GERD with Esophagitis Treated with Individualized Cl***ical Homeopathy – A Case Report – Hpathy.com

Introduction

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition defined by the reflux of gastric contents causing troublesome symptoms such as heartburn and acid regurgitation, with or without mucosal injury [1].

GERD is on the rise globally and has gained increasing recognition in the Indian population, with community-based studies reporting a prevalence ranging from 8% to 19% across regions [2,3]. Lifestyle factors such as high-fat diets, sedentary behaviour, increased body m*** index (BMI), alcohol consumption, and stress are strongly implicated in its development [4].

Hiatus hernia is often a structural contributor to GERD, weakening the anatomical support of the gastroesophageal junction and lowering the tone of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), thereby promoting reflux [5]. Moreover, infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) (a gram-negative bacterium with a high prevalence in India), may influence acid secretion and worsen reflux symptoms, especially in patients with antral-predominant gastritis [6].

While H. pylori eradication therapy, typically comprising a combination of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), amoxicillin, and clarithromycin (commonly known as the “H. pylori kit”), is widely prescribed to manage ***ociated gastritis and reduce gastric acid output, recurrence remains a major concern.

Despite initial symptom relief, studies show a recurrence rate ranging between 20–40% within six months to a year of completing treatment [7,8]. Additionally, eradication therapy is ***ociated with adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, altered gut flora, metallic taste, and, in some cases, antibiotic resistance, prompting many patients to seek complementary approaches [9].

Although PPIs remain the cornerstone of GERD management, long-term use has been linked to complications including osteoporosis-related fractures, renal impairment, B12 deficiency, and dysbiosis [10]. These concerns have led to growing interest in alternative therapies, including homeopathy, especially in patients seeking long-term relief with minimal side effects.

A notable study titled “An open‑label pilot study to explore usefulness of homoeopathic treatment in nonerosive gastroesophageal reflux disease” published in the Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy explored the potential role of individualized homeopathic treatment in GERD patients.

The study included 24 participants with confirmed GERD symptoms (excluding erosive esophagitis), treated with constitutional remedies for a period of 6 months. Results showed statistically significant improvements in symptom scores and quality of life, with minimal to no reported side effects [11]. The authors concluded that homeopathic therapy may offer a promising, gentle alternative in the holistic management of GERD, especially in chronic or relapsing cases.

Case report

Case presentation: On March 18^th, 2022, a 33-year-old female diagnosed with grade C oesophagitis, large hiatus hernia, gastro duodenitis with RUT positive presented to the homeopath.

Figure 1: Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Report Dated 12th October 2020 Showing Grade C Esophagitis, Large Hiatal Hernia, and Gastroduodenitis with Positive Rapid Urease Test

 History of presenting complaints

The patient was diagnosed on 12th October 2020 through upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, which revealed Grade C oesophagitis, a large hiatal hernia, and gastroduodenitis, along with a positive Rapid Urease Test indicating Helicobacter pylori infection.

She underwent standard H. pylori eradication therapy and was maintained on proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for nearly two years. Despite compliance with pharmacological treatment and lifestyle modifications, she reported minimal improvement.

At the time of homeopathic consultation, she presented with persistent episodes of empty eructation occurring in paroxysms lasting up to an hour, followed by a burning sensation in the retrosternal region. She also noted the daily presence of tinges of blood mixed with mucus in the mornings. Her symptoms were consistently aggravated by oily and spicy foods, bread, sour items, dairy products, and periods of emotional stress.

 Homeopathic consultation

At the initial anamnesis, the patient presented with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although a mild form of these symptoms had been present since the age of 18, there was a marked exacerbation in 2020, necessitating medical intervention.

Past medical history

Recurrent tonsillitis in childhood

Urticaria at age of 17 years treats conventionally

Family history

Father: Blood pressure; Mother: major depressive disorder

Obstetrics and gynaecological history

Menarche at 13 years. Nullipara. Menstrual cycle every 28 days, scanty flow.

Homeopathic ***ysis of the case

Physical symptoms were as elaborated above. In her emotional history, the patient described being deeply attached to her current husband, a relationship that was strongly opposed by her parents. This conflict led to a phase of intense grief and suicidal depression, which coincided with the initial onset of marked GERD symptoms.

Although she eventually married the same partner, ongoing familial tension triggered emotional stress. At the time of consultation, she expressed a sense of emotional detachment from the current situation.

Repertorial ***ysis (Fig. 2) revealed that 11 out of 13 rubrics corresponded to the remedy Sepia, which is cl***ically indicated in cases marked by emotional indifference and aversion to company Additionally, secondary complaints such as dysmenorrhea and leukorrhea were also covered under the same remedy profile.

In this case, although the primary pathology was GERD, the emotional aetiology, progression, and individual reaction to stress were significant guiding factors in the homeopathic prescription of Sepia. The patient’s mental and emotional constitution, along with her physical generalities, provided a comprehensive basis for selecting the indicated remedy.

Fig. 2. Repertorisation of the case at intake, on 18/03/2022.

 Prescription on March 18^th, 2022: Based on the reportorial totality, Sepia 200CH was prescribed in pill form, once a day for 3 days.

Rationale behind the prescription:

An understanding, sentimental, and p***ionately romantic lady, the patient went into grief due to continued emotional stress. Over time, this led to a state of indifference, which clearly indicated the remedy, Sepia. The potency selected was moderate (200CH), as it addressed a relatively recent emotional layer and was coupled with some serious physical changes.

Table.1. Follow up of the case

Fig. 2. Repertorisation of the case on 20/06/2022

Fig. 3 Repertorisation of the case on 05/12/2022

Fig.4. Repertorisation of the case on 06/05/2023

Figure 5: Follow-Up Endoscopy Findings Post Homeopathic Treatment Showing Clinical Improvement in GERD and Gastritis Symptoms

 Discussion

This case of GERD, managed with individualized homeopathic treatment, demonstrates the relevance of remedy selection based on the totality of physical, emotional, and general symptoms. The primary remedy, Sepia, was chosen for its close alignment with the patient’s psychosomatic presentation—chronic stress, emotional detachment, hormonally influenced issues such as dysmenorrhea and leukorrhea, and clear aggravation from fatty foods.

Sepia is particularly suited to individuals experiencing exhaustion and indifference, often seen in women with suppressed emotional conflict [12]. The remedy not only addressed her gastric symptoms but also the underlying stress and hormonal imbalances contributing to the persistence of the condition.

During the course of treatment, other remedies were also considered. Aurum Muriatiblock was evaluated due to the patient’s grief and depressive disposition, often ***ociated with long-standing gastrointestinal disturbances [13]. Rumex was explored for its relevance to mucosal irritation and sensitivity, especially during episodes of upper respiratory symptoms [13].

Lachesis was included in the differential during phases of heightened emotional intensity, communicative suppression, and left-sided symptomatology [14]. Additionally, cl***ical remedies linked with GERD were kept under observation—

Nux Vomica for stress and spice intolerance, Arseniblock Album for burning pains and anxiety, Lycopodium for right-sided bloating and food intolerance, Phosphorus for reflux with sensitivity and thirstlessness, and Carbo Vegetabilis for sluggish digestion and flatulence [14].

An open-label clinical study involving similar remedies reported 72% improvement in GERD symptoms, reinforcing the viability of individualized homeopathic treatment in chronic gastrointestinal cases [15].

Conclusion

This case of GERD benefited from individualised cl***ical homeopathy. Clinical symptoms completely resolved in 15 months and the repeat endoscopic report was normal at 2 years from starting the treatment. This case gives ground to further investigate the role of cl***ical homeopathy in GERD.

References

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