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NSAID Dependency in Shirshool Headaches Treated with Integrative Medicine

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Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: A Case Study of Drug Dependency (NSAIDs) in Shirshool (Headache) Healed Through Integrative Medicine
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Original source:

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Author(s):

Abhishek
PG Scholar, Dravyaguna Vigyana Department, Shri Krishna Ayush University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India.
Sangeeta Nehra
Assistant Professor, Dravyaguna Vigyana Department, Shri Krishna Ayush University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India.


Ayushdhara:

(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: A Case Study of Drug Dependency (NSAIDs) in Shirshool (Headache) Healed Through Integrative Medicine

Year: 2023 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v10i5.1403

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study focuses on the management of drug dependence related to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in a patient suffering from Shirashool (headache). This condition, frequently associated with an imbalance of Vata dosha, presents significant challenges in daily life, often exacerbated by stress and unhealthy lifestyle choices. The case highlights the importance of tongue examination, an essential diagnostic tool in Ayurveda, which provides insights into the patient’s health and potential imbalances in the body.

Importance of Tongue Examination

Tongue examination is emphasized as a vital component of Ayurvedic diagnostics, reflecting the health of vital organs and indicating systemic imbalances. The study utilizes the principles of Ashtavidh Pariksha, highlighting how physical characteristics such as color and texture can indicate the state of one’s health. In this particular case, the patient's tongue displayed abnormalities linked to his chronic headaches and other symptoms. Observations indicated bluish spots and cracks suggesting an imbalance of the Vata dosha. This non-invasive diagnostic approach underscores the holistic perspective of Ayurveda, allowing practitioners to gain valuable health insights through a simple tongue examination.

Integrated Therapeutics

The case study illustrates the effectiveness of an integrative therapeutic approach combining Ayurvedic medicine, dietary recommendations, and yogic practices. The patient’s treatment protocol included herbal remedies tailored to his specific symptoms, along with lifestyle modifications and regular counseling sessions. Over a series of follow-ups, the patient's health improved significantly, leading to reduced reliance on NSAIDs and relief from headaches, neck pain, and constipation. The integration of counseling and yoga practices also played a crucial role in addressing the patient's stress, thereby enhancing overall well-being and demonstrating a sustainable path to health.

Conclusion

The successful management of the patient’s symptoms through integrative medicine illustrates Ayurveda's potential in addressing chronic health issues while minimizing dependence on conventional medications. Tongue examination serves as an effective, cost-efficient diagnostic tool to uncover underlying health issues. The study supports the need for a holistic approach that encompasses both physical and mental well-being, enabling individuals to achieve balance and harmony in their lives. This case reinforces the value of integrative therapeutic methods in modern healthcare, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Shirshool and its common causes?

Shirshool, or headache, is often caused by factors like stress, irregular sleep, or excessive work habits, leading to an imbalance in Vata Dosha. It is a prevalent issue affecting daily life.

How does tongue examination aid in diagnosis?

In Ayurveda, tongue examination reveals health imbalances. Changes in color, texture, and markings can indicate underlying issues in vital organs, making it a valuable diagnostic tool alongside patient history.

What treatment was used for NSAIDs dependency?

Integrative medicine was employed, combining Ayurvedic remedies, counseling, and yogic practices. This holistic approach aimed to relieve symptoms and improve overall well-being, reducing dependency on NSAIDs for pain relief.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “NSAID Dependency in Shirshool Headaches Treated with Integrative Medicine�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Pain:
Pain is a primary symptom that the patient was experiencing. This pain, specifically headache or Shirshool, was one of the critical parameters used to assess the severity of the patient’s condition and response to treatment.

2) Medicine:
Various medications, both Ayurvedic and allopathic, were used to treat the patient. This included NSAIDs for pain relief and Ayurvedic formulations like Haritaki choorna and Godanti Bhasma aimed at addressing the underlying imbalances.

3) Vata:
Vata is a dosha in Ayurveda that represents movement and ether. In the case study, imbalances in Vata Dosha were considered the primary cause of the patient's headache and associated symptoms such as constipation and stress.

