Ayurveda Management of Schizophrenia – A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction- Schizophrenia is a complex, chronic mental health disorder  characterized by an array of symptoms, including delusions, hallucinations,  disorganized speech or behavior and impaired cognitive ability. Schizophrenia  is a lifelong condition, but treatment can help manage the symptoms. 

Case description- A 28 year old female presented in the OPD with headache,  disturbed sleep, increased anger and feeling sadness, more in the evening, since  5 months. Detailed interrogation with her mother revealed that she had  irritability, increased anger, disturbed sleep and impulsivity. On mental status  examination, she was found to have restricted mood and affect in addition to  somatic passivity. The case was diagnosed as Schizophrenia, based on the  diagnostic criteria mentioned in International Classification of Diseases 10th revision. As per the Ayurveda clinical examination, the case can be considered  as Sannipathika Unmaada with PittaVata predominance. 

Management - The case was managed in the Inpatient department. Internal  medicines were given to address the symptoms along with procedures like  takrapana followed by uttamamatra snehapana, abhyanga ushmasweda and  virechana. Thereafter Nasya, Thalam, Sirodhara And Dhoopana was done.  Yoga and pranayama along with Smriti meditation was also done. Result 

Significant improvement were noted in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale  (PANSS) score after treatment.