Do U Have High Cholesterol? Don’t Get Tensed – LEAVE TO HOMOEOPATHY AND BE HAPPY

Do U Have High Cholesterol? Don’t Get Tensed 

         – LEAVE TO HOMOEOPATHY AND BE HAPPY 

                                                                                                       Dr. S. R. Ameerkhan Babu., M.D. (Hom)     

Maintaining healthy Cardio vascular system is a significant part of maintaining good quality of life. Cholesterol plays a vital role in getting cardiac diseases with more prevalence. Cholesterol is a waxy, fatlike substance that the body needs to function normally. Cholesterol is naturally present in cell walls or membranes everywhere in the body, including the brain, nerves, muscles, skin, liver, intestines, and heart. The body uses cholesterol to produce many hormones, vitamin D, and the bile acids that help to digest fat. Our body takes only a small amount of cholesterol in the blood to meet these needs. If a person has too much cholesterol in the bloodstream, the excess may be deposited in arteries especially the coronary arteries of the heart.

Cholesterol deposits are a component of the plaques that cause narrowing and blockage of the coronary arteries, producing ischemic heart disorders. Cholesterol plaques can rupture, resulting in a blood clot formation that completely blocks the artery, stopping all blood flow and causing a heart attack, in which heart muscle cells die from lack of oxygen and nutrients. Being insoluble in blood, Cholesterol is carried in the blood by molecules called lipoproteins. A lipoprotein is any complex or compound containing both lipid (fat) and protein. The three main types are:

·        LDL (low density lipoprotein) – also named as bad cholesterol, because of its bad effect on the heart. LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to cells. If too much is carried, too much for the cells to use, there can be a harmful rise of LDL. This lipoprotein can increase the risk of arterial disease by getting deposited on the walls of the arteries and makes blood vessels hard and narrow, if levels rise too high.

·        HDL (high density lipoprotein) – also known as good cholesterol, because of its good effect on the heart. Experts say HDL prevents arterial disease. HDL does the opposite of LDL - HDL takes the cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver. In the liver it is either broken down or expelled from the body as waste.

·        VLDL cholesterol (very low density lipoprotein) is the highest amount of triglycerides and is the smallest mass of lipoproteins produced by the liver from carbohydrates. Then it is carried to other tissues for storage.

·        Triglycerides - these are the chemical forms in which most fat exists in the body, as well as in food. They are present in blood plasma. Triglycerides, in association with cholesterol, form the plasma lipids (blood fat). Triglycerides in plasma originate either from fats in our food, or are made in the body from other energy sources, such as carbohydrates. Calories we consume but are not used immediately by our tissues are converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells. When your body needs energy and there is no food as an energy source, triglycerides will be released from fat cells and used as energy - hormones control this process.

·        Total cholesterol is the sum of LDL + HDL + VLDL.

High cholesterol Causes:

·        High cholesterol is typically due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

·        High cholesterol is often found to run in families. Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited form of high cholesterol that may lead to early heart disease.

·        Environmental factors include: Obesity and dietary choices.

·        Smoking and sedentary lifestyle can also raise cholesterol levels.

·        Diet has an important effect on blood cholesterol but the size of this effect varies substantially between individuals. Food rich in saturated fats like meat, chicken, eggs, oil, etc. will raise LDL cholesterol levels.

·        Secondary causes includes Diabetes mellitus type 2, obesity, nephrotic syndrome, obstructive jaundice, hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, anorexia nervosa etc..

·        Altered Oestrogen levels may increase LDL Cholesterol levels in women during Pregnancy and Post-menopausal.

·        Drinking too much alcohol can damage the liver and heart muscle, lead to high blood pressure, and raise triglyceride levels.

·        Several studies have shown that mental stress raises blood cholesterol levels over the long term.

·        Medications like thiazide diuretics, ciclosporin, glucocorticoids, beta blockers, retinoic acid

Symptoms:

High cholesterol is a risk factor for other illnesses and by itself does not cause symptoms. Routine screening blood tests may reveal elevate cholesterol levels in the blood. The National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines suggest that everyone aged 20 years and older should have their blood cholesterol level measured at least once every 5 years. It is best to have a blood test called a lipid profile to find out cholesterol numbers.

Blood test interpretation

·        Total cholesterol levels: Desirable - Less than 200 mg/dL, Borderline high risk - 200-239 mg/dL, High risk - 240 and over.

·        HDL levels: High risk - Less than 40 mg/dL in male, less than 50 mg/dL in female.

·        LDL levels: Optimal - Less than 100 mg/dL, Near optimal/above optimal - 100-129 mg/dL, Borderline high risk - 130-159 mg/dL, High risk -  160- 189 mg/dL, Very high risk - 190 mg/dL and above.

