Q&A Dr Nancy Gahles

Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Homeopathy
Doctor of Chiropractic

I have three children. I was able to nurse my first baby until I decided to wean him. My second baby I was only able to nurse for a month and a half before I had to start supplementing with formula. My milk was almost transparent, very watery. And even then, I had to completely wean him at 6 months. My third baby is only three months old, and I have decided I am going to do everything in my power to make it possible to nurse her and not have to supplement. I have struggled right from the start, trying everything that anyone might suggest. Most things that I try seem to work for a few days but then stop. Right now I am using an electric breast pump whenever my milk drops off, which happens anywhere from 4 to 10 days. My milk in between those times seems to be fine, but I can’t seem to be able to keep it up. I would so much appreciate any advice you might be able to give me!

Thank you!

Dear L

I applaud your persistence and appreciate your desire to breastfeed your new baby. It does appear that you could use some specific guidance from a LaLeche league counselor who will be able to offer a vast array of suggestions. From my point of expertise, I would suggest that you consult with a Certifed Classical Homeopath (www.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org) to discuss constitutional issues that may be affecting milk production. I also suggest an open attitude to this issue and consider alternatives and complementary activites such as restful, calm, quiet times for breast feeding apart from the other children. This may be difficult but can be very helpful to full milk production. In order to accomodate all involved it may be necessary to set up feeding times where you can make the setting a soothing relaxed one with music, lighting of your choice etc. Often, giving enough time between feedings will allow the hind milk to come in and therefore be more satisfying. Nurturing yourself is paramount to both milk production and breastfeeding. Easier said than done, I know. Taking "snatches" of time where you practice deep breathing and visualizations that picture the outcome you desire can be very helpful. Plan a healthy diet for yourself including the essential fatty acids and B vitamins. Choose a homeopath or a chiropractor or a holistic practitioner of your choice with whom you can discuss all these issues.

Many blessings on your journey,

Dr. Nancy

Hello Nancy, I am 45 yrs old. I see a chropratic person who is also does actupunture. I have been experiencing extreme headaches. I take lots of herbs, B’s, D’s Epa’s fish oils, and some other things for menepause. I also drink apple cider vinagar every morning and also I drink Magnesium. I still cannot get rid of the terrible headaches. I am just starting to be very strick on my diet. No sugar! What can you suggest that I do?

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Dear Ch,

The key word here is menopause. Very often I see these headaches as a result of the fluctuation in hormones. I suggest that you consult a medical doctor who works with bio identical hormones. Have your blood work done to check the levels of your hormones and adjust accordingly. Also, be aware of stressors that trigger the headaches,look at exhaustion and hydration.

Good luck!

Dr. Nancy Gahles

On June 2007, I went to an allergist appointment to treat my allergy symptoms. In addition to prescribing medications, the doctor performed an allergy skin test on my forearms. Almost immediately I began to itch, but after 4-5 minutes I was given an antihistamine to relieve the symptoms. Later on that afternoon I also began a new facial cleasning product. The following morning I bagan to itch on my upper extremeties and over a 2-3 week period the itching has spread to my face, neck , upper and lower extremeties. Eczema has devloped on my neck. Since then I have seen the allergist twice and a dermatologist. Nothing seems to relieve the itch and it seems to worsen when I am in the sun for long periods, I am curretly on Zyrtec, benadrdyl(prn), and Dermasmoothe /fs eczema oil. Are there any natural remedies or solutions that can take the itching and skin irritation away.

Dear C,

When the skin is this hypersensitive i do not suggest a topical therapy. A natural anti-inflammatory that I use with excellent results is a bioflavinoid called Quercetin. It has propeties that stabilize mast cells and therefore acts as an antihistamine reducing swelling and allergic manifestations including itching. The dose is 1,000 to `1,500 mg 1-3 times per day depending on symptoms. I also like Turmeric for anti-infammation. They can be used together. Products including Bromelain, a plant enzyme used for inflammation can also be used in conjunction with quercetin to reduce tissue swelling and promote healing. The eczema may respond to these but you should include the fish oils which are also anti-im=nflammatory in nature. The larger issue is not how to treat it but what is the cause of it. In this case I recommend that you consult with a Certifed Cclassical Homeopath. It will also be beneficial to look into your diet and lifestyle issues. Good luck!

Dr. Nancy Gahles

Hi there, I’m 28 yrs old, have just given birth (2 1/2 months ago) to a beautiful baby girl. My pregnancy was great, had a couple of the usual issues (naseau, piles..) but I developed a really dry scalp about 6 months ago, and it has got worse.

