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Asthma

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asthma

Asthma is a long-term inflammatory disease affecting the airways. the airways become narrow swollen and produce extra mucus that obstruct the passage.

Usually the person suffering from asthma suffer from recurring symptoms like reversible airflow obstruction and bronchospasm.

Symptoms

  • Wheezing:- high pitch whistling sound produced while breathing. This is caused by the narrowed air passage
  • Coughing
  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath

The symptoms may version at night or in early morning.

Some may suffer from associated conditions like:-

  • GERD:-Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease
  • Rhinosinusitis
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Mood disorders

What causes asthma?

The factors that cause of asthma can be:-

  • Environmental factors:- increased air pollution is one of the factor that causes asthma. Lower quality of air has raised the number of persons affected by asthma.
  • Over cleanliness:- There is a theory that supports over cleanliness will also increases the chance for asthma. Reduced exposure to bacteria and viruses will have negative effect on the immunity of the body. Now a days the doctors recommend moderate exposure to dirt and dust, in the early stages of life as good for improving the immunity.
  • Smoking:- both active and passive smoking are the causes for asthma.
  • Genetic factors

How can we manage asthma in Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda asthma is considered as swasa. The condition is classified into many types according to the signs and symptoms shown by the patient. Difference Symptoms and signs are caused by the vitiation of different doshas.

After a thorough examination the physician decides the type of treatment to be given to the person. 

According to the type of Swasa, and the condition of patient the mode of treatment is selected.

  • Shodhana chikitsa:- If the patient is strong and is eligible for shodhana chikitsa, then the person can be subjected to purification after the pre operative procedures. This will help in eliminating the vitiated doshas from the body and will help in managing the condition rapidly.
  • Shamana chikitsa:- If the person is not capable of undergoing shodhana chikitsa, then the person can be given Shamana chikitsa. In this type of treatment medicines are given manage the condition.

Along with the treatments or after the treatment if patient should follow a healthy lifestyle and diet according to the instructions of the physician.

Practicing yoga especially pranayama can help in managing asthma.

Allergy

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allergy

Allergy has become a common condition. It is the hypersensitivity of the immune system to substances that are usually harmless. A large percentage of the population is suffering from one or the other type of allergy.

Types of allergy

There are many types of allergies. The most common ones are:-

  • Hay fever
  • Food allergy
  • Asthma
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Drug allergy etc

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, present with signs and symptoms like running nose and cold.

The common foods that cause allergy are wheat, peanut, shellfish etc. some children are also allergic to cow’s milk, goat’s milk etc. The person main person with vomiting, diarrhoea or skin rashes.

Some drugs like penicillin, can cause a state of anaphylaxis, if left untreated may result in coma or death. Even some food or insect bites can also cause anaphylaxis.

What are the signs and symptoms shown by the person with allergy

Even though each person may have a different type of allergy, some signs and symptoms may be common.

  • Rhinitis
  • Sinusitis
  • Redness of eyes
  • Itching of eyes
  • Dyspnea with wheezing
  • Skin rashes
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea etc

What are the farctors that cause allergy

A different immune response of the body causes allergy. The body’s immune system may react to harmless substances like pollen grains. The factors that influence are:

  • Environmental factors
  • Genetic factors

The stress and anxiety may worsen the condition.

Over cleanliness may increase the chances of allergy.

Management allergy can be done by minimal exposure to the allergens.

Management of allergy in Ayurveda

As in case of every disease, evaluation of the Dosha predominance is done. The treatment for the condition is determined according to the vitiated dosha.

  • Shodhana chikitsa:- Purificatory therapies helps in eliminating the dosa, and thereby helps in the management of allergy.
  • Shamana chikilsa:- Those ineligible for purificatory therapies can be subjected to Shamana chikilsa.

Yoga and change in lifestyle can help tackle the allergy easily along with treatments.

Insomnia

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Insomnia

Insomnia or sleeplessness is a sleep disorder. A person suffering from insomnia find difficulty to fall asleep or stay asleep.

The lack of sleep affects the person in many ways. The after effects of insomnia are:-

  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Low energy
  • Irritability
  • Depressed mood

The causes of insomnia

Insomnia may be caused by the following reasons:-

  • Psychological Stress
  • Chronic pain
  • Heart failure or heart diseases
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Heartburn
  • Restless leg syndrome
  • Menopause
  • Due to some medications
  • Intake of caffeine, nicotine, alcohol etc.

Symptoms

The person with insomnia may suffer from:-

  • Difficulty in falling asleep
  • Difficulty in finding a comfortable sleeping position
  • Waking during night and unable to return to sleep
  • Waking up early
  • Tiredness
  • Difficulty in finding focus on daily task
  • Daytime sleepiness
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

How to prevent insomnia

A person can avoid insomnia by limiting or avoiding naps. Avoid taking large meals before going to bed. Decrease the amount of intake of caffeine, nicotine or alcohol. Treatment for any physical ailments that can cause insomnia should be done at correct time.

Management of insomnia in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda insomnia can be managed effectively. The most important thing is to find the exact cause of insomnia. After finding the course the treatment can be decided accordingly.

General methods that can be used for treating insomnia are:-

  • Abhyanga:- massaging the body with oil
  • Padabhyanga:- massaging foot with oil
  • Thalam:- medicated paste is made and is applied on the head
  • Shiro abhyanga:- massaging of head with oil
  • Shirodhara:- pouring of medicated liquids on head.

