Freedom from Urticaria and Steroid Dependence with Homeopathy

A patient named Mrs. S. S. (Patient ID: 53013) had a telephone conversation with a doctor in the Malleswaram branch on 17th Nov 2023. She had called up with complaints of erythematous rashes all over her body for the past 4 years. Each episode used to last for 3-4 hours. The patient also complained of itching, and the complaint was very disturbing. The complaints were more frequent during stress, climate change, consumption of shellfish, and outside food. The complaints were more prominent on the hands, legs, and thighs. The patient was highly dependent on steroids such as Omnacortil 20 mg along with antihistamines like Allegra 180 mg. The patient was concerned as she wanted to come out of this forever. Her parents were more worried since they were seeking an alliance for her.

Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition characterized by the sudden appearance of raised, red, itchy welts or bumps. These welts can vary in size and can occur anywhere on the body. Urticaria is often a result of an allergic reaction, but it can also be triggered by other factors.

Causes of Urticaria

1. Allergic Reactions: Common allergens such as certain foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish), insect stings, pollen, or medications can trigger urticaria.
2. Physical Triggers: Factors like heat, cold, pressure, or exercise can lead to hives in some individuals.
3. Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, including the common cold or strep throat, can sometimes trigger urticaria.
4. Stress: Emotional stress and anxiety can also play a role in the development of hives in some people.
5. Chronic Urticaria: In some cases, the condition persists for weeks or even months without an identifiable cause

Symptoms of Urticaria

• Raised, red, or skin-colored welts on the skin
• Itchiness or burning sensation
• Swelling around the welts
• The welts may change size, shape, or location frequently

Physical Generals:

She had a mixed diet with an average appetite and generalized perspiration. Her water intake was average, and her sleep was good.

Personal details:

Being a native of Tamil Nadu, she is currently working in an MNC and has a twin brother who is also employed. The patient is mild and gentle by nature but exhibits slight irritability due to her health condition. She tends to get frustrated easily and often worries about her future because of her ongoing health issues.

Follow-ups:

On Jan 30th, 2024-during her first follow-up, she was doing better, and she was able to stop the steroid but was still continuing with antihistamine twice a day.

On 27th April 2024, she was further improved and was able to stop antihistamines as well.

On July 27th, 2024, she called up and informed me she was much better since she hadn''t had major urticaria episodes in the last 2 months.

In subsequent follow-ups, she showed significant improvement, with no further episodes of urticaria, and was completely off all allopathic medications. The patient is very happy to be free from allopathic treatment and has experienced wonderful results with Life Force.

CONCLUSION:

Homeopathy is a holistic form of medicine based on the principle of "like cures like." It involves using highly diluted substances that, in larger amounts, could cause symptoms similar to those of the condition being treated. Homeopathy aims to stimulate the body’s vital force (or natural healing ability) to restore balance and health.

In the case of urticaria, homeopathic remedies are personalized based on a patient’s unique symptoms, emotional state, lifestyle, and overall health. Homeopaths may consider factors such as:

• The severity of the itching
• The presence of swelling or hives
• Any triggers like stress, temperature changes, or specific allergens
• Emotional and mental health factors like anxiety, frustration, or sensitivity

Benefits of Homeopathy for Urticaria

• Personalized Treatment: Homeopathic remedies are tailored to the individual, considering not just the physical symptoms but also emotional and mental states.
• Gentle and Non-invasive: Homeopathy is considered a gentle form of medicine, with minimal risk of side effects.
• Long-term Relief: While homeopathy may not offer immediate results like conventional treatments, it focuses on long-term healing by addressing underlying imbalances.

Homeopathy offers a personalized and holistic approach to managing urticaria, focusing on the whole person rather than just the physical symptoms. However, due to the complexity of urticaria and the potential for varied underlying causes, it is crucial to seek professional advice to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy.

- Case study written by Dr. Remya Nambiar, an associate to Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)