see also Hepatitis
Children are usually affected by type A viral hepatitis, spread from faeces to mouth by poor hygiene. Because the liver is infected, the whole metabolism of the body is upset. Incubation is 2-6 weeks. Symptoms are those of Influenza and Jaundice, plus itching, loss of appetite (see Appetite Changes), pale stools, dark urine, and sometimes Nausea and Vomiting, lasting for about a month. Recovery can take weeks or months. Conventional treatment is immunization of contacts; antibiotics are not effective.
Homeopathic treatment is highly recommended during the acute stage (if you are unsure which remedy to take, seek the guidance of an experienced homeopath), with constitutional treatment afterwards to speed recovery.
Specific remedies to be given 4 times daily for up to 7 days
- Pain in liver, aggravated by lying on right side, unpleasant taste in mouth, increased flow of saliva Mercurius 6c
- Sharp pain in liver area, alleviated by lying on right side but made worse by movement, child very thirsty Bryonia 30c
- Stools yellow, pain extending from right shoulder blade to base of right rib cage Chelidonium 6c
- Pale stools, with a lot of flatulence and wind China 6c
Self-help: Bed rest and plenty of fluids, especially honey-sweetened drinks (i.e. drinks containing carbohydrates) and thin vegetable soups, are recommended. See that hands are thoroughly washed before eating or preparing food. Do not allow child’s towel, flannel, crockery, or cutlery to be used by other members of the family, and thoroughly disinfect lavatory, bath, and hand basin each time child uses them. |
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