A Case Report on Ayurvedic Management of Anterior Uveitis

Abstract

Uveitis describes an inflammatory condition affecting the uveal tract, with involvement that may be localized to the anterior, intermediate, or posterior regions^.Because these structures are anatomically continuous, inflammation commonly spreads beyond the initial site to encompass the entire uvea.The clinical features of uveitis, particularly pain, redness, watering, photophobia and visual disturbance, can be correlated with Sashopha Akshipaka, described under Sarvakṣhi Roga by the Ayurvedic Acharyas. Sashopha Akshipaka is characterized by inflammatory manifestations of the eye, making it a relevant Ayurvedic clinical correlate of anterior uveitis. A 31-year-old female presented with a 9-month history of recurrent pain and redness in the right eye associated with photophobia, headache, and vomiting. The condition was diagnosed as unilateral uveitis. She was managed with Ayurvedic internal medications such as Gokshura Choornam, Guluchyadi kashaya, ,Guggulu Panchapala Choornam, Kaisora Guggulu, Patoladi Ghritham , Patolakaturohinyadi Kashayam ,Trivrith Choornam, Vaiswanara Choornam, along with Jalauka Avacharana and  Procedures like Kashayadhara, Snehapanam, Abhyanga ushma sweda, Virechanam, Pratimarsha nasyam, Ksheeradhara, Sekam, Aschothanam, Bidalakam, Shirolepam and Putapakam. After seven sittings of leech therapy along with two courses of inpatient Ayurvedic treatment, the patient experienced significant and sustained relief. Marked improvement was observed after the first inpatient treatment, after a three months interval ,the patient was re admitted for a second course of in patient admission following which complete resolution of symptoms was achieved . No recurrence was noted during follow-up. This case highlights the potential role of Ayurvedic management, including Jalauka Avacharana, in chronic uveitis, especially in patients seeking alternatives to long-term conventional therapy.