THE VALUE OF THE NAME OF DISEASES
- Dr.J H Clarke
In regard to the question of "Names of diseases", let me say this by way of qualifying some previous remarks. The fixing of the correct nosological label on each case is both important and useful when it can be done. If it were not so, books like the Prescriber would be unnecessary. But when this is not possible, Hahnemann's method enables the homeopath to steer a safe course through the uncharted sea, whilst the allopath is left completely befogged.
I have been speaking so far of diseases which are running a more or less chronic course. In acute cases, case-taking is somewhat different matter. This is to say that a physician must take his points and digest them rapidly, and here the value of the nosological label comes in. The correct name of the disorder goes a long way towards pointing out the corresponding remedy. At any rate, it reduces the selection to a group from among which the simile or the similimum is most likely to be found.
In the case of epidemics there will generally be found one or two remedies which cover the bulk of the cases, and when these are found much of the wear and tear of remedy selection will be saved by the correct nosological name. In other cases, when the "totality" is obtained, there will generally stand out certain symptoms which have got to be matched, if the simile is to be obtained. Because it is not every sensation of the patient which can be dignified with the name "symptom" from the prescribing point of view. Generalities are of very little use. Particulars are necessary, and every pain complained of must submit to cross-examination. "Where?" "When?" and "How" are questions to be answered. The exact locality of a pain or sensation is the first point to note. The time of it's occurrence is the next. Then comes the conditions under which it either appears, or grows worse or better. And, in addition, the pains or sensations which occur concomitantly with it. When you have got these particulars about a sensation or pain, you have a real symptoms that has character and distinction about it, which makes it possible to match with something equally distinctive in the repertory and materia medica.
This piece of advice let me give you : Never make a prescription without noting down something to indicate why you gave that particular remedy. Then, when you see that patient next, you will have something to tell you whether your shot has gone home, or whether you have scored a miss. The mere report of a general expression of "better" or "no better" is not sufficient for this. Generalities are all very well for the allopath, but the homeopath is the servant of Nature, and truth to minute particulars is exacted of all her servants.
A final bit of practical advice is this. In searching the Material Medica for a remedy in a case, it frequently happens that we come across an indication for a remedy suitable for another case we have under treatment. When this happens, at once put down the name of the remedy on the record of the second case and it will be ready when the patient next appears. If it is not entered at the time of finding the chances are that it will be forgotten when it is wanted. The study of the Materia Medica is thus often doubly and trebly fruitful.
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© Deepak M R