CLINICAL APPROACH TO CEREBROVASCULAR ACCIDENT IN AYURVEDA

Abstract

Background: Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is the medical term for a stroke. A stroke is a medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in death. There are two main types of stroke; ischemic, due to lack of blood flow and hemorrhagic, due to bleeding. They result in part of the brain not functioning properly. The most common symptom of a stroke is sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, most often on one side of the body. Other symptoms include: confusion, difficulty in speaking or understanding speech; difficulty in seeing with one or both eyes; difficulty in walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; severe headache with no known cause; fainting or unconsciousness. The main risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure. Other risk factors include tobacco smoking, obesity, high blood cholesterol, diabetes mellitus, a previous TIA and atrial fibrillation. Objective: Here an attempt is made to understand and apply the treatment principles of Pakshaghata based on the avarana concept and adopting suitable treatment modalities. Material & Method: The authentic subject material has been reviewed from Ayurveda & modern medical literature. Different research & review article were searched on internet. Discussion and conclusion: The management in contemporary science varies with that of the cause. CVA is broadly understood under the term Pakshaghata which is considered to be a Vata Vyadhi in Ayurveda, which can manifest due to Dhatu Kshaya leading to Kevala Vata Vyadhi or due to Avarana. The line of treatment varies according to the cause; Kevala Vata Janita Pakshagata Vatasya Upakrama can be employed and in case of Avarana; Avruta i.e.,kapha or meda or pitta to be relived first then it to be treated in lines of Kevala Vata Vyadhi Chikitsa. Thus the clinical approach to CVA varies accordingly with the dosha and Avastha of the vyadhi.