Abstract

Shalini Singh, Ajay Kumar Pandey*, Sanjay Kumar Tripathi and Priyaranjan Tiwari

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Otitis media is an inflammatory condition affecting the mucous membrane of the middle ear cleft characterized by purulent ear discharge along with swelling, pain and perforation of tympanic membrane. Prolonged condition causes mastoiditis, sub-periosteal abscess, trigeminal neuralgia, facial paralysis, meningitis and labrynthitis. As per Acharya Sushruta Karnasrava is the condition characterized by discharge from Karna (ear) and occurs mainly due to Avarana of Vata doshas. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of Ayurvedic medications on Karnasrava (chronic suppurative otitis media) cases. Methodology: In this study, a patient fulfilling the diagnostic and inclusion criteria of chronic otitis media was selected and an Ayurvedic medication (Trikatu churna, Tankan bhasma, Godanti bhasma, Praval bhasma, Sarivadi vati and Haridrakhand) was given for three months. The efficacy of the drug was analyzed in terms of the relief produced in the signs and symptoms before and after treatment. Discussion: If we go in details, we found that long lasting blockade in Eustachian tube and improper treatment are the main reason to existing chronic otitis media. If we treat chronic suppurative otitis media what will be the principles to treat it? The common principles to treat chronic suppurative otitis media are antibiotic drops, steroid containing drops, aural toilet, granulation tissue control, systemic therapy and surgery for chronic ear disease (myringoplasty/tympanoplasty and mastoidectomy). The main focus of treating the disease should be removing the blockade of Eustachian tube and ventilation of middle ear cleft and to control the secretions. Here in this case we applied only systemic medicine by oral route. Conclusion: After the treatment with Ayurvedic medicines as we can say that Karnasrava is a disease which is known from ancient era. Chronic suppurative otitis media (tubotympanic type) is similar to Karnasrava as described by Acharya Sushruta. It can be treated with Ayurvedic medicines. Results after treatment are encouraging. Effects of Ayurvedic medicines are long lasting and drugs are also safe.