CONCEPTUAL STUDY OF VATASTHEELA IN RELATION TO BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common geriatric condition characterized by non-malignant enlargement of the prostate leading to Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS). Factors such as genetics, dietary habits and lifestyle may contribute to its development. Clinically, patients present with urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, nocturia, weak or intermittent urinary stream, and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. In Ayurveda, BPH can be correlated with Mutraghata, particularly Vatastheela and Mutragranthi, based on similar clinical manifestations such as urinary retention, obstruction and bladder distension. According to Ayurvedic pathogenesis, the condition occurs due to vitiation of Apanavayu along with imbalance of Kapha and Pitta Dosha, resulting in obstruction of the urinary passage. In modern medicine, management includes conservative therapy and surgical interventions; however, surgical procedures may lead to complications such as bleeding, urethral stricture, urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction and retrograde ejaculation. Therefore, understanding the disease through both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives may help in exploring safer and more holistic management approaches.