Apart from the above said procedures, there are internal medicines that help the person to overcome the cause of insomnia

Low back ache

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lower back ache

Low back ache is a common disorder that may involve muscles, nerves and bones of back. The pain can be mild to severe.

Causes of low back ache

There are a large number of causes.

Strain, sprain, spasm osteoarthritis, herniation, stenosis and fracture are some of the musculoskeletal causes.

Inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, Arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome also cause low back pain.

Some malignancies like breast cancer, prostate cancer, bone cancer and thyroid cancer cause pain in the lower back area.

Osteomyelitis and abscess are infectious conditions that can cause low back pain.

In some conditions like kidney diseases and gallbladder diseases, there can be lower back pain as referred pain.

Osteoarthritis, degeneration of disc etc are the most common conditions of low back pain.

In women conditions like endometriosis, ovarian cyst, ovarian cancer and uterine fibroids also present with low back pain.

Management of low back pain in Ayurveda

First of all the exact cause of the low back pain is to be determined. The physician may use techniques like X-rays, MRI to diagnose the condition. After diagnosing the condition, the physician decide what treatment is to be given.

In low back pain due to ankylosing spondylitis  etc. the treatment may be as follows:-

  • Lepanam:- medicated paste is made and applied on the area and left their for a specified time.
  • Kati abhyanga:- it is the massaging of low back area with oil
  • Kashaya Dhara:- medicated decoctions are made and used to pour over the painful area
  • Different pinda Sweda:- according to the condition of the patient and the disease the physician chooses appropriate type of pinda Sweda. That maybe Patra potali Sweda, jambira pinda Sweda, churna pinda Sweda etc.
  • Sodhana chikilsa:- purification therapies especially basti, can help alleviate the condition.

Along with the treatment appropriate exercises that can help strengthen The structures in the lower back area can also help in overcoming the pain.

The pain caused by other reasons are treated accordingly.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Carpal-tunnel-syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition due to the compression of median nerve at the carpal tunnel in the wrist.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

The person with carpal tunnel syndrome may present with pain, numbness, tingling income, index and middle fingers. The patient may feel weakness while gripping.

The factors that can cause risk 

The condition can cause risk are:-

  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Trauma
  • The type of works that may cause stress or strain in the rest

How can we manage carpal tunnel syndrome in Ayurveda

The following treatment qualities can be used for treating carpal tunnel syndrome:-

  • Abhyanga:- massaging the area with oil
  • Applying hot water bag
  • Medicated pastes are used to apply in the area to reduce inflammation and pain
  • Bandaging
  • Local Dhara:- pouring of medicated decoctions locally
  • Agni karna:- cauterization

Along with the treatment, internal medicines are also given to alleviate the condition.

If the pain is caused by work, then the person should change the mode of work along with the treatment.

Rheumatism

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Rheumatism

Rheumatism includes all conditions that are chronic with intermittent pain affecting joints or connective tissue and covers around 200 different conditions.

Common conditions that come under the topic are Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis etc. Many infectious conditions like Chikungunya also have similar symptoms. Ankylosing Spondylosis and Psoriatic Arthritis are autoimmune disorders that affect joints.

Many of these conditions are categorised under Vata Rogas in Ayurveda. Some of them are Amavata, Sandhigata vata and Vatarakta. The treatment and management of these conditions are done according to the dosha predominance and the condition of the patient.

Both Shodhana and Shamana chikitsa are used for treating Vata Rogas. Only those patients who are eligible for Shodhana chikitsa can undergo purificatory process. Others can be given Shamana chikitsa.

Also, there are many conditions in which Shodhana chikitsa cannot be done. That may be because of the incurability of the condition or may be the patient does not have enough strength to undergo the purification process. Such conditions can be managed by giving Shamana chikitsa. Shamana chikitsa includes internal medications like kashayas, arishtas etc to cure.

The assessment of the condition of a person is done by the physician and he is the one who decides what type of treatment can be given to the person. The person should follow the directions of the physician on diet, lifestyle and food to get the desired results.

Premature Graying Of Hair And Treatments In Ayurveda

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premature graying

Everyone dream of having beautiful hair. But, if the hair greys fast ??? What are the treatments that are available in Ayurveda to manage premature greying? Let us see about all these in this article.

PREMATURE GREYING

This condition has a negative impact on mind. The person loses confidence and self esteem. Hair is said to have prematurely if it occurs before the age of 20 years in Whites, before 25 years in Asians and before 30 in Africans.

Causes of Premature Greying

Many nutritional, genetic and environmental factors contribute to this condition.

Nutritional Factors:

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Severe iron deficiency
  • Chronic protein loss
  • Copper deficiency
  • Low serum ferritin
  • Low serum calcium
  • Low Vitamin D3

Genetic Factors:

  • Familial predisposition
  • Certain chromosomal defects
  • Certain autoimmune disorders

Environmental Factors

  • Smoking
  • Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays
  • Pollution

Now let us see what Ayurveda has to say about premature greying

PREMATURE GREYING IN AYURVEDA

The condition is called as Palita in Ayurveda. It is of 4 types:-

  • Vataja
  • Pittaja
  • Kaphaja
  • Sannipataja

Many treatment methods are there to manage the premature greying. Mainly Rasayana should be done, i.e. Rejuvenation therapy.