·         Triglycerides levels: Normal - Less than 150 mg/dL, Borderline to high - 150-199 mg/dL, High - 200-499mg/dL. Very high - Above 500 mg/dL

MANAGEMENT

Dietary Recommendations

Ø     Eat a diet low in fat – Reduce fat intake to not more than 30 percent of total calories a day. Reduce intake of saturated fatty acids it boosts blood cholesterol levels more than anything else we consumes. Reduce the amount of salt fats intake to less than 10 percent of total daily calories

Ø     Reduce high cholesterol foods like meat, cakes, pastries, cookies, nuts, milk products, butter, ghee, sugary and fried foods. Take less than 7% of daily caloric intake

Ø     Low sodium diet – Healthy normal adults are advised to consume not m ore than 2,400 mg of sodium daily.

Ø     Eat more fiber, fruits and vegetables- Oatmeal, oat bran, rice, wheat bran and beans may help lower blood cholesterol levels. Fiber rich food may help to take cholesterol away before it can be absorbed into blood stream. Fruits and vegetables like oranges, bananas, potatoes and tomatoes supply a lot of potassium which may elp control blood pressure.

Ø     Choose good fats such as monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and omega-3 essential fatty acids.

Ø     Fenugreek seeds can decrease LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and increase HDL cholesterol levels. This is due to the high fiber content of the seed and its effect on reducing intestinal absorption of cholesterol. Using garlic in food is considered as traditional medicine for controlling cholesterol.

Ø     People with higher triglycerides may benefit from a diet that is higher in monounsaturated fat and lower in carbohydrates, particularly simple sugars. A common source of monounsaturated fat is olive oil.

Ø     Although exercise has little effect on LDL, aerobic exercise may improve insulin sensitivity, HDL, and triglyceride levels and may thus reduce the risk of heart disease. People who exercise and control their diet appear to be more successful with long-term lifestyle modifications that improve their heart risk profile

Ø     Moderate (1-2 drinks daily) alcohol intake increases HDL (good) cholesterol but does not lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. Drinking too much alcohol can damage the liver and heart muscle, lead to high blood pressure, and raise triglyceride levels. Because of the risks, alcoholic beverages should not be used as a way to prevent heart disease.

Ø     Quit Smoking – Smoking may lower HDL cholesterol and seems to increase blood pressure level soon

Homoeopathic Management

High blood cholesterol is supposed to be a constitutional disease, so treatment also should be constitutional. Normal levels can be absolutely attained and maintained if Homoeopathic treatment is started earlier. . In Homoeopathy, medicines are highly individualized to the patient and this will help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, raise HDL cholesterol, inhibit the formation of plaque, lower high blood pressure, detoxify the body and also enhance immunity system. Homoeopathic remedies can help maintain cardiovascular function and a healthier circulatory system.

Following remedies are quite helpful to treat the symptoms and condition related to abnormal cholesterol level: Baryta Mur, Aurum Mur, Plumbum Iod, Baryta Iod, Crataegus, Thiosinaminum, Natrum Iod, Strontium Carb, Vanadium, Aurum Met, Aurum Iod and many other medicines.

Fel tauri is an effective remedy in the treatment of high blood cholesterol. It treats a sluggish liver. It eliminates fat.

Nux vomica removes liver toxicity. It treats indigestion caused by alcohol or food abuse. The patient awakes at 3 a.m.

Chelidonium treats hepatic disorders. Recommended for fatty liver degeneration.

Berberis is an excellent stimulant and drainer for the kidneys. The patient leads a sedentary lifestyle and has a big appetite.

Veratum album treats hypercholesterolemia.

Cholesterinum stops the degeneration of arterial walls. It treats an enlarged liver and gallstone colic.

Curcuma drains the liver and cholesterol deposits

Arsenicum album is indicated for insomnia after a big meal. The person wakes up between 3 and 5 a.m., feels drowsy during the day.

Uranium nitricum treats high cholesterol with diabetes.

Romarinus officinalis and Prunus amygdalus are indicated for high triglycerides.

Psorinum is a constitutional remedy. It detoxifies toxins in a weak individual who eliminates toxins poorly.

Adonis Vernalis : Indicated  if the muscles of the heart are in the stage of fatty degeneration, regulates the pulse and increase the power of contractions of the heart, with increase urinary secretions. Weak heart, slow/weak pulses and low vitality.

Hence to have a low risk of heart disease, by maintaining normal cholesterol levels, good cardiovascular function and a healthy circulatory system consider Constitutional Homoeopathic treatment along with certain lifestyle changes.

References

1.      Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

2.      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/

3.      Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine,

4.      www.homeopathic-cure.com

5.      Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics

6.      www.homeoking.blogspot.com

7.      www.homeopathicremediesandtreatment.com/Homeopathy-for-High-Blood-Cholesterol.php

8.      Homeopathic Materia Medica by Boericke

9.      Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics

10. http://www.emedicinehealth.com/high_cholesterol/article_em.htm

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

Reader, Dept. of Practice of Medicine

Vinayaka Mission’s Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, Salem, Tamilnadu.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease – Easily reversible with Homoeopathic treatment

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease – Easily reversible with Homoeopathic treatment

