Minutus

Just had heartbreaking call from old friend. Her aunt (85) is in terrible shape with rheumatoid (and osteo) arthritis and asthma. I have suggested proper homeopathy - but they are in rural area with no homeopaths. Local MD just gives meds - and lots of them. I offered to take the case via mail - and sent my friend a long list of questions. The aunt laughed and said she would not talk about herself to her niece, and certainly not to a stranger. This is a happy, sweet, kind lady who has worked and cared for others all her life, and continues to have a good attitude in spite of her pain. I met her once many years ago, and completely understand why she is beloved by friends and family. All I can get is very general information:
Has had arthritis for 25 years - worse in last 5 years.
Must walk with cane.
Has severe carpel tunnel syndrom in both hands - loosing use of fingers
Has used multiple pain drugs - some of which caused bleeding severe enough to require transfusions
Takes drugs and uses inhaler for asthma
Takes drugs for blood pressure
Some activity makes the pain better
Less pain in pm
Too much activity makes pain worse

OK - Let's hypothetically say that emotion were to get the better of me and I contemplated throwing good practice out the window and considered sending her a bottle of remedy with very very simple instructions. Her current meds are causing bleeding and are not easing the pain - so I know the next step with the MD will be more drugs. My first thought was cell salts (say for example one bottle of Ferr Phos for inflammation and one bottle of Mag Phos for pain). Then I started wondering if a single polycrest would be better.

Understanding that this list can not prescribe - I will ask this as a general discussion question. When faced with this type of situation - would you rather do something or turn away? If anyone has had similar experience - would you share that experience? If you desire to help palliate the severe symptoms, would you look to a polycrest known for those generalized symptoms, or pick one specific symptom ?

I know homeopathy could offer her more than just palliation. I believe if homeopathy could help reduce her pain and increase her quality of life - she might reconsider allowing me to take the case by mail or phone. However, I also believe, without homeopathy, the meds will kill her quickly.

Thank you in advance for your kindness in responding.

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Rona,
I have found that working with Geriatrics can be most difficult.
The difficulty increases when the proximate 'caregiver' is either not aware
of Homeopathy's beneficial qualities, or is not willing to change the
protocol.
The layers accumulate over ones lifetime, and a thorough intake helps to
discern the patients current state.
Additionally, prescribing at a distance can be problematic..
There is a huge gap in helping the elderly alternatively,and Homeopathy can
be a solution that can fill that gap.
However,that said,the satisfaction can be enormous.
Initially,what seems to be a complex case,I would start with low potencies
of Polycrests.
Generally speaking,lower potencies can move the energy.
I try and be conservative with the use of higher potencies(over 30c).
I would ask again, what is the chief complaint of the patient,and try and
match the totality of the patient with the appropriate remedy.
Lastly, I have found Baryta Mur, Baryta Carb excellent in terms of promoting
distal blood flow.
Argentum Nit. can be helpful in dealing with anxiety and decompression of
the head(that sometimes leads to motor problems with the elderly).
Well indicated Organopathic remedies can assist in specific issues that a
well trained Homeopath can spot.
Peter Cronin
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Dona,

You are right on w/cell salts. Suggest you try the bioplasma which is the combination of all 12 salts in 6X, 4 or 5 times a day. This is a nutritional boost for the system, esp the Nat Phos will help relieve the pain of arthritis.

If this helps her, she may be more willing to do Homeopathy as a therapy. If it doesn't work well, or if she is not willing after about 2 weeks of bioplasma, then you've done your best and let it go.

Many geriatrics just cannot/will not change, that is their downfall.

Bill G.