Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. It is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can obstruct the airways, impair lung function, and hinder the proper digestion of food.
Symptoms –
Common symptoms of CF includes –
• Chronic coughing
• Frequent lung infections
• Wheezing
• Breathlessness
• Poor weight gain despite a good appetite
• Greasy stools
• Nutritional deficiencies
Causes and Types –
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) gene. This gene regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of the body’s cells, affecting the consistency of mucus and digestive juices. CF is an autosomal recessive disorder, meaning that both parents must carry a mutated CFTR gene for their child to inherit the condition.
There are several types of CF, classified based on the specific mutation in the CFTR gene. The most common type is the Delta F508 mutation, which accounts for approximately 70% of CF cases.
Risk Factors –
• The primary risk factor for cystic fibrosis is having a family history of the condition. If both parents are carriers of the CFTR gene mutation, there is a 25% chance of their child inheriting CF.
• Other risk factors include certain ethnic backgrounds, such as Caucasians of Northern European descent, as well as consanguineous marriages.
Complications –
If left untreated or poorly managed, cystic fibrosis can lead to several complications. These include chronic lung infections, progressive lung damage, respiratory failure, malnutrition, diabetes, liver disease, and infertility in males.
Diagnosis –
CF is typically diagnosed through a combination of sweat tests, genetic testing, and clinical evaluation.
Treatment –
While there is no cure for CF, conventional treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may involve medications to thin mucus, bronchodilators, antibiotics to treat infections, pancreatic enzyme supplements, and nutritional support.
Ayurvedic Perspective and Treatment –
Ayurveda views cystic fibrosis as an imbalance of the “Kapha” dosha, which represents the elements of water and earth. According to Ayurveda, CF can be managed through a combination of dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, herbal remedies, and Panchakarma therapies. Ayurvedic treatments aim to reduce congestion, strengthen digestion, improve lung function, and boost overall vitality.
▪︎ Ayurvedic Therapies
• Nasya: Administration of medicated oils or herbal preparations through the nasal passage to alleviate respiratory congestion.
• Swedana: Herbal steam therapy to promote sweating and detoxification.
• Panchakarma: A cleansing therapy that includes procedures like Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) and Virechana (therapeutic purgation) to remove toxins from the body.
▪︎ Herbal Remedies
Ayurvedic herbs improve respiratory health, reduce inflammation, and support digestion.
• Tulsi (Holy Basil)
• Yashtimadhu (Licorice)
• Trikatu (a combination of ginger, black pepper, and long pepper)
• Indrayav (Holharrhina antidysentrica)
• Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa)
• Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus)
• Patha ( Cissampelos pareira)
• Musta (Cyperus rotundus)
• Amalaki (Emblica officinalis)
• Baheda (Terminalia bellerica)
• Haritaki (Terminalia chebula)
▪︎ Ayurvedic Medicines
• Talisapatradi churna
• Vyoshadi vataka
• Vidangadi churna
• Agastya haritaki
• Vasarishtam
• Kanakasava
• Juice of leaves of vasa (Adathoda vasica) along with honey
• Karpooradi taila application on chest region during breathing difficulty
▪︎ Lifestyle Modifications: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to promote overall well-being. This includes managing stress levels, getting adequate rest, and engaging in regular exercise. Stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga may be beneficial in supporting the body’s healing processes.
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