Homeopathy

ACUTE v’s CHRONIC

Tamar Henryby
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ACUTE v’s CHRONIC

In homeopathy, conditions are classified as acute or chronic based on their origin and duration. It is crucial to differentiate between the two, because the approach to treatment, the selection of remedies, and desired outcomes, differ significantly. Recognising the difference will guide you when prescribing at home. It will help you determine when a condition can be managed easily and quickly, or when it may require deeper, long-term support—potentially prompting you to seek professional guidance.

ACUTE CONDITION IN HOMEOPATHY

DEFINITION – Are short-term conditions that arise suddenly and often with intense symptoms. Think: bites + stings, colds + flu, ear infections, fear, fever, food poisoning, injury, shock, sore throat, stomach upset – the list goes on.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

  • Rapid Onset – Symptoms appear quickly and intensify within hours. Typically requires immediate attention and care.
  • Clear Cause + Triggers – Acute conditions are often due to external factors: allergies, environmental exposure, emotional shock, food sensitives, injuries, infections and virus etc.
  • Short Duration – Very likely to resolve within a short period, no more than a few days, often without long-term consequences if treated effectively.
  • Treatment Focus: To address the presenting symptoms and help the body recover quickly. You will choose a remedy based on the individual’s current state of health and symptoms.
  • No Deep-Seated Imbalance – Unlike chronic conditions, acute illnesses do not stem from long-term internal dysfunction.

ACUTE ILLNESS – BELLADONNA – SYMPTOM PROFILE (an example)

Sudden onset high fever, with intensity and often without warning. The child’s body feels hot to touch, especially the head. Skin can be hot and red, a flushed face is typically present. Throbbing symptoms. Glassy or wide eyes with dilated pupils. There will be great irritability and restlessness. Sensitive to light and noise. Will be worse at night.

CHRONIC CONDITION IN HOMEOPATHY

DEFINITION – Long-standing or recurring health issues that develop gradually and persist over time – think: allergies, ADHD, anxiety, asthma, behaviours, constipation, eczema, depression, hay fever, IBS, migraine, skin conditions, sleep disorders etc.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

  • Persistent + Recurring – Symptoms that do not fully resolve, or that return repeatedly – allergies with every season, migraines every month, re-current tonsillitis etc
  • Deep-Rooted Causes – Often stem from genetic predisposition, unresolved emotional trauma, prolonged stress, poor lifestyle habits, or environmental toxins: bacteria, infection, mold.
  • Progressive Worsening – If presenting complaints are left untreated, symptoms are spread and intensify over time.
  • Emotional & Mental Links – Mood changes, stress, or past trauma may trigger physical symptoms.
  • Miasmatic Influence – Inherited tendencies to disease, for eg: ADHD, asthma, eczema, depression, digestive disorders, hay fever, obesity, skin conditions.
  • Multiple Organ Systems Involved – Chronic cases often affect more than one area of health – digestive issues plus skin problems for example.

CHRONIC ILLNESS – NATRUM MUR – SYMPTOM PROFILE (an example)

For a child who is suppressing long-term emotional pain, from grief, rejection or loss. May appear strong, but are deeply sensitive. Prone to recurring allergies, colds or sinus infections. May have headaches, migraine and/or cold sores triggered by sun, stress or upset. Desires structure and control. Prefers to be alone. Craves salty foods.