Category: Insomnia

May 5, 2022

Ayurvedic Management of Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoKPP)

Abstract

All of you might be aware of Paralysis , which has become very common nowadays. It is the loss of muscular functions in any part of your body which may occur  due to stroke ,spinal injury, etc. But have  you ever heard about incidence of a recurrent paralysis caused by imbalance of mineral content of your body? Lets know more about one such condition.

HYPOKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoKPP) is a disorder which causes episodes of severe muscle weakness usually commencing in early childhood. It is a rare autosomal dominant channelopathy attributed to weakness of muscle or paralysis when there is a decrease in potassium levels in the blood (less than 3.5.mmol/l). It affects about 1 in 100,000 people  and is more common in men. It is commonly a genetic disorder in which at least one parent is affected. There is a 50-percentage chance for an affected individual to have an affected offspring. Acquired cases of HypoKPP are also recognized which are related to hyperthyroidism.

HYPOKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS

CAUSES

Channelopathies are ailments caused by the dysfunction of ion channels.Ion channels are proteins that allow ions to pass through and involve functions such as maintaining a resting membrane potential, shaping action potentials and other electrical signals, thus acting on movements of the body.

Causes of HypoKPP are understood as following

  • Mutations in the CACNA1S or SCN4A gene :It reforms the usual anatomy and physiology of calcium or sodium channels, making the ions flow slowly but constantly into muscle cells, which reduces the muscle contraction. This results in episodes of severe muscle weakness or paralysis.
  • Acquired HypoKPP has been linked with thyrotoxicosis.
  • Periodic muscle weakness can also result from hypokalemia secondary to renal or gastrointestinal potassium loss in diseases like renal tubular acidosis, gastroenteritis, or other endocrine causes.

CLINICAL FEATURES

Symptoms of Familial HypoKPP have generally been exhibited since childhood. The frequency of attacks seems to decline with age. In the case of thyrotoxic HypoKPP, the onset is commonly after age 20.

  • Premonitory signs like exhaustion, paresthesia, behavioral differences.
  • Attacks of generalized muscle weakness, with proximal muscle involvement more significant than distal muscles. It causes severe weakness or paralysis that usually lasts from hours to days. Few people may have episodes almost every day, while others encounter them weekly, monthly, or just rarely
  • Muscle cramps, discomfort
  • In serious cases it may direct to cardiac arrhythmia or respiratory muscle paralysis which can be deadly
  • Attacks can be provoked by factors such as rest after a workout, a viral infection, or certain medications. Occasionally, a heavy, carbohydrate-rich meal or vigorous exercise in the evening can trigger an attack upon waking the next morning. Even though affected individuals usually retrieve their muscle strength between attacks, some emerge with persistent muscle weakness throughout their life.

INVESTIGATIONS AND DIAGNOSIS

  • Positive family history
  • Sudden onset of flaccid muscle weakness especially  proximal muscles with decreased deep tendon reflexes and drop in serum potassium level
  • Genetic testing  to identify gene mutation
  • Electromyography :During attacks of weakness, EMG shows decreased amplitude of compound muscle action potential (CAMP)
  • Exercise test:a strenuous exercise of a single muscle for 2-5 minutes is done to initiate focal muscle weakness and the change in post exercise CAMP in muscle fibers is measured by the EMG

MANAGEMENT

The major aim of treatment is to cure the symptoms of acute attacks, prevention and management of complications, and prevent future attacks. Judicious intake of oral  potassium chloride to maintain serum potassium levels,lifestyle modifications and preventing triggering factors can be done.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT

Ayurveda is the ancient system of healing. It has a holistic approach to the wellness of individuals. It is based mainly on three doshas, the three humors which make up a human body. Ayurveda aims to bring equilibrium between these doshas and dhatus(body tissues). Hypokalemic periodic paralysis can be definitely treated with this holistic approach. This can be correlated with Pakshaghata Treatment. Vata dosha and mamsa dhatu(muscle tissues)are involved in this disease’s pathogenesis.  Ayurvedic therapy aims at bringing their level to normalcy.

PLANET AYURVEDA-THE SYMBOL OF PURITY

Planet Ayurveda is a leading venture in the ayurvedic pharmaceutical industry, well known for its credibility and purity. Our products are natural and free from adverse effects. We blend the 5000-year-old ancient knowledge of Ayurveda with modern systematic and scientific approaches. Our aim is the well being of every individual by natural healing. We have a wide range of herbal remedies made from a myriad of drugs which give noteworthy benefits.

Here are some herbal remedies for Hypokalemic periodic paralysis from planet Ayurveda

1. ASHWAGANDHA GHAN VATI

Enriched with the goodness of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), this is a single herb tablet preparation. Ashwagandha is a magical herb with immunoprotective, neuroprotective, and rejuvenating effects. Endowed with active components like withanolides, withaferin, etc., it improves the strength of body muscles. Several studies have also revealed that ashwagandha is rich in potassium. These factors substantiate its use in HypoKPP.