It sometimes itches, and when I scratch, quite big flakes come off. The areas I constantly scratch have turned into reddish sores… it’s not on my entire scalp, just near the front, and a little on the back. I’ve never suffered from any kind of exzema or skin condition before and my hair has always been really thick and healthy.

My doctor prescribed some kind of cortisone lotion, but aside from being really difficult to apply to my scalp, I really am not happy about using such a strong drug, especially since I’m breastfeeding. He says it won’t affect my milk, but I belive that anything I put into or on myself will find it’s way (however small) to my baby.

So my question is firstly, what is this condition called, and secondly what can I do to get back my healthy locks?

Thank you so much for your time.

Dear T,

These changes in skin are associated with hormonal fluctuations often as well as the dietary sensitivites that accompany pregnancy. and the amount of healthyfats needed during breastfeeding.

My suggestion is to find a Certified Classical Homeopath who can help you through this change and all the others that may follow you through the child bearign and child rearing years. Go to ww.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org to find one near you.

Additionally, check your diet for the right balance of omega 3, 6, 9’s. Good luck!

Many blessings,
Dr. Nancy

Can a 8 month pregnant woman take homeopathic medicines? If yes, what will be the best prescription for post nasal drip- contant production of mucus all day, usually triggered by anything, food or fruit or water

Dear P,

My first suggestion is to avoid those foods that trigger the reaction of mucus buildup. During pregnancy we can develop many sensitivities that will wane after delivery. make a note in your pregnancy journal for the next time!

After eliminating trigger foods, I like to use Quercetin, a natural bioflavinoid that is analogous to an anti-histamine. It stabilizes the mast cell production of histamine. I would take it on a daily basis. It is found in blueberries and cranberries but you would certainly need to eat busshelsful to get the desired effect and since fruits are trigger foods, I recommend Quercetin by Innate, a whole foods supplement. I also recommend Quercetin Complex by Solgar. Please discuss this with your Ob/Gyn prior to taking. If this doesn’t help, please search for a Certified Classical Homeopath in your area. Go to www.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org to find one. I invite you to become a member and enjoy all the information that you will need to raise a healthy child.

Many blessings,

Dr. Nancy

I am currently a second year medical student in Wisconsin (U.S.). I am very interested in alternative remedies and wish to gain more exposure. Please let me know if you can tell me how I can gain more exposure.

In addition, my mom has recently been diagnosed with hypertension and had already been diagnosed with diabetes (Type II). Both of her parents had Diabetes but no HTN. She is currently taking enalapril for her high BP and Metformin for diabetes. In addition, she is taking aspirin and multi-vitamins.

I do not want her to be taking so many different medications and was wondering if you can recommend something that is more natural or a homeopathic remedy. I believe her hypertension is mainly caused by various stresses. She has some headaches but no other symptoms. She is watching her diet but does not exercise much. Can you recommend any homeopathic remedies?

Thanks.

Dear A,

As to your first question, there are many alternative modalities to consider when analyzing a whole person. The modalities that you choose will be directly related to the needs of the person presenting. It will not always be the same. There is no cook book answer to each case as they are all individually assessed. I find it best to study the modalities to which you have a particular passion or affinity and then to learn about the others so that you can refer when appropriate.

As to the case of your Mom, you do seem interested in pursuing homeopathy which is what I would recommend as well in a chronic and complex case such as this for a constitutional remedy. Additionally she will need diet and lifestyle counseling.

For yourself, I would recommend that you become a member of the National Center for Homeopathy at www.nationalcenterforhomeopathy.org This will connect you to the community at large and offer you online access to live chats with leading homeopaths, our monthly magazine, a monthly e-newsletter and an annual conference as well as blogs and lectures, and upcoming events. I recommend that you attend our On The Road course called First Response, Homeopathy for Epidemics and Emergencies. Find more information on our website.

Good Luck! Dr. Nancy

I recently visited a natural medicine clinic in Guatemala for a general consultation and on recommendation includes drinking about 1 fluid ounce of my own urine every day. What benefits are atributed to this practice? Are there any risks? Is this a practice that you would recommend?

Thank you for your thoughts.

Dear M,

These are the questions that should have been asked and answered at the consultation in the natural medicine clinic where this therapy is practiced. In some cultures, there is a historical use of this type of therapy such as in Tibetan medicine.

I do not know your state of wellness or the condition you are attempting to treat nor do I have any experience with this form of therapy. My advice is to consult with a natural health practitioner in your area in order to be followed closely by a practitioner . I would suggest a naturopath or a Certified Classical Homeopath. To find a homeopath in your area visit www.nationalcenterforhomeeopathy.org

Good Luck.
Dr. Nancy

I have been having a problem with bladder infections. How do I avoid them?

