Abstract

ROLE OF AYURVEDA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SJOGREN’S SYNDROME

Gunjan Sharma, Arun Kumar*, Renu Peasad, Akanksha and Kalpana Khanduri

ABSTRACT

Sjogren’s syndrome is a chronic slowly progressive autoimmune exocrinopathy distinguished by lymphatic infilteration of lacrimal and salivary glands. It is the third most common Rheumatic disorder, after Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The average age of onset is 40-60 years with estimated prevalence of upto 3% of population. The triads of Sjogren’s Syndrome is keratoconjunctivitis sicca (Dry eye), Xerostomia (Dry mouth) & Rheumatoid Arthritis. There are no known curative treatment but management is symptomatic. If remain untreated, it can increases the risk of corneal blindness and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cancer of lymph glands). Contrary to available modern management regimen, Ayurveda propounds a systematic systemic and local treatment approach in the treatment of Sjogren’s Syndrome. Thus, Deepana, Pachana and Shodhan Aushadhi systemically and locally Kriyakalpa procedures in the two forms in amavastha (Seka & Ashchyotana) and in niramavastha (Anjana, Akshitarpana & Nasya). This treatment module regulates the exocrine glands (Tear gland & Salivary glands), helps in improvement of visual acuity, balances the tridosha, boosts immunity, deepens sleep and relieves tension. Thus, Ayurveda can be a ray of hope in the management of Sjogren’s syndrome which is very pathetic to conventional system of medicine.

Keywords: Sjogren’s syndrome, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Ayurvedic treatment.