Current Flu Guide: February 1-14, 2008

by Domenick J Masiello, DO, DHt

The number of influenza cases continues to increase and Eupatorium is clearly the epidemicus remedy. It is important to recall that after the epidemicus remedy has been identified, one must keep in mind that the very next patient you see may not exhibit the symptoms you are expecting. You may be expecting high fever, body aches, and upper respiratory symptoms typical of influenza. However, some patients will exhibit ( in this case Eupatorium) symptoms of the epidemicus remedy but not the ones you expect. So this month you may be seeing nausea, vomiting, backache, runny nose with sneezing, mild or no fever, sores in the corners of the mouth, or any combination of possible Eupatorium symptoms. It is not unusual to see a patient with nothing more than mild fatigue, a runny nose and a sore back. If this patient normally doesn't suffer from back symptoms, then think epidemicus! Once you learn the schema of the remedy, know the major presenting symptoms but keep in mind that the patient may present with only one or two of the minor symptoms of the epidemicus. This time of year, right now, when in doubt - give the epidemicus.

I have treated a few cases that have required additional remedies beyond Eupatorium because these patients had developed bronchitis and in one case, incipient pneumonia. I have used Spongia and Tuberculinum Bovinum* so far. It is also important, especially with infants and children, with high fevers, to examine the throat and screen for a streptoccocal pharyngitis or tonsilitis with either a rapid antigen test and/or a throat culture as strep infections are common this time of year in this age group.

*Tuberculinum bovinum is a homeopathic remedy that requires a prescription from a licensed Medical Doctor or Doctor of Osteopathy.  In some states Naturopathic Doctors are licensed to write prescriptions for homeopathic RX items.  This item is available from TreatmentOptions Pharmacy by calling 1-800-234-8879.  It cannot be purchased online.

Dr. Domenick Masiello, D.O. is board certified in Family Practice (C-FP), Osteopathic Manipulation (C-SPOMM) and Homeopathy (D.Ht.).  Dr. Masiello is published in many peer reviewed journals and continues to practice in New York City.  He graduated in 1985 from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his internship at Kennedy Memorial Hospital in New Jersey.  You can read more about Dr. Masiello here, and contact him for appointments at 212-688-4818.

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