Dear G,

There are several causative factors in creating the condition called urinary tract infections or “UTI’S”. Hygiene is important because the bacteria from the lower intestine or vagina can easily migrate to and travel up the urethra to the bladder. Wipe carefully and from front to the back of your body. Other factors are constipation, chemical sensitivity to scented toilet paper and soaps or bubble baths. Sexual intercourse can be disruptive to the sensitive tissues in the area and create an environment for bacteria to grow. Empty your bladder before and after intercourse. Drink 8 oz. of water before and after as well. Diaphragm use can add to the liklihood of UTI and the reason may be improper hygiene so be sure to carefully clean your diaphragm before and after each use.

Nutritionally speaking, include acidophilus to your diet or foods like yogurt that contain live cultures without sugary fruits added. Diets rich in whoe grains and natural fruits and vegetables are best. Avoid processed foods and those containing artificial colors and ingredients.

Best of Health & Harmony
Dr. Nancy

My daughter is 17. She has a cyst on her right cheek just below her eye. We went to the Dr. to have that diagnosed. She asked if the cyst ever got larger. I told her that it didn’t. When she’s out in the sun it actually reduces slightly but never gets larger. She’s had it for about 8 months now.

I as recommended to see a plastic surgeon. It seems like that should be a last resort. I would like to avoid the knife if possible. Do you have any advice for me? Please, I would appreciate it greatly.

The first thing I would suggest is that you get a definitive diagnosis as to what type of cyst this is by a qualified dermatologist.

Secondly, I would look at the sunlight factor. If it reduces in sunlight she may be a candidate for ultraviolet light therapy. She may need Vit. D in her diet. Make any associations with the cyst and her menstrual cycle. Do consult a Certified Classical Homeopath and bring all the above information to bear. This requires a comprehensive approach. To find a homeopath near you, go to www.homeopathic.org.

Dr. Nancy Gahles

Could you recommend a remedy for ingrown toenails also sore calluses on the bottom of my feet?

Thank you

A homeopathic remedy is arrived at after an intensive consultation with a Certified Classical Homeopath who will take into account all the symptoms of the whole person, body, mind, emotion, spirit.

To find a practitioner in your area go to www.homeopathic.org. The other part of ingrown toenails and callluses may be a lifestyle situation. Often, these problems are a result of ill fitting shoes or obesity or other factors. Please consult a podiatrist to properly asess this piece of your issue then put the totality of symptoms together and discuss with your homeopath if need be.

Dr. Nancy Gahles

Are there any natural/healthier choices for treating asthma rather than chemical drugs??

Dear F,

It happens that my son developed reactive airway disease related to allergies when he was an infant. After several incidents with nebulizer treatments, antibiotics and the advice to put him on chromolyn daily inhalation treatments I began my search for alternatives. I was fortunate to discover homeopathy which has become a passionate adjunct to my chiropractic practice.

It has since been my experience that asthma requires a multi-modal apporach. The constitutional homeopathic remedy will decrease the susceptibility to none or some of the time but never as severe or as prolonged as to the attacks. It will decrease the person’s susceptibility to the offending allergens as well to the point where you may be able to be in a room with 1 cat but not 10. Or, you may be able to play soccer in the spring and fall where before you couldn’t.

Other factors that must be considered are foods and lifestyle choices that trigger an attack like diets high in sugars, cow’s milk or refined carbohydrates. Environments must be free of smokers, molds, and dust as well as rugs with chemicals and paints that may be toxic. Additionally, regulat chiropractic adjustments will improve the immune system functions as well as balance the sympathetic/parasympathetic nervous system and it’s integral relationship to the musculoskeletal system. Becoming conscious of situations that cause emotional stress and anxiety are also factored in to a well rounded protocol for asthma patients. Remedies here include breathing exercises, yoga and meditation.

Dr. Nancy Gahles

My question is concerning an irregular heartbeat. I wore a holter EKG unit on for 48 hours and the results were normal even though I was having irregular heartbeats. Blood work was completed and everything was normal including my thyroid. I was feeling nausious and tired and a heaviness in the chest and upset stomach in the morning (a sort of heaviness in the upper stomach. It is much more prevalent when I first wake up in the morning. The doctors explained to me that it could be caffeine related, premature ventricular contractions or mitral valve prolapse.