Along with that certain treatments are also done:-

  • Siro abhyanga:- Head massage
  • Siro basthi:- Holding of oil on head with the help of a well like structure
  • Siro dhara:- Pouring of medicated liquids or oils in a specific manner
  • Nasyam:- Nasal instillation
  • Virechanam:- Purgation

The treatments may vary according to the condition of each individual.

TIPS TO PREVENT THE PREMATURE GREYING

  • Take nutritious foods. Do not stick on to one diet. Include many types of foods.
  • Stay hydrated. Water helps to maintain the moisture of hair.
  • Protect your hair from pollution
  • Do not treat your hair with chemicals. Give them a natural hug.
  • Avoid stress and sleep well.

Uro Vasthi

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Uro vasthi

Uro Vasthi comes under External Vasthi. Uro Basthi is done on the chest region.

HOW URO VASTHI IS DONE?

In this procedure, the person is asked to lie in supine position. A well-like structure or a frame is made and fixed on the chest region. While fixing it should be made sure that it should be leak-proof. After this warm medicated oil is poured into it and is held there for a specified time. The temperature of the medicated oil is kept constant by making the oil warm. After the procedure, the oil is removed and the person can bath in luke-warm water after 15 minutes of relaxation.

INDICATIONS

The Uro Vasthi is indicated in the following conditions:-

  • Hiccups
  • Injuries in the chest region
  • Costochondritis
  • In certain types of cough etc.

The person should not shake or move during the procedure. He/she should follow the instructions of the physician strictly.

Panchakarma

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Panchakarma

The word “Panchakarma” is so commonly heard word along with Ayurveda. But a majority thinks that Panchakarma is all about that special oil massage. So what is Panchakarma in real?

“Pancha” means five and “Karma” means procedure/actions. The word itself shows that it includes 5 procedures. These five procedures are designed for the internal purification of the body. Panchakarmas when performed in the correct way helps our body system to attain homeostasis and to repair and rejuvenate rapidly. Administration of medicines after performing the Panchakarmas will help facilitating the action of the medicines in the body.

Apart from treating a disease, the Panchakarmas are used as pre-operative procedure, before rejuvenation therapy etc.

WHAT ARE THE PANCHAKARMAS?

  • Vamana
  • Virechana
  • Niruha Basti
  • Anuvasana Basti
  • Nasya

There are some pre-operative and post-operative procedures for Panchakarmas.

The Pre-operative procedures or Purvakarma include Dipana, Pachana, Snehana and Svedana.

The Post-operative procedures or Paschatkarma include Samsarjana Krama, Rasayanadi Karma and Samana Prayoga.

Let us have a look on these.

PURVAKARMAS/ PRE-OPERATIVE PROCEDURES

As we have discussed earlier, the main cause of a disease is the disturbed equilibrium of Doshas/ humors (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). So elimination of the vitiated dosha is done with the Panchakarma. Before doing this, our body should be prepared by the following porocedures:-

  • Dipana
  • Pachana
  • Snehana
  • Svedana

Dipana and Pachana:- By this process the digestion is enhanced. Internal medicines are given to the person that will enhance digestion.

Snehana:- Internal and external oleation. Through this procedure the body becomes moist, soft, oily and is liquefied. According to the disease and the condition of body the procedure is decided.

Internal oleation is the administration of oils or fats internally.

External oleation is the external application of oils or fats externally. These include Abhyanga ( Massage therapy) etc.

Snehana can also be done as the main procedure to cure specific diseases or for the nourishment of the body.

Svedana:- The sudation therapy. By this procedure the vitiated doshas are driven from the extremities or other parts of the body to the Koshta or to the digestive tract.

In this procedure the body is made to sweat or perspire. This helps to relieve stiffness and heaviness.

Svedana is the prime modality treatment for various disorders.

It includes various procedures like Kizhi, Dhara etc.

PRADHANA KARMA/ PANCHAKARMAS

Vamana:- Emesis therapy. This helps in the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha. The individual, after proper analysis, is administered with the emetic drugs at proper time.

Virechana:- Purgation therapy. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Pitta Dosha. Here too, the procedure and the selection of drugs are done after thorough analysis.

Niruha Basthi:- Also known as Kashaya Basthi. Mainly different forms of Kashayas or decoctions are administered as enemas. But it is not merely an enema. It is a systemic therapy having a wide range of therapeutic effects. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Vata Dosha.

Anuvasana Basthi:- Even though simple, when compared to Niruha Basthi, it is an important treatment. This is widely used in the treatment of the Vata related diseases.

Nasya:-  Errhine  therapy. Here the medicines are administered through the nose. This is usually done to eliminate doshas from sinus, throat, nose or head. Nasya is really effective in the treatment of various CNS disorders, facial palsy etc.

All the above mentioned Panchakarmas are not only curative but are also used as rejuvenative and preventive measures.

POST-OPERATIVE PROCEDURES/ PASCHAT KARMA

After the purification therapies, the digestion and body itself becomes weak. The post-operative procedures help to regain the strength and digestion. This includes planned diet and restricted activities along with internal medicines.

After the consultation of a physician, an individual can undergo Panchakarma. Physician is the one to decide whether the person is eligible to undergo Panchakarma. For better results, the person should obey the Physician’s directions.

Ayurveda And Wellness

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Ayurveda and wellness

The state of wellness differs from one individual to other.

