Abstract

Dr. Chaithra A. N.*, Dr. Priya Bhat, Dr. Srinivasa S. and Dr. Sowjanya J.

ABSTRACT

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common, distressing, and at times potentially life-threatening condition, characterized by the entry, persistence, and multiplication of bacteria within the urinary tract.[1] UTIs are particularly prevalent among cancer patients, often arising as a complication of chemotherapy due to immunosuppression.[2] Additionally, women who have undergone Radical Hysterectomy are at increased risk of developing recurrent UTIs, owing to anatomical and functional changes in the pelvic region that affect bladder dynamics and urinary tract integrity.[3] The condition typically presents with symptoms like dysuria accompanied by burning micturition, increased urinary frequency, and urgency.[4] In Ayurvedic terms, these symptoms correlate with Pittaja Mutrakrichra, wherein the vitiated Pitta dosha, in association with Apana Vayu, affects the Basti (bladder) and disturbs the Mutravaha Srotas (urinary channels), leading to manifestations such as Peetamutrata (yellow urine), Sadahamutrata (burning urination), Krichramutrata (difficulty in urination), Saraktamutrata (haematuria), and Muhurmuhurmutra Pravritti (frequent urination).[5] Management of Mutrakrichra involves Shamana (palliative therapy) through Pitta-hara (cooling and anti-inflammatory), Vatanulomana (regulation of vata), and Basti Shodhana (cleansing of the bladder). In this case study, a 37-year-old female with a history of radical hysterectomy and post chemotherapy diagnosed with recurrent UTI was treated with Shamana and Rasayana (rejuvenative) therapies as per Ayurvedic principles. The treatment led to significant improvement in symptoms and normalization of urine examination findings without any side effects. Notably, there was no recurrence of UTI during the follow-up period. This case highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic management in addressing Mutrakrichra, offering a holistic and sustainable approach to treating recurrent UTIs.