4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is the traditional system of medicine used in this case study, which focuses on balancing the body’s doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) through various interventions including herbs, diet, and lifestyle modifications.

5) Prakriti (Prakrti):
Prakriti is an individual’s unique constitution in Ayurveda, determined by the predominant doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha). The patient's Prakriti was vital in tailoring the integrative therapeutic protocol, including diet and yoga practices.

6) Drug:
Drugs, particularly NSAIDs, were initially used by the patient for pain relief. However, long-term dependency on these drugs led to various side effects and prompted the patient to seek integrative Ayurvedic treatment.

7) Depression:
Depression, referred to as Shoke in Ayurveda, was listed as one of the factors contributing to the patient's headache. It was managed through counseling sessions and lifestyle modifications as part of the treatment protocol.

8) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a bodily response that NSAIDs typically target to reduce pain, including headaches. The patient’s continuous use of NSAIDs suggests repeated inflammation issues which Ayurveda aims to address holistically.

9) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi, used in Nadi Shuddhi (a type of Pranayama), was part of the yoga practices prescribed. Nadi refers to energy channels in the body, which the breathing exercises aim to cleanse and balance.

10) Dosha (Dosa):
Dosha refers to the three primary energies (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) governing physiological functions in Ayurveda. Balancing these doshas was crucial in treating the patient’s headache through integrative medicine.

11) Blood:
Blood is significant in Ayurvedic diagnosis, including tongue examinations and Ashtvidh Pariksha. Changes in blood chemistry can reflect imbalances in doshas and were used as diagnostic cues.

12) Diet:
Diet played a crucial role in the patient’s treatment plan, with specific dietary guidelines (Pathya) provided to balance doshas and support overall health as a part of the holistic approach.

13) Pharmacological:
The term pharmacological refers to the prescribed medications. Both Ayurvedic pharmacological treatments and NSAIDs were discussed, highlighting the integrated therapeutic approach.

14) Vomiting:
Vomiting was one of the symptoms checked but not found in this case. Frequent vomiting can be a side effect of NSAIDs and would influence therapeutic decisions.

15) Swelling:
Swelling, or oedema, can be a side effect of long-term NSAID use. This was checked and not found in the patient but is an important consideration in long-term pain management.

16) Language:
Language of the tongue refers to the diagnostic patterns that can be seen on the tongue’s surface. These patterns are used to understand the body's internal state and dosha imbalances.

17) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma, such as Godanti Bhasma, is an Ayurvedic medicinal ash used in treatments. It was prescribed to the patient for its specific beneficial properties in balancing doshas and treating symptoms.

18) Nausea:
Nausea is a common side effect of NSAID use. In the case study, the patient did not report nausea, which was checked to differentiate symptoms caused by NSAIDs and other conditions.

19) Rajas:
Rajas is one of the three gunas, representing activity and restlessness. The patient’s mind was described as predominantly Rajas, which contributed to symptoms like stress and anxiety.

20) Taila (Thaila):
Taila refers to oil used in Ayurvedic treatments. Mahanarayan Taila was applied through Shiro picchu and Shiro abhyanga to treat the patient's headache and related symptoms.

21) Jihva:
Jihva, meaning tongue, is central to Ayurvedic diagnosis. The tongue’s appearance (color, texture, marks) helps determine dosha imbalances and guide the treatment process.

22) Raja:
Raja, in the context of this article, refers to Rajas guna. It is associated with activity, restlessness, and imbalance if predominant, contributing to conditions such as stress-induced headaches.

23) Guna:
Guna refers to the three qualities - Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas - governing mental and physical states. The patient’s mental state showed a predominance of Rajas, impacting his health.

24) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is the study of Ayurvedic pharmacology and medicinal properties of substances, which was the department involved in supervising the patient’s treatment.

25) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha, representing movement and ether, was the primary imbalance in the patient leading to symptoms such as headaches, constipation, and stress which the treatment aimed to balance.