The National Institute of Wellness, USA, defines the Wellness as “an active process through which people becoming aware of and making choices toward a more successful existence.”

While studying the above said definition it may create confusion on how the health and wellness are related.

The National Institute of Wellness gives 6 dimensions for wellness:-

  • Occupational
  • Physical
  • Social
  • Intellectual
  • Spiritual
  • Emotional

These all dimensions focus on an individual’s physical, mental and social wellbeing.

Now let us take a look at the health’s definition WHO.

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely an absence of disease and infirmity.”

Therefore, wellness is also a state of being healthy.

The definition of health in Ayurveda also depicts the same meaning.

“समदोष समाग्निश्च समाधातु मलक्रिया ।

प्रसन्नात्मेन्द्रिय मन: स्वस्थेत्यभिधीयते ॥ “

(Susrutha Samhitha: Suthra Sthana: Chapter -15: Verse-41)

The balanced equilibrium between the Doshas and other factors along with a pleasant and healthy soul, sense organs and mind is said to be health.

The ultimate aim of Ayurveda is protecting the health of healthy and curing the diseased.

HOW TO ATTAIN WELLNESS THROUGH AYURVEDA?

Daily regimen and Seasonal regimen:- Even before describing the diseases, almost all texts in Ayurveda describes healthy regimens that are to be followed daily and seasonally.

Daily regimen or Dinacharya include the habits to be followed everyday to avoid the diseases. Some of them are getting up early in the morning (before sunrise), Evacuation of wastes, Cleaning of mouth, nose, throat etc, oil massage, bathing etc.

Seasonal regimen describes about the characteristics of every season in a year (6 seasons). It also gives us detailed information about how each season and the transformation of seasons affects the health of an individual. By adopting the measures given by Ayurveda, we can protect our health from various seasonal ailments.

Urges:- Do you know that certain urges should not be held with? Yes. If we observe ourselves we can understand how holding those urges can affect our well being. Ayurveda guides us about the urges that should not be held and that should be held, along with the ailments that may occur from not following the directions.

Foods and Liquids:- Ayurveda categorizes various foods and drinks into various Vargas (meaning categories itself). For example, in case of foods, there are many categories like Mamsa Varga (category of meats), Phala Varga (category of fruits), Lavanadi Varga (category of Salts) etc. In liquids, there are category like Thoya Varga (category of waters), Thaila Varga (Category of oils) etc. Along with categorizing, the science also describes the qualities of each item so that one can understand the best and worst among them.

Virudhahara:- The foods that are incompatible along with their effects are taught.

Panchakarmas and other associated procedures:- Panchakarmas are the procedures that help to purify the body and thus helps to cure and rejuvenate the body. Along with that the pre-operative and post operative procedures are also mentioned. Some of them can also be used individually as treatment.

Good conducts of living:- As a social being, an individual will have to follow certain norms of living. These include physical, mental and spiritual aspects.

The above mentioned are just peripheral. As we go deep into Ayurveda, we can understand that Ayurveda aims not only on the health of an individual but also on the overall wellbeing of an individual.

Psoriasis Treatment Program (Sidhma Chikitsa)

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Psoriasis treatment programme

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder with abnormally excessive and rapid growth of epidermal layer of skin. It is characterized by patches of abnormal skin. The patches are typically dry itchy and scaly.

The patches can be small localised or covering the full body.

The condition can appear at any age usually in adult age.

The condition is usually associated with Psoriatic Arthritis, Cardiovascular diseases, depression etc. The person may also have changes in the structure of nails.

The signs and symptoms may vary according to the type of psoriasis and there are five types of psoriasis.

Causes

There is no exact cause for this condition. The factors that may result in this condition are

  • Genetics
  • Lifestyle
  • Chronic infections
  • Stress
  • Season and climate
  • Dryness of skin

Treatment of Psoriasis in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, psoriasis is considered as Sidhma Kushta. The treatment is based on the severity, location and extent of the condition.

in Ayurveda along with the factors like genetics, lifestyle, climate, season and climate, the food habits also play a role in causing psoriasis. Viruddha ahara causes the vitiation of doshas, resulting in psoriasis.

the main treatment modality used in the condition of Sidhma kushta is shodhana chikilsa.

Before the shodhana chikitsa the patient is subjected to snehapana, that is the oleation therapy. The type of shodhana chikitsa is chosen according to the type of dosha vitiated. If more doshas are aggravated, multiple Shodhana therapies are done with care.

In order to undergo the shodhana therapies, the patient should be fit and eligible. Therefore the physician examines the patient and make sure that he or she is eligible for the procedure.

Shamana chikilsa are also done in case of psoriasis. The medicines are prescribed according to the dosha predominance.

The patient may be given a diet pattern to follow during the treatment or after treatment. Thehe person should strictly follow all the instructions given by the physician to get the cure.

Treatment for Neurological Disability

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Treatment for neurological disability

Any disorder of nervous system can be considered as neurological disability. The disorders of nervous system can be:-

  • Structural
  • Biochemical
  • Electrical

If any of the above said abnormalities are present in brain, spinal cord or other nerves the following symptoms may appear:-

  • Paralysis
  • Muscle weakness
  • Poor coordination
  • Loss of sensation
  • Seizures
  • Confusion
  • Altered level of consciousness etc.