Fatty liver, also known as fatty liver disease (FLD), is a reversible condition where large vacuoles of triglyceride fat accumulate in liver cells via the process of steatosis (i.e. abnormal retention of lipids within a cell). Despite having multiple causes, fatty liver can be considered a single disease that occurs worldwide in those with excessive alcohol intake and those who are obese (with or without effects of insulin resistance). The condition is also associated with other diseases that influence fat metabolism.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD) is a term used to describe the accumulation of fat in the liver of people who drink little or no alcohol. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is common and, for most people, causes no signs and symptoms and no complications. But in some people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, the fat that accumulates can cause inflammation and scarring in the liver. This more serious form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is sometimes called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis(NASH). At its most severe, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. The disease often goes hand in hand with diabetes. According to latest research about 70 percent of people with type 2 diabetes have a fatty liver. Morphologically, it is difficult to distinguish alcoholic FLD from nonalcoholic FLD, and both show microvesicular and macrovesicular fatty changes at different stages.

Aetiology

Exactly, is unknown. A fatty diet or overeating by itself never results in a fatty liver. The fat may come from increased absorption from the intestines or from elsewhere in the body. Some common causes of NAFLD are:

Metabolic syndromes - Apart from alcohol, there are many conditions that cause an imbalance in the body's metabolic capacity like Diabetes, High Hypertension, High blood cholesterols, Pregnancy, Glycogen storage disease, Congenital disorders like Wolman's disease, Congenital diseases like Wilson's disease, Weber-Christian disease, Galactosemia, Infections like tuberculosis and malaria.

Nutritional causes - Severe mal-nutrition, Obesity, Sudden rapid weight loss, Surgeries performed to reduce obesity - gastric bypass surgery, jejuno-ileal bypass, etc.

Drugs – Corticosteroids, Valproic acids (used in epileptic patients), Medications for heart conditions like irregular heartbeats and high blood pressures e.g. amiodarone; diltiazem, Sedatives, Tamoxifen - used in treating breast cancer, Methotrexate, Anti-retroviral drugs (indinavir), Overdose of Vitamin A. In extreme cases, amiodarone and methotexate can cause cirrhosis.

Other - toxins from food stuffs like rancid peanuts - aflatoxins are extremely toxic, mushroom poisonings, phosphorus from environment

Risk factors:

• are obese
• are an alcoholic
• Suffer from high blood pressures which often fluctuate or are on long-term medications for the same.
• Blood cholesterol levels are high.

Types of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease 

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can take several forms — from harmless to life-threatening. Forms include:

Ø  Nonalcoholic fatty liver. It's not normal for fat to build up in your liver, but it won't necessarily hurt you. In its simplest form, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can cause excess liver fat, but no complications. This condition is thought to be very common.

Ø  Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. In a small number of people with fatty liver, the fat causes inflammation in the liver. This can impair the liver's ability to function and lead to complications.

Ø  Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-associated cirrhosis. Liver inflammation leads to scarring of the liver tissue. With time, scarring can become so severe that the liver no longer functions adequately (liver failure).

Clinical Presentation

Mild Fatty liver is usually asymptomatic. It is detected incidentally during routine tests performed. However, some persons can have symptoms which are often vague like Malaise , Fatigue - even with moderate exertion, Fullness and heaviness in the abdomen, more in the right upper corner, Occasionally the liver maybe painful on pressure.

However, with fatty liver unchecked can progress into cirrhosis which is life-threatening.

Diagnosis :

Commonly, the diagnosis is incidental. Some tests which identify the disorder are:-

• Ultrasound (Ultrasonography): A painless, non-invasive test, when performed by an experienced personnel, it can accurately identify fatty liver. The liver size can be measured and this test can be valuable in grading the improvement.
• Liver Function Tests: Abnormal levels of liver enzymes in the blood identify as well as provide a deeper understanding of the cause of fatty liver. This test also provides insight into the efficacy of treatment and the improvement to be expected.
• Computed Tomography Scan (CT scan): non-invasive. Measures internal organs accurately and in detail by the use of X-rays.
• MRI: Also non-invasive. Uses radio waves in a magnetic field to scan the structures of internal organs.

Tips for preventing and treating nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

·        Lose weight, and exercise. Doctors often recommend weight loss as a first step for those newly diagnosed with fatty liver disease. The American Gastroenterological Association suggests weight loss of 10 percent or more for those with NASH. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. For instance, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk instead of taking short trips in your car. If you're trying to lose weight, you might find that more exercise is helpful. But if you don't already exercise regularly, get your doctor's OK first and start slowly.

·        Improve your diet, even if you're having trouble losing weight.  A healthful diet is considered key to a long and healthy life. It may be especially important for those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Eat a healthy diet that's rich in fruits and vegetables. Reduce the amount of saturated fat in your diet and instead select healthy unsaturated fats, such as those found in fish, olive oil and nuts. Include whole grains in your diet, such as whole-wheat breads and brown rice.

·        Consider a glass of wine. The prevailing advice for people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease continues to be to avoid alcohol altogether. But a study published last year suggests an unconventional approach to preventing the condition. Researchers at the University of California-San Diego School of Medicine found that drinking a glass of wine a day may decrease the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Study participants who reported drinking up to one glass of wine per day had their risk of liver disease cut in half, in comparison with those who drank no alcohol.

