Abstract

A CASE REPORT OF ACUTE ESOPHAGEAL SPASM MIMICKING HEART ATTACK AFTER CONSUMPTION OF BETEL QUID (TAMBULASEVAN)

*Dr. Patil Asmita

ABSTRACT

Tambulasevan (consumption of betel quid/Paan) is a part of Indian tradition. It is customary to offer paan to guests as a part of hospitality. Ayurvedic classics mention chewing betel leaves and its benefits in the context of Dinacharya (daily regimen). It is said to be digestive, stimulant, aphrodisiac and good for oral hygiene, and taste correction. A mild uneasiness or discomfort has been complained by many after consumption of betel quid. However, acute esophageal spasm that mimicked heart attack has not yet been reported. Esophageal spasms are painful contractions of muscles of esophagus. Esophageal spasms can be like sudden, severe chest pain lasting for a few minutes to hours. Esophageal spasms occur occasionally and might not even need treatment. In this particular case, an octogenarian presented with severe acute esophageal spasms that felt like a heart attack soon after the consumption of betel quid. Personal history revealed that he is a healthy individual without any history of medical condition or medications. He is non- alcoholic, non -smoker, not addicted to tea, paan, tobacco or supari. The patient follows an ideal healthy lifestyle. He is physically and mentally fit and active for his age. The symptoms of acute esophageal spasm were relieved by nidan parivarjan, vata and pitta shamak dravya. There was no history of relapse in the follow up.

Keywords: Chest pain, esophageal spasm, betel quid, paan, supari, tambula sevan.