Stroke

Stroke is a serious condition that greatly affects everyday life, categorized as a cerebrovascular accident impacting the brain. There are two primary types: ischemic stroke, which occurs due to a blockage, and haemorrhagic stroke, which happens when a blood vessel ruptures. Both types impede blood and oxygen supply to areas of the brain, resulting in cell death.

In Ayurveda, stroke is associated with Pakshaghata or Pakshavadha, where "Paksha" means one side of the body and "Aghata" signifies impairment. This condition impacts the sensory and motor functions on one side. The term "Vadha" indicates destruction. Pakshaghata is categorized as a vatavyadhi, a disorder resulting from an imbalance of vata  humor. These vata imbalances can occur due to obstruction of the normal vata flow (avarana) or a reduction in tissue factors (Dhatukshaya).

Symptoms of stroke

1. Loss of strength in one half of the body
2. Paralysis of one half of the body
3. Loss of consciousness/ altered consciousness
4. Loss of activity and coordination
5. Stiffness or hypotonia
6. Impaired speech
7. Vague pain/complex regional pain syndrome
8. Disuse atrophy
9. Tendency to fall
10. Heaviness
11. Coldness or burning sensation

Causes of Stroke

Aharajanya (Dietary factors) : Excess intake of dry, light, cold ,spicy, pungent foods without considering the digestive fire

Viharajanya (Life style factors): hard working, over exercises, sleeplessness, over riding, weight bearing. Lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cardiac diseases.

 Manasajanya (Mental factors) : Anger, depression, over thinking

Abhighataja (Traumatic causes)- Injury to head and spinal cord, infections, accidents, injury to vital partsManagThe primary treatments in Ayurveda for Pakshaghata include:

Management

1. Snehana (Oiling): This involves the application of medicated oils to nourish and lubricate the body, promoting the flow of vata and alleviating dryness and stiffness both internally and externally
2. Swedana (Sudation): This therapy induces sweating to help open up the channels of circulation, facilitating the removal of toxins and restoring balance.
3. Kizhi: A treatment where herbal powders or rice are heated and applied in pouches to the affected areas, providing both warmth and therapeutic benefits.
4. Dhara: This involves pouring medicated oil or other liquids over the forehead or body, which helps in calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation.
5. Virecana (Purgation): A detoxification process that cleanses the body by eliminating accumulated toxins, which can help restore balance.
6. Vasti (Enema): Administering herbal enemas can be an effective way to address vata imbalances and promote digestive health.
7. Nasya (Nasal Administration): This therapy involves administering herbal oils or powders through the nasal passages, which can enhance brain function and improve overall well-being.

In addition to these medicinal treatments, specific exercises play a vital role in recovery. Tailored physical activities help improve strength, coordination, and mobility, facilitating better rehabilitation outcomes.

The Ayurvedic management of Pakshaghata emphasizes a comprehensive approach to stroke rehabilitation. By addressing the root causes of imbalances in the doshas and integrating both therapeutic and physical interventions, Ayurveda provides a holistic pathway toward recovery and improved quality of life.