·        Control cholesterol levels. Besides regular workouts, a healthy approach to avoid consumption of saturated fats in diet can reverse fatty liver. Cholesterol lowering medications used in adjunct to exercise can reverse fatty liver.

·        Control Diabetes. Effective management of sugar levels with life-style changes, medications and insulin can stop further advancement of fatty liver into something serious like cirrhosis or liver failure.

Management

Natural Treatment

Certain natural remedies may be helpful in healing fatty liver when part of a personalized and well-rounded treatment plan. Before taking natural remedies, consult with medical doctor as well as a nutritionally and botanically trained health care professional.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant, meaning it protects against free radical damage. This can be especially helpful for the liver because free radicals form during the natural detoxification process. Vitamin E also supports the immune system and can help prevent fibrosis and cirrhosis, which are common complications of long-term fatty liver.

Turmeric is popular both as a culinary spice and for its medical properties. Turmeric, also known as Curcuma longa, is used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat liver ailments, digestive problems and skin diseases. Turmeric has a strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It protects liver cells against damage and reduces inflammation that results from fatty liver. Turmeric may be sprinkled on food as a spice or taken as a tincture or capsule.

Milk thistle is a well-known all-natural solution for the treatment of liver disorders. The active component perfectly located at the seed will be the phytochemical silymarin. Silymarin is often a flavonoid which helps bring about regeneration regarding harmed hard working liver tissue and also improves liver organ purpose.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids are located naturally within flax plant seeds, seed natural skin oils like flaxseed along with canola oils, bass oils as well as chilly water seafood like fish. Omega-3 essential fatty acids can have outstanding hard working liver health improvements, enhance the action involving insulin, as well as aid many individuals who are suffering through junk lean meats condition. In addition, Omega-3 fat lower swelling and pain some of those those who are experiencing any junk liver condition.

HOMOEOPATHIC MANAGEMENT

Homeopathy is one of the most popular holistic systems of medicine. The selection of remedy is based upon the theory of individualization and symptoms similarity by using holistic approach. This is the only way through which a state of complete health can be regained by removing all the sign and symptoms from which the patient is suffering. The aim of homeopathy is not only to treat fatty liver symptoms but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several remedies are available to treat fatty liver symptoms that can be selected on the basis of cause, sensations and modalities of the complaints.  For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homeopathic doctor in person. There are following remedies which are helpful in the treatment of fatty liver symptoms:

Arsenic Album, Nux Vomica, Chelidonium, Cardus m, Apocynum, Lycopodium, Sepia, Phosphorous, Digitalis, Bryonia, Helleborus Niger, Ferrum Met, kali Carb, Iris V, Natrum Carb and many other medicines.

Bryonia. [Bry] When there are stitching pains in the right hypochondriac region, Bryonia is the first remedy to be thought of, though for these pains we have other remedies, such as Chelidonium and Kali carbonicum. Under Bryonia the liver is swollen, congested and inflamed; the pains in the hypochondriac region are worse from any motion, and better from lying on the right side, which lessens the motion of the parts when breathing . It is one of the chief remedies for jaundice brought on by a fit of anger. Chelidonium is distinguished by the character of the stools. Bryonia is pre-eminently a gastro-hepatic remedy, and has pain in right shoulder,giddiness, skin and eyes slightly yellow. Hughes says it hardly reaches true hepatitis.

Mercurius. [Merc]  This remedy has much sensitiveness and dull pain in the region of the liver; the patient cannot lie on the right side. The liver is enlarged. The skin and conjunctiva are jaundiced. The stools are either clay-colored from absence of bile, or yellowish-green bilious stools passed with a great deal of tenesmus. There is a yellowish white coated tongue which takes the imprint of the teeth and there is a foetid breath, loss of appetite and depression of spirits.

Podophyllum. [Podo] The principal use of Podophyllum is in liver affections. Primarily, it induces a large flow of bile, and, secondarily, great torpidity, followed by jaundice. It is indicated in torpid or chronically congested liver, when diarrhea is present. The liver is swollen and sensitive, the face and eyes are yellow and there is a bad taste in the mouth. The tongue is coated white or yellow and the bile may form gall stones.

Chelidonium. [Chel]    The liver symptoms of Chelidonium are very prominent. There is soreness and stitching pains in the region of the liver, but the keynote for this drug in hepatic diseases is a pain under the angle of the right shoulder blade, which may extend to the chest, stomach, or hypochondrium; there is swelling of the liver, chilliness, fever, jaundice, yellow coated tongue, bitter taste and a craving for acids and sour things, such as pickles and vinegar.

Digitalis. [Dig]  When jaundice arises from cardiac diseases, Digitalis may be the remedy. There is no retention of bile, nor obstruction of the ducts, but the jaundice is due to the fact that the liver does not take from the blood the elements which go to form bile. There is present drowsiness, bitter taste, soreness , enlargement and bruised feeling in the region of the liver.

