DEPRESSION - WHAT IS IT

 Depression: What Is It?

It's natural to feel down sometimes, but if that low mood lingers day after day, it could signal depression. Major depression is an episode of sadness or apathy along with other symptoms that lasts at least two consecutive weeks and is severe enough to interrupt daily activities. Depression is not a sign of weakness or a negative personality. It is a major public health problem and a treatable medical condition.

Depression Symptoms:

1. Emotional :The primary symptoms of depression are a sad mood and/or loss of interest in life. Activities that were once pleasurable lose their appeal. Patients may also be haunted by a sense of guilt or worthlessness, lack of hope, and recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

2. Physical   : Depression is sometimes linked to physical symptoms. These include:

Fatigue and decreased energy

Insomnia, especially early-morning waking

Excessive sleep

Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment

Changes in appetite or weight- another hallmark of depression. Some patients develop increased appetite and some may lose it altogether.

Weight loss or weight gain

 Depression can make other health problems feel worse, particularly chronic pain. Key brain chemicals influence both mood and pain. Treating depression has been shown to improve co-existing illnesses.

Impact on Daily Life

Without treatment, the physical and emotional turmoil brought on by depression can derail careers, hobbies, and relationships. Depressed people often find it difficult to concentrate and make decisions. They turn away from previously enjoyable activities, including sex. In severe cases, depression can become life-threatening.

People who are depressed are more likely to attempt suicide. Warning signs include talking about death or suicide, threatening to hurt people, or engaging in aggressive or risky behavior.

Who’s is at risk of getting depression

Anyone can become depressed, but many experts believe genetics play a role. Having a parent or sibling with depression increases your risk of developing the disorder. Women are twice as likely as men to become depressed.

Causes of Depression

Doctors aren't sure what causes depression, but a prominent theory is altered brain structure and chemical function. Brain circuits that regulate mood may work less efficiently during depression. Drugs that treat depression are believed to improve communication between nerve cells, making them run more normally. Experts also think that while stress -- such as losing a loved one -- can trigger depression, one must first be biologically prone to develop the disorder. Other triggers could include certain medications, alcohol or substance abuse, hormonal changes, or even the season or postpartum depression.

Diagnosing Depression

As of yet, there is no lab test for depression. To make an accurate diagnosis, doctors rely on a patient's description of the symptoms. You'll be asked about your medical history and medication use since these may contribute to symptoms of depression. Discussing moods, behaviors, and daily activities can help reveal the severity and type of depression. This is a critical step in determining the most effective treatment.

Counselling or Talk Therapy for Depression

Studies suggest different types of talk therapy can fight mild to moderate depression. Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to change thoughts and behaviors that contribute to depression. Interpersonal therapy identifies how your relationships impact your mood. Psychodynamic psychotherapy helps people understand how their behavior and mood are affected by unresolved issues and unconscious feelings. Some patients find a few months of therapy are all they need, while others continue long term.

Medications for Depression

Antidepressants affect the levels of brain chemicals, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. There are many options. Give antidepressants a few weeks of use to take effect. Good follow-up with your doctor is important to evaluate their effectiveness and make dosage adjustments. If the first medication tried doesn't help, there's a good chance another will. The combination of talk therapy and medication appears particularly effective

Exercise for Depression

Research suggests exercise is a potent weapon against mild to moderate depression. Physical activity releases endorphins that can help boost mood. Regular exercise is also linked to higher self-esteem, better sleep, less stress, and more energy. Any type of moderate activity, from swimming to housework, can help. Choose something you enjoy and aim for 20 to 30 minutes four or five times a week

       Kevin Breel: Confessions of a depressed comic

         http://www.ted.com/playlists/175/the_struggle_of_mental_health

HOMOEOPATHIC REMEDIES FOR HAIR FALL

Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric acid is a wonderful deep acting constitutional remedy. It is one of the very good remedies for mental debility followed by physical debility, which leads to a host of complaints. Frequently used for complaints of hair loss, diabetes, hemorrhages, debility, depression, gastro-intestinal affections, sexual complaints, etc. Complaints arising due to loss of vital fluids from the body and after acute illnesses. Early hair falling and graying of hair. Hair tends to fall out from the scalp, eyebrows, genitals, etc. When complaints of hair loss come on after acute illnesses like fevers, etc. Phosphoric acid turns out to be a very good remedy. Often the complaints come on after some sorrowful experience and the patient tends to be chronically sad and depressed.

