Ayurvedic Management of Under Diagnosed Complication of Type -1 Diabetes Mellitus (Gastro Enteropathy): A Case Report

Abstract

Diabetic Gastroenteropathy is a complication of long-standing diabetes that primarily affects the small and large intestines. It happens when chronic high blood sugar damages the autonomic nerves controlling the digestive tract it known as Autonomic neuropathy. This nerve damage disrupts the coordinated, wave-like muscle contractions needed to move food smoothly through the gut. Diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, bloating, Nausea and altered bowel habits are common complication due to Diabetic Gastroenteropathy. In the initial stage, kapha, Meda, and Kleda may be considered predominant in the pathogenesis of Prameha. Persistent metabolic disturbance may subsequently result in Agni dushti and impaired functioning of Grahani. With chronicity, Vata prakopa and disturbance of Apana Vaya, can affect intestinal motility and evacuation. In this case study a 44-year-old man presented to the Kayachikitsa OPD with the complaints of Atisar (loose motion-7-9times/night), Udarshool (abdominal discomfort), Pindikodwestan (Calf muscles Pain) and Swasa (Difficulty in breathing while climbing stairs) since 7-8 months. He had been diagnosed Type -1 Diabetes Mellitus 11yrs ago. Patient was admitted in Kayachikitsa IPD, for the treatment of complication associated with Diabetes. Patient was treated by Grahi, Deepan, Pachan and Madhumehahar Drugs. After 15 days of treatment improvement was observed in Atisar with a reduction in stool frequency to 1-2 times per night, along with relief from calf muscles pain and abdominal discomfort. Thereafter antidiabetic treatment for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus was continued. After one-month moderate improvement was observed in FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar), and insulin dose was gradually tapered. The patient remained stable on the prescribed insulin regimen and continued the treatment for 3 months. This case report highlights the clinical presentation and Ayurvedic management of Vataja Atisar in a patient with diabetic gastroenteropathy and suggests the potential role of Ayurvedic management of complication Diabetes Mellitus.