams a day for men — in their diet. Studies have shown that over-the-counter fiber supplements, such as Metamucil and Citrucel, improve overall symptoms and bleeding from Haemorrhoids. These products help keep stools soft and regular. If you use fiber supplements, be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water or other fluids every day. Otherwise, the supplements can cause constipation or make constipation worse.

3. Don't strain. Straining and holding your breath when trying to pass a stool creates greater pressure in the veins in the lower rectum.

4. Go as soon as you feel the urge. If you wait to pass a bowel movement and the urge goes away, your stool could become dry and be harder to pass.

5. Exercise. Stay active to help prevent constipation and to reduce pressure on veins, which can occur with long periods of standing or sitting. Exercise can also help you lose excess weight that may be contributing to your Haemorrhoids.

6. Avoid long periods of sitting. Sitting too long, particularly on the toilet, can increase the pressure on the veins in the anus.

 

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

· Soak regularly in a warm bath or sitz bath. Soak your anal area in plain warm water 10 to 15 minutes two to three times a day. A sitz bath fits over the toilet.

· Keep the anal area clean. Bathe (preferably) or shower daily to cleanse the skin around your anus gently with warm water. Soap isn't necessary and may aggravate the problem. Avoid alcohol based or perfumed wipes. Gently dry the area with a hair dryer after bathing.

· Don't use dry toilet paper. To help keep the anal area clean after a bowel movement, use moist towelettes or wet toilet paper that doesn't contain perfume or alcohol.

· Apply cold. Apply ice packs or cold compresses on your anus to relieve swelling.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

The medicines given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the treatment of this condition. Homoeopathy medicines are effective in treating. It is true that this method takes a longer time, but it is also the best one because not only the haemorroids are cured but also the patient.

Indicated Remedies	Indications
Aesculus hippocastanum	When this remedy is needed, Haemorrhoids are sore and aching, with a swollen feeling. Pain may last for hours after the bowels have moved. People who need this remedy often have the sensation of a lump, or a feeling that a lot of small sharp sticks are inside the rectum, poking them. Sharp and shooting pains may be felt in the rectum and back. A person who needs this remedy may also have low back problems.
Aloe	Haemorrhoids that are swollen and protrude “like a bunch of grapes” and are soothed by cold soaks or compresses may be helped with this remedy. Haemorrhoids may alternate with diarrhea, and the person may have a lot of flatulence.
Arnica montana	Sore, bruised-feeling Haemorrhoids may be relieved with this remedy, especially when straining or over-exertion (for instance, childbirth or heavy lifting) has brought on the Haemorrhoids.
Calcarea fluorica:	This remedy may be indicated for Haemorrhoids with bleeding and itching in the anal region, or internal Haemorrhoids causing soreness in the very low back and sacrum. The person may also have problems with flatulence and constipation.
Collinsonia canadensis	Sensation of sharp sticks in rectum. Sense of constriction. Vascular engorgement of rectum. Dry feces. Most obstinate constipation, with protruding hæmorrhoids. Aching in anus and hypogastrium. Constipation during pregnancy; with membranous dysmenorrhœa, following labor Painful bleeding piles. Dysentery, with tenesmus. Alternate constipation and diarrhœa, and great flatulence. Itching of anus
Graphites:	Burning Haemorrhoids with soreness, cracks, and itching in the anal region suggest a need for this remedy. A person who needs Graphites is often overweight, has difficulty concentrating, and tends toward skin eruptions.
Hamamelis:	A raw, sore feeling in the anus, with bleeding Haemorrhoids, indicates a needfor this remedy. Pulsation may be felt in the rectum, and the lower back often aches.Symptoms may be worse from warmth.
Ignatia:	Haemorrhoids accompanied by spasms and stabbing pain in the rectum suggest a need for this remedy—especially if the person is sensitive and emotional. Stitching pains can be felt in the rectal area when coughing. Bleeding and pain are often worse when the stool is loose, and rectal prolapse sometimes follows bowel movements.
Nux vomica:	Itching, painful Haemorrhoids, a feeling of constriction in the rectum, and chronic constipation with ineffectual urging are indications for this remedy. People who need Nux vomica are usually impatient, tense, and irritable, and often have a tendency toward heavy use of stimulants, strong foods, and alcohol or drugs.
Paeonia officinalis	Biting, itching in anus; orifice swollen. Burning in anus after stool; then internal chilliness. Fistula ani, diarrhœa, with anal burning and internal chilliness. Painful ulcer, oozing offensive moisture on perineum. Hæmorrhoids, fissures, ulceration of anus and perineum, purple, covered with crusts. Atrocious pains with and after each stool. Sudden, pasty diarrhœa, with faintness in abdomen.
Pulsatilla:	When this remedy is indicated, Haemorrhoids are itchy and uncomfortable, with sticking pains. They are likely to protrude, with improvement after lying down. Warmth often aggravates the symptoms. This is a very helpful remedy for Haemorrhoids that appear during pregnancy or around the menstrual period.
Negundium Americana	This remedy is useful in cases of chronic painful swollen piles with the sensation of sharp sticks and constricted feeling in the anus. It also helps in case of Chronic constipation leads to hemorrhoids. There is engorgement of the rectum and great burning, smarting, and itching in the rectum after stool.
Sedum acre	It is used for the treatment of pains associated with haemorrhoids, Relieves pain related to anal fissures and reduces rectal bleeding, Improves defecation which normally can be painful during haemorrhoids
Sulphur:	Itching, burning, oozing Haemorrhoids accompanied by a feeling of fullness and pressure in the abdomen suggest a need for this remedy. The anus is inflamed and red and may protrude significantly. The person may feel worse from warmth and bathing, and have flatulence with a strong, offensive odor.