Flouric Acid

It is one of the excellent remedies for hair loss and few of its common indications are as follows: Very good remedy for cases of alopecia areata. Patient has loss of hair especially after fevers. Brittle hair. After fever, patient loses hair in spots from the scalp. Hair loss due to syphilis. Sticking of hair; they are matted together and tangle easily. Falling out of hair after typhoid.

Graphites

Graphites is a wonderful deep acting constitutional remedy prepared from black lead. Graphites positively influences the skin, nutrition, circulation, gastrointestinal organs, reproductive system, glandular tissues, mind, etc.

Its one of the commonly indicated remedies for hair loss, eczema, callosities, fissures, ulcerations, dyspepsia, chronic constipation, obesity, menstrual complaints, etc.

Graphites is a great remedy for menopausal complaints and it's frequently indicated for various symptoms that develop during the menopausal period. A few of its common indications are: One of the very good remedies for falling out of hair from the entire scalp; also for alopecia patches on the occiput due to moist eruptions on the scalp. Falling of hair at temples. Alopecia in infants.

Sepia

Sepia is one medicine prepared from inky juice of Cuttle fish.

Sepia,has a broad spectrum of action and is useful for a wide range of disease processes. It positively influences the skin, digestive system, female genital organs, liver, glands, lungs, and nerves. It is one of the most commonly used medicines for hair loss, irritable bowel syndrome, herpes, eczema, urticaria, lichen planus, ring worm, vitiligo, styes and chalazion, asthma, urinary tract infection. It is one of the best medicines for many gynecological and pregnancy related complaints.

It’s an especially good drug for hair loss during the climacteric period, during and after parturition. It’s also a very good remedy for alopecia areata where the hair falls out from the scalp leaving bald patches behind. Good drug for matting of the hair.

Niticum Acidum

Nitricum acidum is a deep acting, constitutional remedy which positively influences the gastrointestinal tract, nerves, glands, skin, bones, etc. Its one of the commonly used drugs for hair loss, vitiligo, warts, ulcers, fissures, gastritis, hemorrhoids, bony and rheumatic affections, malignancy, cachexia, etc. Loss of hair from the vertex. Sensitiveness of the scalp.

Lycopodium

Lycopodium is one of the wonderful remedies in Homeopathy.
This drug is frequently prescribed for complaints of hair loss, premature baldness, premature graying of hair. Lycopodium is also one of the commonly prescribed remedies for complaints of the gastro-intestinal organs, reproductive organs, urinary complaints, skin and respiratory disorders. Its frequently prescribed for chronic eczemas where the skin becomes excessively dry and raw from itching. Thick and indurated skin due to eczema. Offensive secretions, fissured eruptions and violent itching are a few of its common indications. The complaints are worse from warmth and better by cold applications.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus predominantly acts on the gastrointestinal tract, hepato-biliary system, blood, kidneys, bones, lungs, nervous tissue, etc.

It is frequently used in the homeopathic treatment of hair loss, nephrotic syndrome, hepatitis, cirrhosis, hemorrhagic tendencies, respiratory infections, osteomyelitis, paralytic symptoms, etc. Some of the common indications of this drug are: Falling of hair in large bunches; in spots. Dandruff with intense itching of the scalp. Highly sensitive to external impressions such as light, sound, odors, touch, thunderstorms, etc. Restless, excitable, nervous individuals. Affects the kidneys causing albuminuria and haematuria; patient has profuse, pale, watery urine with intense weakness. There is increased susceptibility to colds amongst children.

Silicea

Silica positively influences bones and joints, mucous membranes, skin, cellular tissue, nerves, glands, lungs, digestive system, etc. Silica is one of the frequently used medicines for complaints of hair fall, vitiligo, eczema, lichen planus, herpes, urticaria, asthmatic bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, styes and chalazion, trigeminal neuralgia, complaints of nails, tonsillitis, etc. Its frequently prescribed for the complaints of hair loss.

Patients requiring silica usually have tendency of easy suppuration of skin injuries. Silica positively influences nutrition as well and hence its one of the prominent remedies used for rickets in children.

