Ayurvedic management of Badhirya w.s.r. to Sensory Neural Hearing Loss - A Single Case Report

Introduction: Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is a type of hearing loss or deafness in which the root cause lies in the inner ear or sensory organ (cochlea and associated structures) or the vestibulocochlear nerve (cranial nerve VIII). According to ancient Acharyas, Badhirya is caused by the vitiated Vata Dosha or Vata-Kapha Doshas obstructing the Shabdavaha Srotas (pathway of hearing) or Shabdavaha Sira (auditory nerve) or by the negligence of Karnanada (tinnitus), etc., and gives rise to diminished hearing or incapability of hearing. In Vataja Badhirya patient is unable to differentiate the sound. So on the basis of sign and symptom it can be correlated with Sensory neural hearing loss. Aim: To evaluate the effect of Marsha Nasya with Anu Taila, Karnapurana with Bilwadi Taila and Sarivadi Vati (orally) in the management of Badhirya (SNHL). Materials and Methods: The subject approached Shalakya Tantra OPD with complaints like decreased hearing along with trouble in understanding speech since 1 years. Marsha Nasya with Anu Taila, Karnapurana with Bilwadi Taila, and Sarivadi Vati (orally) were prescribed for the treatment of the mentioned complaints for 6 months. Discussion: Vata Vyadhi Chikitsa Siddhant can be implemented as the management of Badhirya. The disease is Vata and Kapha predominant. Karnapurana and Nasya are the most prescribed procedures in the management of Badhirya, and thus attempts are made to bring about excellent results. Results: This case study indicates the significance of Ayurvedic management in Badhirya, which was confirmed by subjective improvement and by audiometric findings.