CONCLUSION

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. The homoeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution etc. A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) is also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. It is true that this method takes a longer time, but it is also the best one because not only the haemorroids are cured but also the patient.

Deep-acting medicines are required to treat the constitution and bring about lasting relief.

PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACT OF ACNE (PIMPLES) – SUPPORTIVE INTERVENTION WITH HOMOEOPATHY

  

Abstract 

 

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions of all age group individuals especially among the teenagers. The clinical presentation of acne can range from a mild comedonal form to severe inflammatory cystic acne of the face, chest, and back. Acne can occurs during a time of low self-esteem and high concern about appearance. This article review about causes, risk factors, different type, clinical presentation general management including some home remedies management and homoeopathic way of treatment of acne. 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

 

Acne, medically known as Acne Vulgaris, is a skin disease that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles. Acne, or the presence of pimples or blackheads, can be a problem on the face, chest, and back. Although it is most common during adolescence, acne can occur at other times in life. Acne is the common cause of spots. Boys are more commonly affected than girls.

The severity can range from mild to severe. About 9 in 10 teenagers develop some degree of acne. Often it is mild. However, it is estimated that about 3 in 10 teenagers have acne bad enough to need treatment to prevent scarring. Untreated acne usually lasts about 4-5 years before settling. However, it can last for many years in some cases. Good hygiene and diet play an important role in resolving this complaint. The acne vulgaris is perhaps one of the most dreaded problems many people face. The main cause behind the fear is obviously the degree of “loss of confidence” this problem causes in the population than the actual lesion.

 

Causes and Risk Factors of acne

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells.

· Androgen level - Nobody is completely sure what causes acne. Experts believe the primary cause is a rise in androgen levels - androgen is a type of hormone. Androgen levels rise when a human becomes an adolescent. Rising androgen levels make the oil glands under your skin grow; the enlarged gland produces more oil. Excessive sebum can break down cellular walls in your pores, causing bacteria to grow.

· Genetic factor - Some studies indicate that a susceptibility to acne could also be genetic. Medications - Some medications that contain androgen and lithium may cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may cause acne in some susceptible people.

· Pregnancy - Hormone changes during pregnancy may cause acne either to develop for the first time, or to recur.

· Recent research narrates that everyone has acne-causing bacteria living on their skin, but researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine have identified that there are "good" and "bad" strains of the bacteria, which determine the frequency and severity of developing pimples.

· High GI-diet and dairy intake linked to acne - A diet high in glycemic index foods and dairy products is now linked to acne, according to a new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

 

Other condition which worse acne includes

 

· The progestogen-only contraceptive pill may make acne worse. In women, the hormonal changes around the monthly period may cause a flare-up of spots.

· Picking and squeezing the spots may cause further inflammation and scarring.

· Sweating heavily or humid conditions may make acne worse. For example, doing regular hot work in kitchens. The extra sweat possibly contributes to blocking pores.

· Spots may develop under tight clothes. For example, under headbands, tight bra straps, tight collars, etc. This may be due to increased sweating and friction under tight clothing.

 

Classification and Clinical Manifestations

 

Whiteheads - remain under the skin and are very small

Blackheads - clearly visible, they are black and appear on the surface of the skin. (Remember that a blackhead is not caused by dirt. Scrubbing your face vigorously when you see blackheads will not help)

Papules - visible on the surface of the skin. They are small bumps, usually pink

Pustules - clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are red at their base and have pus at the top

Nobules - clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are large, solid pimples. They are painful and are embedded deep in the skin

Cysts - clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are painful, and are filled with pus. Cysts can easily cause scars.

