Management of recurrent attacks of pancreatitis through Ayurveda

Abstract

Chronic pancreatitis progressively damages the pancreas and results in the loss of its function. Constant and disabling pain or pain in the form of recurrent attacks of pancreatitis is usually the main symptom. The available conventional treatments may provide temporary pain relief and manage the complications but cannot arrest the progression of the disease. In the early stages of illness, its diagnosis remains challenging and therapeutic challenges are faced by clinicians due to its development into adenocarcinoma and if it is not treated early, resulting in steatorrhea, diabetes, local complications, and associated psychosocial issues. In Ayurveda, this disorder can be correlated with Grahaṇi (~derangement of Agni situated in Grahaṇi) and is clinically characterized by indigestion, decreased appetite, pain in the abdomen, and nausea caused by Agnisada (~diminution of digestive power). The principle of treatment is Vata pitta shamaka-kriya (~remedies which balance the Vata and Pitta dosha), Mriduvirechana (~ mild purgation), and use of Yakrutottejaka (~hepatostimulant), Pramehaghna (~pancreas protective), and Rasayana (~rejuvenating) formulations. In this case report, a 30-year-old female patient, a known case of chronic pancreatitis with recurrent abdominal pain for the last 2½ years, was managed effectively with Ayurvedic medications. The outcome assessment was based on the changes in the visual analog scale, the need for analgesics, improvement in appetite, digestion, and hemoglobin level, restoration of serum lipase level, and changes observed in symptoms after 42 days of treatment. Recurrence of pain was not observed during the follow-up period. The case infers that Ayurvedic medicines can offer an excellent approach to the management of pancreatitis.