Category: Periodic paralysis

Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Treatment By Herbal Remedies

ABSTRACT

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis is a genetic condition that is associated with muscle weakness and paralysis. Genetic condition comes into context when someone inherits an altered gene from their parents and there is an increase in developing that particular condition too in them. Genes are the proteins in the body that play an important role in transferring any kind of information in the body that is needed to control the body’s growth, development and functioning. So if there is a defect in any of the genes then the definite thing is to develop any condition in the body. Many conditions run into the families and one of them is Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis. Now we are going to discuss in this article about this condition in detail and the management of this particular condition with the help of ayurvedic remedies.

Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis

INTRODUCTION

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis, a condition associated with low levels of potassium and includes episodes of severe muscle weakness that generally begins in childhood or at the adolescent age. Mostly these episodes include temporary inability in moving muscles of the arms and legs. There are several attacks almost every day. Particularly this condition occurs rarely but is considered as very severe in nature. Although the exact prevalence of this condition is unknown, hypokalemic periodic paralysis has an estimate to affect 1 in 100,000 people. Men are more prone to experience the symptoms of Hypokalemic periodic paralysis than women. To know more let’s study the causes and symptoms of Hypokalemic periodic paralysis.

CAUSES

It is one of the genetic disorders in which there is a mutation in the gene named CACNA1S and SCN4A. These are the essential genes that provide command for making proteins which play an important role in the skeletal muscles for maintaining their functions. The normal movement of the body is conducted by contraction and relaxation of the skeletal muscles in a coordinated way. The contraction of the muscles are activated by flow of some positively charged ions in the muscle cells. Both the previously mentioned genes form channels which control the flow of that positively charged ions. The CACNA1S transports the calcium ions and the channels of SCN4A helps in transporting the sodium ions. If the mutation occurs in both the genes they alter the functioning and structure of sodium and calcium channels. Thus causes alteration in the contraction of the skeletal muscles which alters the movement of the muscles and leads to the severe muscle weakness and paralysis in episodic periods which is known as hypokalemic periodic paralysis.

SYMPTOMS

As it is a genetic disorder the one who suffered from this condition may experience the symptoms at the age of 10-14 years. The periods occur randomly and get more triggered by some factors like exercise, food items etc. After waking from sling time sleep it’s very habitual to experience. The severity of the attacks vary from forbearing muscle weakness to remarkable paralysis. The episodes may last between several hours to several days and their frequency also varies from human to human. Some of the humans may experience the episodes daily and some may experience a few times a year. With the growing age the episodes of paralysis become fewer and are known as abortive attacks which refers to general weakness that lasts for a longer period of time. Beside all this one may experience the following symptoms:

  • Weakness in muscles
  • Cramping in muscles
  • Heart palpitations
  • Most oftenly the muscles involved are shoulders, arms, legs and hips
  • Paralysis

DIAGNOSIS

This condition is even hard to diagnose as there is not such specific test for this condition. Also we cannot diagnose this condition with the symptoms rather the attack will occur. So if any of you may experience the significant symptoms of Hypokalemic periodic paralysis then it’s a must to visit the physician nearby. The physician will ask you your symptoms, at which time you may experience the symptoms and after that the diagnosis may be clear but it’s difficult to diagnose. If someone have family history then the diagnosis is more clear and at the time of diagnosis if someone experience symptoms then the following diagnostic techniques may be done to clarify the diagnosis:

  • Blood tests for potassium levels
  • Examination of muscle reflexes if they are reduced
  • Electrocardiography if a patient may experience any symptoms related to heart

So above mentioned are some of the diagnostic steps that a physician may perform to diagnose Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis.

AYURVEDIC VIEW

As we read earlier the condition is hereditary and there is a mutation in the genes named CACNA1S and SCN4A. As per ayurveda the hereditary condition is correlated to beej dushti, so let’s discuss what beej dushti is? Beej dushti is the defect in beejbhaga that is the sperm and ovum. Ashuddha shukra (defected sperm) and ashuddha artava (defected ovum) are the main causes of beej dushti. If there is any defect in the gametes (sperm and ovum) of parents then the child should inherit the disease. If we see on the side of dosha pacification then there is the vitiation of vata dosha as it is responsible for any movement and functioning control in the body. Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis is a genetic condition so we should not cure it but will manage the symptoms of this condition with certain herbal remedies and improve the quality of the patient.

HERBAL REMEDIES BY PLANET AYURVEDA FOR MANAGING HYPOKALEMIC PERIODIC PARALYSIS

Planet Ayurveda is a GMP certified clinic which formulates various herbal supplements for maintaining the overall health as well as alleviating any kind of health issue. The formulations produced by Planet Ayurveda are produced under the strict observance of M.D. Ayurveda practitioners. All the herbal supplements are free from any kind of preservatives, additives, fillers, color, starch, resins and other synthetic material. For the purpose of managing the symptoms of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Planet Ayurveda provides 7 herbal remedies that we will discuss further in detail.