26) Haritaki:
Haritaki choorna was one of the Ayurvedic medicines prescribed to treat constipation and balance doshas, specifically Vata, contributing to the patient's recovery.

27) Pariksha (Pariksa):
Pariksha refers to examination or assessment. In this case, Ashtvidh pariksha (eightfold examination) including tongue diagnosis was used to evaluate the patient's state and plan treatment.

28) Vikriti (Vikrti):
Vikriti is the current state of health imbalance. The patient’s Vikriti showed excessive Vata dosha and imbalanced mind due to Rajas and Tamas, which guided the treatment protocol.

29) Nostril:
Nostril breathing exercises, like Nadi Shuddhi, were part of the integrative therapy to balance Vata and reduce stress, contributing to the patient's overall improvement.

30) Disease:
The disease in focus was Shirshool, a type of headache. The case study explored how integrative medicine combining Ayurveda and allopathy managed the patient's chronic condition.

31) Tamas:
Tamas is one of the three gunas signifying darkness and inertia. The patient had a moderate Tamas influence, contributing to mental stress and requiring balancing in the therapeutic approach.

32) Sira (Shira):
Shira, meaning head, is central as the location of the patient’s primary complaint, Shirshool (headache). Balancing doshas in Shira was a primary focus of the treatment.

33) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush includes traditional Indian systems of medicine like Ayurveda, which was central to the integrative approach used in this case study to treat the patient’s headache.

34) Ulcer:
Ulcers can be a side effect of NSAID use. The absence of ulcers was noted in the patient's physical examination, helping to rule out gastrointestinal damage from prolonged NSAID use.

35) Picu:
Pichu, or oil-soaked gauze, was used in Shiro picchu (applying to the head) with Mahanarayan Taila, as part of the Ayurvedic treatment to relieve headache and balance Vata.

36) Tama:
Tama is another term for Tamas, referring to one of the three gunas. The patient’s mental state included moderate Tama, which affected his overall well-being and required balancing.

37) Yoga:
Yoga practices, including Nadi Shuddhi pranayama and OM chanting, were integral to the treatment plan, aiding in stress reduction and balancing doshas for overall recovery.

38) Ras (Rash):
Rash can be a side effect of NSAID use. The absence of skin rash was noted in the patient's physical examination, ensuring comprehensive diagnostics.

39) Mahanarayanataila (Mahanarayana-taila):
Mahanarayana Taila, an Ayurvedic oil, was used in Shiro picchu and local applications to relieve headache symptoms and balance Vata dosha effectively.

40) Mahanarayana:
Mahanarayana refers to Mahanarayana Taila, an Ayurvedic medicinal oil applied locally to reduce headache symptoms and improve overall dosha balance.

41) Kurukshetra (Kuruksetra, Kuru-kshetra):
The treatment and study were conducted at Shri Krishna Ayush University in Kurukshetra, where the integrative protocol and tongue diagnosis approach were implemented.

42) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
Pitta-dosha represents the fire principle in Ayurveda. Although not the primary imbalance in this case (which was Vata), managing Pitta is crucial since the patient had a Pitta-Vata constitution.

43) Discussion:
The discussion section of the article provides insights into the integrative therapeutic process, the role of Ayurveda and tongue diagnosis, and the significance of balancing doshas like Vata for patient recovery.

44) Salivation:
Salivation is one of the parameters observed in tongue examination, which helps gauge the patient’s dosha imbalances and overall digestive and metabolic health.

45) Drowsiness:
Drowsiness is a possible side effect of NSAID use, impacting the patient’s quality of life and compliance with treatment protocols.

46) Pranavata (Prana-vata):
Pranavata, a type of Vata dosha, governs the mind and heart. Breathing exercises targeting Pranavata were part of the treatment to relieve stress and improve overall health.

47) Shiroroga (Siroroga, Shiras-roga):
Shiroroga refers to diseases of the head, like Shirshool. The study focused on managing Shiroroga through integrative Ayurvedic and allopathic treatments.