 

General Management

 

· Wash your face about twice each day. Do not wash it more often. Use a mild soap and lukewarm water. (Very hot or cold water may worsen acne.) Do not scrub hard when washing acne-affected skin. Do not use abrasive soaps, cleansing granules, astringents, or exfoliating agents. Use a soft washcloth and fingers instead. Excess washing and scrubbing may cause more inflammation, and possibly make acne worse.

· Don't try to burst the pimples. It may push the infection further down, causing more blocking and worse swelling and redness. Popping pimples makes scarring more likely.

· Keep your hands clean, wash them regularly

· Always wash your hands before touching your face.This includes before applying lotions, creams or makeup

· Glasses should regularly be cleaned. They will collect sebum and skin residue

· You skin needs to breathe. If your acne is on your back, shoulders or chest try wearing loose clothing. Tight garments, such as headbands, caps and scarves should be avoided - if you have to wear them make sure they are cleaned regularly

· Hair collects sebum and skin residue. Keep your hair clean and away from your face

· Too much sun can cause your skin to produce more sebum.

Home Remedies:

1. Ice can be used to quickly reduce the redness, swelling and inflammation of pimples. It helps in improving blood circulation to the affected area, and in tightening the skin pores and removing dirt and oil accumulated on the skin. You can use ice cubes or crushed ice, whichever is convenient. Wrap the ice in a piece of cloth and hold it on the affected skin area for a few seconds. Wait a few minutes and repeat the process.

2. Another quick way to get rid of pimples is the use of lemon juice, which is rich in vitamin C. Lemon juice helps pimples dry up faster. Be sure to use fresh lemon juice and not bottled juice, which has preservatives. There are a couple of ways to apply this remedy. Dip a clean cotton swab in fresh lemon juice and apply it to the pimples before going to bed. You can also mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and put it on the pimples overnight. In the morning, wash the skin well with lukewarm water. However, this particular remedy is not suitable for those with sensitive skin.

3. The toothpaste that you use every morning to clean your teeth also can be used to treat pimples quickly. It is most effective when used following the ice remedy. You must use white toothpaste; avoid using gel toothpaste. The toothpaste that you use every morning to clean your teeth also can be used to treat pimples quickly. It is most effective when used following the ice remedy. You must use white toothpaste; avoid using gel toothpaste. Apply some white toothpaste over the affected skin area before going to bed. In the morning, wash your face with water and you will see a significant improvement in the swelling.

4. Garlic is an antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and antioxidant agent that can help in the fast treatment of pimples. The sulfur in garlic also promotes quick healing of pimples. Cut a fresh garlic clove into two pieces. Rub the garlic on the pimples and leave it for five minutes before washing the skin with lukewarm water. Repeat the treatment several times a day. Eating one raw garlic clove daily can also help purify your blood. But do not to eat too much raw garlic as it can upset the stomach.

 

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

 

The homeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution etc. A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) is also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. The medicines given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the homeopathic treatment of acne. The symptoms listed against each medicine may not be directly related to this disease because in homeopathy general symptoms and constitutional indications are also taken into account for selecting a remedy.

Some Homoeopathic remedies for Acne are Sulphur, Sanguinaria, Kali bromatum, Antimonium crudum, Asterias Rubens, Belladonna, Hepar Sulphur, Calcarea Silicata, Nux vomica, Arsenicum iodatum, Causticum, Chelidonium majus, Graphites, Psorinum, Sabina, Calcarea phosphoricum, Ledum palustre, Nitricum acidum, Bovista, Tuberculinum

 

