Multiple organ failure is also known as multiple system organ failure and is a medical condition which involves a progressively deteriorating dysfunction of two or more organs or organ systems in the body, usually resulting from severe infection or a generalised process of sepsis in the body. Infection causes generalised and systemic inflammation in the body as a result of which multiple organ and multiple system failure gradually occurs, involving the circulatory system, lungs, liver, kidneys, intestines and central nervous system. This is further compounded by various blood disorders which complicate the situation and reduce chances for an early recovery. Multiple organ failure needs to be treated in the intensive care of very well equipped hospitals and involves generalised supportive care, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, steroids, and other medications to treat the overall condition. In spite of technologically advanced supportive care in hospitals, mortality continues to be very high in individuals affected with multiple organ failure.
Because of the high associated mortality, it is very important to add Ayurvedic herbal treatment as supportive management in the treatment of all individuals affected with multiple organ failure. Ayurvedic herbal medicines have a very important role in treating infection as well as reducing inflammation of different organs and systems in the body. In addition to controlling and treating inflammation, Ayurvedic herbal medicines also reduce the toxins generated and remove these from the circulatory system either through the gastrointestinal system or through the kidneys.
Ayurvedic herbal medicines can also be used to boost the immune status of the body so as to help in the fight against the infection and inflammation. Ayurvedic medicines can also be used to improve and maintain blood perfusion to vital organs and systems of the body so as to maintain and preserve life and reduce morbidity and mortality. Depending upon the specific organs affected and the specific known cause for the condition, Ayurvedic herbal medicines can be used so as to reduce the damage to the specific organs and bring about an early recovery, with a minimisation of immediate and long-term damage. Ayurvedic herbal treatment in such situations may be required for about two to eight weeks.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of multiple organ failure.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
