Homeopathy Ends Years of Allergic Rhinitis Suffering

A 14-year-old boy, studying in the 9th standard in Udupi, presented with the chief complaints of recurrent episodes of sneezing, nasal blockage, and dry cough. The onset of complaints was gradual, around 6–7 years ago, and since then, the symptoms have been persistent and progressive. The patient had continuous sneezing lasting for 15–20 minutes, mostly occurring in the morning and at night, with 7–8 bouts each time. These episodes were often associated with nasal blockage, lachrymation in the morning, and a mild skin rash over the back. The patient also complained of a dry cough, occasionally with whitish-yellow expectoration, which was often aggravated by weather changes. The intensity of the sneezing episodes was moderate but affected his daily routine.

The complaints were noted to be aggravated by exposure to cold food, perfumes, and more prominently during the morning and night. At times, the patient required nebulisation once in 2–3 months for symptomatic relief. The patient was not taking any conventional medication when he consulted the clinic.

Past Medical History – The patient had a history of taking allopathic medications on and off in the past two years, which included Tab. Rapiclav 625 mg (antibiotic), Tab. Opel 40 (antacid), Tab. Vitarap-90 (antihistamine), and Tab. Aromol 500 (NSAID), all of which gave temporary relief. Nebulisation was also taken occasionally during severe episodes.

The patient had also tried homeopathic treatment elsewhere for 2–3 months but discontinued it due to lack of follow-up and guidance.

Physical Generals:

The patient had an average appetite with a mixed diet. He had a marked craving for sweets, chicken, and chocolates, with a distinct aversion to milk. His thirst was adequate, consuming around 2–3 liters of water per day. Perspiration was average and generalized, and thermally, the patient was hot. His bowel movements were satisfactory—once per day—and micturition was asymptomatic.

He was lean, thin, and tall, with a clear tongue on examination. Developmental milestones were normal, and no abnormalities were observed.

Mental Generals – The patient was mild, gentle, expressive, and clever, though shy in nature. He also got emotionally attached easily. He was talented in chess and had represented India at the national level, but academically, he was average, securing 60–65% marks. His memory and intellectual capacity were good, and he was well supported by his family, with no significant stress reported in his personal life.

Family History – The paternal grandmother suffered from diabetes and hypercholesterolemia, while the maternal grandmother had dementia. There was no family history of allergic rhinitis, asthma, or other chronic respiratory disorders.

On examination, the nasal mucosa appeared congested, with mild watery discharge. Occasional dry rashes were noted on the back. Chest examination was essentially normal, with no wheezing or adventitious sounds, except during acute episodes, where mild rhonchi were present. No structural abnormality was noted in the nasal septum or turbinates.

Based on these presenting symptoms and the totality of the patient, Dr. Shah prescribed homeopathic medication.

Follow-ups –

03/12/2024: Frequency and intensity of sneezing reduced compared to before, nasal blockage was better in the mornings, and lachrymation was much reduced. No need for nebulisation since starting homoeopathy at Life Force.

05/03/2025: Marked reduction in severity of sneezing and discharge, dry cough only occasional and related to weather. No severe episodes requiring allopathic medicines.

29/04/2025: Nasal blockage and discharge are almost absent, with only mild sneezing and occasional dry cough.

24/06/2025: Around 60–70% improvement; sneezing mild and infrequent, nasal blockage and discharge significantly reduced. The patient was completely off conventional medicines.

20/08/2025: Patient was almost 70–80% improved, with only rare sneezing episodes, and nasal blockage and cough were minimal.

This case demonstrates how homeopathy provided sustained relief in a long-standing case of allergic rhinitis.

• Case study written by Dr. Shreya Hedaoo, an associate doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom)