Abstract

MANAGEMENT OF AMBLYOPIA THROUGH AYURVEDA-A SINGLE CASE STUDY

Sabarinath M.K.* and S.M. Pasha

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Amblyopia is a developmental defect of spatial visual processing that occurs in the central visual pathway of the eye. It is defined as a condition with unilateral or bilateral subnormal vision (atleast 2 lines less than normal or 2 lines less than the fellow eye in unilateral cases) without any local opthalmoscopic abnormality, which is reversible if treated approximately at the proper time. Common cause of amblyopia are strabismus, anisometropia, high bilateral refractive error and visual deprivation. The incidence of amblyopia is reportedly between 2% and 5% worldwide. It affects upto 3.5% of children and is the most common cause of unilocular visual impairement in children and young adults. Some of the clinical features of myopia can be correlated with Timira. Methods: A single case study was undertaken to evaluate the role of Ayurveda in the management of Amblyopia. The subject underwent 2 sittings of Tarpana with maha triphala ghrita along with 3 sittings of eye exercise and occlusion therapy. Subject was also given with internal administration of chakshushya dravyas. Result: Visual acuity and Autorefraction was evaluated before and after treatment. There was a significant improvement in Visual acuity along with Autorefraction. Discussion:-In Ayurvedic classics, we find the concept of Chakshushya and many food items, drugs, therapeutic procedures explained which are said to improve or enhance visual acuity as well as improve the health of the eye. Thus it can be concluded that Ayurvedic treatment is beneficial in Amblyopia.

Keywords: Amblyopia, Timira, Ayurvedic management.