The causes of these abnormalities is maybe:-

  • Genetic
  • Congenital abnormalities or disorders
  • Infection
  • Lifestyle
  • Malnutrition
  • Brain or spinal or nerve injury
  • Metal poisoning
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Cerebrovascular disorders

Even though there are many types of disorders, they can be broadly classified into two:-

  1. Central nervous system disorders
  2. Peripheral nervous system disorders

Some examples for nervous disability are epilepsy, parkinsonism, and migraine.

The treatment of nervous disability in Ayurveda

Many of the nervous disabilities comes under the topic Vata Rogas. Vata is the factor that helps in the proper functioning of nervous system.

Even though these disorders come under Vata Rogas, in most of the conditions other doshas may be also present. Therefore before treating, the physician will perform a thorough examination and assess the vitiated doshas.

After the assessment the physician decides the mode of treatment to be done. As we have discussed in many contexts, he or she will choose between the Shamana and Shodhana therapies.

The choice of treatment will vary from the condition of the patient, the condition of the disorder and the Yukti of the physician.

He or she may also advise the patient to follow certain lifestyle and diet, after the treatment, in order to improve the condition of the patient.

De-addiction and Rehabilitation From Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco

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Alcoholism

Alcoholism may result in mental and physical problems. A person is said to be alcoholic when he or she drinks large amount over a long period, difficulty in cutting down, acquiring and drinking alcohol takes up a lot of time, usage results in problem, withdrawal occurs when stopping and alcohol tolerance has occurred.

What are the complications of alcoholism? the long term usage of alcohol may result in mental illness, irregular heartbeat, liver cirrhosis and cancer.

Alcoholism may also affects the individual’s social and family life. It can cause problems in relationships.

Drug Addiction

Marijuana, cocaine, opium etc are abused by many for pleasure. Most of them find it difficult to stop the usage. They may have deranged thoughts, decreased communication skills and lack a good social and family life.

Tobacco Addiction

Tobacco addiction is the practice of smoking tobacco and inhaling tobacco smoke.

The addiction may lead to many conditions like:-

  • Lung cancer
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Myocardial infarction
  • Peptic ulcer
  • Cancer of larynx, mouth and oesophagus

Some theories state that tobacco addiction may play as a gateway to other addictions.

Treatment of alcohol, drug and tobacco addiction

According to the signs and symptoms that a person exhibits, the vitiated Dosha is analysed by the physician.

The person can be subjected to shodhana chikitsa or purificatory therapies. If not eligible for such a treatment, he or she can undergo Shamana chikilsa.

Along with internal medicines that can act as anti craving agents, medications that can improve mental stability may also be given.

Counselling, motivational classes and psychotherapy are also given according to the condition of patient.

Yoga helps a lot in de-addiction and rehabilitation. Yoga is not just a mode of exercise but also a mode of living. A person who practices yoga will attain physical and mental stability. Meditation and pranayama, done under the supervision of yoga instructor helps a person to overcome addictions.

Treatment For Slipped Disc

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Treatment for slipped disc

Slipped disc is a common condition. But many do not know what it is. So let me give an idea.

DISC

The exact name is Intervertebral Disc. From the name itself it is clear that the structure is “Disc-shaped”. It is located in between the adjacent vertebrae in the vertebral column. This is a structure formed by the fibre and cartilage. The Intervertebral Disc helps to form the joint between the vertebrae and holds the vertebrae together forming the vertebral column. It also helps in the shock absorption.

The disc has an outer layer made of fibrocartilage and an inner gel like structure.

One of the main problems that come in association with the structure is herniation. This is what we call as “Slipped Disc” in common usage.

THE SLIPPED DISC OR THE SPINAL DISC HERNIATION

So what happens in The Spinal Disc Herniation? In this condition the inner gel like layer protrudes out of the outer fibrocartilage layer through a tear.

What causes this tear? The causes of the tear which results in spinal disc herniation may be:-

  • Age related degeneration
  • Trauma
  • Injuries caused by the lifting of heavy weights
  • Strain

The tear results in the reactions that in turn cause the inflammatory changes. This is the reason why we experience pain. But some may not have pain. According to the location, the area of pain and other symptoms may vary. Weaknesses of the muscles, tingling, numbness etc are also seen. Referred pains often make the diagnosis delayed. In some cases the person may experience urinary incontinence.

Another condition is Sciatica. The herniation of the disc in the lumbar region is the major cause. This puts pressure on the Sciatic nerve. The person usually experiences a pain radiating from the lower back to the leg.

THE MANAGEMENT AND THE TREATMENT

Among the Panchakarmas, Virechanam and Basthis are the most beneficial treatments for this condition. Along with this:-

    • Abhyangam:- Massaging of the body with medicated oils.
    • Lepanam:- Apllication of the medicated paste over the affected area.
    • Bandhanam:- Special bandaging of the area.
    • Pichu:- The affected area is covered with a cotton pad soaked in medicated oils.
    • Kati Vasthi:- A well like structure is made in the low back region and the medicated oil is allowed to stay there for specified time. This procedure can be done in the neck or on the area of entire vertebral column. The name of the procedure varies according to the area of treatment.
    •  Pizhichil:- The continuous pouring of the medicated oils in a special method.
    • Dharas:- The continuous pouring of the medicated liquids for a specified time period.
    • Kizhis:- The specially made boluses are used in this treatment.

 

Above mentioned are the general treatment methods used for the condition. The treatment method varies according to the condition. The physician decides the treatment and medicines which is apt for the condition.