Dose:2 tablets twice a day with warm water is advised.

2. MUSLI STRENGTH CAPSULES

This is a polyherbal formula available in the form of capsules. Made up of two magnificent drugs Safed musli(chlorophytum borivilianum) and gokshura(Tribulus terrestris). Musli helps in enhancing the general fitness of the body and rejuvenates body tissues. Gokshura is abundant in saponins like Protodioscin which helps in muscle strengthening.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with lukewarm water is advocated

3. GANDHAK RASAYAN

It is a sulfur-based preparation available in the form of tablets.It is a versatile drug having results on a wide range of ailments. It influences numerous metabolic processes in the body. It provides you with drudadeha (strong body) and is indicated in dhatu kshaya roga-diseases due to depleted body tissues like muscles in the Ayurvedic classics.

Dosage: it is suggested to take 2 tablets twice or thrice daily with lukewarm water.

4. GREEN ESSENTIALS

This is a fabulous polyherbal preparation attainable in the form of capsules. It contains a myriad of drugs like amla(Emblica Officinalis), grape seed (Vitis Vinifera), green tea etc. Grapes help provide the essential calories and nutrients ideal for muscle development. It also has ample antioxidants which safeguard against free radical damage, induced by exercise.

Dosage: 2 Capsules twice daily, with water after meals are recommended

5. RASARAJESHWAR RAS

Ras Rajeshwar Ras is a herbomineral formulation available in tablet form. It is made with a myriad of herbs and minerals like Suvarna yukta Rasaraj Rasa (Purified and processed Mercury ), Abhrak Satva (Purified and processed Silica), Ashwagandha  (Withania somnifera ) etc. It has got excellent results in dealing with neuro-muscular conditions such as paralysis and helps to strengthen nerves and muscles.

 Dosage:1 tablet twice daily chewed after food is recommended

6. AMRIT KALASH

It is one of the excellently recognized Rasayanas for daily health and longevity. Available in paste form,it is enriched with the excellence of 53  natural herbs and minerals like amla (Phyllanthus emblica), safed chandan (Santalum album), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) etc and has ability to nourish the seven tissues ,provide Bala(vital strength), assisting the body to encounter illness.It also helps increasing your productivity and immunity.

Dosage: It acts most effectively on regular intake of 1teaspoon twice daily.

7. BRAHMA RASAYAN

It is a noteworthy polyherbal preparation in the form of a paste made with the goodness of Amla(Phyllanthus emblica), Shankhpushpi(Convolvulus prostratus), ghee etc . It aids in general weakness and also builds strength, stamina and treats Vata dosha. In addition to that, it has Rasayana (rejuvenating) properties and  acts as a promising antioxidant which slows down the process of cell degeneration and makes you remain healthy.

Dosage: 1 teaspoon  to be taken twice daily after food

Contact at Planet Ayurveda to provide you the costing / ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call at +91-172-521-4040 Or Check Website – www.PlanetAyurveda.com

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis requires proper care .This can be accomplished by avoiding causative factors and with systemic treatments. If untreated it may lead to permanent proximal weakness and even death.Don’t lose hope because Ayurveda indeed helps you in this.You can definitely choose Planet Ayurveda because your wellbeing is our happiness.

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December 15, 2021

An Ayurvedic Guide to Sleep Disorders With Herbal Remedies!

Abstract

Just like any man made machinery needs some rest in between to work properly, so is the case with a human body. While we are continually burning calories and performing various activities like cooking food, walking to our workplace, travelling to some destinations or simply doing some household work, we also need some rest so that the body can recharge its energy levels. This can be done in various ways like sitting ideally for some time or listening to your favorite songs or the best way possible is to get some sleep. The best sleep that is recommended to adults is for 8 hours per day. Any changes in the sleep timings more than or less than 8 hours is not a healthy sign, unless you are indulging in some activities that have been demanding more time recently. For example, if a student is staying late till wee hours, he/she might not be able to sleep for 8 hours per day for a few weeks, but that is not considered a warning sign. But, the problem lies where people have plenty of time to have a sound sleep, but they are busy in their unimportant tasks like watching social media sites, playing video games, chatting with friends late at night causing a lot of problems as they are not having adequate sleep. So, the question arises why is it necessary to have a sleep.

Sleep Disorders

Introduction

One might think that people with sleep disorders like insomnia (where an individual finds it difficult to fall asleep) also live, and perform their daily routine activities without much difficulty. The answer to this question is that the energy stores are recharged while one sleeps. You might not feel energetic, if you didn’t have a good sound sleep and you might not be able to be as efficient as the individual who is getting sound sleep. The molecule that is used for short term storage and transport of energy, ATP (Adenosine triphosphate), is restored by the brain during sleep, and the brain uses 20 percent of the body’s energy while we are awake. Growth hormone, one of the important hormones responsible for the overall growth is also secreted in bursts during sleep. Sometimes, the pattern of a person’s sleep is to be studied, the process is called Polysomnography which is performed in a specialized sleep laboratory.

