Ayurvedic Treatment of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Abstract

Hemolytic uremic syndrome is characterized by destruction of red blood cells and it involves kidneys. This condition usually occurs after a gastrointestinal tract infection. This infection leads to formation of toxins that attack red blood cells and cause their destruction. This condition can also lead to kidney failure. In this article we will discuss signs, symptoms, causes and how it can be managed by herbal remedies.

Introduction

Hemolytic uremic syndrome is a complex situation which occurs after a digestive system infection. This situation usually occurs as a reaction of the immune system. Our immune system reacts to toxins produced by infection that results in low red blood cells, low platelet levels and kidney failure.

HUS is considered as a syndrome because it’s a combination of various ailments. HUS leads to destruction of red blood cells that cause anemia and lethargy. In most cases it occurs due to E.coli infection of the bowel. But it also can occur due to response to certain medications that is rare. In some rare cases its origin is completely unknown.

Causes

The most common cause in children is bowel infection due to E.coli. E.coli is normally present in the intestine and is usually harmless. But some strains of E.coli causes diarrhea and also produces a Shiga toxin. Shiga can enter your bloodstream and it destroys blood vessels and may lead to HUS.

But there are other causative factors too that can lead to HUS. These includes:

• Pneumococcal infections
• Certain medications which are used in treatment of cancer.
• Very rare in autoimmune disorders or complications of pregnancy.

Signs and symptoms of HUS

The signs and symptoms of HUS vary depending on the cause. The most common symptoms are associated with digestive system and these are as follows

• Bloody diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Bloating and cramping
• Fever
• Pale color skin and eyelids
• Breathlessness
• Fatigue
• Easy bruising
• Bleeding from gums and nose
• Blood in urine
• Decreased urine quantity
• Raised blood pressure
• Mental confusion
• Stroke or seizures

Risk factors

There are certain risk factors which contribute to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.

• Children above 5 year or of this age are prone to HUS. As they are growing and their immune system is not fully developed and stomach infection is common in them.
• People who are older than 65
• People with some genetic changes are prone to HUS
• When you eat contaminated food.
• People who came in contact with infected people.

Complications

HUS can lead to life threatening complications such as kidney failure, stroke, seizures, coma, cardiovascular disorders and digestive system problems.

How to prevent HUS?

HUS can be prevented by taking care of simple things.

1. Maintain Hygiene. Always wash your hand before eating food and cooking food.
2. Keep your utensil and kitchen clean to avoid infection. Always cook food on low flame.
3. Avoid ready to eat food and unpasteurized milk. You can choose fresh vegetables instead of them.

Herbal Remedies For Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome By Planet Ayurveda

Planet Ayurveda is a herbal company which formulates various herb based medicines. As per Ayurveda any disease can be treated by treating its root cause. Planet Ayurveda works on the same principle and it offers few herbal formulations which are very beneficial in the treatment of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.

Product Description

1. Mutrakrichantak Churna

Mutrakrichantak churna is prepared by using multiple herbs such as Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Varyn (Crataeva nurvala) and Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris). All these herbs synergistically work to regulate kidney functions which are hampered in HUS. These herbs have diuretic action and they act as genito- urinary tonic.

Dose – 1 tsp twice daily with plain water after meals only.

2. Rencure Formula

Rencure Formula Capsules are formulated by pure extracts of Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Varun (Crataeva nurvala) and Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) etc. Rencure formula capsules help in removal of excess water from the body. They also have diuretic action and promote a healthy urinary tract system. These capsules are useful to revive kidney condition and increase urine output.

Dose – 2 capsules twice daily with water after meals.

3. Varunadi Vati

The main ingredient of this vati is varun (Crataeva nurvala) along with other herbs like Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris) and Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa). These tablets have potent diuretic properties and they help in relieving swelling and edema in any part of the body. These tablets are known to maintain normal kidney functions.

Dose – 2 twice daily with plain water after meals only.

4. Punarnava Mandur

Punarnava Mandur has Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa) as the main ingredient. Punarnava is anti-inflammatory and anti fibrinolytic in action. It has diuretic properties. It is believed to increase red blood cells level in the body. Due to its ingredients like Pippli (Piper longum) and Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), it helps to remove digestive ailments.

Dose – 2 tablets twice daily after meals only.

5. Kutjghan Vati

These tablets are prepared by standardized extracts of Kutaj (Holarrhena antidysenterica). Kutaj has absorbent action thus helps to manage diarrhoea in the HUS. It also helps in treating stomach pain and normalizes digestive system.

Dose – 2 tab twice daily with plain water after meals only.

6. Plato Plan Syrup

Plato Plan Syrup is a liquid formulation by Planet Ayurveda and it contains herbs like Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) etc. Symptoms like bleeding gums, nasal bleeding, skin rashes that occur due to low platelet count are effectively managed by Plato plan syrup.

Dose – 2 tsp thrice daily after meals.

7. Reno Plan Syrup

Reno Plan Syrup has multiple herbs such as Bhoomi amka (Phyllanthus niruri), Gokshur (Tribulus terrestris), Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), Kaasni (Cichorium intybus), Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Varun (Crataeva nurvala) etc. This syrup is very effective in protecting the kidney for nephrotoxic agents. It has nephroprotective and immunomodulatory properties. It is very useful in managing blood pressure and helps in restoring normal kidney function.

Dose – 2 tsp thrice daily after meals.

Conclusion

From the above discussion it is concluded that Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome is a life threatening condition. But it can be prevented and managed by herbal formulations. These formulations are safe to use and they do not cause any side effects as these are free of chemicals and additives.