Myrica cerifera. [Myric]  Myrica is an important liver remedy. There is first despondency and also jaundice due to imperfect formation of bile in the liver, and not to any obstruction, comparing here with Digitalis. There is dull headache, worse in the morning, the eyes have a dingy, dirty, yellowish hue, the tongue is coated yellow.

Nux vomica. [Nux-V]  In liver affections occurring in those who have indulged to excess in alcoholic liquors, highly seasoned food, quinine, or in those who have abused themselves with purgatives, Nux is the first remedy to be thought of. The liver is swollen hard and sensitive to the touch and pressure of clothing is uncomfortable. The first remedy in cirrhosis of the liver. Colic may be present.

Lycopodium. [Lyc]  Lycopodium acts powerfully on the liver. The region of the liver is sensitive to the touch, and there is a feeling of tension in it, a feeling as if a cord were tied about the waist. Cirrhosis. The pains are dull and aching instead of sharp and lancinating, as under Chelidonium. Fulness in the stomach after eating a small quantity.

Carduus marianus. [Card-m]  This remedy is indicated in jaundice with dull headache, bitter taste, white tongue with red edges, nausea and vomiting of a greenish fluid. There is an uncomfortable fullness in the region of the liver, the stools are bilious and the urine golden yellow; there is sensitiveness in the epigastrium and right hypochondrium. Burnett regards a dark brownish patch over the lower part of the sternum as a useful hint for Carduus, and in such cases he observes that both the liver and heart are at fault. The presence of "liver spots seems to be a special indication for the remedy.

Sulphur. [Sulph]  Sulphur is suitable to chronic affections of the liver; it increases the flow of bile and there is much pain and soreness in the liver. Sulphur often completes the cure commenced by Nux. Liver complaints from abuse of mercury will oftentimes call for Sulphur. If the stools are colorless and if much jaundice or ascites be present Sulphur is contra-indicated. Lachesis, however, has jaundice, as do all snake poisons, and is useful in the enlarged livers of drunkards, with tenderness on pressure and throbbing in the right side.

Phosphorus. [Phos]  Phosphorus is homoeopathic to fatty degeneration of the liver, with well marked soreness and jaundice. The stools are grayish white. Cirrhosis and atrophy may also call for Phosphorus. The jaundice is indicative of organic diseases, and the remedy is a useful one in malignant diseases of the liver. Digitalis has also been recommended in acute yellow atrophy. Jaundice accompanying pneumonia may also call for Phosphorus.

Taraxacum [Tarax]  This is a decided liver remedy, and the indications are a mapped tongue and a bitter taste in the mouth, chilliness after eating, pain and soreness in the region of the liver and bilious diarrhea. Kali bichromicum also has a mapped tongue. Yucca filamentosa has a pain going from the upper region of the liver to the back and a bad taste in the mouth. The stools are loose and bilious, accompanied with much flatus.

References

1.      Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine

2. http://health.usnews.com/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease-prevention?page=2
3. Homeopathic Materia Medica by Boericke
4. Texas Pediatrics Surgical Associates
5. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver disease
6. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics
7. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Non-alcoholic_fatty_liver_disease
8. http://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/fatty-liver-disease
9. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics
10. http://www.askdrshah.com/app/fatty-liver.asp
11. http://www.homoeopathyclinic.com
12. http://health.hpathy.com/liver-symptoms-treatment-cure.asp
13. Murphy Materia Medica
14. Principles of Prescribing, Dr. K.N.Mathur.

  

Dr. S. R. AMEERKHAN BABU., M.D. (Hom) (Prac. of Med), MBA                    Reader, Dept. of Practice of Medicine                                                                       Vinayaka Mission’s Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, Salem, Tamilnadu.

SAY NO TO TONSILLECTOMY OR ADENOTONSILLECTOMY - BEAT IT WITH HOMOEOPATHY

SAY NO TO TONSILLECTOMY OR ADENOTONSILLECTOMY   

                                                             

-         BEAT IT WITH HOMOEOPATHY

             

Tonsils and adenoids are masses of tissue that are similar to the lymph nodes or "glands" found in the neck, groin and armpits.

Tonsils are the two masses seen in the back of the throat, one on either side at the back of the mouth. Tonsils can normally seen by opening mouth wide and looking in a mirror. They are the two fleshy lumps that can see at the sides and back of the mouth. Tonsils are made of soft glandular tissue and are part of the immune system. A main function of tonsils is to trap bacteria and viruses (germs) which may breathe in. Antibodies and immune cells in the tonsils help to kill germs and help to prevent throat and lung infections. 

Adenoids are also made of glandular tissue and are part of the immune system. They hang from the upper part of the back of the nasal cavity.  Adenoids get bigger after born but usually stop growing between the ages of three and seven years. Adenoids are not visible through the mouth without special instruments.

The most common problems affecting the tonsils and adenoids are recurrent infections (throat or ear) and significant enlargement or obstruction that causes breathing and swallowing problems.