Natrum Muriaticum

Constitutionally, this medicine has a broad spectrum of action, and is useful for a wide range of disease processes affecting the skin, gastrointestinal organs, nose, lungs, kidney, metabolism, muscles, head, hormonal system, etc. It is one of the commonly used remedies for hair loss, fissures, urticaria, migraine, eczema, lichen planus, vitiligo, asthma, etc.

Natrum muriaticum is frequently prescribed in cases of hair  loss especially in anaemic females.

BEST HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINES FOR ASTHMA

NATRUM SULPH

Natrum Sulph is one of the most important natural homeopathic medicine for treating chronic asthma. This homeopathic remedy is  often asked for treating asthma in children.  It is very useful when asthma is hereditary. Often, asthma that gets aggravated in humid weather and dampness, requires this homeopathic medicine. Wheezing is very important symptom for Natrum Sulph to be used .

ARSENIC ALBUM

 Arsenic Album is one the best homeopathic remedy for all forms of asthma . It is beneficial both in the acute phase and the chronic state. It is often indicated when attacks are frequent during night (midnight and after), accompanied with great restlessness and fear of suffocation on lying down.

BACILLINUM

 An inter-current course of  Homeopathic medicine Bacillinum will often make a wonderful change in patients who have a personal or family history of asthma and chest infections. This homeopathic medicine is  a deep-acting and  is required for those patients who have asthma and are very sensitive to cold, having a personal or family history of tuberculosis.

SAMBUCCUS

 Sambuccus, is one of the main homeopathic remedies for asthma in children when the attacks come on suddenly in the night. The affected child turns blue, gasps for breath and seems as if he or she is almost dying. Then the little one goes to sleep and wakes up with another attack. Many such attacks can occur in one night. Another characteristic of this wonderful natural homeopathic medicine is that the skin becomes entirely dry and there is a burning sensation when he or she falls asleep. The patient breaks into profuse sweat immediately on waking.

KALI BICHROME

 Kali Bichrome a “certain remedy” if attacks are after-midnight (from 3 a.m to 4 a.m). Relief is obtained from sitting up and bending forward, and from the expectoration of stringy mucus. It is indicated for attacks that are liable to return in winter. It is also useful in bronchial asthmatic breathing.

NUX VOMICA

 Nux Vomica is for difficult breathing associated with a feeling of fullness and heaviness in the stomach, particularly manifested after a major meal. The symptoms are aggravated after the meal, in the morning, and are increased by cold air. Belching provides relief to symptoms of asthma. It is sometimes useful also in difficult breathing arising from gastric disturbance.

CARBO VEG

Where there is much abdominal irritation present with much flatulence (gas), Carbo Veg should be thought off. Carbo Veg also corresponds to asthma in the aged who are much debilitated and are in search of breath. Passing of wind gives relief .

Remedies Nux Vomica and Carbo Veg are invaluable in controlling acute asthmatic attacks. Self-medication should be avoided in such chronic disorders.

IPECACUAHNA

 Coughing spasms that lead to retching or vomiting strongly indicate this remedy. Wheezing can come on suddenly with a feeling of suffocation and heaviness in the chest. Mucus collects in breathing tubes, but the person has difficulty coughing much out. The person may sweat a lot and feel clammy or nauseous, be worse from motion, and sometimes worse from warmth.

SPONGIA TOSTA

A hard or “barking” cough during an asthma attack is a strong indication for this remedy. Breathing can be labored, with a sawing sound, and not much mucus is produced. The person may feel best when sitting up and tilting the head back, or when leaning forward. Warm drinks may be helpful. The problems often start while the person is asleep (typically before midnight). Spongia is often used in croup, as well.

Homeopathy Dosage Directions

Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. 

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COMMONLY USED HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINES

                           COMMONLY USED HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINES

There are certain medicines in homoeopathy which are commonly used. These medicines

 should be taken in the 6th or 30th potency. Generally, if there is minor pain or discomfort, 

you should take the medicine three times a day till you feel better. If there is more severe  

pain, you can consider taking the medicine every one to three hours, decreasing the doses 

as symptoms are reduced. If you do not observe some improvement after 24 hours in an

 acute condition, the medicine is probably not the correct one. If symptoms persist, consider 

another medicine or seek professional homeopathic care.

Allium cepa (onion): Because it is known to cause tearing of the eyes and dripping of the 
nose, it is a frequent remedy for the common cold and hay fever, especially when there is 
a thin, watery, and burning nasal discharge that irritates the nostrils. Typically, the person's 
symptoms are worse in a warm room and are relieved in a cool room or in the open air.

