Behcet disease consists of the classical triad symptoms of recurrent oral ulcers, genital ulcers, and inflammation in the eyes. It is a rare autoimmune disease caused by generalized inflammation of arteries; most probably arising from an autoimmune response triggered by an exposure to an infectious agent, especially in genetically predisposed individuals. Inflammation of arteries (vasculitis), clot formation (thrombosis), and ballooning of artery walls (aneurysms) are the mechanisms which cause the symptoms and damage to the body systems in this disease.
The onset of symptoms is usually in the age from 20-40 years. In addition to mucocutaneous involvement, multiple systems in the body may be involved. Usually, involvement of only skin and mucous membranes denotes a mild course of disease, whereas serious manifestation may occur with involvement of the eyes, nervous system, heart, lungs, intestines and kidneys. Symptoms usually exhibit a relapsing and remitting course. There are no specific diagnostic tests for this condition, though the pathergy needle prick test may help with the diagnosis.
The Ayurvedic herbal treatment of Behcet disease commences with cellular detoxification as well as healing treatment of the affected parts of the body. Since inflammation of arteries is the hallmark pathology of this condition, the mainstay of treatment revolves around treating this inflammation aggressively as well giving herbal medicines for gradually bringing about immune modulation. If important organs are affected, these are treated on a priority basis to prevent serious damage and reduce mortality from this disease. Those individuals who have access to Ayurvedic Panchkarma treatment can opt for a course of raktamokshan (bloodletting) and tikta-ksheer basti (medicated enema).
Once the patient starts improving with treatment, other treatment to normalize metabolism and bring about a rejuvenation of the body systems, is started. This facilitates gradual tapering of medicines and prevents relapse of symptoms in the long run. Depending upon the severity of symptoms and response to treatment, most affected individuals require treatment for periods ranging from 8 – 18 months for a complete remission of symptoms and cessation of therapy after gradual tapering of medicines. Ayurvedic herbal treatment can significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality resulting from this disease.
It is equally important to avoid known trigger factors, reduce or manage stress, adapt relaxation techniques, bring about positive lifestyle modifications, and consume healing foods, mostly in the form of fresh vegetables and fruits.
The writer, Dr A A Mundewadi, is available as an Ayurvedic consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of Behcet disease, kindly click on this link https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com/product-page/behcet-s-disease