Abscesses around the tonsils, chronic tonsillitis, and infections of small pockets within the tonsils that produce foul-smelling, cheese-like formations can also affect the tonsils and adenoids, making them sore and swollen. Tumors are rare in children.

Tonsil diseases and its associated symptoms

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis refers to a viral or bacterial inflammation of the tonsils. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by infection with a common virus, but bacterial infections also may cause tonsillitis. The tonsils actually serve as a filter for bacteria, sometimes certain bacteria, such as group A Streptoccocci, can infiltrate the tonsils and cause tonsillitis. However, viruses such as the Epstein Barr virus typically cause tonsillitis.  Being a child and having close contacts with viral or bacterial-laden persons increase the risk for developing tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis most commonly affects children between preschool ages and the mid-teenage years. Common signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include - Red, swollen tonsils, White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils, Sore throat, Difficult or painful swallowing, Fever, Enlarged, tender glands (lymph nodes) in the neck, A scratchy, muffled or throaty voice, Bad breath, Stomachache, particularly in younger children, Stiff neck, Headache

In young children who are unable to describe how they feel, signs of tonsillitis may include: Drooling due to difficult or painful swallowing, Refusal to eat, Unusual fussiness.

Viral tonsillitis typically requires no special treatment. Rather, gargling with salt water, drinking warm liquids such as broth or tea is enough.

Inflammation or swelling of the tonsils from frequent or ongoing (chronic) tonsillitis can cause complications such as: Difficulty breathing, Disrupted breathing during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea), Infection that spreads deep into surrounding tissue (tonsillar cellulitis), Infection that results in a collection of pus behind a tonsil (tonsillar abscess)

If tonsillitis caused by group A streptococcus or another strain of streptococcal bacteria isn't treated, or if antibiotic treatment is incomplete, child has an increased risk of rare disorders such as: Rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disorder that affects the heart, joints and other tissues. Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, an inflammatory disorder of the kidneys that results in inadequate removal of waste and excess fluids from blood.

Chronic tonsillitis is a persistent infection in the tonsils. Since this infection is repetitive, crypts or pockets can form in the tonsils where bacteria can store. Frequently, small, foul smelling stones (tonsilloliths) are found within these crypts that are made of high quantities of sulfur. These stones cause a symptom of a full throat or a throat that has something caught in the back. A foul breath that is characterized by the smell of rotten eggs (because of the sulfur) is also a symptom of this condition. Other symptoms that can be caused by tonsillitis that are not normally associated with it include snoring and disturbed sleep patterns. These conditions develop as the tonsils enlarge and begin to obstruct other areas of the throat. A person's voice is generally affected by this type of illness and changes in the tone of voice a person normally has.

Peritonsillar Abcess (Quinsy)

Peritonsillar abscess is a collection of infected material in the area around the tonsils. Peritonsillar abscess is a complication of tonsillitis. It is most often caused by a type of bacteria called group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus.

Peritonsillar abscess is usually a condition of older children, adolescents, and young adults. It has become uncommon with the use of antibiotics to treat tonsillitis.

One or both tonsils become infected. The infection usually spreads behind the tonsil and can then spread down into the neck and chest. Swollen tissues can block the airway. This is a life-threatening medical emergency.The abscess can break open (rupture) into the throat. The content of the abscess can then travel into the lungs and cause pneumonia.

Symptoms of peritonsillar abscess include: Fever an chills, Severe throat pain that is usually on one side, Difficulty opening the mouth, and pain with opening the mouth, Difficulty swallowing, Drooling or inability to swallow saliva, Facial or neck swelling, Fever, Headache, Muffled voice, Tender glands of the jaw and throat.

If not properly treated it may complicated  includes Airway obstruction, Cellulitis of the jaw, neck, or chest, Endocarditis (rare), Fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion), Inflammation around the heart (pericarditis), Pneumonia, Sepsis (infection in the blood) 

Tonsillar hypertrophy

Tonsillar hypertrophy is the enlargement of the tonsils, but without the history of inflammation. Obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy is currently the most common reason for tonsillectomy. These patients present with varying degrees of disturbed sleep which may include symptoms of loud snoring, irregular breathing, nocturnal choking and coughing, frequent awakenings, sleep apnea, dysphagia and/or daytime hypersomnolence. These may lead to behavioral/mood changes in patients and facilitate the need for a polysomnography in order to determine the degree to which these symptoms are disrupting their sleep.

Tonsillar Cancer

The tonsillar cancer is typically found in men who drink and smoke. It also states that cancer of the tonsils typically affects people who are between the ages of 50 and 70 years. Symptoms of tonsillar cancer include a sore throat that can move to the ear. In some cases, a neck lump may be felt and seen. The lump's cells may spread to the lymph nodes and then spread to the rest of the body. Radiation, chemotherapy and surgery are the treatment options for tonsillar cancer.

Adenoiditis

An inflammation of the adenoids due to viral and bacterial infection and allergy. The inflammation is usually associated with swelling of the adenoids which can affect breathing, especially during sleep. The adenoids are located above the tonsils. 

