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As mentioned above, the first choice drug should be used alone (monotherapy) and in the lowest dose to control seizures without producing any unacceptable side-effects. If the initial control of seizures is less than complete, then the dose of that drug should be increased gradually until either complete control is achieved, or side-effects develop. If unacceptable side-effects occur before control is reached, then there are two alternatives: either a different drug can be used to replace the first drug, or an additional drug can be added to the first drug. Which alternative is chosen depends on the individual patient and also on the doctor. If there has been some reasonable control with the first drug, it is our practice to add the next most appropriate

anti-epileptic drug without withdrawing the first drug. If complete seizure control is then achieved, we will attempt to withdraw the first drug after a period of two to three months free from seizures. If the initial drug has been ineffective we would simultaneously replace the first drug with the second. In some children and adults, therapy with two anti-epileptic drugs is justified, as this may result in further significant (even complete) control in an additional 5 per cent to 10 per cent of children. It is unlikely that polytherapy with three drugs will result in any further control, and there is certainly an increased risk and frequency of side-effects and toxicity due to interactions between this many drugs.

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Many gastrointestinal diseases respond promptly and extremely well to CMO. Crohn’s disease, colitis, diverticulitis, irritable bowel, etc, all involve chronic inflammatory processes that are readily influenced by CMO. However, some problems, like ulcers, need special attention. And for these gastrointestinal diseases we do, when necessary, make exceptions to the “empty stomach” rule. If CMO is not well tolerated because of digestive difficulties, it’s better to take it along with a little light food.

Crohn’s disease (also known as transmural colitis or granulomatous colitis) has in practically all cases responded fully to CMO. Just what causes the inflammation of the large and/or small intestine remains a medical mystery. Apart from certain foods, stress is considered to be a major trigger factor. There are probably also genetic factors involved.

Though its symptoms are frequently treatable, many do not respond well. There seems to be no permanent solution to this recurring chronic problem available through conventional medicines. CMO, on the other hand, has almost always been able to provide permanent relief with just one set of capsules for a multitude of patients. Nevertheless, a few patients have needed to continue taking a couple of capsules now and then when they feel a flare-up may be coming on.

The most frequent symptoms are abdominal cramping and pain, excessive intestinal gas, diarrhea, and occasional fever. These are often brought on by food irritations. Severe cases can result in perforation of the colon and rectal problems or bleeding. CMO usually brings relief within a week. It has been as successful with severe cases as with mild ones, although it may take more than one bottle. If complete relief is not obtained, just keep a bottle of CMO handy and take two or three capsules the moment you detect any signs of a flare-up.

Ulcerative colitis can be very serious and require hospitalization for severe episodes. The most telltale sign of this disease is frequent bloody diarrhea or bloody mucosal discharge. Pain, cramping, and tenderness usually occurs in the left colon. Weight loss and anaemia are frequent complications. Fever may indicate infection.

Because of its effects against the autoimmune inflammatory process, CMO (taken with a bit of food) has often been quite effective against this ailment. When cortisone has been prescribed it should not be discontinued until the ailment has been resolved. You should definitely seek medical supervision for this problem.

Diverticulitis patients usually suffer from the same lower left abdomen tenderness, intestinal pain and cramping, constipation or diarrhea, and autoimmune inflammation that appears with ulcerative colitis. Diverticulitis appears more often with advancing age. Perforation of the colon may also occur in severe cases.

Treatment with CMO usually brings good results, often all by itself without other therapy. Nevertheless, it would probably be best to continue any conventional therapy with medical supervision until the problem is completely resolved.

Irritable bowel syndrome is the catch-all label put on any number of common bowel disorders of unknown cause. CMO has been very effective in eliminating most of these complaints.

Sjogren’s syndrome, when it appears, usually does so in patients suffering with arthritis and related conditions like fibromyalgia, scleroderma, lupus, etc. The most common symptoms are dryness of the eyes and mouth. The nose, throat, larynx, bronchi, skin, and vagina may also be affected. Errant autoimmune attacks occur against the tear, salivary, and thyroid glands — and sometimes even RNA. Serious problems with scratchy eyes, speaking, and swallowing food often develop.

The best conventional medicine has to offer for Sjogren’s sufferers is an artificial tear formula, mouth moisteners, skin creams, and vaginal lubricants. Our reports indicate that CMO has been very successful in conquering this ailment.

Behcet’s Syndrome is a chronic inflammatory disease that may be dormant for years and years, or may produce many serious complications. Painful ulcers of the mouth, penis, scrotum, vulva, and vagina are common. The eyes may also be affected. Hazy vision or blindness may result. Steroids are about the only treatments that are employed conventionally.

This disease is quite rare in the US and we have feedback regarding only two cases. CMO was quite successful with one and the other was helped somewhat. In both cases steroids were not discontinued while taking CMO, but so far the one who responded well no longer needs them.

Reiter’s syndrome is a complicated disease with autoimmune components more commonly found in young males rather than mature men. It is often triggered by sexual intercourse, chlamydial infection, and/or bacterial diarrhea. Frequently a combination of clinical manifestations appear: arthritis, urethritis, conjunctivitis, uveitis, and mucosal tissue infections or disturbances. Successful treatment usually requires the use of conventional therapy along with CMO, although use of steroids should be minimal.

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Signs and symptoms

You will have no difficulty recognizing a nosebleed. Since the two sides of the nose join in the back, and also join with the throat and the oesophagus (which lead to the stomach), blood may flow from both nostrils or from the mouth; the child may also vomit blood.

Home care

Teach your child at an early age how to stop a nosebleed by him- or herself. Tell the child to remain calm and to sit upright with the head held high; this will decrease blood pressure in the blood vessels. Show the child how to grasp the whole lower half of the nose between his or her thumb and fingers and in this way compress both sides of the nose firmly against the septum. The child should hold the nose this way for ten minutes to allow time for the blood to clot. If bleeding recurs when the pressure is released, it probably means that a large clot in the nose is preventing the broken blood vessel from sealing. The child should blow the nose vigorously to dislodge the clot; then, after the clot has been removed, compress the nose again for ten to 12 minutes.

To prevent recurring nosebleeds, put petroleum jelly in the child’s nose morning and evening for seven to 14 days. Use a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to the air at night.

Precautions

• To stop a nosebleed, do not merely pinch nostrils together, but compress the entire soft portion of the nose. Otherwise, the blood will dam up and run down the throat.

• Do not lay your child down.

• Remain calm and reassure your child.

• It is not necessary to use cold compresses, pressure on the upper lip, nose drops, and other household remedies.

• Do not pack the nose with cotton or gauze.

Medical treatment

Generally, your doctor’s treatment will be the same as your home treatment, and you only need to consult the doctor when home treatment is not effective. If the nosebleed is due to an allergy or a cold your doctor will treat that condition. Your doctor will rarely need to pack the nasal passages or cauterize (seal off) the blood vessels in order to control recurring nosebleeds.

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