AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SHUSHKASHIPAKA (DRY EYE SYNDROME): A CASE REPORT

Shushkakshipaka is described in Ayurveda as a Sarvagata Netra Roga, characterized by Daruna Ruksha Vartma (hard and rough eyelids), Avila Darshanam (blurred vision), and Daruna Pratibodhana (difficulty in opening the eyes). Tears play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the ocular surface. When the quantity or quality of tears is compromised, it leads to Dry Eye Syndrome.Based on similarities in etiopathogenesis and clinical presentation, Shushkakshipaka can be correlated with Dry Eye Syndrome. With the increasing global prevalence of dry eye, it poses a therapeutic challenge due to the limited curative options available in conventional medicine. Conventional management primarily includes artificial tear substitutes and lubricants, which provide only temporary symptomatic relief. This study presents a single case report of a 62-year-old male who attended the OPD of Shalakya Tantra with complaints of bilateral ocular dryness, blurred vision, foreign body sensation, and visual fatigue persisting for one year. He was diagnosed with Shushkakshipaka. The treatment was planned according to the classical Chikitsa Sutra of Shushkakshipaka, including Seka, Nasya, Tarpana, along with appropriate Shamana Oushadhis. After completion of the treatment protocol, the patient showed marked improvement in both subjective symptoms as well as objective ocular findings. No adverse effects were observed during or after the treatment period.Ayurvedic therapeutic modalities aim at correcting the underlying doṣic imbalance and restoring normal ocular physiology. They also provide a holistic, effective, and safer alternative for the long-term management of this modern lifestyle disorder.