Along with the external treatments given above the physician may advice to undergo physiotherapy. Internal medicines are also advised along with the external treatments.

REFERENCES:-

 

Treatment Of Chronic Back Pain

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Treatment for chronic back pain

Back pain!!! Everybody might have experienced this in their life at least once in their life. That experience may be acute or chronic. There are a wide range of reasons that results in chronic back pain.

Commonly all the pains that affect the back region are termed as back pain. When we study about the causes we can classify as the back pain that affects exactly in the back and the back pain that occurs as referred pain. Let us see in detail:-

  • PAIN THAT AFFECTS EXACTLY IN THE BACK

Even this may be due to different causes. To study easily these causes are grouped under various headings.

  1. CONGENITAL:-
    • Spina Bifida:- Occurs due to the improper development of the vertebral column of the foetus.
    • Spondylolisthesis:- Caused due to the gradual slipping forward of the lumbar spine on the sacrum that occurs congenitally.
  • Hemivertebra and Split Vertebra:- Both conditions are caused due to the developmental failures.
  • TRAUMATIC:-
  • Lumbosacral Strain
  • Injuries to the intervertebral  joints, ligaments and muscles
  • Spondylolisthesis:- Caused due to the gradual slipping forward of the lumbar spine on the sacrum due to trauma.
  • Compression Fracture
  • Fracture of veretebral process (vertebral process is a structure in vertebra)
  • Ruptured disc
  • FUNCTIONAL DEFECTS:-
  • Anteroposterior Imbalance:- Caused  due to pregnancy, Pot belly etc.)
  • Lateral imbalance:– May be due to Scoliosis, discrepancy of the length of the leg etc.

Scoliosis:- The deviation of spine to one side is called as Scoliosis.

  • INFLAMMATORY:-
  • Pyogenic osteomyelitis:- This is an inflammation of bone caused by an infecting organism.
  • Tuberculosis:- In this, low back pain is usually seen in the cases where tuberculosis affect structures outside lung, e.g. Spine.
  • Arthritis:- The pain and inflammation of joints.
  • Brucellosis:- A systemic, infectious disease caused by the bacteria, Brucella.
  • Ankylosing Spondylitis:- It is a type of a arthritis in which there is long term inflammation of the joints of the spine.
  • Myositis:– Inflammation of the muscles.
  • Fibrositis:– Pain or inflammation of the muscle sheaths, muscles and connective-tissue layers of the bones, tendons, muscles and joints.
  • DEGENERATIVE:-
  • Osteoarthritis:- A type of joint disease that results from breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
  • Senile Osteoporosis:– In this, the density of bone is reduced due to calcium deficiency.
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • NEOPLASTIC:-
  • Primary tumors:- e.g. multiple myeloma etc
  • Metastatic tumors:-  Such tumors from breast, bronchus, kidney, prostate, thyroid and gastrointestinal tract.
  • THE BACK PAIN THAT OCCURS AS REFERRED PAIN
  • ABDOMINAL DISORDERS:-

For example:- pancreatitis (inflammation of pancrease), cholecystitis (inflammation of  gall bladder), Peptic ulcer etc.

  • PELVIC DISORDERS:-

For example:- Inflammatory conditions of ovary or tubes etc

  • GENITO URINARY CAUSES:-

For example:-  renal infection, prostitis etc.

  • VASCULAR DISORDERS

TREATMENTS OF CHRONIC BACK PAIN

Chronic back pain is treated according to the cause. When it occurs as referred pain, corresponding disease is treated. In other cases, the underlying cause is ruled out and treatment is done accordingly.

In Ayurveda, the back pain is treated under Vata Rogas. A wide range of treatments are used to treat Vata Rogas.

  • Panchakarmas
  • Abhyangam:- The massaging of the body with medicated oils.
  • Kati Vasthi:- A well like structure is created on the lower back and medicated oil is poured and made to stay in the well for a specified time.
  • Svedana Karma:- Sudation therapy
  • Kizhi:- Boluses are made using different things like medicated powders, processed leaves, processed lemons, processed eggs, sand etc.
  • Dhanyamla Dhara:– A specially medicated liquid is made and poured all over the body.
  • Pizhichil:- Pouring of medicated oil continuously over the body.

There are a wide variety of treatments for Vata Rogas other than those mentioned above. Same treatment can be done for different diseases by changing the medicines used in it. That depends on the physician and the condition of the patient.

REFERENCES:-

  • www.wikipedia.com
  • A Concise Textbook of Surgery
  • Principles and Practice of Panchakarma

Treatment for sinusitis and migraine

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Treatment for sinusitis and migraine

SINUSITIS

This is a common condition. Sinuses are a group of air filled spaces around the nasal cavity. There are 4 groups of sinuses. The exact function of sinuses is a mystery. But they help in:-

  • Decreasing the weight of the scull.
  • Regulating the humidity and the temperature of the inhaled air.
  • Increasing the resonance of the voice.
  • Decreasing the impact of facial trauma.
  • Providing immunological defence

The inflammation of these sinuses is known as Sinusitis.  The main causes are given below:-

  • Infection
  • Allergy
  • Pollution
  • Problems in the structure of nose like Deviated Nasal Septum
  • Trauma

The above said causes may result in viral or bacterial infection resulting in the inflammatory reactions in sinuses.