48) Krishna (Krsna):
Krishna refers to Shri Krishna Ayush University in Kurukshetra, where the integrative treatment of the patient was conducted.

49) Apathya:
Apathya refers to dietary and lifestyle choices that should be avoided to balance doshas. The patient was advised on what to avoid (Apathya) to manage his Vata imbalance effectively.

50) Kashaya (Kasaya):
Kashaya is a type of Ayurvedic decoction. Pathyaadi Kashaya was one of the prescribed medications for treating the patient's headache and associated symptoms.

51) Sattva (Shattva):
Sattva is one of the three gunas, representing purity and harmony. The patient’s mental state was slightly Sattva predominant, contributing to his healing process.

52) Kashya (Kasya):
Kashya, as used in this context, likely refers to Pathyaadi Kashaya, an Ayurvedic decoction prescribed for the patient’s treatment.

53) Pathya:
Pathya encompasses dietary and lifestyle guidelines conducive to health. The patient was given a Pathya diet to follow, which supports the integrative treatment approach in balancing doshas.

54) Edema (Oedema):
Oedema, or swelling, is a potential side effect of NSAID use. It was checked but not found in the patient, which is significant for assessing treatment impact and side effects.

55) Nature:
[see source text or glossary: Nature]

56) Manas (Mano, Manash):
Manas refers to the mind in Ayurveda. The patient’s Manas was described as predominantly Rajas, influencing his stress levels and requiring specific mental and emotional balancing strategies.

57) Pitta:
Pitta represents fire and transformation in Ayurveda. Balancing Pitta was part of the treatment protocol, although Vata was the primary dosha imbalance in this case.

58) Satva (Shatva):
Satva represents purity and harmony. Increasing Satva through lifestyle and dietary changes was one of the goals for achieving mental and physical balance in the patient.

59) Vajra:
Vajra is significant in the name of the prescribed medicine Shirashoolvajra Ras, which was used for headache relief in the patient’s treatment.

60) Mutra:
Mutra, meaning urine, is one of the aspects checked in Ashtvidh Pariksha. Normal mutra indicates that the patient’s excretory system was functioning well without any apparent issues.

61) India:
India is the country where this case study was conducted, specifically at Shri Krishna Ayush University in Kurukshetra, Haryana.

62) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Shiro refers to the head, and forms part of Shirshool, the headache condition the patient suffered from and was treated for using integrative medicine.

63) Pulse:
Pulse rate was one of the vital signs monitored during each patient visit to assess the response to the treatment and overall physiological balance.

64) Fever:
Fever is a symptom that was checked during the patient’s examination but not found, helping to narrow down the probable causes of his headache and other symptoms.

65) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweat, or perspiration, can be a symptom indicating internal imbalances. The patient did not report abnormal sweating, which was part of the overall assessment.

66) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa in Ayurveda refers to taste and also physiological fluids. The clarity of Rasa, including the patient’s salivation and tongue characteristics, helped in diagnosing the underlying dosha imbalances.

67) Mala:
Mala refers to excretory products. The patient’s Mala or bowel habits (constipation) were symptomatic of Vata imbalance and formed an essential part of the overall assessment.

68) Shri (Sri, Sr):
Shri is part of the institution’s name, Shri Krishna Ayush University, where the integrative medicine protocol was implemented for treating the patient.

69) Mana:
Mana, similar to Manas, refers to the mind. Managing the patient's psychological state was crucial due to predominant Rajas influencing his symptoms and overall health.

70) Fear:
Fear was one of the psychological factors impacting the patient’s health, indicated by tongue symptoms and managed through integrative therapeutic strategies including counseling and yoga.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �NSAID Dependency in Shirshool Headaches Treated with Integrative Medicine�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Vatadosha, Pittadosha, Kaphadosha, Yogic practice, Ayurvedic medicine, Counseling Sessions, Integrative Medicine, Preventive healthcare, Prakriti evaluation, Drug dependence, NSAID, Ashtavidh Pariksha, Tongue Examination.

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