I am very confused because doctors tell you its nothing to worry about because I was only 36. I am 38 now. I have decided to find out on my own by asking an expert such as yourself. I am wondering whether the reason for this problem is a loss of electrolytes due to perspiring alot during exercise. I exercise for over an hour 5 days a week. I am in the healthy BMI range and not overweight. My second guess is that my digestive problems of bloating, gas and intermittent constipation and slight diarrhea are the cause. I do suffer from acne and have since I was 18. Does any of this help? I am so frustrated because I take care of myself. I very rarely drink (1 per week), do not smoke, eat homemade bread of whole wheat, ground flax seed and bran, and eat fruits and vegetables, protein sources and dairy. Do you have any idea as to what may be causing this problem? I have been searching the internet for ages and there are so many differnt answers that I am thoroughly confused. Any suggestions from you would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you very much!

Dear M,

Yours is a problem that involves many systems and can be quite confusing to figure out on your own. This is a perfect case for a Certified Classical Homeopath who is trained to evaluate the totality of your symptoms by thorough consultation and to prescribe a constitutional remedy that will stimulate your vitality to regain it’s natural health. You can find one in your area by going to www.homeopathic.org. It may be a good idea to become a member of the National Center for Homeopathy so as to avail yourself of the home study groups, e-newsletters and educational programs offered to lay people. Use your intuition when selecting a practitioner and good luck Dr. Nancy

Dr. Nancy Gahles

What are foods to avoid when you suffer from depression and are on antidepressants? What is an alternative stimulant to coffee?

Thanks You.

Dear J,

I do not know the anti-depressants that you are currently taking so cannot comment on food interactions. This is a matter to be discussed with your primary are physician.

As far as stimulants, my suggestion is not to look for substances like foods or drinks that will stimulate you but rather to look within for activities that you enjoy doing, people that you enjoy being with and social situations that you enjoy interacting in.

Stimulation comes from pursuing those things that connect you to your inner passions and sharing those with others. We all have gifts and talents to pursue. Often depression comes from not availing ourselves of all the opportunities we can to activate our inner joy mechanism. Deep heart centered breathing and walking in nature may be a good place to start.

Good Luck! Dr. Nancy

I am suffering from extreme itching. My Allergist says I have four types of skin conditions; excema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis and I cannot remember the fourth one.

I have only had food allergy testing done but still need to do pollens and inhalents. I was only mildly allergic to a couple of foods. I have also had patch testing done at my dermatologist’s office. I was not allergic to anything. They are suggesting puva treatments?

However, I have read and heard from three sources now that Oolong tea helps with itch. I have also heard that flax seed oil would help me. Do you know this to be true or can you recommend something else for relief or at best, a cure?

I have tried steriod creams, Vitamin D cream, Zyrtek and some diet changes but nothing has given me much relief.

Thanks so much.

Dear N,

Itching of this nature and extent arises from what we call in homeopathy a miasm.

This is a constitutional disposition to sensitivites of all kinds. Eliminating those things that cause contact dermatitis and including omega 3 oils into your diet for the inflammation are important.

The most important step to take is to find a Certified Classical Homeopath in your area and ask for constitutional treatment. This will ensure that the totality of your symptoms are considered as well as your unique emotional and psychological state. Go to the website of the National Center for Homeopathy at www.homeopathic.org to find a homeopath.

Best of luck!

Dr. Nancy Gahles

I’ve got underactive thyroid problem, and sometimes I feel terrible, depressed, anxious, luck of concetration, I try to loose weight, but I can’t because of my problem, am not overweight, but I would like to loose 5 kilos, I read the I can take thyromine, that problem is the I live an New Zealand and I don’t know where I can get this product, I don’t like to buy anything on line, can you help me please, I would be very grateful.

Now am taking thyroxine.

Thank you very much

Dear L,

If you are on a prescription medication under the care of a trusted and competenat physician, I would consult a Certified Classical Homeopath as well. Homeopathy can help to activate the healthy balanced functions of our glandular system aas well as activate neurotransmitters to restore feelings of well being.

There is a homeopathy school in New Zealand that has access to wonderful practitioners. Do look that up or visit www.homeopathic.org for a practitioner.

Best wishes for Health & Harmony,

Dr. Nancy

I’m 12 1/2 weeks pregnant and I have been constipated for about a week. I have also been having some pain on the right side of my stomach. I want to know what can I do or take to make my stool more frequent? I would also like to know what could be causing the pain on the right side of my stomach. The pain is right by my rib.

Thank You

Dear E,

Firstly, I hope you are under the care of a Certified Nurse/Midwife or an OB/GYN who is available to answer your questions and concerns from a medical standpoint.

Constipation can be related to the hormonal changes in pregnancy and to diet changes in pregnancy either from nausea or unusual food cravings and patterns of eating. As the pregnancy progresses constipation can be due to the pressure of the uterus on the colon.