General Physiology Of Sleep

If we have to see the physiological changes occurring during sleep, then we need to take the role of the brain into consideration. While we are awake it is the brain which controls our actions, be it walking, jumping, driving vehicles, dancing or reacting to any stimulus in the environment. It is our brain itself, which sends signals to the different parts of the body which further enables the body to react to a particular stimulus. So, the physiological changes in the brain are very remarkable, as it restores the supply of ATP which is a molecule that is used for short storage and transport of energy. Another change that happens while sleeping is release of Prolactin hormone which is responsible for breast development and milk production in mammals, that is why it is suggested in pregnant women to have a sleep in daytime also.

Types Of Sleep

There are mainly two types of sleep

  • Non REM Sleep (non-rapid eye movement sleep): It is the first phase of sleep, and during this phase the heart rate and temperature falls considerably and the brain uses less energy.
  • REM Sleep (rapid eye movement sleep): It is also known as paradoxical sleep. Dreams and nightmares occur in this very phase of sleep.

Sleep Disorders

As per medical science the average and recommended time for an ideal sleep is 8 hours. Anything less or more than this prescribed time may lead to cardiovascular diseases, obesity and mental illness.

There are various types of sleep disorders, out of which the following are the most common.

  1. Insomnia
  2. Sleep Apnea
  3. Restless Legs Syndrome
  4. Narcolepsy

1. Insomnia

In this sleep disorder, an individual finds it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. Insomnia can be further divided into 2 main types. First is acute (short term) insomnia and second is chronic (long term) insomnia. Short term or acute insomnia can be there because of some recent change in the life of a patient, like death of some relative, change in location, job stress/job loss, or environmental factors like noise, extreme temperature etc. Whereas, chronic or long term insomnia can be caused by stress, physical ailment that aggravates at night etc.

2. Sleep Apnea

It is a sleep disorder that includes interruption of the breathing of a patient while he/she is sleeping. This sleep disorder can be divided into 2 main types. Obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. In obstructive sleep apnea, one has to gasp for air while sleeping followed by daytime sleepiness and fatigue. Snoring is a common symptom. In central sleep apnea also there is gasping for air, but awakening during night is more common.

3. Restless Legs Syndrome

It is a kind of sleep disorder that doesn’t let the patient fall asleep as while in bed, there is an irresistible urge to move the legs. It might be because of some association with daytime sleepiness and irritability.

4. Narcolepsy

In this sleep disorder one can not control his urge to sleep during daytime and falls asleep with excessive daytime sleepiness.

Herbs For Healthy Sleep

1. Brahmi

It is known by its latin name Bacopa monnieri. It helps in maintaining a good and sound sleep. It helps to maintain a healthy mind, memory and intellect. Not only sleep, but Brahmi also helps in attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), irritable bowel syndrome, and hair growth.

2. Ashwagandha

The Latin name for the Ashwagandha is Withania somnifera. It is a general well being herb, which has a tremendous effect on the central nervous system. It also nourishes tissues and strengthens them to fight infection and calm down anxiety by lowering the stress and hence very useful in acute (short term) insomnia.

3. Shankhpushpi

The Latin name for Shankhpushpi is Convolvulus pluricaulis. It is used in Ayurveda as an enhancer of brain functioning. It is also very useful in reducing the level of the stress hormone that is cortisol, therefore providing a sweet and peaceful sleep which one desires the most.

Lifestyle changes to have a Better Sleep

  • As we reach offices, schools, churches on time. Same should be applied with our sleeping time. We must stick to a fixed and earliest time possible to go to bed leaving behind our gadgets to avoid distraction.
  • Tea and coffee or alcoholic drinks with stimulants should not be consumed after 6 pm in the evening, because doing so will keep mind overactive and it will become difficult to fall asleep.
  • We should include daily and regular exercise in our regime. It will help in better circulation and sleep.
  • Avoid using mobile/tablets or any other source of blue light 30 minutes prior to the bedtime.
  • Use the best and the appropriate bed and bedding according to your fit, so that you should not be wandering in your bed the whole night for a soft corner.
  • Keep a gap of 2 hours between dinner and bedtime, as it will not cause regurgitation of food while sleeping.

Conclusion

To lead a productive and healthy life, one has to have a healthy body. And to have a healthy body it is required to have a calm and healthy mind which is only possible if we are getting good quality and not just quantity of sleep. For those who are in search of some unanswered questions regarding their sleep disorders, Planet Ayurveda is an answer, where you will get consultation from experts holding years of experience. The Ayurvedic natural health care system is spread worldwide because ayurvedic treatments are very helpful for each and every disease. For more details of our products, you can check our website www.planetayurveda.com. For more queries, you can send your queries to our email id herbalremedies123@yahoo.com.

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