The sinusitis can be categorised according to the duration of the attack and the recurrence as:-

  • Acute
  • Recurrent acute
  • Sub-acute
  • Chronic
  • Acute exacerbation of chronic sinusitis

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SINUSITIS

  • Headache or facial pain: – Usually the pain is localized in the area of the sinus. The pain may worsen when the person bends over or while lying down. Normaly the pain affects on one side of the head and progress to the other side.
  • Nasal Discharge: – may be purulent or may contain blood.
  • Tooth ache
  • Halitosis

In severe conditions the infection may spread to the eye socket resulting in the loss of sight. In some cases it may affect the bones thus causing osteomyelitis.

MIGRAINE

Migraine is one of the major causes of head ache.

NATURE OF PAIN

  • Generally affects one half of head.
  • Pulsating
  • May last for 2 to 72 hours
  • Worsens while affected person engage in physical activity.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MIGRAINE

There are four phases:-

  1. Prodrome – Indicates pain hours or even days before the pain manifests

This includes altered mood, fatigue, depression, irritability, and sensitivity to noise etcetera.

  1. Aura: – Disturbances in vision is caused due to severe pain. Hallucinations and delusions are associated with this phase.
  2. Pain: – Sensitivity to light, sound, smell. Nausea and vomiting is common among affected persons. Towards the end of the phase sweating and neck stiffness occurs.
  3. Postdrome: – The person feels tired, pass through cognitive difficulties.

CAUSES: –

  1. Genetics
  2. Hormonal
    1. Pregnancy
    2. Menarche
    3. Use of oral contraceptives
    4. Menstrual Irregularities
  3. Work place
  4. Mental Hygiene

TREATMENT AND MANAGEMENT

SINUSITIS

  • Talam:- Medicine is applied on the scalp.
  • Nasyam:- Errhine therapy
  • Dhoomapanam:- Medicines are burnt and the smoke is inhaled.
  • Kabalam:- Holding and gargling of the medicine in mouth
  • Takradhara:- Continuous pouring of the medicated buttermilk
  • Kashayadhara:- Continuous pouring of the medicated decoctions
  • Panchakarma

MIGRAINE

  • Shiro abhyangam:- Massaging of head
  • Shiro Pichu:- Application of the medicated oil soaked in a cotton pad on scalp
  • Shiro Vasti:- A well like structure is created around the head and the medicated oil is poured in and held there.
  • Nasyam:- Errhine therapy

 

REFERENCES:-

  • Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat-P.L.Dhingra

 

 

Post-Pregnancy Health Programmes

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the post pregnancy care

                  Giving birth to a new life is not a simple thing. Imagine a life growing inside you! Pregnancy makes a lot of changes in a woman physically and mentally.

THE CHANGES IN A WOMAN DURING PREGNANCY

The External Genital Organs becomes oedematous and the blood circulation increases there. Superficial varicosities may appear.

The Vagina increases in size. It also becomes oedematous and the circulation is increased.

The Uterus grows enormously and its capacity is increased by 500 to 1000 times.

The most evident changes can be seen in breasts. Breasts increases in size and secretion of colostrum can be seen. Along with that, the nipples get pigmented,

The Skin gets pigmented in face, breast and abdomen.

The Body Weight increases constantly. But in some, the vomiting or nausea causes the decrease in weight. The total weight gain in a healthy pregnant woman, who is carrying a single foetus, is average 11Kg.

During pregnancy a large amount of water is retained in the woman’s body. It is about 6.5L.

The Blood Volume, Plasma Volume, RBC and Haemoglobin levels increase markedly. This increase is due to the increased oxygen demand in pregnancy. The Immune system becomes more active. Similarly the coagulation factors too increase. Even though the Cardiac output increases, the Blood pressure usually remains unaffected. But in some, a mid-pregnancy drop in of diastolic pressure by a small value of 5-10mm of Hg is seen.

The Total Metabolism increases. This is due to the needs of growing uterus.

The Lung Capacity decreases.

Many Emotional Changes occurs due to the hormonal changes. Even though mood changes are normal, some women may experience severe depression.  These situations are to be handled wisely by family.

Above all these changes the woman undergoes severe stress during labour.

WHY POST-PREGNANCY CARE IS IMPORTANT ?

The above said changes will create a strain in the woman’s body and mind. Therefore Ayurveda recommends Post-Pregnancy care.

After the delivery the Vata Dosha gets vitiated. Along with that the body gets weak. These two factors are to be considered while administering the post-pregnancy care programmes.

THE DIET PLAN

The Ayurveda recommends taking a thin soup like preparation, prepared using the prescribed medicines for the first 3 days. Medicated milk decoction is to be used in diet from 4th – 7th days. From 8th – 12th days foods that are nourishing should be taken. From 12th day onwards specially prepared meat soup is used.

REGIMENS TO BE FOLLOWED

Massaging the body and abdomen using medicated oils are recommended. After that the woman is advised to bath in luke-warm water.

Only boiled water should be used for drinking.

The woman should avoid sexual intercourse for the specified time. She should avoid stress, anger etc. She should not get exposed to cold environment. She should not undergo any Panchakarma treatments.

INTERNAL MEDICATIONS

The woman is given mainly medicines that will pacify the Vata Dosha and that will nourish her body.

For a healthy woman the above said treatments are given. If she is suffering from any other discomforts, it should be mentioned to the physician, and the necessary changes will be made.