Indicated Remedies	Indications
Antimonium crudum	Small red pimples on the face, acne in drunkards with gastric derangements, thirst and white coated tongue. Face with sad expression Fat, fretful, cross and peevish; cries if looked at, touched or washed. Ecstatic, dreamy, sentimental. Pustules.
Asterias rubens	is considered as one of the chief drugs for treating acne, Itchy acne, Skin that seems less elastic, Acne eruptions with fetid pus, Acne rosacea, Acne affecting the back, shoulders, sides of the nose, chin, Flabby patient with the lymphatic constitution, Sycotic diathesis, Sexual excitement in both sexes, Fear of bad news in adolescent girls, Worse coffee, left side
Belladonna	Red, hot facial skin,  Scarlet rash like acne, Suddenly spreading acne lesions, Alternate redness and dullness of skin, Pustular eruptions on the skin, Skin feels smoothly red but burns, Acne leading to swelling of glands of the neck, chin, Bluish, red acne lesions, Shiny red eruptions
Berberis aquifolium	Face - Acne. Blotches and pimples. Clears the complexion. Skin - Pimply, dry, rough, scaly. Eruption on scalp extending to face and neck. Tumour of breast, with pain. Psoriasis. Acne. Dry eczema. Pruritus. Glandular induration.
Bovista	Acne in sensitive girls, Crusty eruptions around mouth and nostrils Acne from overuse of cosmetics, Swollen look of cheeks, Sensitive skin with a tendency to leave a deep impression with blunt instruments Itchy eruptions, May have had an attack of urticaria or tendency to recurrent urticaria, Pimples covering the entire body, Acne always worse in summer
Calcarea Silicata	Pimples, comedones. A deep, long-acting medicine for complaints which come on slowly and reach their final development after long periods. Hydrogenoid constitution. Skin Itching, burning, cold and blue, very sensitive. very sensitive to cold. The patient is weak, emaciated, cold and chilly, but worse from being overheated; and sensitive generally.
Eugenia jambos	Acne, simple and indurated. The pimples are painful for some distance around. Acne rosacea. Comedones
Hepar Sulphur	Papules are prone to suppurate and extend. Acne in youth. Suppurate with prickly pain. Easily bleed. Unhealthy skin; and every little injury suppurates. Cannot bear to be uncovered; wants to be wrapped up warmly. Sticking or pricking in afflicted parts. Great sensitiveness to the slightest touch.
Hydrocotyle asiatica	Dry eruptions. Great thickening of epidermoid layer and exfoliation of scales. Psoriasis gyrates, on the trunk and extremities, palms and soles. Pustules on the chest. Circular spots, with scaly edges. Intolerable itching, especially of soles. Profuse sweat. Syphilitic affections. Acne. Leprosy. Elephantiasis (Ars). Lupus non-exedens.
Kali bromatum	Acne on the face, neck and shoulders. We frequently find acne in Epileptics who have been maltreated by bromides. This remedy is especially adapted to acne simplex and the acne indurata, especially in hyperaesthetic, nervous females. Face flushed. Acne of face, pustules. This remedy may be given if Asterias Rubens fails. Dr. J.H.Clarke says, “I know of no remedy of such universal usefulness in cases of simple acne as Kali bromatum 30,” and the late Dr.A.M. Cushing recommended Arsenicum bromatum 4x as very efficacious. Thuja is one of our best remedies for acne facialis. Calcarea picrata is also a useful remedy for acne; clinically it has been found one of the good remedies. Calcarea sulphurica is indicated where the pimples suppurate.
Lappa arctium	is Very important in skin therapeutics. Eruptions on the head, face, and neck; pimples; acne. Styes and ulcerations on the edge of the eyelids. Profuse and frequent urination. Crops of boils and styes (Anthracin).
Merc sol	Syphilitic acne, Earthy, puffy, dirty looking face, Pustular acne, Constantly perspiring skin, A big pimple surrounded by many small pimples, Itchy eruptions worse from the warmth of bed, Eruptions in private parts, buttocks.
Natrum muriaticum	It acts especially on the sebaceous glands and is a very helpful remedy for acne. In this affection attention must be directed especially to the patient’s type, temperament and tendencies and the general symptoms are far more important than the local ones.
Radium brom	Acne rosacea with red pimply rashes, Small eruptions with itching, burning, swelling, and redness, Excessive itching with the burning of skin as if on fire, Painful pimples, Acne with scars that take a long time to heal, May be associated with itchy dermatitis of the skin and/or trophic changes in fingernails, Acne seems worse after getting up in the morning, Better, in the open air and hot bath
Sulphur	Is perhaps the remedy most often indicated in this affection, especially if chronic. The skin is rough and hard and the acne is associated with comedones and constipation; great aggravation from water is the characteristic leading to Sulphur in skin affections. The face is pale, sickly colour. Heat and spotted redness of the face. Black pores. Itching intensely in the evening and from warmth. The acne punctata is the variety corresponding most nearly to Sulphur. Simple forms yield to Belladonna or Pulsatilla. Acne rosacea yields Arsenicum iodatum or Sulphur iodide.

 

Conclusion

The main outcome of Homoeopathic approach is to regains the body's natural healing and immune the body cells to treat the conditions that affect the body, prevent it and restore the good level of health and well-being. Along with Homoeopathic medicines, the lifestyle, personal habits & food habits modification may be useful for treatment of patients with acne.