Kawasaki syndrome is a potentially fatal inflammatory disorder which usually affects infants and children, especially of Asian descent. This condition is also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome and is believed to be an allergic reaction or an unusual response to certain types of infections. In this condition, inflammation affects several organ systems in the body such as the skin, mucous membrane, circulatory system, heart, and immune system. Common symptoms include an acute onset, high fever, skin rash, peeling of skin, redness and swelling of mucous membranes, a strawberry appearance of the tongue, lymph node enlargement, arthritis, pneumonia, diarrhoea, meningitis, myocarditis, arrhythmia, arteritis and gangrene. This condition is associated with 1 to 2% mortality, with death occurring suddenly and unpredictably, within six months of infection. Therefore, intensive hospital care is required in the acute stages and regular, long term follow is required till complete recovery.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment for Kawasaki syndrome is aimed at treating the infection as well as allergic reaction, improving the immunity of the body, preventing long term complications, and reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. Ayurvedic herbal medicines which have a specific anti-infective, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory action are used in high uses and for prolonged periods in the management of this condition, till complete recovery is obtained. Simultaneously, other herbal medicines are used in order to treat the allergic reactions, reduce inflammation and prevent or reduce damage to affected organs and systems. Adequate immunomodulation of the body is required in order to prevent the risk of sudden death.
Herbal medicines are also used in order to remove the toxin generated from the circulatory system either through the kidneys or through the gastrointestinal tract. This helps in an early recovery as well as a significant reduction in the chances for long-term complications or sudden death. Most individuals affected with Kawasaki syndrome require aggressive and regular Ayurvedic herbal treatment for about six to eight months in order to achieve a significant remission or cure of this condition, and minimize the chances for a recurrence or complications. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant contribution to play in the management and treatment of Kawasaki syndrome.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
