Encyclopedia of Homeopathy

FIRST AID• 275AILMENTFAINTINGFainting is due to the temporary disruption of blood flow to thebrain. It may be brought on by pain, hunger, or emotional stress.It should be differentiated from shock, which, particularly if it iscaused by internal bleeding, may resemble a faint, especially ifthere is no obvious loss of blood.ESSENTIAL TREATMENT A person who has fainted but is breathingnormally should be placed in a safe position (see page 270) to keepthe airway open. To prevent fainting—if there is nausea andunsteadiness, and the complexion is unusually pale—lie down andtake deep breaths. Raise the feet to increase blood flow to the brain.Loosen tight clothing and increase ventilation in the room.CAUTION If a faint lasts for more than a few minutes, considerthe possibility that the victim might be in shock and, if necessary,call 911.PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS• Fainting due to intense emotion• Fainting due to a fright or shock,particularly after witnessingan accident• Fainting due to overexcitement• Fainting in hot, stuffysurroundingsREMEDY & DOSAGEIgnatia(see page 57)6c every 5 minutesup to 10 dosesAconite(see page 32)30c every 5 minutesup to 10 dosesCoffea(see page 50)6c every 5 minutesup to 10 dosesPulsatilla(see page 61)6c every 5 minutesup to 10 dosesTRAVEL SICKNESSThis ailment occurs when the balance mechanism in the innerear is upset by motion, especially while reading or focusingon stationary objects. Travel sickness is most commonamong children.ESSENTIAL TREATMENT Avoid eating greasy foods and overeatingbefore traveling. To prevent travel sickness, begin taking theappropriate remedy one hour before starting a journey. If thereis vomiting, sip water frequently to avoid dehydration. If possible,increase ventilation in the vehicle in which you are traveling.CAUTION People with insulin-dependent diabetes should be observedfor hypoglycemia (see page 191) and given glucose or a sugary drinkif necessary.HEAT EXHAUSTIONThis occurs in hot and humid climatic conditions and is causedby excessive fluid loss from the body.ESSENTIAL TREATMENT Lie down in a cool place. If possible, directthe flow of air from an electric fan on to your body or lie beneath awet sheet to cool down. Sip water or other clear liquids frequentlyto prevent dehydration.CAUTION If the body temperature continues to rise,call 911.• Fainting at the sight of blood• Nausea and chilliness• Giddiness and fainting• Sensation as though there is atight band around the head• Worse for tobacco smoke• Giddiness and exhaustion withdesire to lie down• Sight of food induces nausea andincreased salivation• Headache at the back of the eyesor over one eye• Chilliness and constipation• Worse for tobacco smoke, eating,and coffee• Heat exhaustion accompaniedby nausea and a severeheadache that is worse forthe slightest movement• Heat exhaustion accompanied bya throbbing, bursting headache,sweaty skin, and a hot faceNux vomica(see page 63)6c every 5 minutesup to 10 dosesTabacum(see page 158)6c every 15 minutesup to 10 dosesCocculus(see page 124)6c every 15 minutesup to 10 dosesNux vomica(see page 63)6c every 15 minutesup to 10 dosesBryonia(see page 42)30c every 5 minutesup to 10 dosesGlonoinum(see page 170)30c every 5 minutesup to 10 doses