Chronic inflammatory
demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an acquired immune-related inflammatory
disorder of the peripheral nervous system, usually involving the nerve roots. This condition involves the loss of
protective covering of the peripheral nerves.
Symptoms of CIDP can be quite variable, and include numbness, tingling,
pain, burning pain, progressive muscular weakness, loss of deep tendon
reflexes, and abnormal sensation. This
condition usually results from an auto immune reaction. The symptoms may be progressive and
intermittent. Autonomic dysfunction may
be present in addition to the other symptoms, and includes symptoms like
giddiness, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and cardiac problems. Investigations like electromyography and
nerve conduction studies are necessary for the diagnosis of CIDP. The modern management of CIDP includes the
use of steroids, plasmapheresis, intravenous immunoglobin and immuno-suppressants. The prognosis of this condition is variable
and includes relapses and remissions.
Ayurvedic herbal
treatment for CIDP involves the use of herbal medicines which have a specific
action on nerve cells and on the entire nervous system. These medicines help in a gradual and
progressive regeneration of damaged peripheral nerves, and thereby gradually
reduce symptoms. Medicines may also be
given for immunomodulation of the affected individual, so as to reduce the auto
immune reaction and prevent further damage to the nervous system. Specific symptoms need to be treated
separately.
Supplementary
treatment can be given in the form of local massage of the entire body or the
affected limbs with the use of medicated oils, as well as the use of
fomentation using medicated steam. This
treatment can hasten the process of recovery and provide a sense of well-being.
Depending upon the
severity of the condition, treatment can be given for periods ranging from 6
to12 months. Most individuals affected with
CIDP usually obtain significant improvement with the help of Ayurvedic herbal treatment. Long-term treatment with herbal medicines can
also help to prevent relapses. Ayurvedic
herbal treatment is thus very useful in the management and treatment of CIDP.
The writer, Dr. A. A.
Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at https://www.mundewadiayurvedicclinic.com and www.ayurvedaphysician.com For Ayurvedic herbal treatment of CIDP, kindly click here