If it is of a structural nature then I suggest that you consult a Doctor of Chiropractic. Find one through the website of the American Chiropractic Association.

Easy, gentle stimulation of the bowel can be done by drinking an 8 0z. glass of warm water with the juice of 1/2 lemon first thing in the morning before eating and last thing at night before bed. I also suggest eating organic prunes daily (3-5). Either mix in with your cereal or eat with another fruit ( an apple) mixed with organic yogurt( plain or vanila-no added fruit) and add 2 tablespoons of flax seed to it. High fiber and low carbohydrates ( white flour/sugar and breads) is the key to healthy digestion, assimilationd and elimination.

All pains that you feel need to be brought to the attention of your doctor.

Enjoy your pregnancy and make it a healthy one!

Dr. Nancy

I have been looking for a yogurt pill that I heard of; it supposedly puts the good enzymes back in your body & i need this. I recently had artificial cervical disk fusion done & the only pain I have after 3 weeks is my hip where they took bone.

Can you suggest a homeopathic pill or remedy to make my healing process more tolerable?

Thank You For Your TIme

I like a homeopathic remedy called Symphytum for bone issues. It is called “bone-set” or “bone knit” and is used not only to help stimulate healing of fractured bones but in wounds to the periosteum as well.
Helps to promote callus fromation and “irritable bone” at the point of injury. Decrease soreness and pricking of the perisoteum.

If this description does not fit the picture of your pain, then you need to consult a homeopath for a remedy specific to your symptoms. Symphytum is homeopathically prepared Comfrey. You can buy the herb Comfrey root and make a poultice and apply it directly to your hip morning and night and see if this helps.

With regard to a yogurt “pill”, I am not familiar with one. I recommend organic yogurt, fresh with live acidophilus cultures.

Blessings! Dr. Nancy

I am HIV+ lady who needs advise on how to keep myself healthy. I have not been seriously been sick except having fatiques and sometimes get herpes outbreak if I am stressed. I have found the alternative medicine for that (Zam-Buk) it does wonders.

I exercise and I am generally a happy person with my condition, but I find myself stressed.

What advise can you give me?

Dear M,

Stress is the ubiquitous culprit in depleting the immune system.

This causes fatigue and general debilitation as well as provides grounds for underlying pathology like herpes and immune deficiencies to present themselves.

I would suggest that you take the time to reflect consciously on your life and the stresses that affect you the most. I would suggest that you find a homeopath who will be able to incorporate this information along with all your other symptoms to arrive at a constitutional remedy which will keep you healthy and balanced. To locate a practitioner go to www.homeopathic.org Good Luck!

Dr. Nancy Gahles

I am a fourteen year old girl who has excessive sweating (on the palms of my hands and underarms). I’ve had it for 2 years now. Are there any herbs or homeopathic medicines you would recommend? I can get stressed out easily. Would you recommend any meditation exercises? How long would the herbal or homeopathic remedies take to work?

Thank you for your help!

Dear S,

There are homeopathic remedies that would address your situation very well. In order to recommend one , however, I would need to know a lot more about you.

The key to your case lies in the fact that you get stressed very easily. Often, sweating on the palms of the hands and underarms is a result of anxiety. Likely anxieties in your age group are anticipatory anxieties. This means that when there is an event or a deadline or an examination or a confrontation that you are anticipating, you will have a reaction physically which might include excessive perspiration as well as other symptoms like weak knees, stomach butterflies, dry mouth, racing heart.

In order to solve your problem, I suggest that you contact a Certified Classical Homeeopath in your area. www.homeopathic.org. This practitioner will help you to discover the cause of your issues and will hopefully become someone that you can trust with your health issues as you develop and mature. In the meantime, meditation is the key to a life long practice of trusting your inner self through going within to where all the answers reside, in silence.

Many Blessings on your journey to Health & Harmony. Dr. Nancy

Dr. Nancy Gahles

I am taking synthroid 50MCG (once a day) and 35MG actonel(once a wk). I have lost some bone. Should I stop taking synthroid? Is any way I get back the bone I have lost? Please help!!

Thank You

Dear M,

You do need to discuss this with your endocrinologist. A baseline bone density test, I assume, and a follow up seems to have shown bone loss. This may be associated with post menopausal hormonal changes given your age. I would take a salivary hormone test, in consultation with a qualified endocrinologist and weigh all the information before adjusting the thyroid medication. There are many hormones to consider and their interrelationship. Good Luck! Dr. Nancy

May The Blessings Be!
Dr. Nancy Gahles