Role of Ayurveda in the Management of Unilateral Mixed Hearing Loss

Mixed hearing loss involves both conductive and sensorineural components, resulting from the combined dysfunction of the middle and inner ear. This case report describes a 12-year-old male child who presented with reduced hearing in the right ear for approximately six months. The hearing loss was unilateral, gradual in onset, and non-progressive, with no associated tinnitus, vertigo, ear pain, or discharge. A history of mumps infection approximately three years earlier, presenting with fever and right-sided parotid swelling, was noted. Mumps is a recognized cause of acquired unilateral sensorineural hearing loss and can result in permanent cochlear damage. Otolaryngological examination revealed Grade II adenoid hypertrophy, which may have contributed to the conductive component by causing Eustachian tube dysfunction and impaired middle-ear ventilation. Pure-tone audiometry showed severe mixed hearing loss in the right ear, with a pure-tone average (PTA) of 113dB, while hearing in the left ear remained normal. Hearing-aid rehabilitation had previously been advised, but the patient subsequently opted for Ayurvedic treatment. An inpatient Ayurvedic treatment protocol was administered, including internal medications, Snehapana, Abhyanga with Swedana, Virechana, Ksheeradhuma Nasya, Shirovasti, and Karnapoorana for 18 days, with follow-ups every three months. After three treatment cycles, the result of the Pure Tone Average (PTA) in the right ear improved from above 113dB to 80dB. The improvement was maintained during subsequent follow-up. From an Ayurvedic perspective, the condition was assessed as Karnabadhirya, predominantly involving Vata with associated Kapha. This case indicates a possible supportive role for Ayurvedic management in chronic mixed hearing loss.