AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF BADHIRYA W.S.R TO SENSORY NEURAL HEARING LOSS- A SINGLE CASE REPORT

Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO) has defined hearing loss as “a person who is not able to hear as well as someone with normal hearing-a hearing threshold of 25 dB or better in both ears.” 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). On the basis of symptoms, it can be corelated with Badhirya in ancient text. As Badhirya (SNHL) 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. According to Acharya Vagbhatta “Ucchekrachatashurti” (who can’t listen to the loud sound), he eventually suffers from Badhirya (SNHL). 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 15 years. Marsha Nasya with Anu Taila, Karnapurana with Bilwadi Taila, and SarivadiVati (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.