Enlarged adenoids, it may help be hard to breathe through the nose. Other signs of constant enlargement are: breathing through the mouth instead of the nose most of the time, nose sounding blocked when he person speaks, noisy breathing during the day, recurrent ear infections, snoring at night, breathing stops for a few seconds at night during snoring or loud breathing (sleep apnea)

Chronic adenoid enlargement may lead to changes in the growth of the upper jaw and changes in tooth position. There is some evidence in older children (over age four), that chronically infected adenoids may sometimes contribute to the development of glue ear and recurrent ear infections.

MANAGEMENT:

Self-Care Tips

-          Turmeric and ginger are powerful anti-inflammatory spices and can easily be integrated into diet or taken in raw form.

-          Try gargling with a saline solution of half a teaspoon of salt to one cup of tepid water to remove mucous and reduce swelling. Suck zinc lozenges as zinc helps the immune system.

-          Garlic is useful in treating any kind of throat infection, including tonsillitis. An onion and garlic soup are excellent foods to eat during a bout of tonsillitis.

-          Cut out all processed and refined foods as well as fast foods. Try to find time to cook wholesome meals, focusing on whole grains, vegetables and proteins such as fish and legumes.

-          Take an echinacea and goldenseal tincture. Echinacea boosts the immune system, while goldenseal has antibiotic, anti-catarrhal, anti-infective, anti-inflammatory properties.

-          Drink fresh vegetable juice—made from carrots, cucumbers, beets and celery—with a little fresh ginger, which will alkalize our body and is an excellent tonic for tonsillitis.

-          Try to omit sugar from regular diet. sugar consumption has also been shown to reduce the body's ability to fight viruses and infection. If you need your sweet fix, take a spoonful of manuka honey, as it is said to have many health benefits, including antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

-          Do not share utensils, drinking glasses, toothbrushes, etc., with anyone who has  tonsillitis or a sore throat.

-          Wash your (and your child's) hands frequently.

-          Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and teach your children to do the same

Tonsillectomy

A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tonsils are removed from either side of the throat. The procedure is performed in response to cases of repeated occurrence of acute tonsillitis or adenoiditis, obstructive sleep apnea, nasal airway obstruction, snoring, or peritonsillar abscess. Sometimes the adenoids are removed at the same time, a procedure called adenoidectomy. Tonsillectomy remains one of the most common surgical procedures in children.

Adenotonsillectomy

An adenotonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tonsils and the adenoids are removed. This procedure is most commonly carried out in young children, although there are sometimes cases in which it is indicated for an adult. 

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. 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. 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 the recurrent attacks of acute tonsillitis as well as chronic tonsillitis. In a significant number of children, homeopathic treatment can help prevent recurrence of frequent tonsillitis, thus helping children avoid tonsillectomy. The treatment of enlarged tonsils with homeopathy has two stages in cases of long standing. Acute inflammation needs to be treated with a different set of medicines and its recurrence to be treated once the acute stage is over. Deep-acting medicines are required to treat the constitution and bring about lasting relief. It is true that this method takes a longer time, but it is also the best one because not only the tonsils are cured but also the patient.

Apis mell: Stinging-burning pain when swallowing; dryness in mouth and throat; red and

highly inflamed tonsils; deep ulcers on tonsils and palate, with erysipelatous or Oedematous appearance around ulcers; Oedema glottidis, tenacious mucus in throat;

Aggravation heat or hot drinks, Amelioration from cold or cool drinks.

Baryta carb: Liability to quinsy after every cold or suppressed sweat of feet; tonsils tend

to suppurate, especially the right; throat feels worse from empty swallowing; pricking

sensation when swallowing; general malaise; palate swollen; chronic induration of

tonsils; sensation as of a plug in throat, worse when swallowing solids; paresis of

muscular structure of throat; scrofulosis, enlargement of glands in neck, under jaws and

behind ears.

Belladonna: Tonsillitis, worse right side, parts bright-red; worse swallowing liquids;

during deglutition sensation as if throat were too narrow and as if nothing would pass

properly; rapidly forming aphthous ulcers on tonsils; intense congestion, throbbing of

carotids; throbbing of carotids; swelling of neck, extremely painful to touch and motion.

Ferrum phos: Tonsils swollen and raw, great pain in swallowing; high fever.

Hepar sulph: Chronic tonsillitis, especially when accompanied by hardness of hearing,

with sensation like splinter or fishbone in throat when swallowing; sharp, lancinating

pains, throbbing, rigors and chills, with stitches in throat, extending to ears, worse when

swallowing; cannot bear cold air.

Kali bichrom: Tonsillitis herpetica with membranous exudations, inflammation of uvula

and pharynx, foul, yellow tongue, fauces covered with ropy mucus (often mistaken for

true diphtheria); Eustachian tubes blocked up; pain shoots from ear down throat.

Kali Mur: Acute and chronic swelling of the tonsils, which are covered with a whitish

coating; hawking up cheesy lumps having a disgusting odor and taste.