  1. RASARAJESHWAR RAS
  2. ASHWAGANDHAGHAN VATI
  3. MUSLI STRENGTH CAPSULES
  4. GANDHAK RASAYAN
  5. AMRIT KALASH
  6. BRAHMA RASAYAN
  7. GREEN ESSENTIALS

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

1. RASARAJESHWAR RAS

Ras Rajeshwar Ras is an ayurvedic formulation that has been used for maintaining the health of the nervous system. It consists of ingredients like swarna yukta rasraj ras, ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), guggul (Commiphora mukul) and some others. The ingredients of this formulation contain miraculous vata pacifying balya (strengthening) properties. Due to its properties Rasarajeshwar Rasa aids in promoting the normal functioning of the nervous system as well as strengthening the weakened muscles in case of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis.

Dosage: 1 tablet twice daily to be chewed.

2. ASHWAGANDHAGHAN VATI

Ashwagandhaghan vati is a formulation by Planet Ayurveda which is available in tablet form. These herbal tablets consist of Ashwagandha herb (Withania somnifera) that is an effective adaptogenic herb in nature. The adaptogenic properties of ashwagandha helps in reducing stress in the body which further prevents the damage at cellular level. So for preventing the damage of muscle cells Ashwagandhaghan vati is useful in the management of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis.

Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.

3. MUSLI STRENGTH CAPSULES

Musli Strength Capsules by Planet Ayurveda is a herbal remedy which consists of the standardized extract of two herbs that are safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) and gokshura (Tribulus terrestris). The capsules consist of various properties such as antioxidant, adaptogenic, strengthening, immune boosting and rejuvenating. All these properties make these herbal capsules effective in managing the symptoms of Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis. It strengthens the weak muscles, promotes the functioning of the skeletal muscles, prevents the degeneration of the skeletal muscle cells as well as prevents from the stage of paralysis.

Dosage: 1 capsule twice daily with plain water after meals.            

4. GANDHAK RASAYAN

Gandhak Rasayan is an ayurvedic formulation that is formulated by Planet Ayurveda under the strict observance of M.D. Ayurveda practitioners. It consists of shuddha gandhak (purified sulphur) which has been used since ancient times in the field of ayurveda for managing several disorders. It is a natural immunity booster, so by boosting the immunity levels this remedy assists in alleviating the muscle weakness associated with Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis.

Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily with plain water after meals.

5. AMRIT KALASH

Amrit kalash is an ayurvedic formulation that is one of the best rasayana (rejuvenators). Rasayana are the ones that are believed to enhance the resistance of the body towards various infections as well as diseases. Rasayana are considered as effective in enhancing the longevity of life by promoting overall health. Amrit kalash promotes nervous health by pacifying vata dosha and helps in promoting the functioning of skeletal muscles. This rasayana formulation alleviates the weakness of muscles by increasing the reduced contraction, so it is quite effective in the management of Hypokalemic Periodic paralysis.

Dosage: 1 tsp twice daily with plain water after meals.  

6. BRAHMA RASAYAN

Brahma Rasayan is one of the best ayurvedic health supplements which is available in lehya (jam) form. Usually this ayurvedic health supplement is used in various nervous disorders and associated conditions such as anxiety, cognition issues, lack of concentration, etc. As in case of hypokalemic periodic paralysis there is the reduction of contraction of skeletal muscles which leads to their weakness and if not treated later on leads to paralysis of skeletal muscles. The consumption of Brahma Rasayan increases the contraction of skeletal muscles which further reduces the weakness in the muscles.

Dosage: 1 tsp twice daily with plain water twice daily.

7. GREEN ESSENTIALS

Green essentials is a herbal remedy formulated by Planet Ayurveda in capsule form under the observance of M.D. Ayurveda practitioners. These capsules are polyherbal and consist of standardized extracts like grape seed (Vitis vinifera), wheat grass (Triticulum aestivum), spirulina (Spirulina platensis) and some others. These capsules are considered as one of the best immunity booster due to mention of ingredients. Also the antioxidant properties present in these capsules prevent the damage of nerve cells and muscle cells which further prevents paralysis of the skeletal muscles.

Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.

CONCLUSION

CONTACT PLANET AYURVEDATO PROVIDE YOU THE COSTING / ORDERING AND DELIVERY INFORMATION AT – COSTING.PLANETAYURVEDA@GMAIL.COM OR CALL AT +91-172-5214040

Hypokalemic periodic paralysis, a condition associated with low levels of potassium and includes episodes of severe muscle weakness that generally begins in childhood or at the adolescent age. It is one of the genetic disorders in which there is a mutation in the gene named CACNA1S and SCN4A. In this case a person may experience weakness in muscles, cramping in muscles, heart palpitations, most oftenly the muscles involved are shoulders, arms, legs and hips and at last paralysis. As per ayurveda the hereditary condition is correlated to beej dushti in which there is a defect in beejbhaga that is the sperm and ovum. Don’t worry the condition is manageable with ayurvedic medications and for this purpose Planet Ayurveda provides various herbal remedies that are free from any kind of additives and preservatives. So without worrying you can start taking treatment from Planet Ayurveda and while consuming remedies if you have any query then you can share your query on www.PlanetAyurveda.com

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.