Arnica (mountain daisy): This is the #1 remedy in sports medicine and first aid. It is used
for shock and trauma from injury. It also helps to reduce pain from injury and to speed the
 healing process. Whether you're into competitive sports or exercise regularly or if you
simply don't like to feel the pain of an injury, Arnica is the place to start.

Chamomilla (chamomille): Many parents owe their sleep to homeopathy, not because it
 helps them directly, but because it is so good for their infant. Chamomilla is THE remedy
 for the irritable infant, especially from teething or colic. The infant cries incessantly, and
nothing seems to provide any relief, except carrying them, and even then, the crying
begins recurs as soon as the parent puts the child down.

Hypericum (St. John's wort): This remedy is the first medicine to consider for injuries to
the
nerves or to parts of the body rich with them, including the fingers, toes, and back. Any
injury with shooting pains should be given this remedy.

Ignatia (St. Ignatius bean): One day this remedy will be used by the majority of
psychiatrists. It is one of the leading homeopathic medicines for acute grief, anxiety, and
depression, especially after a death or separation from a loved one. The person sighs
frequently, has a lump in the throat, and may tremble.

Magnesia phosphorica (phosphate of magnesia): This is the most effective remedy for
 cramps, including menstrual cramps. It is particularly indicated when a woman's cramps 
cause her to bend over and when they experience some relief from warm applications.

Nux vomica (poison nut): This is the premier medicine for ailments exacerbated by
conventional or recreational drugs. It is also a common remedy for treating symptoms
of overeating or from drinking too much alcohol. Considering how many people have
these vices, this is an all too frequent medicine today.

Pulsatilla (windflower): Perhaps the most common remedy given to both children and
women, this medicine is not indicated for a specific disease but for a specific pattern of
physical symptoms and psychological characteristics. Physically, these people are
warm-blooded: they wear less clothes than others, prefer open air, and don't feel as
 well in the heat. Psychologically, they are a gentle, mind, and yielding person, with a
 quickly changing emotional state and a strong tendency to want to please others.

Rhus tox (poison ivy): This medicine is the most common remedy for sprains and
strains. It is especially indicated when a person experiences a "rusty gate" syndrome,
 that is, pain on initial motion which is reduced the more the person continues to move.
It is also often given to people with the flu or arthritis who experience this similar rusty
gate syndrome.

What is Alternative Medicine

                                          Alternative Medicine

            Alternative Medicine is any practice that is done to have healing effects of medicine  but which is not based on evidence gathered using the scientific method. It consists of wide range of health care practices like Homoeopathy, Naturopathy, Chiropractic, Energy medicine, acupuncture, traditional chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine etc. Alternative medicine also contains wide range range of health care practices, products and therapies. The common feature in all these is to healing which is not based on the scientific methods.

             Homoeopathy

Homoeopathy is a greek term derived from the two words 'homoios' and 'pathos'  means like suffering. It was created in 1796 by Samuel Hahnemann based on his doctrine of like cures like.
A substance that causes the symptoms of a disease in healthy people will also cure the similar symptoms in sick people.
The remedies are prepared by repeatedly diluting a chosen substance in alcohol or distilled water. Homoeopaths select remedies by considering the totality of the patient's symptoms his physical and psychological state and life history and matching them with various remedies by referring repertories.

             Naturopathic Medicine

Naturopathic medicine is based on the principle that the body heals itself by using a supernatural energy that controls all the body processes. Many naturopaths oppose vaccination.

            Traditional Chinese Medicine 

Traditional chinese medicine consists of a combination of all traditional practices and beliefs developed over thousands of year in China. These practices include acupuncture, massage, exercise and diet therapy. These practices believe in  supernatural energy called chi.
   
             Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic Medicine is a traditional medicine of India which believes that health can be influenced by use of traditional herbs. It is based on the use of plant based medicines and treatments with some added minerals.

         There are certain  other traditional  medical practices like Reiki which believe that the supernatural energies flow from the palms of the healer into the patient .

         Acupuncture is also a part of traditional chinese medicine. It is believed that use of needles in acupuncture at various parts of the body can restore balance to the blocked flows and hence cure disease.

          Yoga  is also another method of healing through stretches, exercises,and meditations.