Lac caninum: Tonsils inflamed, shining and very sore, swollen so as almost to close the

throat; suppuration from left to right, or changing from side to side, or both tonsils

equally affected; whole posterior portion and throat Oedematous; tonsils enlarged;

pricking; cutting pains from empty swallowing; great dryness of tonsils at night; throat

sensitive to touch externally; ashy-gray exudation.

Lachesis: Throat purplish, patient very nervous, least touch unbearable; tonsils swollen,

left Aggravation with tendency to right; inability to swallow, threatening, suffocation;

liquids escape by the nose when swallowing is attempted and are more difficult to

swallow than solids; Aggravation from hot drinks; on swallowing burning pains shoot in

left ear; pus from tonsils unhealthy, with tendency to degenerate into ulcers; excessive

dryness, particularly if it appears in spots, Aggravation by inhaling cold air. It may break

up the disease in its conception or promote resolution in later stages.

Lycopodium: Tonsils enlarged, indurated and studded with many small ulcers; swelling

and suppuration of tonsils, going from right to left; chronic enlargement of tonsils;

Aggravation from cold drinks, and smarting in throat from hot drinks.

Mercurius: Parenchymatous tonsillitis (after Bell.); throbbing pain, tonsils and fauces

yellowish-red, often covered with a thin false membrane; tongue pale, flabby and

indented by the teeth; pain on deglutition and speaking; pain on empty swallowing;

salivation increased; throat sore externally when pressed upon; tonsils dark-red, studded

with ulcers; quinsy with stinging pain in fauces; when pus has formed it hastens

maturation; mercurial breath (Merc. biniod.); aphthae; profuse nightsweats, bringing no

relief.

Mercurius iod. Flav: Hypertrophy of tonsils with enlargement of cervical and salivary

glands and inflammation of the mucous membrane of mouth and pharynx, which is

succulent and freely secreting; ptyalism; foetor oris; swallowing difficult.

Mercurius iod. Rub: Scalded feeling in throat, dark-red fauces, left tonsil most affected;

Extensive implication of submaxillary glands.

Phytolacca: Chills alternating with fever; great weakness; tonsils large, bluish, ulcerated;

intense dryness of throat; rough, burning, smarting fauces; pain in throat extends to ears

when swallowing; aching in back, neck, head and limbs; ulceration on tonsils and fauces;

with grayish-white, sloughs and little or no foetor; cannot hot fluids; great prostration.

Silicea: Deep ulcers, even gangrene; tonsils; swollen, each effort to swallow distorts face;

tonsillitis, when the suppurating gland will not head; pricking in throat, as from a pin,

causing cough; left side.

Echinacea Angustifolia: Irritation of larynx. Voice husky. Constant clearing of mucus

from throat. Sore throat. Frothy mucus, hawks from throat. Tonsils purple or

black, gray exudation extending to posterior sinuses and air-passages. Ulcerated sore

throat. Mucus in throat with raw sensation. Soreness of throat, worse on left side.

Baptisia Tinctoria: Aphonia. Larynx sore to touch, painful swallowing or speaking.

Fauces dark-red, dark, putrid ulcers. Tonsils and soft palate dark red and swollen.

Painless sore throat and offensive discharge. Numb inside but sensitive outside. Can

swallow liquids only, least solid food gags. Ragged ulcers in the throat. Spasms of gullet.

Constriction at cardiac orifice of esophagus. Constrictive feeling in throat causing

frequent efforts at swallowing.

Streptococcinum: Adenopathy of the neck. Big, infected, purulent tonsils. Red angina.

Persistent pain and redness of the throat. Acute and chronic laryngitis. It is most suited

for Tonsillectomy recurrence infection.

Tuberculinum: Chronic recurring Tonsillitis and Adenoids <change of weather from

damp to cold.

Vibrionic preparations like Throat 30, Infection 200 and War 1M also found veryeffective in the treatment of Tonsillitis.

References

1. Mosby’s Medical Encyclopedia
2. http://www.livestrong.com/article/77168-diseases-tonsils/
3. Homeopathic Materia Medica by Boericke
4. Texas Pediatrics Surgical Associates
5. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/tonsillitis/DS00273/DSECTION=tests-and-diagnosis
6. Lilienthal S., Homoeopathic Therapeutics
7. http://www.patient.co.uk/health/Tonsils-and-Adenoids.htm
8. http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/ear_nose_and_throat_disorders/nose_and_throat_cancers/tonsillar_cancer.html?qt=&sc=&alt=
9. http://www.rightdiagnosis.com/a/adenoid_disorders/intro.htm
10. Dewey W. A., Practical Homeopathic Therapeutics
11. http://www.entcolumbia.org/tonsil.html
12. http://www.homoeopathyclinic.com
13. http://www.drhomeo.com/tonsillitis/tonsillitis-and-homeopathic-treatment/
14. Murphy Materia Medica
15. Principles of Prescribing, Dr. K.N.Mathur.

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

Reader, Dept. of Practice of Medicine                                                                      

Vinayaka Mission’s Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, Salem, Tamilnadu.