Tharpanam

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Tharpanam

The word Tharpanam literally means “nourishment”. This treatment is done in eye disorders.

HOW THARPANAM IS DONE

            This can be done as a treatment or as a preventive. Usually medicated ghee is used for the treatment. In this treatment a well-like structure is made around the eyes. The person is asked to close the eyes and the medicine is poured carefully inside it. The person is asked to open and close the eyes slowly.  After the specified time the medicine is removed and the patient is allowed to relax.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE

The person should avoid exposure to:-

  • Direct light
  • Bright light
  • Sun etc.

It is better to wear a sun glass so that the person can attain the maximum benefit of the treatment.

INDICATIONS

  • Injuries
  • Eye strain
  • Visual defects
  • Degenerative disorders etc.
  • Vataja diseases

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

  • The treatment should not be done in too cold or hot seasons
  • Kaphaja diseases

As we know the eyes are one of the important organs in our body. Therefore the person should follow the instructions given by the physician. The pre-operative and post-operative cares will be directed by the physician and should be strictly followed by the person. The person should give a well explained history regarding his/her condition.

Sirovasthi

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Siro vasthi

Sirovasthi is one of the most important treatments. It comes under the Murdha Thailas, the treatments for the murdha or the head. This treatment can be done as curative and rejuvenation therapy. Moreover, the treatment has a wide range of action.

HOW SIROVASTHI IS DONE?

             In Sirovasthi, a frame made of leather is fixed around the head. It is made sure that it is leak proof. Then the medicated oil is made warm and poured into the frame. The medicated oil is allowed to stay there for specified time period. The medicated is kept at constant temperature by the therapist.

            The person undergoing the treatment is given a comfortable position to sit during the procedure. Along with that the eyes are asked to keep closed.

            After the procedure the oil and the frame is removed. The head is wiped well. The head and, shoulder, palms and soles are massaged gently. Later Rasnadi churna is applied on the forehead. The person is then allowed to take rest. Thereafter he/she can take bath in lukewarm water.

           The person should not sleep during the procedure. The person should not move or shake the head that may disturb the frame on the head.

INDICATIONS

The Sirovasthi is indicated in the following conditions:-

  • Almost all of the conditions that affect the structures above the shoulder. That includes eye diseases, ear diseases etc.
  • Mental disorders
  • Stiffness of neck
  • Lock jaw
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Hemiplegia
  • Insomnia
  • Facial palsy
  • Cervical spondylosis
  • Depression
  • Migraine etc.

Body Purification/ Sodhana Chikitsa

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Shodhana chikitsa

As the name suggests, the Sodhana Chikitsa is administered for purification of the body. By undergoing the Sodhana Chikitsa, those vitiated humors, which got accumulated in body, are expelled out. This helps in the curing of ailments, repairing the body and rejuvenating it. Ashtanga Hridaya, one of the important treatises, explains this idea in one simple slokha or verse.

“Yadeerayedbahirdoshaan………….tat II”

(Ashtanga Hridaya: Suthra Sthana: Chapter-14: Verse-5)

TYPES OF SODHANA CHIKITSA

The 5 types of Sodhana Chikitsa are:-

  1. Niruha Basti
  2. Vamana
  3. Virechana
  4. Nasya
  5. Rakta Moksha

Let us see in detail.

  1. Niruha Basti:- Also known as Kashaya Basthi. Mainly different forms of Kashayas or decoctions are administered as enemas. But it is not merely an enema. It is a systemic therapy having a wide range of therapeutic effects. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Vata Dosha.
  2. Vamana:- Emesis therapy. This helps in the elimination of vitiated Kapha Dosha. The individual, after proper analysis, is administered with the emetic drugs at proper time.
  3. Virechana:- Purgation therapy. This helps in the elimination of the vitiated Pitta Dosha. Here too, the procedure and the selection of drugs are done after thorough analysis.
  4. Nasya:-  Errhine  therapy. Here the medicines are administered through the nose. This is usually done to eliminate doshas from sinus, throat, nose or head. Nasya is really effective in the treatment of various CNS disorders, facial palsy etc.
  5. Rakta Moksha:- Blood-letting therapy. In this method, letting out of the vitiated blood is done. This method is of two types, based on the instrument used. The first category includes methods that use surgical instruments for blood-letting. The second method includes those procedures that use alternative methods for blood-letting, eg. Leeches etc.

 

WHY SODHANA IS IMPORTANT?

           To explain the importance of Sodhana Chikitsa the Charaka Samhitha gives a beautiful example. Consider an unwanted tree or a plant. It cannot be destroyed by just destroying its branches. To destroy it completely, the destruction should be done at its root. The same is the case with the treatment of a disease too. When destroyed from the root levels the disease will not recur. This can be done with the help of Sodhana Chikitsa.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SODHANA CHIKITSA?

  • Helps in removing the disease from its roots
  • Improves digestion
  • Enhanced metabolism
  • Helps in the proper action of the medicines administered
  • Improves health

Note:-

The type of Shodhana Chikitsa is chosen after a careful examination of the individual by a physician. If eligible, the physician will instruct about the routine to be followed. The individual must follow the instructions to get the best results.

REFERNCES:-

 

  • Ashtanga Hridaya
  • Charaka Samhitha
  • Susrutha Samhitha
  • Principles and Practice of Panchakarma